Historic Former Melbourne Music Venue To Reopen As Pub In 2020

The much-loved Sarah Sands Hotel is set for a huge revamp, with news that major pub chain Australian Venue Co has signed a 10-year deal for the venue. 

According to The Age, the Sydney Road, Brunswick hotel will be reopened as a gastro pub with renovations expected to be completed in November next year. 

The venue was originally opened in 1854 and was purchased by developer Joe Chahin and his Peregrine Projects group back in 2015 while it was trading as Irish pub Bridie O'Reilly's. 

While the venue hasn't operated as a regular live music venue for some time, its history includes performances from acts like Cold Chisel, Killjoys, You Am I, Fear Factory, L7 and more throughout the '70s, '80s and '90s. 

The venue also saw the recording of The Aints' 1991 live album.

Additionally, a total of 31 apartments will be built in a seven storey building adjoining the pub with developers assuring that the building's original facade will be restored. 

Australian Venue Co currently run Melbourne venues including The Provincial and Perseverance in Fitzroy, The Park in Albert Park, O'Connell's Hotel in South Melbourne, Middle Park Hotel, Imperial South Yarra and more.

The Music has reached out to Australian Venue Co for comment.