Noise Complaints Shut Down Melbourne CBD Band Venue Shebeen

It can be confirmed today that popular Melbourne music venue, the Shebeen Bandroom, will be closing its doors permanently by the end of the month. 

Speaking to theMusic today, venue co-founder Simon Griffiths said the closure is due to noise complaints. 

"Over the last 12 months it has become apparent that the wall of our bandroom is shared with the Melbourne East Police Station's sleeping quarters," Griffiths said. 

read more: noise complaints not the cause of shebeen closure

"As a result, we have received significant pressure from the police and the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR)...we received an infringement notice from the VCGLR which we have unsuccessfully appealed. 

"After working with our landlord to look at all available options, we are incredibly sad to announce that we will be closing Shebeen for business on 25 June. We're deeply sorry for all of the shows that were booked after this date and we are working flat out with The Venue Collective to find new homes for all of these shows.

"We owe a huge thank you to everyone that has been a part of Shebeen to date and would love to see you for one last song, banh mi or drink before we close our doors."

Meanwhile, The Venue Collective's Ben Thompson called today's announcement "terrible".

"This is really devastating. We need awesome venues in the inner city," Thompson told theMusic.

Thompson urges venues seeking support on noise issues to contact Music Victoria and look into the new Good Music Neighbours program, which enables venues to better control sound emissions and maintain strong relationships with neighbouring businesses and residences.

"My office are working with acts who's shows cannot go ahead and hopefully we can assist in re-homing some shows."

Local artist Juñor commented on the news in a Facebook post. 

"Super sad to have been notified SHEBEEN BANDROOM will be PERMANENTLY CLOSING as of June 25th," the post reads. 

With his upcoming gig now cancelled, he added that his team are working on a new venue for the show.

Other acts who were scheduled to perform at the venue after 25 June include Slumberhaze, Winterbourne, Hey Geronimo, Imogen Clarke and more.  

Not only is the Shebeen Bandroom known for its live music, but it is renowned for the work it does for developing countries.

Management donate all profits made from behind the bar back to the purchased drink's country of origin. 

Organisations who receive donations from Shebeen include Room To Read, KickStart, One Acre Fund, Mothers2Mothers, Vision Spring and Root Capital.

Earlier this year, The Culture Trip named Shebeen one of five cafes with a social conscience. 

The Music has contacted local council and Music Victoria for further comment.