Ric Frearson, Founder Of Brisbane's Iconic Ric's Bar, Passes Away

Photographer Ric Frearson who founded Fortitude Valley stalwart Ric's Café Bar in 1993 has reportedly passed away over the weekend. 

Quest Newspapers, where Frearson previously worked and managed the photographic desk, has reported staff and readers are grieving his death which came suddenly on Saturday night. 

He reportedly died of a heart attack. 

Speaking to The Music, Chad St James, the current entertainment and marketing manager for the venue, was saddened by the news and said, "For me personally, it has become an institution."

"He created an institution for bands that are up-and-coming in Brisbane. It's almost a rite of passage to play Ric's. 

"But it stretches beyond just music. It's a place where people can be themselves and it has kept that essence over the years." 

Originally trading as a café, Ric's Bar remains a staple in the Fortitude Valley nightlife scene as a creative hub of live music and most recently hosted a number of showcases in support of BIGSOUND 2018 this month.