Founder of iconic Brisbane venue, Ric’s Cafe Bar, dies aged 57

The Brisbane music scene today morns Ric Frearson, the titular founder of iconic Fortitude Vally live music venue Ric’s Cafe Bar.

As reported by The Courier-Mail, Frearson passed away suddenly this past Saturday at age 57.

Ric’s, a favourite for up-and-coming local bands, was founded by Frearson and ex-wife Jai Ogilvie in Brunswick Street in 1993.

It quickly rose to prominence as a live music venue and location to exhibit local art.

Frearson was a photojournalist in his professional life, becoming a fixture in the Brisbane media community and was the chief photographer for Quest Community News up until 2017 when he moved to Sunshine Coast.

Current operators of Ric’s have taken to Facebook to share their condolences to Frearson’s friends and family, commenting, “We will be sure to pay tribute to Ric this Saturday night from Ric’s main stage to celebrate his legacy.”

Ric’s remains a fixture of Brisbane’s live music scene, most recently hosting several live showcases at BIGSOUND 2018.