Tasmanian Live Music Scene in Crisis

0:00It's April 13th, I'm Corey with The Story, and this is Sydney News Today, your AI-powered local news. Tasmanian musicians are sounding the alarm that live gigs and pubs are drying up fast. Fewer venues are booking acts because of closures, sky high costs, and noise complaints from neighbors. Long-time performers like Kim Phillips say, the old days of easy bookings are gone, with many spots not even responding to calls anymore. Many venues have shut down, hitting the scene hard. Hobar Brewing Co closed for a $1.13 billion AFL stadium project and others vanish for redevelopments. Running a weekend gig there cost at least $2,000 for bands and crew, and with folks tightening belts, pubs struggle to justify it. Musicians worry it's toughest for newcomers. Raymond Blizzard, with over 20 years in Hobart scene, fears young talent will bail if opportunities keep shrinking. At spots like Salty Dog Hotel, beach side crowds love the Sunday afternoon tombs from

1:003pm to 6pm, but nearby residents complain the sound, invades their homes. A petition against the noise at Salty Dog rout things up, but the pub fired back with over 5,500 signatures in support. Owner Adriano Mignanelli insists they cut off at strict times and check levels, offering the team up with counsel on fixes. Performers praise their neighborly efforts amid the back and forth. Music Tasmania pushes for new policies to shield venues, like Brisbane's rule where developers near music spots foot the soundproofing bill. With denser housing popping up and insurance costs rising, they say without action, live music could fade out for good, but smart rules might keep the beats alive down under.