03/07/2026
If you were part of Brisbane's underground dance music and q***r club scene in the 90s—or you're curious about how it all began—make time to see Make a Scene: Fashioning Q***r Identity and Club Culture in the 90s at the Queensland Museum.
Before dance music became part of mainstream culture, this was a genuinely underground scene built by DJs, promoters, artists, and club-goers. These weren't just clubs—they were places of freedom, connection, creativity and belonging.
Johnny was one of the key people who made those spaces possible. As owner and DJ of Flares and 100%, sole DJ at Abigails, Fag Bar, and Friday nights at Metropolis, and co-partner in running The Site in Fortitude Valley and Metropolis in the Myer Centre, he helped shape the soundtrack and spirit of an era. He also played countless dance parties and raves, backed friends with their creative ventures, and quietly did the hard work behind the scenes, navigating the business realities that allowed these spaces to exist.
Make a Scene: Fashioning Q***r Identity and Club Culture in the 90s at the Queensland Museum. Now until 19 July 2026.
Here's a selection of photos of John visiting the exhibition September 2025.
