Live music at the region-favourite Eltham pub is under threat after a complaint has led to the tightening of their liquor licence.
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The pub is facing new sound restrictions for live entertainment due to complaints by neighbours.
The council said it is not the regulatory authority for the Liquor Act and that NSW Liquor and Gaming has conducted an investigation under the Liquor Act 2007 after a section 79 noise disturbance complaint.
It is with a heavy heart that the pub has had to turn down its volume.
"These limits could mean an end to the bands, acts, and events that make the pub a cultural and community hub," a spokesperson from the pub said.
A petition has been created for community members to show their support of the pub, and it has amassed 8397 signatures out of a targeted 10,000.
When publicans, Matt Rabbidge and Luke Sullivan, bought the pub three years ago they had a clear creative vision - more live music and ditch the pokies.
Within that short time span they have given the hundred-year-old pub a new life and transformed it into one of the region's premiere music venues.
A spokesperson from the pub said: "It's an uphill battle given our location and the current blanket rules relating to background noise as comparable benchmarks.
"We know this place brings plenty of magic to our local community, especially with its diverse music program. It doesn't stop there either, from Norpa theatre productions to 'Science in the Pub' talks, this space holds relevance as a cultural hub for all."
Due to the cancelled show last week 11 musicians, one tour manager, six extra Eltham staff (bar, bistro and kitchen), one sound guy, two housekeepers and even the local Air bnb spaces were without work or income.
Lismore MP Janelle Saffin expressed her concern with the imposed restrictions.
"I am backing the Eltham Pub all the way. One of the great live music venues in our area. I have raised this with the Minister in Parliament," she said.
"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."
Janelle, the pub and local community are seeking to find a middle ground that allows live music to live on in the area.
In the near future, the Eltham Pub will continue to operate with the Christmas party scheduled for Friday December 15.
