The Hepburn Palais is closing its doors.
In a statement released on social media earlier this week, venue manager Richard Fanale said, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Palais-Hepburn.
“We deeply regret to inform you that, due to the current state of the economy, increase in expenses and other unforeseen circumstances, we have made the difficult decision to cease operations. ”
The Hepburn Palais is one of the most iconic entertainment venues in regional Victoria and has played host to some of the best local and the world’s greatest touring acts.
The Palais was built in 1926 and has reportedly Victoria’s oldest sprung dance floor. It has had many incarnations over the years including apparently as an ice creamery. The venue has passed through the hands of a number of entertainment venue managers, none of whom have seemingly been able to develop a sustainable business. It reopened to much fanfare in 2011 under the reins of a hospitality couple from Ballarat. It then closed n 2013 amid swirling accusations of unpaid debts to artists and promoters. In 2016 it became a vintage store, whose managers complained, after spending $18,000 on renovations, the venue was still “full of holes”.
There is no doubt that running a music venue is challenging at the best of times. Rising interest rates over the last few years has placed pressure on households and discretionary spending on entertainment is often the first thing to go. With a small local population base, the Palais has always relied on weekend tourism to put “bums on seats”. Tourist numbers are well down this year according to local accommodation providers.
In his social media post, Mr Finale thanked the artists and patrons who supported the Palais. “We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the talented artists and dedicated agents who entrusted us with showcasing their work. Your creativity and passion have been Palais Hepburn’s soul, and we are honoured to be part of your journey.
“To our patrons, your unwavering support for local businesses has been the backbone of our success. Your enthusiasm for our events and commitment to our vision made each day at Palais-Hepburn special. ”
There have been some great shows at the Palais over the years. Your correspondent fondly remembers excellent shows by Ross Wilson and band, Evermore and Kieren Kane and Kevin Welch. Even the sassy Dolly Adamson found a home for her riotous Disco Bingo. There have been some great tribute bands along the way. We were looking forward to seeing BABBA in a few weeks. Lloyd Spiegel will headline the final show on July 19. And then its curtain lowered, lights down and doors closed.
The closure will also affect events for the Words in Winter Festival. Two Words in Winter events that were scheduled to take place at the Palais-Hepburn this year will now be held at the Daylesford Masonic Centre, a smaller venue which will have more limited seating.
Where to from here? Well, things are pretty quiet down in Hepburn Springs. The closure of Harrys, Frank and Connie’s, the Savoia and now the Palais. Daylesford/Hepburn no longer has a live music venue. An opportunity for an adventurous local entrepreneur perhaps?
