Oxford Street’s Colombian Hotel is officially on the market, with the future of the longstanding LGBTQIA+ venue yet to be detailed publicly.
The Darlinghurst landmark at 117–125 Oxford Street is being marketed by JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group alongside the nearby Gaslight Inn.
Details of the sale went public earlier this week.
The Colombian Hotel is on the market
The Colombian’s sales advertisement lists the venue as having a “Irreplaceable 24-hour licence” and reports average weekly revenue of approximately $162,000. The property occupies a 316-square-metre site in the heart of Darlinghurst.
“Positioned within one of Sydney’s rapidly evolving hospitality precincts, these landmark assets present a compelling opportunity to secure established trading businesses underpinned by high value strategic real estate” the listing states.
Across the two venues, JLL reports combined annual revenue exceeding $11.6 million from food and beverage, accommodation and gaming. Its marketing also promotes “long-term repositioning and alternate use potential”, although the listing does not outline a specific proposal for the Colombian’s future or a commitment to retaining its LGBTQIA+ identity.
The Star Observer contacted The Colombian seeking comment on the reasons for the sale, potential future plans and whether there had been discussions about ensuring it remains an LGBTQIA+ venue; however, they declined to comment at the time.
The Colombian has long been a familiar gathering place on Sydney’s queer nightlife strip. The iconic Oxford St venue has been home to drag performances, trivia, music bingo and DJs across the years and an important part of Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ nightlife.
The distinctive building on the corner of Oxford and Crown streets was once a Bank of NSW branch; however, it has since become one of Sydney’s most popular and longest-serving queer venues. It has flown the rainbow flag over many Mardi Gras parades and been an essential port of call for thousands of travellers visiting this Emerald City.
Today, the Colombian’s website continues to promote its street level public bar, cocktail lounge and rooftop, offering views over the city.
For now, questions about the venue’s direction under any future owner remain unanswered with many hoping the venue will continue to operate as the iconic queer venue that it is following the sale.
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