STEPS etc buy-ins refunded?

[MegaBet]

I'm trying (unsuccessfully) to get an Aussie Step 6 game started. I'm worried that if I don't get this game in I will lose my buy-in money. A lot of people have said I will get a refund if the offer expires and I haven't used my freeroll. I e-mailed Party and got this reply:

[ QUOTE ]
Dear XXX,

Thank you for contacting us.

Congratulations! on winning a free entry into Aussie Step 6 tournament which is
worth $1800/$120.

We see that you have played a Aussie Step 5 - NL ($1000/$80) and were
placed third in the tournament. Hence, you have received this free entry.

A Free Roll is a complimentary entry to a tournament, which would normally
demand a cash buy-in amount and entry fee.

We see that you are registered for the tournament. We assure you that you will
be able to use the free entry before the promotion ends. We will not be able to
refund the buy-in amount. We suggest you to try registering for the tournaments
at high traffic times.


[/ QUOTE ]

So now I'm confused. Are they lying to me?