Melbourne Free Show Halted Amid Crowd Safety Fears
A highly anticipated free performance by Australian punk rockers Amyl and The Sniffers was abruptly cancelled on Friday night after crowd pressure breached perimeter fencing, raising significant security concerns. The band, who are currently the support act for rock legends AC/DC on their national tour, were scheduled to play an all-ages show at Melbourne's Federation Square.
Band's Heartfelt Apology and Unconventional Make-Good
Frontwoman Amy Taylor took to the band's Instagram shortly after the cancellation to express her devastation. In a video message, she apologised profusely to fans, explaining that the band was backstage and ready to play but the event could not proceed safely after the fences were compromised.
The apology didn't stop with words. In a surprising and generous gesture, Taylor revealed the band would be using their performance fee to fund bar tabs at several local Melbourne venues. She named eight pubs and bars, including The Tote, Cherry Bar, and Old Bar, stating that a £5,000 tab had been set up at each location, inviting disappointed fans to 'have a drink on us' in a nod to the AC/DC song 'Have A Drink On Me'.
Official Statements and Future Tour Dates
Federation Square management issued an official statement apologising for the cancelled gig, confirming the decision was made for public safety. Katrina Sedgwick, co-chief executive of the Melbourne Arts Precinct, later elaborated at a press conference, praising the calm behaviour of the disappointed crowd inside the perimeter despite the difficult circumstances.
Amyl and The Sniffers will continue their tour with AC/DC, with their next performance scheduled for Melbourne's MCG on Sunday. The tour then moves to Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane, concluding with a final show at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on December 18.
