The Tote Hotel: Melbourne pub for sale due to Covid

A last-ditch plea has been made as one of Melbourne’s most iconic pubs with a live music history almost unmatched is up for sale.

One of Melbourne’s most iconic live music venues is up for sale, with owners citing lingering “strains” of Covid lockdowns behind their decision to call last drinks.

The Tote Hotel in Collingwood, which has hosted acts such as Paul Kelly, Silverchair, Courtney Barnett, Jet and the Hoodoo Gurus, is widely considered to be an institution in the development of Australia’s live rock music scene.

But in a statement published on social media this week, co-owners Jon Perring and Sam Crupi said they had “no petrol left in the tank” following the “stresses and strains of seeing The Tote through the pandemic”.

The Tote Hotel has hosted Paul Kelly, Courtney Barnett, Jet and the Hoodoo Gurus, among other Australian music royalty. Picture: Supplied.

“It’s time for someone to take it on with renewed enthusiasm and vision now that Covid is behind us. We feel the timing is right,” the statement read.

The co-owners said they would look “favourably” on proposals that ensured live music remained at The Tote.

“The Tote needs to broaden its business model to remain relevant in the future,” the statement said.

“We will be looking favourably at proposals that ensure a live music component, including buyers who wish to pursue a mixed development of the property centred around the hotel.”

Although reports vary, a hotel has been on the site of The Tote, on the corner of Wellington and Johnston streets, since 1870.

The Tote Hotel co-owners, Jon Perring and Sam Crupi said they had ‘no petrol left in the tank’ to run the famous pub. Picture: Supplied

Vendors Miglic Dean have described The Tote as an “inner-city” landmark.

“The Tote Hotel is an institution, with a rich history of more than four decades supporting Melbourne’s live music scene,” it said.

“(T)his substantial hotel building and large landholding is a rare and exciting opportunity for the new owner to take advantage of The Tote’s strong brand, rich music legacy and striking position right in the heart of Collingwood.”

According to Real Commercial, the owners are hoping for a sale price between $6-$6.6m – a price tag that has sparked fears the grungy icon will become a block of apartments.

Speaking to 3AW on Thursday, music journalist Jane Gazzo said The Tote had been saved once and could be saved again.

“I implore Melbourne not to let The Tote become a block of apartments,” Ms Gazzo said.

“This is a legendary and iconic venue which is part of Melbourne’s rich live music culture and our history.”

Crowds gather outside The Tote in 2010. Picture: Wikipedia