Mayor slams Liquor Commission over bizarre reasons for refusing whiskey bar

SOME of the reasons behind the NT Liquor Commission’s decision to knock back a new whiskey bar have been described as ‘far fetched’ by Darwin Mayor Kon Vatskalis

Austin Lane bar Uncle Tony’s, Alex Deutrom, is frustrated that his liquor licence application has been knocked back by the NT Liquor Commission. Picture: Keri Megelus

SOME of the reasons behind the NT Liquor Commission’s decision to knock back a new whiskey bar have been described as “far fetched” by Darwin Mayor Kon Vatskalis.

The Commission rejected Alex Deutrom’s liquor licence application for his new Austin Lane bar Uncle Tony’s on July 17, although no public objections were made.

THE reason why the whiskey bar was knocked back

The 25-year-old owner said the rejection was devastating, after he dedicated the past 18 months working to establish the intimate, hole-in-the-wall whiskey and jazz bar.

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In its decision notice, the NT Liquor Commission said it rejected the application over concerns over the use of external toilets and the financial viability of the business.

“The proposed entrance off Austin Lane is directly opposite what appears to be the smokers waiting area for the Langtrees Chill Out Lounge, an establishment boasting services of female adult entertainers, massage and escorts,” the notice said.

“Although that factor may be said to contribute to the ‘speak-easy’ theme of the bar it is likely to turn some customers off, particularly those who are expecting a ‘high end’ bar.”

Darwin Mayor Vatskalis said he thought some of the concerns seemed a bit far fetched.

“I know the commission is very sensitive about alcohol but I don’t understand why they are so concerned about the financial viability of the business,” he said.

“I’m worried these knock backs will make people think twice before they try to start a new business in Darwin.”

Mr Deutrom said he felt very frustrated reading through the decision because Uncle Tony’s would help breathe some life back into Darwin’s struggling CBD.

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“I felt a lot of the information in my application, as well as what I said at the hearing, has been misinterpreted and has not been properly considered,” he said.

“It seems evident that the commission doesn’t understand the appeal of a small whiskey bar hidden down a gentrifying, graffiti-covered laneway.

“Similar models in Melbourne and other cities prove very popular and successful.”

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Mr Deutrom said he planned on continuing to pursue the venture in one form or another. “The decision is with my solicitors to determine whether or not we will appeal,” he said.

NT Chamber of Commerce CEO Greg Bicknell said while he thought the commission had some legitimate concerns, the concept of the bar showed promise. “It’s certainly worth pursuing,” he said.