Theatre Royal takes out top prize at Music Victoria awards

Owner and music coordinator Tim Heath said they were shortlisted along with five or six other venues across the state in the category.

Related: Iconic venue the Theatre Royal debuts on-demand streaming service

Mr Heath said was the sixth time the venue had won the award.

"There were some really great venues that were nominated so we were really thrilled to win the award," he said.

"This was a nice thing to happen in a year when things haven't been so great."

Mr Heath said this award was something for not only them who run the venue but also the local supporting community.

"People in Castlemaine feel really proud of this venue and people have really great memories of seeing gigs here," he said.

"We are super happy and I think that it is really great for Bendigo and Castlemaine, and we want all the local audiences to feel part of this award."

The last 18 months haven't been easy for the venue with on-going lockdowns and restriction changes.

"On the really hard days we face, remembering this will help us get through and know that when we can reopen properly, it will be fantastic again," Mr Heath said.

"It's super hard when you are running a venue that usually puts on a really uplifting and positive environment and it has to close. It has been tough."

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Mr Heath wanted to thank the local community and his staff for their ongoing hard work.

"Just so thankful for everyone in Castlemaine and that does include our staff who work hard and do a really good job with adapting to the restrictions that change so often," he said.

"When we can open for live music, our staff are important in making that experience for our customers great, we feel like we have a brilliant team around us and we are very grateful.

"Without the community, there wouldn't be a venue so we just feel honoured to be recognised in the region."

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