Check out Queensland's Queer nightlife
Guide
By Nick Aldrich
When going for a drink with your queer pals or same-sex significant other, there’s really nothing better than being surrounded by others who are just like you, in a venue that welcomes you. However, as we all know, sometimes these gems can be hard to find, which is why we’ve come up with this handy little list of queer-friendly bars and night clubs across Queensland that cater for the queer community.
On your next trip, why not tick off each and every one of these venues and support the local LGBTQIA+ scene?
Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Photo by @turtlecoveresort
Starting up north with Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, we’ve got SandBar. SandBar is located halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas, and is the region’s only dedicated gay and lesbian bar and nightclub, which means you absolutely have to support them. They have everything from live bands and local DJs, to drag kings and queens, so you’ll be absolutely kicking yourself if you miss out.
Book your stay at Turtle Cove Beach Resort, nestled on a private beach just south of Cairns, and you'll be dancing til the sun comes up.
Sunshine Coast
Photo by @peakwinebar
A little further down south – well, quite a bit further south – is the Sunshine Coast, which has really made a name for itself in the queer community. The local drag queens of the Sunny Coast all but rule the queer nightlife, with performances at Peak Wine Bar in Maroochydore and Kings Beach Tavern weekly. Plan your week around these events, starting with ‘Blush’ at Peak Wine Bar every Sunday night, and Drag Queen Bingo at the Kings Beach Tavern on Mondays. Both events however, are crazy and camp, and if you choose other evening plans, you may miss out on a rendition of ‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Brisbane
Photo by @brisbaneatnight
A hop, skip and a jump from the Sunshine Coast and you’ll have your feet firmly planted in the heart of Brisbane. Brisbane is home to a number of iconic queer venues, like The Beat Megaclub, The Wickham, The Sportsman Hotel, and, of course Fluffy. The Beat, The Wickham, and Sporty’s (as it’s warmly known by the locals) will welcome you all night, every night, and are at the heart of Brisbane’s queer nightlife.
Sporty’s has more of a traditional pub vibe, whereas The Wickham is a more contemporary take on what it means to be a pub. On the other end of the spectrum is The Beat – Brisbane’s biggest and best queer nightclub (with so many different rooms that you will get lost).
Fluffy – like Blush – is a little different, only popping up each Sunday night. The local gay community loves a Sunday night venture so mark the date in your diary.
Gold Coast
Photo by @pinkflamingogoldcoast
Keep moving south and you’ll hit a city which renowed by visitors and locals alike for some of the best nightlife in Australia. That’s right, it’s the Gold Coast.
On Thursday and Sunday nights watch as the Pink Flamingo Club turns Fabulous, the brightest, sparkliest LGBTQIA+ night, right in the heart of Broadbeach. Flamboyance is a fusion of drag, cabaret and burlesque with a fun late-night afterparty, presented by a cast of fierce beauties. However, this one’s also a ticketed event, so those of you who are keen for a show and dance need to book in advance to avoid missing out!
Queensland is a strong contender when it comes to the best LGBTQIA+ nightlife around Australia.
So, dust off your dancing shoes, get out there, and support these queer spaces.
