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IT started simply enough: a way to get together on a Sunday arvo with friends, listen to a bit of music while gazing out over the grand Pacific and enjoy a few cold beers with a sausage sambo or two.
The concept of music on the deck at the Coalcliff Surf Life Saving Club has been so successful that musos are now lining up for a gig, with some claiming it's the best venue they've played.
This from Declan Kelly who performed at Rob and Ben's Bar in early May: "Yesterday was magic. The sun, huge surf, full moon and the wonderful community of Coalcliff. Thank you for having us and let's book one in for Spring, definitely. Cheers."
And this from Penny Hartgerink of Penny and the Mystics: "It's such an awesome spot and it's a really nice change to play music to people who are actually there to listen to live music rather than play in a pub to people who don't care if you're playing or not."
This Sunday will be the last gig for the season, and the Bar is going out with a bang! Rai Thistle Trio – a side project of Rai Thistlewayte and Matt Smith from Thirsty Merc – will perform from 1-5pm after they got a taste for the setting during Ray Beadle's act in March.
Both artists joined Beadle on stage and, according to the Bar's booking manager, Paul Mattock:"They both enjoyed it so much they decided to come back."
"It’s the type of venue where people go to listen to good music and artists go there because of the beautiful location and they know their music is appreciated," said Mr Mattock.
Rai Thistle Trio will be supported by Big Erle, another Coalcliff regular.
In recognition of the increasing stature of Rob and Ben's Bar, tickets to the Rai Thistle Trio can be booked online at www.gobookem.com for $15 or $20 at the door.