Tilley's
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Tilley's Devine Café Gallery is a well-known café in the suburb of Lyneham in Canberra, Australia. It was named after Matilda 'Tilly' Devine, an English Australian gangster and madame from Sydney.
 | |
| Founded | 1984 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Paulie Higgisson |
Area served | Lyneham, Canberra |
| Website | tilleys |
When the café first opened in 1984, it was intended as a women's space, with men allowed entry only when accompanied by women.[1] Popular with lesbian women, it quickly became an icon of Canberra's LGBT scene. Attempts to restrict or limit entry of men brought challenges,[2][3] most notably by a group of cadets from the Royal Military College, Duntroon who attempted to force their way in, instigating a brawl.[citation needed] The policy was maintained for two years.[4]
Tilley's originally had seating for 60, but subsequently expanded five times, and now has large indoor and outdoor eating areas. It was once a popular space for night time concerts by local musicians, hosting names such as Wayne Kelly, Mia Dyson, Frente!,[5] and Clare Bowditch. In 2005 concerts were scaled back in order to expand the more financially viable restaurant and café.[6] According to ACT historian Roslyn Russell, it was the first licensed outdoor venue in Australia, and the first Australian bar to ban smoking indoors.[7]
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