The Derrimut Hotel in Sunshine, the St Albans Hotel, Hillside's Sugargum Hotel and The Club in Caroline Springs all report that their gaming and liquor venues are at their busiest.

Sugargum Hotel manager Julie Benallack said the number of gamblers coming through the venues usually increased when times were tough.

"There is no recession happening here. We are absolutely going strong and we have a pretty busy gaming room here."

Derrimut Hotel gaming supervisor Lizel Cook said she found it strange that the venue was busier than ever despite the tough economic climate.

"That doesn't stop the gamblers. Lately I find that it's busier. It hasn't dropped at all."

The Club hotel manager Bert Morano, who took over the business less than a year ago, said the business was constantly growing.

"I've been managing venues now for 20 years and it's interesting to see a venue like this growing so rapidly.

"Because of the demographics in the area - the growing young families - I think they embrace the club because they're members and they want to feel part of something."