The pub closed suddenly last week – having its last drinks on New Year’s Day – but will re-open for one night on Saturday. 

Julia Morrison quickly became a regular soon after moving back to Ballarat at the end of 2012. 

She attended after learning it had karaoke – and never looked back. 

“I’ve been a singer my whole life. So I checked it out – and I pretty much haven’t left,” she said. 

Ms Morrison represented the Peter Lalor at the Karaoke World Championship state finals last year and made the top 10. 

“As soon as I walked in the door, I was introduced to people straight away and it was like a family. Within about six weeks I knew most people there.”

Building owner Brian Taylor said they planned to open for one final night to let people say goodbye. 

“If we just shut the doors, a lot of people would be disappointed. The news of its closure was so sudden,” he said. 

“We hope lots of people come and just have a good time with their friends.” 

Ms Morrison, who can’t attend the send-off because of a prior commitment, said the news of its closing was a shock.

“There’s never going to be anywhere or anything like that Peter Lalor again. People travelled to sing there,” she said.

“I wish I could be there – it would’ve been great to go and sing some crazy songs for one last time. 

“I’ll be there in spirit. I’ve told people they’ll feel me there – dancing on the dance floor when no one else is.”

nicole.cairns@fairfaxmedia.com.au