Another successful St Kilda Festival has come and gone, but the music will live on thanks to St Kilda’s music history map.

The new mapping project will see footpath decals positioned outside eight historical venues along Fitzroy Street to Acland Street, recording our live music heritage and the places, bands and characters that have contributed to St Kilda’s history.

We have started by pinning some iconic places, together with a brief history of the site, images, and links to bands who played there. Brian Nankervis, Melynda von Wayward of Punk Journey, Kaye Blum and Rob Wellington have shared their stories and knowledge. 

Songs have been sung on this land for generations, led by First Peoples and joined by voices from many cultures. 

The map is a marker of what was and what is, encouraging people to delve deeper and to share their own experiences of all genres of music in the area.

Users can scan a QR code to learn more and see imagery from the Port Phillip City Collection. We encourage you to explore the trail in person and visit some of these landmarks – stop for a drink or meal and enjoy live music again.

We invite contributions, recollections and suggestions from our community – favourite gigs, the music of yesteryear, the places lost and the new ones we love.

The sites include:

• George/Seaview Hotel - Crystal Ballroom
• Prince of Wales Hotel
• Hotel Esplanade
• Wattle Path/Palais de Dance/St Moritz/Bananas
• Earl’s Court/The Venue
• Palais de Dance/ The Palace
• Palais Theatre
• Galleon/Galleone Lounge, 130 Acland Street 

This project delivers on Council’s Live Music Action Plan, and links in with art and heritage services programming and St Kilda Festival and Renew Fitzroy Street activities with further sites to be added.

For more information, including to view the map and add your own contributions, visit: St Kilda's music history map - City of Port Phillip