Lismore bar sold after police ‘harassment’

Darren Coyne

A popular bar in Lismore has changed hands following what the former owner described as continued harassment from the NSW police force.

Jack’s Bar at the Met, which was subjected to a raid by 25 police officers two weeks ago, will be reopening as The Hub from 8 April.

Departing owner, Darren (Jack) Barry said it would be a fresh start for the premises, which has been heavily scrutinized by police during the last 18 months because of his refusal to sign the ‘voluntary’ Liquor Accord.

The entertainment side of the business has been sold to the members of Third Eye Productions, although Mr Barry will retain control of the hotel’s accommodation.

In a Facebook post promoting the opening on 8 April, the new owners are promising ‘contemporary cuisine, set within a relaxed and funky atmosphere’.

They are also promising ‘world class art and entertainment’, along with local and international DJs.

Mr Barry said his decision to sell the business would not stop him taking action against the police for loss of earnings as a result of the recent raid.

Police had applied for search warrants, and then a week later, a 30-hour closure, which effectively killed off two parties being planned by outside promoters.

Mr Barry has consistently denied the bar was being used to distribute drugs, despite that allegation being made by local police.

He said the most recent raid on the bar had resulted in police finding only small amounts of cannabis dumped by patrons when police raided the bar.

He believes his business was being unfairly targeted because he has refused to join the local Liquor Accord.

‘Back in the 50s the nightlife here was vibrant. Lismore used to crank with around 1500 people at the Powerhouse nightclub every Saturday night,’ he said.

‘With the introduction of the Liquor Accord, they’ve absolutely destroyed it.’