Next Tuesday a rally will be held in Melbourne that I think will be quite unique- especially if it is as well attended as expected.

http://www.slamrally.org/

Due to alcohol related violence, new liquor licensing laws were introduced. Live music venues s a categoryare now regarded as high risk requiring hiring of security. This extra cost has driven out of business some long standing venues.

Evidence of the Govt and the licensing commission's ignorance was when they proposed a compromise - security would only be required if the venue was open ...wait for it ... after 10 pm. Most bands I see aren't on before 10pm.

There next solution was to set up some sort of foundation with a "high profile Director" to promote Melbourne as a live music centre. Pathetic. The obvious point is that violence originates in recorded music clubs, casinos etc and the categories need changing.

Melbourne readers of the Word the rally is next tuesday.( click on the link above)...it's been a while since I've said "see you at the demo"