Premium Content:

RIP Rod Kelly, former owner of The Court Hotel

rodkelly2-horz-001

Rod Kelly, the former owner of The Court Hotel passed away in late November. Mr Kelly purchased the iconic pub in the early ‘90s and transformed it into a gay and lesbian venue.

- Advertisement -

Rod Kelly’s commitment to opening a new venue for the community came at a time when many long standing queer venues had closed. The early days of the Court Hotel are remembered for its large beer garden and fish ponds – ponds, which often featured much loved community member Buka dancing around the edges.

Ray Currell, who was one of the longest serving managers of the venue during Mr Kelly’s ownership, recalled his former boss as a colourful character.

When ‘The Court’ first became a gay and lesbian venue the building was close to being condemned and featured dodgy floorboards and years of wear and tear. To give The Court a bit of pizazz the former antique dealer added some stylish lights and features.

One of the regular events in the venue’s early days was The Miss Court International competition. The images above show Mr Kelly and the contestants at the 1995 edition of the show.

Alongside The Court Mr Kelly was involved in well-known Northbridge venues DC’s and Pals.

Image: Paul Bluett

Latest

Black Swan State Theatre Company reveal jam-packed 2026 program

Artistic Director Kate Champion talks us through all the plays coming in 2026.

On This Gay Day | In 2017 Karina Okotel said many marriage equality supporters were racist

The claims from the Liberal Party's Victorian Vice President were one of the more memorable moments of the campaign.

City of Perth seeks nominations for its LGBTQIA+ Advisory Group

Can you help make Perth a more inclusive city?

Voting is now open for the 2025 Proud Awards

Cast your vote for your favourite entertainers, DJs, shows and events.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Black Swan State Theatre Company reveal jam-packed 2026 program

Artistic Director Kate Champion talks us through all the plays coming in 2026.

On This Gay Day | In 2017 Karina Okotel said many marriage equality supporters were racist

The claims from the Liberal Party's Victorian Vice President were one of the more memorable moments of the campaign.

City of Perth seeks nominations for its LGBTQIA+ Advisory Group

Can you help make Perth a more inclusive city?

Voting is now open for the 2025 Proud Awards

Cast your vote for your favourite entertainers, DJs, shows and events.

Manchester serial rapist sentenced to life in prison

Algerian national Sid Ali Djelid will be behind bars for at least 16 years.

Black Swan State Theatre Company reveal jam-packed 2026 program

Artistic Director Kate Champion talks us through all the plays coming in 2026.

On This Gay Day | In 2017 Karina Okotel said many marriage equality supporters were racist

The claims from the Liberal Party's Victorian Vice President were one of the more memorable moments of the campaign.

City of Perth seeks nominations for its LGBTQIA+ Advisory Group

Can you help make Perth a more inclusive city?