Sydney  - A Hong Kong high-roller who walked out of Sydney's Star City casino millions of dollars richer didn't pad his wallet with winnings from the baccarat tables.

Luck had nothing to do with it, Tabcorp chief executive Elmer Funke Kupper admitted Friday.

The casino cashed a dud cheque written out for 11.5 million Australian dollars (7.5 million US dollars) and let the unnamed gambler leave after he cashed in his chips.

"Every now and then this happens," Funke Kupper said of the sting. "These are very significant players, therefore it's not unusual to have substantial (cheque-cashing) facilities in place for some of these people."

He said it was unlikely the money would be recovered. (dpa)