Get your party hats on Sydneysiders, tonight is the last night you can sink a teapot at Sydney’s iconic venue – The World Bar.
In a heartfelt post on Facebook, the World Bar crew announced the sudden closure of the King’s Cross institution, to the devastation of many.
“This is obviously heartbreaking stuff, after being part of the Sydney music scene for more than 18 years it’s tough to close the doors on a venue that really is like a big family,” said owner Steve Ward. “We’re very proud of the role we’ve played in fostering young music talent and creating a safe space for all.”
“The obvious connection that people will make on our closure is the effect of the lock-out laws. It’s undeniable that they have had a huge impact on us, as well as Sydney’s live music scene. However, we believe there is a solution here, we have hope,” read the statement on Facebook. “We need the authorities to show true leadership and to make positive decisions for the music and creative communities and for everyone who likes to be social at night! Public opinion and pressure are mounting and now we need our elected officials to be brave and make positive changes to the legislation. Safety and entertainment ARE achievable, we have seen this put into practice in global cities around the world.”
Citing that the lockout laws undeniably played a part in the decision to shut up shop, The World Bar joins the list of 418 licensed premises to shut down since the introduction of the new laws in 2014, according to Sydney Morning Herald.
After eighteen years of business in the Sydney night-life scene, the venue is set to have one last hurrah to celebrate all that they’ve achieved. From hosting electronic artists like Ajax, Flume, Alison Wonderland and Nina Las Vegas to live performances from DZ Deathrays, Gang of Youths and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, the venue is surely to be missed by the youth of Sydney.
With a cheeky little “who knows when you might see us again…” tacked onto the end of the statement, who knows if this is a definitive goodbye to The World Bar, or just a see-you later… Until then, get down to the venue tonight so you don’t miss out on what we’re sure will be their greatest bash yet.
Let us know your favourite memories from The World Bar in the comments below!