A popular LGBTQIA+ venue in Brisbane has become the target of a suspected homophobic attack, sparking community outrage and a wave of public support.
The West End bar Come To Daddy was targeted on the night of April 28, when individuals allegedly set fire to rainbow bunting displayed outside the venue. Witnesses alerted nearby businesses, and the flames were quickly extinguished before causing major damage.
Owner Billerwell Daye said the incident, while causing limited physical damage, was deeply symbolic. The venue, which serves as a community hub for queer patrons, was specifically targeted “for who we are and what we represent,” according to a fundraiser launched in response. (GoFundMe)
In the aftermath, the bar has received an outpouring of support from locals and the broader LGBTQIA+ community. A GoFundMe campaign, titled “Please help Come To Daddy stand up to Homophobia”, was launched to fund security upgrades, including cameras, lighting, and safety improvements. (GoFundMe)
The fundraiser quickly gained traction, surpassing its initial goal within days as donations poured in.
Community members have also rallied behind the venue in other ways, calling for increased visibility through more pride decorations and public displays of solidarity. Daye described the response as both “overwhelming” and a sign of collective resilience following the attack.
Police investigations into the incident are ongoing, and no suspects have yet been publicly identified.
Rob is the founder of GTG. Launching the GTG-Sydney brand in 1995, it has gone from a VHS tourist guide for Sydney to a global phenomenon, partnering with Pride events and special events and charities all over the world, raising millions of dollars for the LGBTQIA+ communities and showcasing our big gay world to anyone who wants to join in the fun.
Rob is a trained marketer and journalist. An Emmy award winner, a NIDA-trained TV Presenter who has been on digital channels, cable and terrestrial broadcast television globally as a presenter, producer and creative.
He is currently editor-in-chief and producer of GTG and the co-host of The Unfashionably Late Podcast.