After ten years of lobbying, the music industry is applauding moves to revitalise Sydney’s live music scene as part of proposed changes to the Liquor Bill to go before Cabinet.
Premier Morris Iemma said the Bill would be broadened to include specific reference to the development of industries closely linked to licensed premises, including live music and entertainment. It will also include a special category of liquor license for music and entertainment venues separate from hotel licenses.
An an inaugural 'Music in the House' luncheon at Parliament last week, Premier Iemma said: “music has been a big part of my life ever since I sported a flannelette shirt, a leather jacket, and a mullet back in the 70s and 80s”.
He said his all-time favourite band, the Foreday Riders, were regulars at the Cat and Fiddle in Balmain.
They were pretty hot, too. Screamer Jimmy Barnes and rocker Billy Thorpe were at the luncheon, MC'd by weatherman Mike Bailey.
The moves follow concerns that Sydney, once a powerhouse of bands and original music, is falling way behind other state capitals because of expensive and complex licensing requirements.
It is hoped the new rules will shift the emphasis in some venues from poker machines and 'doof' music to live performers.
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