The historic childhood residence of Malcolm and Angus Young, where the iconic band AC/DC was conceptualized in 1973, was tragically demolished last month by a development company that claimed ignorance of its significant history. This house, located at 4 Burleigh Street in Burwood, Sydney, was a crucial part of Australian rock history, and its destruction has sparked outrage among fans and music enthusiasts alike.

The Young family moved into this culturally significant home in 1965. Due to its importance, the residence was added to the New South Wales National Trust’s Register of Historic Houses in 2013. However, this designation lacks legal protection, leaving it vulnerable to such destructive actions.

Burwood Square Pty Ltd proceeded to demolish the structure in December as part of a multi-million dollar residential project, leading to a fierce backlash from AC/DC admirers. The loss of this landmark has been met with significant disappointment from fans who view it as a critical piece of music history.

READ MORE: Explore AC/DC’s Most Historic Concerts and Performances

“This may very well be the most iconic residence in the entire country that has been taken down,” stated the owner of Utopia Records, a nearby music store, on Instagram. “One of my favorite activities was bringing visiting friends and musicians from around the globe to this location for the ultimate AC/DC photo opportunity.”

The post continued, expressing disbelief: “How could this single house, out of countless others in this vast continent, not be preserved as an Australian Rock Museum or a tourist attraction for the millions of AC/DC fans worldwide? Places like Graceland keep Memphis vibrant; this site could have generated tourism revenue for Burwood for years to come.”

“Why did not a single person from the Local Council, State, or Federal Governments intervene? Even the individual who is supposedly a massive fan of Australian rock?”

In a response to the outrage, the company’s general manager, Leon Kmita, has promised to make amends by establishing a bar or café at the site, utilizing materials salvaged from the remnants of the Youngs’ beloved home.

Developers Express Regret Over the Demolition of AC/DC’s Childhood Home

“We sincerely regret that the previous long-term owner failed to share this crucial aspect of the property’s background with us,” Kmita stated in a public announcement. “Discovering this connection after our plans were already in motion has left us completely shocked. We genuinely apologize for this oversight and the resulting sadness it has caused.”

Kmita added that the entire team is feeling “deeply remorseful,” acknowledging, “We now understand how profoundly this location holds meaning for the AC/DC community and their global fanbase.”

“While we cannot undo what has happened, we are committed to honoring this significant part of their legacy. To the extensive AC/DC fan community, please know that we hear your concerns, appreciate your unwavering admiration for this legendary band, and are dedicated to rectifying this situation.”

Discover the Legacy: AC/DC Albums Ranked

While some critics claim that every AC/DC album sounds identical, the reality is far more nuanced. Each album showcases unique elements that contribute to the band’s legendary status.

Gallery Credit: Ultimate Classic Rock Staff