In a major blow to Melbourne‘s LGBTQIA community, iconic gay bar Greyhound Hotel announced its sudden closure last night in what appears to be a win for developers, despite a major campaign to save the 160-year-old venue.
The St Kilda pub posted on Facebook last night:
“It is with a heavy heart that we share this news with you…
“As of today the GH Hotel will no longer be open for business. This is due to recent unforeseen circumstances.
“We would like to say a massive thank you to every single patron, performer, promoter and staff member for their support over the years.”
GH Hotel offered no further explanation as to what these “recent unforeseen circumstances” are, but tbqh with you, “unforeseen” doesn’t seem to be *quite* the word it’s looking for.
Plans to redevelop the sight into an eight-storey apartment complex have been filed with the Port Phillip Council since October 2016.
The Age reported last year that while a decision would be made by February 2017, the pub was not heritage-listed and could be “knocked down any time”.
A petition to save the venue from developers attracted over 2,400 signatures.
“When you see the Greyhound you know you’ve reached St Kilda,” the petition read. “Losing her will mean losing an icon and much-loved character in our community.”
PEDESTRIAN.TV has reached out to the GH Hotel for comment.
The news has devastated the local community, with thousands of comments on the pub’s Facebook post mourning the loss of an icon.
“This is devastating news!” wrote one commenter. “The GH has been such an amazing venue for the community! The support & safety you have provided for the LGBTQI community will not be forgotten! Especially being a safe place for minus 18 youth to have fun and be actively part of the community!”
“Devastating news,” wrote another. “Equally as sad that we don’t get a bon voyage party to say goodbye!! Thank you GH for all the great times, wonderful memories and a safe space to call ours. You will be missed xxx.”
The pub promised in the original Facebook post to provide more information soon.
Photo: Facebook / GH Hotel.
