After 163 Years, Women Can Enter This Exclusive Bar – But There’s a Catch You Won’t Believe
- Replies 10
Change is often met with mixed emotions – excitement, hesitation, and curiosity. When long-standing traditions are challenged, the results can spark conversations that ripple far beyond the decision itself.
One such decision has stirred interest recently, as a historic club revisited its long-standing policies, making a change that’s left many talking.
After more than a century of exclusion, a private Tasmanian Club for men has voted to let women into its bar – but there’s a catch.
At its annual general meeting (AGM) in late November, the club decided to allow women to enter, but only if they are accompanied by their partner. The motion passed with a significant majority, marking a historic change in its 163-year history.
Previously, women could only enter specific areas of the club, such as the reading room or library, and even then, permission from the manager was required to access the bar.
The decision faced initial resistance from what one member described as 'the old guard,' which delayed the move.
'It’s traditionally been a men-only club since it came into existence. Some members wanted the change, and there were enough for it to pass at the AGM, with the requirement of a two-thirds majority,' according to club manager Malcolm Wright.
'The club is very supportive of women, and for a member to bring in female guests is a positive story. Members wanted change, and it was approved.
'The club’s now in a good position to grow,' he added.
Despite Tasmania’s history of private members’ clubs, the Tasmanian Club was the last to maintain restrictions on women. Nearby, the Athenaeum Club on Hobart’s Davey Street removed its gender-based restrictions in 2019.
According to the Tasmanian Club’s website, its purpose 'is to serve its members and should be viewed as a home away from home.'
This decision marks a significant shift for the club, but it’s not without its complexities. Should historic institutions preserve their traditions, or is it time for them to fully embrace change? Do rules like this strike a fair balance, or do they still fall short? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your opinions in the comments below!
One such decision has stirred interest recently, as a historic club revisited its long-standing policies, making a change that’s left many talking.
After more than a century of exclusion, a private Tasmanian Club for men has voted to let women into its bar – but there’s a catch.
At its annual general meeting (AGM) in late November, the club decided to allow women to enter, but only if they are accompanied by their partner. The motion passed with a significant majority, marking a historic change in its 163-year history.
Women can now enter the bar, provided they are accompanied by their partners. Image source: Pexel/Chris F
Previously, women could only enter specific areas of the club, such as the reading room or library, and even then, permission from the manager was required to access the bar.
The decision faced initial resistance from what one member described as 'the old guard,' which delayed the move.
'It’s traditionally been a men-only club since it came into existence. Some members wanted the change, and there were enough for it to pass at the AGM, with the requirement of a two-thirds majority,' according to club manager Malcolm Wright.
'The club is very supportive of women, and for a member to bring in female guests is a positive story. Members wanted change, and it was approved.
'The club’s now in a good position to grow,' he added.
Despite Tasmania’s history of private members’ clubs, the Tasmanian Club was the last to maintain restrictions on women. Nearby, the Athenaeum Club on Hobart’s Davey Street removed its gender-based restrictions in 2019.
According to the Tasmanian Club’s website, its purpose 'is to serve its members and should be viewed as a home away from home.'
This decision marks a significant shift for the club, but it’s not without its complexities. Should historic institutions preserve their traditions, or is it time for them to fully embrace change? Do rules like this strike a fair balance, or do they still fall short? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your opinions in the comments below!
.png){kind=icon}
