The Exciting Comeback of the Aussie Millions: A Poker Festival Reborn
The Aussie Millions, often held in high regard among the international poker circuit, has long been a hallmark event for poker enthusiasts around the world. After a lengthy hiatus, whispers of a return have surfaced, bringing hope to fans and players alike. As reported on the Poker Pulse Podcast, hosted by Australian Poker Schedule founder Craig Abernethy, the event is set to return to Crown Melbourne at the promising date of April 2025.
No Longer a Rumor
During one of the podcast’s latest episodes, co-host Troy Mclean dropped the thrilling news that the event is indeed confirmed for April next year. "I had heard on the grapevine that it would be returning next year," said Mclean, clearly excited about the prospect. The community is already buzzing with speculation about the format. While Mclean mentioned that the traditional A$10,000 Main Event might shift to A$8,000, this remains unverified.
"It’ll be interesting how they go the first time," said Abernethy. "It was such a major event and so many pros loved playing it. If it can get back and running how it was, that’s got to be the goal because it was an amazing stop on the international poker calendar."
Those who have followed the Aussie Millions over the years understand that the festival has always been more than just poker; it’s been a celebratory gathering for players, drawing both local talent and international stars.
A Brief History of the Aussie Millions
Established in 1998, the Aussie Millions, officially known as the Crown Australian Poker Championship, initially started as a modest tournament predominantly attracting players from the South Pacific. However, it quickly grew beyond local borders, gaining fame for its high-stakes competitions and diverse fields.
The $100,000 Challenge was introduced in 2006, ushering in an era of elite poker battles, while the $250,000 Challenge, launched in 2011, soon became synonymous with the legendary Phil Ivey, who won it three times, racking up over A$8 million in winnings.
The Main Event reached new heights in popularity, often leading to record-breaking prize pools, thanks in large part to an extensive series of local satellite tournaments. In addition to the allure of poker, the timing of the festival during the southern hemisphere’s summer provided an enticing escape for international players craving adventure in Australia’s beautiful climate.
The Void of a Cultural Icon
The pandemic disrupted many aspects of life globally, including the live poker scene. Since the last Aussie Millions held in 2020, players have felt a significant absence in the global poker calendar. The festival not only served as a competitive battleground but also as a gathering space for poker lovers from across the globe.
In recent years, some poker events have cautiously made their return in Australia. The World Poker Tour (WPT) successfully hosted events in the country for the last few years, with recent champion James Obst marking another successful chapter for Australian poker. Additionally, the inaugural Australian Poker Open debuted in 2024, further hinting at a resurgence of interest in high-stakes live poker events.
The Community’s Outlook
Poking through the past, podcast hosts have expressed optimism about rebuilding the festival’s reputation, with plans already in motion to run satellite events in preparation for the revived tournament. Mclean disclosed that there are efforts to run "6-7 seats a week," signaling a proactive strategy to revive the interest and enthusiasm of poker players.
While the exact details of the prize pool for 2025 remain to be seen, it is anticipated that the numbers will begin to reinvigorate as more tournaments and satellites unfold throughout the upcoming months.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The return of the Aussie Millions promises to reignite a passion for live poker not only in Australia but worldwide. This storied event carries with it a rich history that has shaped the landscape of poker as we know it today.
Undoubtedly, the poker community is poised with anticipation for this beloved tournament’s comeback. With its established reputation and a fervent player base, the Australia Millions is set to reclaim its rightful place on the global poker stage, promising to be one of the most anticipated events of 2025.
A Legacy of Winners
As the poker world gears up for the return of the Aussie Millions, it is important to remember the champions who have left a mark on the tournament throughout the years. Here’s a look back at the main event winners from 1998 to 2020:
| Year | Entries | Prize Pool | Winner | Country | First Prize |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 74 | A$74,000 | Alex Horowitz | Australia | A$25,900 |
| 1999 | 109 | A$109,000 | Milo Nadalin | Australia | A$38,150 |
| 2000 | 109 | A$173,500 | Leo Boxell | Australia | A$65,225 |
| 2001 | 101 | A$151,500 | Sam Korman | Australia | A$53,025 |
| 2002 | 66 | A$330,000 | John Maver | Australia | A$150,000 |
| 2003 | 122 | A$1,220,000 | Peter Costa | United Kingdom | A$394,870 |
| 2004 | 133 | A$1,330,000 | Tony Bloom | United Kingdom | A$426,500 |
| 2005 | 263 | A$2,630,000 | Jamil Dia | New Zealand | A$1,000,000 |
| 2006 | 418 | A$4,180,000 | Lee Nelson | New Zealand | A$1,295,800 |
| 2007 | 747 | A$7,470,000 | Gus Hansen | Denmark | A$1,500,000 |
| 2008 | 780 | A$7,758,500 | Alexander Kostritsyn | Russia | A$1,650,000 |
| 2009 | 681 | A$6,810,000 | Stewart Scott | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2010 | 746 | A$7,460,000 | Tyron Krost | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2011 | 721 | A$7,210,000 | David Gorr | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2012 | 659 | A$6,590,000 | Oliver Speidel | Australia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2013 | 629 | A$6,290,000 | Mervin Chan | Malaysia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2014 | 668 | A$6,680,000 | Ami Barer | Canada | A$1,600,000 |
| 2015 | 648 | A$6,480,000 | Manny Stavropoulos | Australia | A$1,385,500 |
| 2016 | 732 | A$7,320,000 | Ari Engel | Canada | A$1,600,000 |
| 2017 | 725 | A$7,250,000 | Shurane Vijayaram | Australia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2018 | 800 | A$8,000,000 | Toby Lewis | United Kingdom | A$1,458,198 |
| 2019 | 822 | A$8,220,000 | Bryn Kenney | United States | A$1,272,598 |
| 2020 | 820 | A$8,200,000 | Vincent Wan | Australia | A$1,318,000 |
As we eagerly await 2025, one thing is clear: the spirit of the Aussie Millions lives on, rekindling excitement and fostering hope for a promising poker future.
About the Author
Will Shillibier is the Managing Editor of PokerNews, having transitioned from freelance live reporter since 2015. With a passion for poker, Will focuses on the evolution of events like the Aussie Millions and the community that surrounds them.
