It's for reasons mentioned in this thread that I try and buy merch at the pub gigs I go to.

The Go Set put out an awesome Doco last year where they talk about how hard it is to afford to be in a band. One of the things they mention is there target break even amount is $500 per gig ($100 each). I mentioned this to their drummer at a recent gig as we watched one of their supports that night: a 20 piece ska band. He pointed out not only would they stuggle to cover their costs, but the rider wouldn't go far either.

I'm lucky living in Melbourne's inner north in that there are dozens of live venues within walking distance