25/02/2026
I donāt even know what to write, Iām so upset about this and refusing it to be fully true. closing permanentlyā¦ as ifā¦.
But itās fkn true.
I remember when it moved from Coolum to Maroochydore just before I turned 18 and being devoed to not be able to go to the local. Didnāt matter, we made the trek across the bridge countless times to see some of our favourite artists and make connections. Local acts like who we loved so much we booked for our wedding.
Years later, gave our band our first opportunity to headline a show during covid. Limited capacity meant it sold out. One of the best feelings Iāve had in my life and one Iāll never forget.
Since then Iāve played that stage multiple times and made life long friends in that green room. The national artists they get through the door are amazing but the magic of Solbar is in the grassroots. The little guys. You learn so much from booking a gig there. Like.. what the hell is a certificate of currency, Liss? Whatās a tech rider? How do we soundcheck? yourself and Brian were always so helpful, approachable and kind in dealing with new bands. The skills and knowledge learned, allowed us to level our game up and play bigger stages and festivals. Not to mention the sound!
Recently I started working with you all there at Solbar behind the sound desk and itās been one of the most exciting jobs Iāve ever had. Now Iām on the other side, imparting the same knowledge on up and comers. Mixing bands and seeing the joy when they hear themselves cranked and their mates dancing in front of them. Thank you all for everything youāve taught me.
All ages shows. Several times Solbar dedicated a whole day of programming to underage bands. Who else is doing that? Families came and saw their kids on the same stage played the day before. I got to take my daughter to her first show there. I got to mentor primary and high school aged bands to play there, our youngest rockstar being 8! My niece and nephew have played on that stage. Itās such a shame to see this investment in the future of music on the coast disappear.
Continued in comments.
