The Old Bar

2026年8月20日

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The Old Bar: A Cornerstone of Melbourne’s Live Music Scene

The Old Bar, located at 74–76 Johnston Street in Fitzroy, Melbourne, is a renowned live music venue that has been a staple of the city’s vibrant music scene since 2001. Occupying buildings constructed in the early 20th century, The Old Bar has become a beloved spot for music enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate independent and alternative music genres. With a capacity of approximately 175 people, it offers an intimate setting for both performers and audiences.

The buildings housing The Old Bar have a rich history, appearing in postal records as early as 1903/04. Over the years, these structures have served various purposes, including manufacturing, dairy operations, haberdashery, clothing stores, and as cafes and restaurants. In 2001, the venue was established as The Old Bar under the management of Andy Tannahill. Ownership changed hands in 2005 to Paul Jakovcic, and in 2007, the operators of The Afterdark, a former bar and live music venue in Northcote, took over.

Under its current management, The Old Bar has solidified its reputation as a hub for live music, showcasing a diverse range of genres such as rock, country, folk, experimental, punk, post-punk, heavy metal, and hardcore. The venue has hosted numerous local, Australian, and international acts, including notable performers like Blag Dahlia (The Dwarves), Charlie Parr, Okkerville River, Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, Graveyard Train, C.W. Stoneking, Six Ft Hick, The Nation Blue, The Meanies, Children Collide, Delaney Davidson, Mikelangelo & The Tin Star, Spod, Little John, Eddy Current Suppression Ring, Kim Salmon, and Dave Graney.

Beyond music, The Old Bar is actively involved in community initiatives, having hosted fundraising events for various causes. Notable events include the flood relief event Banana-peel and a series of benefit shows with live broadcasts of the radio show ‘Burning Vinyl’ for local community radio station 3CR.

Like many inner-city Melbourne music venues, The Old Bar has faced challenges due to noise and licensing restrictions imposed by local and state authorities. Noise complaints from residents in nearby new housing developments have necessitated renovations to reduce ambient noise. Following the closure of The Tote in 2010, co-manager Liam Matthews expressed concerns about the difficulties posed by local and state restrictions on licensed live music venues in the City of Yarra, highlighting the pressure on existing business owners to adapt to new developments.

The Old Bar is also a participant in the Renegade Pub Football League, a grassroots, inclusive, and mixed-gender Australian rules football competition. The league features teams from several inner-city Melbourne music venues, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.