A sneak peek at South Melbourne’s new sex-on-premises venue

Melbourne has its share of sex-on-premises clubs. However, local businessman Emmanuel Cachia believes the city has been calling for a venue that offers a safe and respectful space for people to explore their sexuality.

“A lot of what’s offered leans toward ‘heavier play’,” Mr Cachia told Southbank News. However, he is looking to change this with his new South Melbourne venue, Pineapple Bar, which is set to open its doors in August at 427 City Rd on the edge of the Montague Precinct.

The venue is described as a lifestyle bar and adult playground that can host up to 200 patrons and will feature a range of live performances, ranging from burlesque dancers to DJs.

“While people often default to calling it a ‘swingers’ venue’, we’re really focused on creating a space for couples and individuals to explore their relationships and sexuality – without pressure or expectations,” Mr Cachia said.

The fit-out of the old City Rd warehouse will begin in the coming weeks, transforming it into a traditional bar downstairs, while the second storey will be dedicated to spaces for people to have sex on the premises.

It will include private, lockable rooms, play spaces, bathrooms, showers and even a VIP area.

What sets Pineapple Bar apart from other venues, according to Mr Cachia, is the emphasis placed on consent and education.

Before anyone is allowed in, there’s a detailed vetting process – including an application, a phone call, screening at the door, and an induction tour on the first visit.

“We reserve the right to refuse entry if they’re not the right fit for the respectful, mature environment we’re cultivating,” Mr Cachia said.

Solo men will also be required to undergo an even more thorough vetting process, including multiple conversations with the operators beforehand to ensure they are respectful, well-informed, and genuinely aligned with the bar’s values.

“If you come in expecting sex, you’ll likely ruin your night,” Mr Cachia said.

“There’s no pressure here – no expectations. You’re here to enjoy yourself, and that could just mean having a drink with your partner, enjoying the atmosphere, and exploring at your own pace.”

Mr Cachia said other venues catered to more explicit experiences, whereas Pineapple Bar encouraged zero drug use, minimal alcohol, and a focus on education, respect, and communication.

To ensure patrons are safe once inside the venue, licensed crowd controllers will be on-site.

“Consent angels” will also be present, who are neutral, approachable community members who guests can approach for support, even in situations involving staff or anything that makes them uncomfortable.

Patrons will be required to wear wristbands identifying how they are attending – whether as a solo female, solo male, couple, or if they prefer not to be approached.

This is vital for the club to operate in a respectful and consensual way, according to Mr Cachia, who said the wristbands help set “expectations” and “boundaries” clearly from the outset.

Getting to this point has not been a smooth road. Mr Cachia initially faced backlash from residents and business owners.

When the City of Port Phillip approved the venue in June last year, a group of residents appealed the decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

However, the tribunal rejected arguments that the venue posed unacceptable risks to safety or neighbourhood character and granted permission to operate seven nights a week, with up to 200 patrons from 6pm to 2am.

Mr Cachia said he had worked hard to fit into the community, addressing noise concerns through testing and soundproofing. He will also advise guests not to park on nearby residential streets.

“We’re always open to hearing from anyone with concerns,” he said. “But the community feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive. People understand we’re taking a respectful, thoughtful approach, and that’s helped shift the conversation.” •