Crowbar Brisbane To Take Over The Zoo

Live music institution The Zoo broke our hearts when it closed its doors in July after 32 years of hosting live music.

We remember being equally devastated when Crowbar Brisbane closed down “for the foreseeable future” in 2020. But what if both of those institutions could return in some capacity?

Today, it’s been announced that Crowbar will usher in a new era for Brisbane’s live music scene by taking over The Zoo. Not only will The Zoo’s legacy continue, but Crowbar will expand its influence and bring alternative, heavy, and punk music to Fortitude Valley.

• 'You Always Felt Safe, And It Was Always About The Music': Farewell, The Zoo

Crowbar Brisbane, run by Tyla Dombroski and Trad Nathan, opened its doors in 2012 and closed in 2020 due to difficulties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the same team will bring The Zoo back to life.

Melbourne artist Callum Preston, recognised for mural art and contributing to music culture, will lead the rebrand for the new chapter of Crowbar and The Zoo.

In addition to live music, Crowbar will bring over its American-food-inspired restaurant, Ultimate Pig, so punters can have their choice of smashed burgers, barbecue, fried chicken, and more, with vegan and vegetarian options also available.

To celebrate the launch, Crowbar Brisbane will celebrate the takeover of The Zoo with a week of special events and surprises – stay tuned to Crowbar’s socials for more updates.

In a statement, Trad Nathan said Crowbar intends to “honour the amazing path” laid out by generations of The Zoo custodians “and continue offering great events for years to come.”

Nathan continued, “As a former punter, band member, booker and promoter, playing The Zoo was a great achievement for aspiring bands. We’re excited to be able to keep music within its walls.”

Tyla Dombroski, who’s also a Board member of Sound NSW and President of the newly formed Live Music Venues Alliance, added, “We are so grateful to have the opportunity to work with the landlords, the Apostolos family, in maintaining the property as a live music venue.

“Our focus is to continue providing a great space for artists and music lovers while working with industry and government to ensure the survival of grassroots venues across Australia.”