A Sunshine Coast business has announced ambitious plans to transform part of their warehouse into the region’s newest live-music venue.
Nambour music shop Big Audio is set to open the doors of their new venue early next year.
Construction is underway on a 300sqm site at Bury Street, which will include a large garden bar for acoustic performances, an indoor bar and entertainment area and a kitchen specialising in pizza and crepes.
The project has been supported with a $53,368 Federal Government Grant.
Big Audio owner Phil Turvey said he was “over the moon”, after being awarded the grant, which would go towards renovations and pay for 84 live acoustic lunch-time shows.
“This is a game changer for us, and it moves us so much further down the track,” he said.
“This venue will be all about providing a platform for local original music to thrive on the Sunshine Coast.
“Unfortunately, there are not a lot of live music venues left on the Coast, despite the public and the industry screaming out for more options.”
“That’s why we are so excited to open our doors early next year and plug live music straight back into the lives of locals in an effort to bring a vibrant night time economy to Nambour.”
Big Audio will feature everything from acoustic sets, blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll to cover bands and Sunday sessions.
With more than 20 years experience in the industry, including long-time support of the Wood Folk Festival, Mr Turvey has tapped into what people want and he cannot wait to deliver it.
“I know what entertains people because I’ve seen what people like and what flavour to put out there” Mr Turvey said.
“That’s what this venue is all about – entertainment.”
Federal Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien, said the funding boost was a win for Nambour and a showstopper for the live-music sector in the region.
“The stage is set for Nambour to amplify its reputation as a live music and arts hub on the Sunshine Coast,” he said.
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“It’s no secret that the past two years have been incredibly difficult for the live-music industry, but today’s announcement is another sign that the music is back.
“I am delighted to support Phil and his new venture which will provide so many opportunities for the local music scene.”
Big Audio will be the first venue to open in Nambour under the Sunshine Coast Council’s designated Special Entertainment Precinct regulations which enables the business to be exempt from the amplified music noise requirements of the Queensland Government’s liquor licensing laws.
The grant comes from a $2.5 million Live Music Australia Program, which is designed for small and medium sized venues who support quality original Australian live music to rebuild following the impacts of COVID-19.
