Back in February, some tragic news broke that inner-city music venue and watering hole The Lansdowne was set to shut its doors. The owner was looking to convert more space into hostel accommodation and with that news, the team behind the bar and music side of the things, Marys Group decided to call it a day.

Skip forward to mid-May and we’ve got some super good news that the team behind Oxford Arts Factory has jumped in to save the venue and continue its legacy as a music spot and easy-going pub for all.

Those watching keenly would have noted that although gigs were meant to finish up at the end of April, shows have continued through May sparking hope it wasn’t done for. News today has confirmed that with the Oxford Art Factory founder and CEO Mark Gerber stating;

“Oxford Art Factory can confirm the rumours. We are pleased to announce that we have agreed with the owners to put aside any plans that could see the demise of this iconic venue of Sydney and Australia’s live music and arts scene,”

“Music and art can never die. They make us stronger and live longer! Sydney doesn’t need to lose any more live music venues; it has suffered enough. The lockout laws and COVID-19 have severely impacted a once flourishing and vibrant nightlife, and I wasn’t going to let yet another music venue fall by the wayside — not on my watch!”

Gerber added some more exciting news in a statement that the venue will get a refresh with some renovations on the way.

Better still, to celebrate the news will be a ‘Rejuve(nation)’ party on Saturday, June 25th. The gig will run for 12 hours from 5pm–5am, and will feature a stack of local bands and DJs.

How good… also word on the street is Marys Group are looking to take over Holy Moly in Newtown and turn it back into a music venue. Fingers crossed for some more good news.