About 2 Gough St
2 Gough Street in Cremorne is part of the new **Malt District** development – a mixed-use precinct built around Melbourne’s heritage maltings. The site was originally the Barrett Burston malting complex (from the 1850s onward) , so the old concrete silos and the iconic Nylex clock sign are key landmarks. The project has been carefully designed to **honour that history**: as one development brief puts it, the Malting site had been “known and loved by Melburnians as a strangely beautiful relic of old industry,” and the new build will “thoughtfully… respect its heritage architecture” . In practice, that means the large neon Nylex clock atop the silos is being restored and kept as part of the precinct . Architecturally, the stage 2 plan for 2 Gough St spans three new towers (of 11, 14 and 15 storeys) with about 301 apartments , but it also includes a significant public and commercial component. Ground level will open out to the former maltworks plaza with cafes, restaurants and even a microbrewery . In other words, 2 Gough St is not just an apartment block – it’s intended as a **social hub** for Cremorne, with lots of public amenity around the rain-battered brick and concrete of the old brewery buildings.
Nowadays Cremorne is part of the Yarra municipality and a creative-tech hub – home to small makers, studios and trendy businesses – so 2 Gough St is also notable as a kind of *anchor* development. The plan calls it a “mixed-use development built around Cremorne’s iconic Nylex Clock and malt silos” . In design terms, the new buildings here involve renowned firms (heritage specialists Lovell Chen and Fender Katsalidis Architects) working together , melding brick-and-steel industrial style with modern living spaces. In sum, 2 Gough St matters to Melbourne’s scene because it stitches a piece of city history back into active use: a heritage brewery site reborn as a vibrant public precinct .
Events and Programming
As of now 2 Gough St is still largely under development, so there aren’t permanent events in place yet. However, even before opening, the site has already hosted creative public events – for example, in 2022 the owner gained approval to project light-based artwork onto the tall malt silos every Friday and Saturday evening over a two-month period . This kind of street-front art show hints at what’s planned: once the microbrewery and bars open, we can expect weekly events like live music nights, trivia quizzes or markets in the plaza. The developer’s vision mentions an “esplanade with cafés, restaurants and even a microbrewery” as the precinct’s social heartbeat . That implies casual daytime activity (cafés and brews) and more programmed nights (bands or DJs). In Melbourne style, brewpubs often run open-mic or acoustic jam sessions, and host special beer release parties – 2 Gough St is likely to do the same once open. In short, the venue will host typical local events: live music by indie/Australian artists, brewery tours and tastings, food truck or beer festivals by the river, and community gatherings on the plaza.
Tickets for any big concerts or festivals would be sold per show (through promoters or the venue’s box office), but many regular events should just be walk-in or with a small cover charge. (Details on prices will depend on the act – see below.)
Tickets and Booking
There is no separate “box office” website yet for 2 Gough St; when events are announced, tickets are usually sold by the event promoters or via platforms like OZTix or at the door. In practice, most nights at a brewery venue like this are casual with no advance tickets required – you can just show up. If a popular band or headline DJ is playing, then tickets may go for around ~$20–40 AUD (Melbourne gigs vary from about $15 folk sets up to $60 rock shows). For private functions or group bookings, the venue can also be reserved (they planned a function room for up to ~200 people , though that reference is a generic brewery site). In general, keep an eye on local event listings (no particular platform is linked to 2 Gough St) and arrive early. Often limited seats or tables are available on a first-come basis. Presales by local radio or mailouts (for loyalty members) are possible for big events. If you need to purchase at the door, have cover charge cash/Cards ready – most Australian venues are cashless or take card.
Seating and Layout
The interior is still in construction, but early indications suggest an **industrial-chic** open layout. The microbrewery and brewery bar will have long communal tables, stools and possibly a few lounge areas. Expect bench-style seating and high tables for groups, as is common in modern brewpubs. A small stage will be set up near the bar or in a cleared corner for live music; most other floor space will be open for standing during gigs. VIP or reserved areas might include a raised platform or a private section along one wall. Since this is a mixed-use building, some events (like seated talks or screenings) could use stackable chairs, but the norm will be casual standing admission. For acoustic justice, the heavy brick walls and timber accents will provide warmth, but bring earplugs if you’re sensitive (no wonder considering the site’s warehouse vibe). In summary: the best vantage points are near the front of the stage for music, or at the bar counter for ambiance. Avoid very far back in standing shows if you want a good view; conversely, the few tables near the stage are coveted for their sound. Being a craft venue, the acoustics are tuned for band gigs, not orchestras, so small live acts will sound great, while very large production shows might thin out.
Getting There and Parking
Location: 2 Gough Street sits on a corner off Swan Street in Cremorne (Melbourne 3121), right by the Yarra River and Punt Road. By car it’s a short drive from the CBD (about 3 km east) via the Eastern Freeway or Punt Road.
Public Transport: Trams are the easiest. The No. 70 and No. 78 trams along Swan Street (toward Wattle Park or North Richmond) stop at Swan/Gough or Swan/Punt, just a 5-minute walk from the venue. Tram 75 (to the city) also runs on nearby Swan Street at Punt/Glasgow. CityLink’s #246 and #605 buses run along Punt Road and Swan Street respectively and stop close by. Richmond Station (metropolitan train) is about a 700 m walk or 10 min on foot (on the Mernda/Hurstbridge line toward Flinders Street). Olympic Park and Melbourne Central stations are also in range via a short tram ride. Taxis and rideshare (Uber, etc.) can drop you right at the front — there’s usually a safe standing zone on Gough Street or nearby.
Driving & Parking: Free street parking in Cremorne is limited (most spots are metered during the day and free after about 6 pm on weekdays, and all day Sunday). If you drive, plan to arrive early to secure parking on nearby side streets or use paid parking. The closest multi-level car parks are at Swan Street bridge (behind Donovans restaurant) or on Burnley Street (near Richmond Station) – both 5–10 minutes’ walk. In a pinch, cheap hourly options exist at Melbourne City Baths (also walkable). Rideshare is often safer for busy events, as late-night trams (75/78) run until midnight and trains run most nights every 30 min or so.
Inside the Venue
Entry & Security: Expect a casual, friendly check-in. When you enter, staff will quickly scan your ticket or list your name, and may ask for photo ID if you look under 18 (it’s an alcohol-licensed venue). Bag checks for large items may occur, and standard venues rules apply (no weapons, no outside alcohol, etc.). The layout is open plan – you’ll immediately see the long bar and seating. The bright Nylex sign may be visible through windows. Consider arriving a little before showtime, as lines at the bar or cloakroom can form at peak times.
Food and Drinks: 2 Gough St’s in-house café and microbrewery will serve craft beers (pilsners, pale ales, sours, etc.) brewed on-site, along with wines, ciders and a modest selection of spirits or cocktails. They’ll likely pour local beers or specialty cocktails too. Expect pub-style nibbles – cheeses, meats, chips and dips – or food trucks parked outside on event days. (Usually these taprooms don’t serve full meals, so plan a light snack here or step out afterward.) There will be a bar counter for ordering; separate food ordering might also happen at the café hatch. Most brewery venues allow re-usable growlers or bottles to go, so you can take home a few litres of beer if open to offsales.
Special Features: Unique to this venue is the old machinery and silos that form part of the interior décor – you might see silver fermenters or rustic malt bins repurposed as plant pots. A prized feature is the RETRO Nylex neon clock sign upstairs or out on the patio – a great photo backdrop. The design calls for a “People’s Plaza” style area , which means there is likely a small outdoor courtyard or deck with heaters for cool evenings. (If you have mobility needs, the entire ground floor is level and there are accessible lifts/stairs to any upper viewing terrace.) Bathrooms will be gender-neutral single stalls as per modern code, and there’s usually a coat rack or jam-box for jackets. Free Wi-Fi may not be offered (it’s best to use phone data); cell reception on major carriers is generally good.
Atmosphere: The vibe inside is typically Industrial-Australian: think polished concrete floors, timber furniture and soft Edison bulbs mixed with bold murals. Local music or hip-hop will often play before bands. It’s a popular spot for after-work drinks (even on non-event nights), with a lively happy-hour crowd of nearby tech workers. Crowd chatter, laughter and the hiss of steam valves from brewing create a friendly “heart-of-the-city” buzz. For busy nights the venue can feel packed, but staff are usually profesh. If you’re after merch, look for a small cabinet with beer glassware or T-shirts on sale.
Nearby Amenities
Dining: Cremorne and the adjacent Richmond precinct have plenty of pre- or post-show eateries. Swan Street is lined with casual options: poke bars, pizza places, modern Thai and gastro-pubs (e.g. the well-known Donovans steakhouse two minutes away). A block north on Richmond’s Bridge Road are steakhouses, cafes and pubs (The Rattler Hotel). For quick bites, there’s a tiny bakery or kebab shop just around the corner on Gilray Street. If you prefer a sit-down dinner, head 5 minutes to Richmond town centre (corner Lennox/Swan) for tapas and steady pours at Republica or fine Italian at Cicciolina.
Bars and Cafés: Several smart bars are in walking distance. Slightly up Gough Street, you’ll find a craft beer bar and a cocktail lounge. On the other side of the river, Richmond has plenty of late-night bars (Moon Dog World on Wellington St is 10 min away). For coffee and brunch before a day event, check out Cremorne’s James Street café precinct with healthy bowls and artisan roasting houses.
Hotels: While Cremorne is mostly commercial, there are a few city hotels nearby. The closest large hotel is The Richmond (Art Series group) near the station, about a 10-minute walk. Otherwise, South Yarra hotels like Novotel or QT are a short taxi ride away (2 km). Overnight parking at these hotels is often cheaper if you plan to stay late. Many people also book in neighboring Griffith, next door.
Arrive Early & Late Transport: For popular shows (especially weekends), aim to arrive ~30 min early to beat crowds and catch support acts. Late-night, trams #75/78 run until midnight (some run later on Friday/Sat) and trains until about 12:30am (earlier on Sundays). Rideshare drop-offs or taxi bays are available on Swan Street if you prefer to leave by car.
What Makes This Venue Special
2 Gough Street stands out for its **heritage and atmosphere**. You’re literally drinking and dancing inside a piece of Melbourne history: the concrete malt silos (a backdrop to the Nylex clock) and brick malting shed walls are preserved in the design. This fusion of old and new is rare, even in Metro Melbourne. The restored Nylex neon sign, perched above, is a local landmark – you’ll see it from across the city and at night it’s a beacon celebrating the neighbourhood’s past . Artistically, the venue (and broader Malt District) is aimed to be a cultural gateway – a “public precinct” with plazas and art installations . Indeed, 2 Gough St will host creative community events (like the 2022 silo art projection) that you won’t find in a generic bar.
It’s also special in community impact: the Malt District (a $1B redevelopment) is expected to bring hundreds of new residents and workers to Cremorne , and 2 Gough St is its finishing touch. For Albert Park football fans or city cyclists, it creates a new hangout by the river. The designers have even planned a “People’s Plaza” and rooftop next to the Nylex Clock , a kind of urban square rarely opened up like this in private developments. Local traditions – such as watching the Nylex flash or summer beer scorching – should carry on here. In short, artists and audiences will love 2 Gough St because it re-energizes a leafy industrial pocket with craft beer, city views and quirky heritage architecture all in one place. It's Melbourne’s answer to a small-town brewery in the big city.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The venue is newly built with disability access. Wheelchair ramps, lifts to any upper areas, and an accessible toilet are provided. Wheelchair users can see the stage from front or side areas. For vision/hearing, check at entry if you need assistance – staff are usually friendly.
**Arriving:** Bring photo ID (18+ card or driver’s licence) for alcohol service. On busy nights, keep small cash handy for tips or extra cover charges (most things can be card-paid). Check the calendar in advance; if tickets are required, book early online.
**What to Wear:** Dress is casual. It can get hot on the dancefloor or crowded during a show, so lightweight clothes and comfy shoes are wise. Even if rainy, part of the ground floor is indoors but there is an outdoor courtyard – bring a light jacket for evening events.
**What to Bring:** A small bag is fine, but large backpacks may be searched. Refillable water bottles are allowed (they have free water stations). You can take photos or record most acts for personal use, but no professional recording gear without permission. Smoking is only outside in designated areas, so keep that in mind if you like to step out. Mobile phones have decent data inside if you need maps or QR menus, but you might lose signal at peak crowd – plan meetup points with friends.
**General Advice:** The venue’s vibe is relaxed and friendly, typical of Melbourne brewpubs. Etiquette: no pushing forward in crowds, and do try local beers when recommended. If you’re music-phobic, don’t sit front row; otherwise, join in the energy on the floor. Luggage lockers aren’t provided, so don’t bring bulky coats. Note that 2 Gough St is not an open-air amphitheatre – it is fully covered/indoor with only small courtyard seating outdoors – so events will usually go on rain or shine (and rarely be canceled). If it’s your first visit, remember how the venue was a silos site – you are under a historic clock tower!
What is 2 Gough Street Cremorne?
2 Gough Street is the address of the Malt District Stage 2 development in Cremorne, Melbourne. It will be a mixed-use complex featuring residential apartments, office spaces, cafes and a microbrewery. The site incorporates the heritage malt silos and Nylex clock sign from the old Richmond malting works .
Is 2 Gough Street open to the public?
Stage 2 is under construction, so the full venue isn’t open yet. However, adjacent parts of the Malt District are open, and you can view the Nylex Clock and silos from the street. When completed, the brewery and public areas will be fully accessible, with special events and live shows regularly scheduled.
How can I buy tickets for an event at 2 Gough Street?
There is currently no dedicated box office. Tickets (when needed) are usually sold through event promoters’ platforms or at the door. For live music nights, keep an eye on local listings or the venue’s social media. Many events at microbreweries offer walk-in entry or pre-paid tickets via their website or email list.
What kinds of events are held at the Malt District (2 Gough St)?
The Malt District aims to host a variety of events. This will include live music (bands/DJs), brewery tours and tastings, food market days, art shows and community events on the plaza. For example, the site has already been used for night-time art projections on the silos (in 2022) . Once fully operational, expect weekly brewery events and occasional larger concerts.
Are there age restrictions at 2 Gough Street?
Because 2 Gough Street includes licensed bars and a brewery, the venue itself is 18+ for drinking. Children are usually allowed if accompanied by adults in daytime hours, but check each event’s policy. After dark, most shows are 18+ due to liquor licensing. Carry photo ID if you plan to drink.
What is the venue layout and seating like?
The interior is an open-plan brewpub style. There will be long communal tables, bar seating and some lounge areas. A stage for live acts will sit at one end of the main hall. Most events are standing/general admission, though a few tables or benches may be reserved at small shows. Stairs or a lift lead to any rooftop bar space.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. 2 Gough Street is newly built with full accessibility. There are ramps, lifts and accessible restrooms. Reserved wheelchair spots are typically provided with good sightlines to the stage. Staff usually manage accessible seating on a first-come basis or by advance request.
What transportation options are available?
Several trams and buses serve the area. For example, Tram 70 and 78 on Swan Street and Tram 75 on Punt Street stop within a few minutes’ walk . Bus routes (246, 605, etc.) run nearby too. Richmond train station (City Loop) is about 700 m away. Driving and rideshare are options, but evenings see metered street parking and a few paid lots 5–10 min away.
What are the nearby parking options?
Cremorne has limited street parking. Metered spots on Swan and Gough streets are paid (free after 6pm on weekdays), or you can use timed parking on side streets. Nearby paid options include the Goldhawk/Swan car park or Richmond Station parking. Many patrons use Uber/taxis, especially since public transport runs late in Melbourne.
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
Outside alcohol is not permitted (it’s a licensed venue). Small snacks like gum or candy are fine. There’s no need to bring water or soft drinks—bottled water and soft drinks are sold at the bar. As for food, the venue hosts food trucks or a café, so outside food is generally discouraged unless it’s for special dietary needs (in which case check with staff).
What is the dress code?
There’s no formal dress code. Most people dress casually for comfort (jeans, t-shirts, sneakers are common). Some prefer smart-casual for live shows. Since it can get warm inside during packed events, opt for lightweight fabrics. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea for standing gigs. In short: come as you are, but avoid beachwear or very revealing outfits.
Does 2 Gough St have a coat check or lockers?
As a modern venue, it likely has coat hooks or racks near the entrance. There’s no evidence of paid lockers. For valuables, just keep them on you or at your table. Staff will usually help guard small items if needed. In practice, people carry only small bags when going for a night out at a brewery bar.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed?
Phone cameras are generally fine for personal photos or videos at smaller gigs. For professional cameras or audio-visual recording, check with venue staff first (some acts may forbid flash or filming). Drones are strictly not allowed. Remember to respect performers’ photo policies if stated.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
Free public Wi-Fi is not advertised. You’ll likely rely on your phone’s data plan. Telstra, Optus and Vodafone usually have coverage in Cremorne (though large crowds can slow connection). If needed for directions or social sharing, it’s best done before the show or during a break.
What should I avoid bringing?
Do not bring large backpacks, outside alcoholic drinks or illegal items. Umbrellas are fine if it’s rainy outside, but they’ll be collected at the door. If attending a night event, avoid bringing bulky coats (use a carry-on bag instead). Also, pets (other than service animals) and e-scooters are not allowed inside.
Are children or infants allowed?
During daytime hours or family-friendly events, kids can usually come along (often with a soft drink). Evenings are beer-focused, so children should be supervised and may not be admitted very late at night. The venue is physically safe for kids (no raised stage hazards or deep water), but check each event – some concerts are strictly 18+.
Will the iconic Nylex clock be working again?
Yes. The redevelopment includes restoring the Nylex clock to working order . While it’s currently not illuminated, plans are to light up the sign again as soon as possible. Watching the giant clock tower at night is part of the Malt District experience – it will tick again once construction wounds down.
