Welcome to Bernie’s Bar, Newcastle’s sassy and vibrant LGBTQIA+ venue, proudly located on King Street. As a dynamic addition to the city’s hospitality scene, Bernie’s is more than just a bar—it’s a community space where inclusivity, celebration, and fun come together.
About Bernie’s Bar
Bernie’s is Newcastle’s first dedicated LGBTQIA+ venue in five years, reclaiming a vital space for the queer community. Located in the historic Star Hotel building, which boasts its own queer history from the ‘70s and ‘80s, Bernie’s carries this legacy forward with pride.
This fully wheelchair-accessible venue features:
- A spacious dance floor
- Ample seating areas
- A vibrant laneway for outdoor gatherings
- A stage for live performances
- Accessible, gender-neutral facilities
An Inclusive Atmosphere
At Bernie’s Bar, diversity is celebrated, and everyone is welcome. From the friendly and fabulous staff to the lively energy of the crowd, Bernie’s guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, connection, and joy.
Food, Drinks, and Local Flavors
Bernie’s offers a full kitchen menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. One of its signature dishes, fairy bread, pays homage to Australian LGBTQIA+ culture. The bar also features locally crafted drinks, including offerings from Earp Distillery and Good Folk Brewing, alongside a stellar range of cocktails, shots, and classics.
A Hub of Events and Entertainment
Bernie’s Bar is more than a nightspot; it’s a cultural hub for the LGBTQIA+ community, hosting an incredible range of events:
- Trivia Nights
- Queer Burlesque
- Open Mic Nights
- Shibari Classes (Japanese Rope Bondage)
- Makeup Masterclasses
- Speed Dating
- BDSM Life Drawing
- Monthly Coming Out Parties
Regular weekly events like Winter Sweater Sundays bring performers and open mic sessions, while Friday and Saturday nights transform the venue into a high-energy nightclub with DJs like DJ Queerio and DJ Mason Andrews keeping the dance floor alive.
Why Bernie’s Bar Stands Out
- A Safe Space: Bernie’s is a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community, fostering connection and support.
- Accessibility: Bernie’s sets a new standard with its fully wheelchair-accessible facilities, including a bar section designed at wheelchair height.
- Community-Oriented: With an array of events tailored to the queer community’s interests, Bernie’s fosters camaraderie and pride.
Join the Fun at Bernie’s!
Supporting Bernie’s means supporting Newcastle’s LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re dropping in for a cocktail, enjoying the nightlife, or attending an event, Bernie’s offers a warm and inclusive environment where everyone can feel at home.
For more details, visit Bernie’s Bar on Facebook or check out their event lineup and menu on their website.
Bernie’s isn’t just a bar—it’s a celebration of diversity, pride, and community. See you there! 🎉
The NLM Events 