Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers performing at The Powerstation on February 15. Photo / Dougal Gorman
Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers performing at The Powerstation on February 15. Photo / Dougal Gorman
Australian punk rockers Amyl and the Sniffers turned a frustrating moment into memories for many when they shouted thousands of free drinks after their gig was cancelled.
The band were set to perform at Melbourne’s Federation Square last Friday in a free all-ages gig, but the show was calledoff at the last minute because of safety concerns.
Fans broke through barriers before the concert, which led to it being called off for fear of a crowd crush.
The venue said on social media that “it was unsafe to continue”.
“We did not take this decision lightly and are deeply sorry for any disappointment caused, however tonight could simply not continue.
“Our sincere apologies to the band and their fans.”
The punk rock outfit shared their frustration at the cancellation online as lead singer Amy Taylor said they were really sorry the show could not go ahead.
“It sucks not to be able to play in our hometown for free.”
Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers performing at The Powerstation on February 15. Photo / Dougal Gorman
Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers paid over $40,000 to buy fans drinks at Melbourne music venues on Friday. Photo / Dougal Gorman
Taylor then stated the band would be using their performance fee to pay for a A$5000 ($5752) bar tabs at seven of Melbourne’s small live music venues, totalling A$35,000.
“Have a drink on us,” she said in the video.
Publican of one of the venues, Benjamin “Rusty” Russell, told the ABChe thought it was “absolutely wild” when he heard the news.
“We talk about Melbourne music community – well that is it. [The band] cut their teeth in places like this, so to see them give back like that is amazing.”
Amyl and the Sniffers have gone from strength to strength in recent years.
In 2025 alone, they played shows across the United Kingdom and supported rock giants AC/DC during that Australian tour.
