Next month, the entertainment venue will celebrate its 10th anniversary and, according to owner Gary Wilson, it is a massive feat.

“I think what a lot of people don’t realise is how hard it is to keep a venue going especially in regional areas,” Mr Wilson said.

“We’re lucky we had a really good core group of people to work with.”

Over the years, Karova Lounge has hosted acts including Birds of Tokyo, 360, Girl Talk, You Am I, The Jezebels, Boy & Bear, Something for Kate, Art Vs Science, and Architecture In Helsinki to name a few.

The venue has also supported numerous local outfits including Yacht Club DJs, Hunting Grounds, Twinsy and Gold Fields.

Ballarat musician Michael Belsar said he would not be playing music if it had not been for the love and support of the team at Karova Lounge.

The member of Hunting Grounds, Twinsy and Neon Love said even though his work saw him travel the country, he still regarded Karova as home.

“It’s not just a venue, it’s a family, and I’m pretty proud to be a part of it,” he said.

Karova Lounge manager Lachie Anderson said it was important for the venue to support the wealth of young talent in the city.

“We’re trying to protect the local music scene and give these acts the opportunity to play,” Mr Anderson said.

“As soon as we hear about new bands we get in touch with them. We want to give every band a shot.”

As part of its 10th anniversary celebrations, Karova Lounge will host a show of local talent, headlined by Australia’s favourite mash-up duo Yacht Club DJs on July 19.

Ballarat’s Neon Love will also take to the stage, reforming especially for the event, as well as Bel Air, Them 9’s and Karova Lounge’s resident DJ Salinger.

A special book will also be released later this year commemorating the milestone event and featuring a scrapbookof memories, photos, and messages from staff and touring acts that have performed at the venue.

Mr Wilson said his team was committed to making sure Karova Lounge maintained its place as a leading live music venue.

“I think the stability of the place has had to do with our willingness to open the stage not only to local acts but national and international acts, too,” he said.

“Over the years we’ve built a reputation that entices acts to keep coming here. We care about what we do and that’s what makes us different.”

dellaram.vreeland@fairfaxmedia.com.au

AT A GLANCE

What: Karova Lounge 10th anniversary

Who: Yacht Club DJs, Neon Love, Bel Air, Them 9’s, DJ Sallinger

When: Saturday, July 19

Where: Karova Lounge

Bookings: Oztix and New Generation