serving you gladly

Tucked away in the heart of Surfers Paradise, up two flights of now-iconic stairs, nestles an unlikely space called elsewhere.

Since 2003, this little family owned venue has bloomed into a cultural institution that prides itself on delivering an unrivalled platform for local artists, presenting acts of international infamy and being a springboard for those of tomorrow. Many national nominations for excellence have cemented elsewhere’s place in the industry landscape and it is widely regarded by its peers as a lighthouse venue. Against the odds, it has become much more than it’s four walls and is a space held dear by a loyal and incredibly generous audience for its intimacy and inclusive ethos, with many loved colourful characters and regulars.

elsewhere is a place designed to protect the rights to a safe night out for any person of any persuasion, with excellence in service and sound.

Focused on space and comfort, with a beloved flashing dancefloor and retro-industrial detailing, it is a feast of conversation and a celebration of the arts, music and escapism.

A sea of culture, not just another night out.

full history & press kit

The co-founders

Benny Roney

Worked for Melbourne’s best operators (Brian Goldsmith, infamous in the Melbourne nightclub scene, Marios at Continental, Carlo Colossimo at Lounge) as doorman and host. Set up Ninety Seven with Simon Johnson in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. Area renown as nasty and lowbrow at the time. Won top 10 best cafes in Melbourne from the Age. Was chairman of the street committee for the St Kilda Festival. This position is responsible for the co-ordination and running of the event and the liaison with council. Set up onesixone in Chapel Street, Prahran which is a 24-hour licensed venue & won The Age Newspaper Award for “Best Bar in Melbourne” three years running. Onesixone also featured in numerous magazines, such as Bartender and Australian Style. Developed onesixone into a platform for artists and had regular exhibitions – Phil Castle (Collette Dinningan’s in-house photographer).

Simone Jenkins

Studied and completed Law degree at Australian national University, Canberra. Was Supervisor at Canberra’s first outdoor caf, Tosolinis. Travelled the world & worked in London and Italy. Was General manager of Tilley Devine’s Cafe and Gallery, a sister venue to the Continental in Melbourne and the Basement in Sydney. Tilley’s boasts an international reputation for quality service, high-class sound and as a top live music venue. Developed a close working relationship with the Higgerson family whose experience is highly regarded within the industry. Moved to Melbourne and worked at The Continental for the Marios. Held the position of bar supervisor at the Kitten Club cocktail bar in Little Collins Street Melbourne. Was General Manager of onesixone from opening, working closely with Benny and the team. Held a Modelling contract with Chadwicks. General managed Babka the award winning licensed Russian restaurant and bakery. Travelled to Japan, worked as model and hostess. Worked at the cocktail bar & DJ venue ‘La La Land’ in Byron Bay as the Door person & floor supervisor.