A construction company in Australia has made a grovelling apology after their demolition of a house that once housed future AC/DC members, brothers Angus and Malcolm Young.
The house at 4 Burleigh Street in the suburb of Burwood, was razed late last year following a sale in February 2023 for $5.8m.(Aus)
In 1963, the Young family moved to Australia from Scotland. The Young's moved to Burleigh Street in 1965, with Angus and Malcolm honing their musical talents there.
In 1973, the pair would co-found AC/DC, who have since become Australia’s most successful rock export.
The legacy and importance of the address to the Sydney community had been recognised numerous times.
In 2013, the house was listed on the National Trust Register of Historic Houses, and in 2024 the local Burwood Council commissioned a mural of Angus and Malcolm by artist Claire Foxton on the side of 12 Burleigh Street.
News of the house’s demolition sparked outrage from fans who besieged Burwood Council to intervene, but the council defended the demolition despite it being on the National Trust.
“As it is not heritage listed or protected under local or state legislation, and because The National Trust is a community-based, non-government organisation, with no statutory authority, the property does not have enforceable protections,” the Council stated.
“Burwood Council remains committed to finding new ways to celebrate the Young family and the area’s rich musical heritage.”
Per reports, the purchase and demolition of the house were initiated by local construction company Burwood Square Pty Ltd , who had also purchased the adjoining property with the intent of redeveloping the location into a AUD $28.75 million residential site
However, in a statement from Burwood Square general manager Leon Kmita, the company has shared their regret for the demolition, claiming they were unaware of the cultural importance held by the house.
“We regret that the previous long-term owner did not share this vital part of the property’s background with us,” Kmita said. “Learning about this connection after our plans were already underway has shocked us. We are genuinely sorry for this oversight.”
According to Kmita, the Burwood Square team are in the process of attempting to salvage materials so they can create a “special space” for fans of AC/DC to “gather to celebrate the band’s enduring legacy”.
“On behalf of the team at Burwood Square, I want to convey our heartfelt regret … we now recognise how deeply this location resonates with the AC/DC community and fans worldwide,” Kmita continued. “We feel a strong responsibility to honour AC/DC’s legacy and to make amends to all the fans who hold this band in such high regard.
“While we cannot change the past, we are dedicated to celebrating this significant part of their story,” he added. “To the global fanbase of AC/DC, please know that we hear you, appreciate your deep admiration for this legendary band, and are devoted to making this right.”
