People from far and wide have rejoiced at the news that the old Palais live music venue in Hepburn Springs is set to re-open later this year after extensive restoration works.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Palais owner Nathan Rosenbaum said the building was being restored and refurbished.
“We are still in progress and are not sure when the works will be completed, but we are working hard and aiming for it to open for the Live.Life.Love Festival in November,” he said.
He said the plan was for the Palais to become the premier music venue in regional Victoria, but he also wanted it to become a venue utilised by the wider community.
“As a music venue, it will be for use by local artists, performers and as a place for musicians to perform but we also want it to be a community venue, open day and night, for the local people of Hepburn and Daylesford,” he said.
“It’s up to the people, really. We need local musicians, artists and performers to get involved so it is viable. We want community, school and fitness groups to use this space, which is the largest in the area for a variety of activities.”
The Palais has stood as a proud music venue in the town for more than 100 years.
“So many people have been there and have great stories about it. It’s a special place so we want to bring it back but we need the support of the community,” he said.
Mr Rosenbaum said his family had owned the building for about 10 years.
“My father has been visiting the town for more than 70 years. I remember coming here and eating an ice-cream when I was young. It is a special place.”
He said they would maintain the old art deco charm but would bring the building in keeping with the creature comforts of 2018 with a full refurbishment.
“The old toilets that were there… the musty smell down the bottom..the cold...all of that is gone. We are trying to make it nice. Somewhere you want to be.”