It’s hosted everyone from Faith No More to Paul Kelly, Cold Chisel and PNAU, but now, Hobart’s Uni Bar is calling last drinks.
The Sandy Bay venue has been a cornerstone of Tasmania’s music scene since it opened in 1976.
But after nearly five decades of business, an expiring lease means time’s up.
“It wasn’t a decision that we made,” licensee of six-plus years and Vandemonian Touring boss Brendan Self told Pulse.
“We’re just very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the rich history of the Uni Bar.”
“Some amazing bands have performed there and none of that would have been possible if it wasn’t for UTAS and [their support of] the live music scene by creating a dedicated live music venue in the Uni Bar.”
Originally established by the Tasmanian University Union, the Uni Bar has been a rite of passage for generations of students.
Self said there is still a chance for music lovers to soak up the Uni Bar experience, with a series of farewell gigs in the works before the official closure on 28 June.
“Rest assured that we have some gigs, some of our old favourites that will sell out in half a day that will be getting announced in the near future,” Self said.
“[We’ll be] bringing some of those guys back to do some farewell shows and some last drink shows.”
UTAS Vice-Chancellor of Campus Life Professor Nicholas Farrelly said the decision to wind up the Uni Bar was related to plans to develop a STEM precinct on the Sandy Bay campus.
He said the university is working with the Tasmanian University Student Association to determine the future placement of student facilities within the redeveloped campus.
