What’s the first show you ever had/booked at the venue? The first show I booked for the Yarra was a bill that had Girl Crazy, Mares, ATOM, and Avoid playing together. I clearly remember being incredibly nervous but it was a wonderful night of music.
Why do you think the music scene in Melbourne is so special? Most music venues are run by musicians or music lovers. Our general manager plays music, our bar staff are generally at gigs on their nights off, and I also play music. So you have people working at your venue who have a better idea of how shows work and what makes musicians happy.
If you could book any three bands to play a show, who would they be and why? Robert Forster, a Devastations reunion show and The Bats.
What has been the ultimate highlight in terms of a show you’ve held there? When Shayne P. Carter (Straitjacket Fits, Dimmer) came and played three nights at The Yarra. I’m a huge fan so hearing that distinctive voice and guitar sound while he was sound-checking sent chills down my spine.
Finally, what’s happening there for you as part of this year’s Leaps & Bounds? We like to keep things local and Leaps & Bounds will be no exception. We have a great show from The Braves on Friday July 21, Mandy Connell performing her music and film show An Otherwise Quiet Room and many more to be announced.
