PHOTO: AC/DC OFFICIAL SITE
In a move that has shocked fans and music historians alike, the childhood home of AC/DC legends Angus and Malcolm Young has been demolished in Sydney. Located at 4 Burleigh Street in Burwood, this house was where the Young brothers lived after migrating from Scotland in the early 1960s. It was also the place where they formed the iconic rock band AC/DC in 1973.
Despite being listed on the National Trust Register of Historic Houses in 2013, the house was not protected under local or state legislation. The property was purchased by developers Burwood Square Pty Ltd in early 2023 for $5.8 million. Unfortunately, the developers were unaware of the house’s historic significance until after the demolition had already taken place.
The demolition has sparked outrage among fans and music historians who believe that the house should have been preserved as a cultural landmark. Burwood Council has faced criticism for not taking steps to protect the property, despite its historical importance. The council has stated that it remains committed to finding new ways to celebrate the Young family and the area’s rich musical heritage.
In response to the backlash, Burwood Square has issued an apology and promised to create a special space at the site to honor AC/DC’s legacy. The developers plan to salvage materials from the demolition to set up a bar or cafe where fans can gather to celebrate the band’s enduring influence.
The loss of this historic home is a poignant reminder of the challenges in preserving cultural heritage in the face of development and progress. While the physical house may be gone, the spirit of AC/DC and the legacy of the Young brothers continue to resonate with fans around the world.
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