The Eltham Hotel has received a blow after new noise restrictions have been enforced, resulting in the cancellation of planned live music shows this weekend.

The newly imposed limits are the result of some neighbours complaining about the noise the venue generates when it hosts music performances. However, other locals were quick to speak up and say that The Eltham Hotel has always been very respectful of people's needs and usually finishes up any louder music at 9.30pm.

The news was shared via social media, generating an outpouring of support and disappointment from the Northern Rivers community. The Eltham Hotel is a popular gathering place for many people across the region, and is known for its live music gigs and other cultural events, such as several collaborations with NORPA.

The Eltham Hotel shared the following on Facebook on Tuesday.

“With a heavy heart we announce this weekend's planned show… here at the pub has been cancelled. With newly imposed noise limits due to complaints by a couple of neighbours, we need to be even more considered with programming and output… Rest assured, we’re looking into every angle necessary through the appeal process. It’s an uphill battle given our location and the current blanket rules relating to background noise as comparable benchmarks (out here these practically none).”

Management also pointed out the impact of this last-minute cancellation has on many people, beyond the pub itself.

“For the cancelled show this week, we apologise unreservedly to the 11 musicians, 1 tour manager, 6 extra Eltham staff (bar, bistro and kitchen), 1 sound guy, 2 housekeepers and even the local air b’n’b spaces who will be without work or income this Saturday due to these new restrictions. Further afield decisions like this affect band management, booking agents and of course the ticketing company as well.”

The impact of these changes will extend beyond this weekends cancellations and the ripples will continue to be felt broadly in the live music industry. The impact on locals is also significant, with many expressing that having access to live music was more than a simple recreation and has an impact on their emotional, mental and social well being.

Janelle Saffin responded to the post stating “I am backing in Eltham Pub all the way. One of the great live music venues in our area. I have raised this with the Minister in Parliament. This week we passed the 24 hour Night Time Economy Bill which makes sure live music can be played at Eltham and other venues and not shut down.” 

While some people have been quick to point the finger at Lismore City Council, a Council spokesperson has confirmed that these restrictions are not the doing of LCC.

“NSW Liquor and Gaming has conducted an investigation under the Liquor Act 2007 after a section 79 noise disturbance complaint. Council is not the regulatory authority for the Liquor Act. Council did make a submission during the investigation process to NSW Liquor and Gaming.”

Live music everywhere, particularly in regional areas is incredibly important for many people, as has been shown by the huge response and depth of feeling which has been expressed regarding this situation. Bumper stickers supporting the hotel have even been made up and donated by a frustrated local. Many remain hopeful that the Eltham Hotel will triumph in the appeals process.

In the meantime, the Eltham Hotel will continue to host quieter live music that meets the requirements of the new limits, and to provide the food, drinks and atmosphere that it is renowned for.