'We Can’t Do It Alone': Melbourne's The Tote Calls For Support With GoFundMe Page

Much-loved Melbourne venue The Tote is calling for community support to remain open, launching a GoFundMe page to raise funds. 

“We want to return to being Australia’s most loved live music venue," said The Tote co-owner Jon Perring. 

"We want to continue being the home of the original diverse voices of the Australian contemporary live music scene and play our part in the future of Australian and international music culture. 

"We want to continue to be proud of what we are but we can’t do it alone whilst we are on our knees."

So far 105 people have made donations to the Collingwood venue, with just over $9,500 raised. 

"Like many other small businesses and cultural institutions, the Tote Hotel has been financially crushed by the COVID-19 shutdown," reads the statement on the GoFundMe page. 

"After closing our doors in March, we now need to find ways to generate the funds to reopen and host live music. Despite some government assistance, our bank accounts have run dry. JobKeeper has kept our staff going, but this is only one of the many costs that keep The Tote alive.

"The Tote’s greatest assets are its history and community. For nearly 40 years, countless bands, musicians, fans and freaks have contributed to the rich and diverse history of The Tote Hotel which has built its reputation as Australia’s liveliest and busiest live music venue."

"It’s obvious to say that this is a time when our entire community is struggling, and we understand that many of our friends and family have little to spare. We are calling on those who are able to help us to please consider supporting us....

"We want to continue to be proud of what we are but we can’t do it alone whilst we are on our knees."

You can make a donation to The Tote here. 

Perring speaks about the impact that the shutdown has had on The Tote and why they've chosen to launch the GoFundMe page, watch it below.