Sydney Venue to Close After 38 Years
The Old Manly Boatshed, a long-running music venue and pub in Sydney’s northern beaches, is set to close next month after nearly four decades in operation.
The venue, located between Manly Wharf and Manly Beach on The Corso, announced the closure in a statement citing “circumstances beyond our control.”
Founded in 1987 by Grant McMinn and Goff Burgess, the Old Manly Boatshed grew from a small restaurant and bar into what has been described as one of Australia’s longest-running live music and comedy venues. Over the years, it hosted generations of musicians, comedians, and locals, earning a reputation as a key part of Manly’s nightlife.
In a message to patrons, Burgess said the decision to close was made with “deep sadness and regret” and acknowledged the contributions of staff, artists, and audiences who helped shape the venue’s identity.
“For generations, it has become more than just a venue; it has been a piece of Manly’s history,” the statement read.
The venue will remain open until mid-September, with its operators encouraging the community to visit and celebrate its final weeks of live entertainment.