WARRNAMBOOL is about to lose its last video store and now it’s in danger of losing its last live original music venue.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Loft has launched a Pozible campaign in an attempt to raise $15,000 needed for repairs to the building.
The repairs are a condition of a new lease being granted to new business owner Jed Mast.
Manager Jarrod Hawker said the past 11 years had unfortunately left a mark on the music venue and the building owner would only let The Loft continue if repairs were made.
“The last 11 years of rockin’ has taken its toll on the building and in order for us to guarantee The Loft will still be rockin’ for the next 11, we’ve gotta patch things up and reinforce other areas,” Hawker said.
“If we don't raise this money, we can't be sure The Loft will still be rockin’ much longer.”
He said The Loft was proud of its cultural role in Warrnambool, providing a venue for up-and-coming and established bands to play their own music, continuing a musical thread that extended back to long-gone hotels such as the Criterion, the Lady Bay, and the Tatts.
While the venue is asking for donations, it’s also giving something in return.
A range of rewards – depending on the amount donated – are available, including a year of free entry and a compilation album featuring local bands.
Aside from donating their recordings to the cause, dozens of local musicians will also be banding together for a weekend of fundraiser gigs at The Loft on November 5 and 6.