Formerly known as "Melbourne's only bear and leather bar", The Laird has progressed over the years to become a haven, meeting place and party space for same-sex attracted CIS and Trans males.
Open 7 nights a week, the venue boasts three bars and a massive beer garden downstairs, with unique accommodation upstairs. Like many hotels in Melbourne, The Laird has seen its share of owners and operators, some of whom were not necessarily on the right side of the law. The Laird was once famous as one of the meeting places for illegal gambling during the earlier part of the 20th century.
Famous or infamous people such as Squizzy Taylor were once common visitors. Doc Whitehead, a founder of some central Victorian social structures held many of his planning discussions over cool ales at The Laird. In September The Laird changed hands. This time all the local and loyal supporters of the hotel found themselves in for a challenge.
The Laird went GAY. Because of the strong links to the local community it was decided that the hotel would be divided into two separate areas. The public bar remained as the local bar for the long-standing local community, while the Back Bar was redesigned to reflect the taste and style of the new clientele.
Over the next two years The Laird emerged as the major venue for men in Melbourne. The hotel policy was to attract the element in the gay community that was tired of "Drag shows" and "Discos" and preferred to drink in a hotel environment with men. Local clubs catering for the masculine end of the gay community made it their home.
