In a show of solidarity for an endangered live music venue within his federal electorate of Macnamara, Josh Burns held his official campaign launch at The Vineyard. With the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles alongside him, Burns and members of Victorian government Nina Taylor, Ryan Batchelor, and six serving and former ministers the room was packed with Labor faithful– local musicians, actors, artists, poets, and writers.

The City of Port Phillip Council is threatening to demolish St Kilda’s iconic live music epicentre The Vineyard, so Burns chose to stand alongside his constituents as the drums of an imminent election beat loudly. Burns is a conviction politician.

Federal MP Josh Burns standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Johnny Iodice, proprietor of ‘The Vineyard’, and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. Photo: Danni Baggieri.

He chose the venue for the special evening, as local musicians played and guests streamed in. Remarkable percussionists from the Australian Academy of Music welcomed the deputy prime minister on and Johnny Iodice, the proprietor of ‘The Vineyard’ said it was “an incredible ride at the helm of this live music institution for the past 26 years, but I don’t think I was ever so proud as to see our local Federal MP chose my venue for his election launch, especially with so many distinguished guests in attendance”.

“Josh understands the importance of the arts in transforming lives –seeing him and so many other senior members of the Labor Party standing behind this venue during its darkest hour–meant the world to my staff and me. It also showed support to the countless musicians who rely on playing at The Vineyard for their livelihood.”

Showing their true colours: Dr. John A. Martino, Johnny Iodice, and Danni Baggiere, with the PM making a ‘guest appearance’. Photo:Paul Sougleris.

As Passover neared its end, and Greek and Catholic Easter coalesced, Jewish, Greek Orthodox and Catholic constituents joined those of diverse beliefs to celebrate Burns’ launch. The local politician recently pledged $18 million for a Jewish Arts Quarter -again signalling his deep commitment towards the Arts and Culture. Burns on the night said, said, “The Vineyard is a fantastic part of the live music ecosystem for many years not only in Melbourne, but state-wide”.

“Lots of our parents have been here to hear great music play and the tradition continues for us. We need to keep training the great musicians of the future on stages like this venue provides,” Burns said