Sydney’s iconic music venue The Annandale Hotel has reportedly gone into receivership this week.
Owner Matt Rule spoke to The Music Network this week, stating: “We’re a long way off where we need to be, but so far the public have been great in getting right behind the buy a brick concept; we now just need to get the music industry to do the same.”
Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne has commented on the tragic news, stating “If these reports prove to be true I for one will be doing everything I can to make sure that the Annandale remains a live music venue, including working urgently with the receivers.”
“So many Australian artists have had their start playing at the Annandale; its loss would be a body blow to young performers across Sydney. It is crucial that the Annandale remains a live music venue, we want rock-and-roll not residential development.
“In the coming weeks I will be seeking to reform Council planning to encourage live music. Local Government must promote, not prosecute, live music venues. This is real action – working withlicensees, agents and promoters to establish a united front to bring productive change to Council policies so we can be more supportive of live music.”
MusicNSW is working closely with the Annandale, Dr Ianto Ware, the Live Music Taskforce, the City of Sydney and other local members of Parliament, including Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne to address issues of venue closures in the state and to ensure a sustainable industry into the future. We’ll keep you updated!
Show your own support for The Annandale by attending their National SLAM day gig on Saturday February 23rd featuring Bonjah w/ Lime Cordiale + Royal Chant. Details can be found here.