After being an alternative music hot spot for 14 wild years, the Bendi is closing its doors – but not without a final hurrah.
Ah, the Bendi. A music lover’s paradise in a castlesque building, with multiple bandrooms, friendly staff and cold beer on tap. We hate to see it go, but one thing’s for certain: the memories we’ve all made will stick with us.
Last week, the venue announced that despite the best efforts from the team, it’ll be closing its doors for good on March 31. Before that, though, it’ll be hosting as many events as possible to give loyal patrons time to pay their respects.
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If you’ve ever had the privilege of stepping foot onto that deliciously sticky carpet, or even better, the Bendi stage, now’s your chance to give the venue the send-off it deserves. Here’s what’s on during the final days of the Bendi.
Jim’s Karaoke and Window Cleaning
- Thursday, March 21
Come on up and sing your heart out for a free tequila shot. Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or a devil, the front bar stage beckons. This event is a reoccurring crowd favourite and entry is free, so come on down and sing for your supper.
Mortiis
- Friday, March 22
- With special guests
Norweigan heavy rockers Mortiis are bringing the terror and fury to the Bendi. They’ll be unleashing their distinctly Scandinavian sound onto the crowd, playing their 1994 debut album Fodt tila Herske in full for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
- Saturday, March 23
- With the Lit. Allusions and Danny Innes
In celebration of 30 years of the iconic album Definitely Maybe, Australia’s best and brightest Oasis cover band is coming out of hibernation. Sing along to classic hits like Supersonic and Shakermaker and reminisce on a time when the brothers were still friends.
Unholy Good Friday
- Friday, March 29
- With Forklift Assassins, Y Not, The Nuremberg Code, The Esky, Select All, Jaded State, As A Rival, Green Eyes Traitor, Outta Spite, Moonshine
10 of Melbourne’s bands, one public holiday to celebrate. Kicking off at 4pm, this day party offers up the perfect opportunity to say goodbye, with killer sets all afternoon long. More artists are expected to be announced soon, so stay tuned,
Bendi-Goth: Asche zu Asche
- Friday, March 29
Join the Bendi for one last night of doing what it did best: bringing gothic rock and heavy metal to the forefront. Head upstairs for a party like no other, featuring yet-to-be-announced DJs spinning the tunes late into the night.
Final Night at the Bendi
- Saturday, March 30
- With The Vultures, The Glamour and Bitch Eyes
Playing their first Melbourne show in seven years, Queensland rocker The Vultures are expected to bring the energy in full force. After forming over a decade ago, the band has built a solid fanbase. When they returned to stages in 2022 after a brief hiatus, they were stronger than ever. See them alongside The Glamour and Bitch Eyes.
For updates on the Bendigo Hotel’s final shows, head here.
