Connections Nightclub in Northbridge opened in 1975 and is believed to be one of the longest-running gay clubs in the southern hemisphere. It sits on the City of Perth heritage register and remains a living part of the city’s queer nightlife. Here is what the record actually says.
What we know
Connections opened its doors on James Street in 1975 and has run as a gay and queer club for half a century. That longevity is rare, and it is recognised on the City of Perth heritage register, which marks its importance to the city’s social history.
Why we say believed to be
You will often hear Connections called the longest-running gay club in the southern hemisphere. We say believed to be, because superlatives about long-running venues are hard to verify with certainty. What is not in doubt is that it is one of the oldest and most loved of its kind in the region.
A fitting finale
A venue with this much history makes a perfect end to a drag-led night out. A Dungeons and Drag-ons tour could finish at a place like Connections for the drag and dance climax, so the group celebrates inside a genuine piece of Perth’s queer story rather than a generic club.
Frequently asked questions
When did Connections open?
Connections Nightclub opened in 1975 on James Street in Northbridge, and it has been a fixture of Perth’s queer nightlife ever since.
Is it really the oldest gay club in the southern hemisphere?
It is widely believed to be one of the longest-running gay clubs in the southern hemisphere. We frame it as believed to be, rather than a flat claim, because long-running-venue records are hard to verify absolutely.
Is Connections heritage listed?
Connections is recognised on the City of Perth heritage register, a mark of how significant it is to the city’s social and cultural history.
Does the tour visit Connections?
A drag-led night could finish at a venue like Connections for the drag and dance climax. We frame it as the kind of place we visit, and the host brings its story to life.
Ready to plan your night?
See the tour options, then check a date for your group. For larger parties or access needs, get in touch through the contact page and we will tailor the night.
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