An iconic Australian music venue will soon close for good, just months after recording its biggest year yet in terms of customers.
The zoo in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley has made the “incredibly difficult” decision that it is no longer viable to remain open due to high cost of living pressures.
Opened in 1992, it is one of Australia’s oldest live music venues and has hosted countless high-profile bands over the years, including Powderfinger.
The much-loved venue will close on July 8 in the latest blow to Australian live music.
“Sadly, the financial reality of keeping music venues afloat in 2024 is too stark,” The Zoo said in a statement.
The zoo in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley made the “incredibly difficult” decision to close in July
Iconic live music venue The Zoo (pictured) in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley has been operating since 1992, but will close on July 8 due to rising operating costs.
‘The zoo achieved the highest ticket sales in its 32-year history last year, but this was still not enough to combat rising operating costs and declining returns.
“As a music venue we do everything we can to keep venue rental costs as low as possible for artists and promoters, meaning the financial risks lie with the venue and we rely on bar sales to make a profit” .
Despite record attendance figures, the venue has been hit by the rising cost of alcohol as drinks sales plummet.
Managers revealed that the location was unprofitable for more than three years.
The closure also marks the end of its sister location Stranded, which will close this weekend.
“Despite exploring all avenues available to us, we were unable to secure the level of support necessary to overcome the continued financial strain,” the statement continued.
‘We have no choice but to order the last drinks for our two beloved music venues.
‘To our loyal punters and past artists, we thank you for the great moments we have shared; the decades of dancing, singing and moshing.’
The venue urged Australians to continue supporting the music industry.
The 500-capacity venue is a huge loss for Australia’s live music scene, which has had to deal with the closure of multiple venues and festivals in recent times (pictured, customers at a merchandise stand before a concert at The Zoo).
“We encourage you to advocate for live music, to implore our government and music bodies to do everything possible to prevent more venues from closing their doors due to industry-wide financial pressure that is decimating venues across the country “they wrote.
Organizers will contact music fans who have concert tickets after the July 8 date.
Meanwhile, the management urged sponsors to support their last concerts.
“We hope you will join us for one last dance over the next few months,” they said.
The news caused sadness among fans, including Australian rock band Powderfinger.
“We are very proud to have shared so many incredible moments in this place,” the band wrote.
Management want everyone to join them for their latest gigs over the next few months and have encouraged Australians to support live music venues.
‘He was an integral part of our initial journey and many other Brisbane bands.
A wonderful legacy. Sending love to everyone who has been involved and who has celebrated and supported the venue over the years.’
Live music in Australia has been hit by rising costs, leading to a series of festival cancellations.
Splendor in the Grass canceled in March after signing Australian artists Kylie Minogue, G-Flip and Tones and I.
