Melbourne’s not-for-profit bar and bandroom Shebeen has confirmed it will close at the end of the month. In a statement on June 8, owner Simon Griffiths says, “Over the last 12 months it has become apparent that the wall of our bandroom is shared with the Melbourne East Police Station’s sleeping quarters. “As a result we have received significant pressure from the police and the VCGLR [Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation], and we received an infringement notice from the VCGLR which we have unsuccessfully appealed.”

Griffiths confirms that the three-year-old Manchester Lane venue will close on June 25. “We’re deeply regretful that we won’t be able to see out all of the live shows that were booked after this date and are working flat out with The Venue Collective to find new homes for all these shows.” “We owe a huge thank you to everyone that has been a part of Shebeen to date, and would love to see you for one last non-profit song, bánh mì or drink before we close our doors.”