Parkway Drive Fans Riot and Close Arena

A police spokeswoman said sections of the 2000-strong crowd, there to see Byron Bay band Parkway Drive, got out of hand and police reinforcements had to be called.

She said about 30 patrons were evicted for aggressive behaviour and one was arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour and resisting eviction.

Brunswick St was blocked in both directions as the riot spilled outside last Tuesday night, the spokeswoman said.

Management at the Arena refused to comment, but mX understands fire exits at the venue were so badly damaged an event scheduled for this weekend had to be moved to another venue.

mX also understands Arena management has decided to no longer host all-ages gigs.

Queensland Fire and Rescue safety assessment officer Keith Hansen said: "We have met on site with management and left them with issues to be rectified."

Concert promoter Anthony Palmer said his Festival of the Dead extreme metal event, which was to be held at the Arena on Friday night, had to be moved to Rosies in the city in the wake of the riot.