Australian Poker

Since Joe Hachem's dramatic win in the 2005 WSOP Main Event, popularity of Texas Hold'em has blown up in Australia. Born in Lebanon, Hachem has made Australia his home since 1972. Joe battled back from a short stack at the final table eventually taking the chip lead three handed and going on to beat Steve Dannenmann heads up for $7.5 million.

Hachem's win caught the attention of new players in Australia.

Australian poker sites and forums have become popular resources for new players interested in learning more about poker. Organized bar leagues offer tournaments with low buy-ins, many are even free to enter. It's an inexpensive way to learn the game and have some fun.