Bernie's Bar wins ACON award for regional LGBTQIA+ hub
Bernie's Bar shared the 2026 ACON business award for building a safe social space for the LGBTQIA+ community in regional NSW.
The Newcastle West bar won the honour at ACON's annual gala event in Sydney on October 8, just three years after opening. Bernie's Bar was recognised for creating a hub for the LGBTQIA+ community across regional NSW, from the Central Coast to the Queensland border.
Bar director Grace Frey said the win confirmed the team's work. "People want somewhere to be themselves without having to travel to Sydney," she said.
"They want to feel safe getting to and from the venue. They also want to see queer life visible in their own city."
The bar operates Friday and Saturday nights with private bookings. It runs late-night free barbecues.
It partners with a female-led security team trained in de-escalation. Staff have completed naloxone training for overdose response.
- October 8, 2026
- Award date
- 3 years
- Years since opening
- Newcastle West
- Bar location
- Grace Frey
- Director
Why it mattersQueer venues are essential gathering spaces. This award shows their role in safety and visibility. This matters at a time when discrimination toward LGBTQ+ people is rising.
AustraliaFor LGBTQIA+ people across regional NSW, Bernie's Bar provides the only dedicated safe venue outside Sydney, eliminating the need to travel for a welcoming night out.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
