Sydney Queer Venue The Bearded Tit Announces Closure

Beloved Sydney venue The Bearded Tit has announced to its devoted patrons that after 11 years, it will closing its doors in November.

The news was announced on social media by Joy Ng, who opened the popular Redfern venue back in 2014. “This decision comes from a deeply personal place,” Ng explained in her post.

“l am at a stage in my life where I want to expand my horizons and explore a career outside of hospitality. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be part of this community, to witness the joy, creativity, and resilience that has filled this space night after night.

“The Bearded Tit has been so much more than a bar. It has been a sanctuary for queer, POC, and other historically underrepresented communities,” she added. “Through our arts, performance, and cultural programs, we've had the honour of showcasing Sydney's most exciting emerging creatives as well as artists from beyond our shores.

“Every performance, every gathering, every moment of connection has been held by this community's unwavering support.”

Ng also took the opportunity to outline some of the burning topics that may be on the lips of patrons in the wake of this news. Most notably, Ng requested respect for her decision and stated that her decision to close The Bearded Tit is "final," and is not seeking the venue to be "saved" like many other locations in recent years.

Similarly, she stated that a market day will take place after its closure to ensure devoted attendees have a chance to purchase memorabilia from the venue, while events will continue to take place until its final days in November.

In closing her post, Ng also shared her immense gratitude to the myriad individuals who have contributed to the legacy and impact of The Bearded Tit, ranging from the artists, performers, DJs, and more, alongside the staff, managers, and patrons.

“I know how much this venue means to a lot of you,” she added. “The community and spirit that has lived within these walls doesn't end here. We are part of a beautiful ongoing story of people who believed in the power of creating space for community and I hope it inspires others to do the same.

“My deepest thanks to you all for 11 years of magic. I hope this ending will usher in new beginnings for all of us and I am excited to see what the next iteration of Sydney's queer nightlife looks like.”

The Bearded Tit officially opened its doors in August 2014 and swiftly asserted itself as one of Sydney’s most beloved queer locations, serving as a diverse venue and art space, and labelling itself “the friendliest LGBTIQA clubhouse in Sydney.”

Alongside countless events over its 11-year run, The Bearded Tit has also been known for its weekly Queerbourhood event, which focuses on the art and music of Sydney’s diverse queer community.