About Club 189
Club 189 is a downtown Fremantle nightclub and bar located at 189 High Street in Fremantle’s historic West End precinct (localitybiz.com ). It occupies a landmark two-story Victorian-era building (originally built in 1893 as a Hibernian Hall (history.fremantle.wa.gov.au )) that later became famous under names like Sinbad’s, Club Sirocco, Kit Kat Club and “The Bog” (history.fremantle.wa.gov.au ). Today it's a modern club with a moody, sophisticated vibe – dim lighting, plush leather lounges and a fully stocked cocktail bar – that local guides say “oozes sophistication and class” (www.pubspy.com.au ). The club’s standout feature is an exclusive upstairs lounge reserved for patrons aged 29 and older (www.pubspy.com.au ), giving it a unique multi-level layout and crowd. Seating capacity on the main floor is limited (around 100–150 people), making for an intimate atmosphere where DJs and dancefloor action are always close by.
Events and Programming
Club 189 runs weekend dance nights and special events rather than live touring bands. The club is primarily open late on Friday and Saturday evenings, featuring Perth’s club DJs spinning old-school R&B, hip-hop, disco and dance tracks well into the early morning (www.pubspy.com.au ). Promoters often book themed party nights (for example a house party series called “Mr. Lonely” in late 2018) and afterparties for Fremantle and Perth festival shows. In the past Club 189 has hosted afterparties for events like the Fremantle Arts Centre shows and local music festivals, sometimes even offering free party buses for attendees. Music styles range from classic Funk/Soul and ’90s Hip-Hop downstairs to upbeat Disco and House upstairs. Events are typically one-off or weekly club nights – there are no seated concerts here – and cover charges vary; many nights have free entry or a modest door fee (~$10–20) after 10pm, with drink specials offered during the opening hours.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Club 189 evenings are usually not sold in advance through box offices or major ticketing sites. Most club nights use a door-only system, with entry handled on arrival. For regular Saturday dance nights, entry is often free or by small cover charge at the door. Special events or guest-DJ nights may have limited paid tickets sold online or via social-media event pages, but generally buying ahead isn’t required. If a particular event does require a ticket, details are typically announced on the club’s social channels or through affiliated promoters. To avoid disappointment on big nights (often reaching capacity late at night), it’s wise to arrive before 11pm; getting there early can also mean getting in for free or at least guaranteeing entry.
Seating and Layout
Inside, Club 189 is designed like a classic warehouse-style nightclub. It has a ground-floor open dance area with a raised DJ booth, plus several small lounge seating areas around the edges. The main floor is mostly standing-room – ideal for dancing – but with a handful of barstools and high-top cocktail tables along the side walls. A staircase leads to the second level, where a balcony-style VIP lounge overlooks the dancefloor. That upper lounge offers comfortable couches, armchairs and couches in a quieter corner (reserved for ages 29+, as noted) where guests can relax between dances. Overall, the best views of the DJ and dancefloor are from the front centre of the floor; those who prefer to socialize can grab the deep sofas upstairs. Acoustic considerations are typical of a nightclub: the PA system is powerful and bass-rich, so ears tend to tingle near the speakers. If you want a clear listen of the music without your ears ringing, the raised rear lounge is more mellow. In summary:
Main Floor: Big open dance floor under a high ceiling with club lighting. Best for dancing and lively atmosphere.Upstairs Lounge: Enclosed VIP area with leather couches and tables, overlooking the dance floor. (Strictly 29+ by club policy.)Sightlines: The DJ’s booth is at one end of the room; front-and-center spots offer the full club experience, while side or back corners are less crowded and near the bar.Seating: Few actual seats – mostly bar stools – so expect to stand and move. If you sit, you’ll be along the edges or upstairs.
Getting There and Parking
Clustered on High Street in Fremantle’s West End, Club 189 is easy to reach both by car and public transport. Its exact address is 189 High Street, Fremantle WA 6160 (localitybiz.com ). Driving in, the club is a short trip from the Fremantle highway exits, but on-street parking can be limited late at night. Street parking along High Street and side lanes is metered or time-limited (usually free after certain hours). For secure parking, there are public car parks nearby such as the Ellen Street and Queen Street car parks, and a Wilson Parking lot on High Street. Rates are moderate, and many fill up on weekend nights, so arriving earlier in the evening helps.
Public Transit: Club 189 is a quick walk from the Fremantle Train Station (on Parry Street/Marine Terrace) – roughly 700m or a 10-minute stroll east up William Street and High Street. Transperth buses also run along High Street and nearby South Terrace: for example, Route 511 (from Rockingham via Perth) or Route 503 (from Murdoch). The bus stop for High Street is just outside, and buses run frequently until late. At night a wide variety of Perth buses serve Fremantle, so be sure to check the latest Transperth timetables.
Rideshare & Taxi: For convenience, Uber and taxi drop-offs are allowed on High Street right in front of the venue. The main entrance is easily visible under the street address, so drivers usually find it quickly. Late at night when the clubs on High Street let out, there’s generally a taxi rank on Ellen Street or nearby; however, supply is tight after midnight. If you use a rideshare app, allow extra time as demand is high on Saturday mornings when patrons leave.
Inside the Venue
Club 189’s interior feels like a dark, trendy speakeasy meets warehouse rave. On entry, doormen check ID (photo ID is mandatory for anyone who looks under 25), and you’ll pass a small foyer before reaching the main space. Security is vigilant: bags may be searched and loose items (like aerosols or cameras) aren’t allowed. Inside, expect loud music, flashing lights, and a mix of young and older clubbers milling around the dancefloor and bars. The overall atmosphere is energetic–friendly staff, strobe and laser lighting, a hint of smoke haze–and a crowd usually dressed up in smart clubwear.
The venue has two full bars: one on the ground floor and another upstairs in the lounge. Both serve a mix of local craft beers, basic pub beers, spirits and creative cocktails. For example, past drink lists show Tecate and other beers for about $5–$6, local craft beers around $8, and cocktails (like Aperol Spritz or espresso martinis) around $10–$12 (www.findglocal.com ). A signature offering is pitchers or "jugs" (e.g. Pimm’s cocktails) for around $18–$20 (www.findglocal.com ). No kitchen means no full meals – expect only bar snacks or packaged items if you get hungry. Service is mostly at the bar, though at busy times some venues have staff roaming for drink orders.
Other practical notes: restrooms are on each level (ground-floor toilets near the back and upstairs bathrooms off the lounge), and both are kept standard for a club – usually fairly clean but can require a bit of patience on peak nights. Coat check or storage is not typically offered here (space is tight), so most people leave large coats or bags at home. Free water may not be publicized, so plan to buy bottles if needed. Wi-Fi is generally not available – it’s a dancing venue, so mobile reception (3G/4G) is your best bet for internet. All SIDES have cellular coverage, but if it’s very busy phone calls might drop in spots near the bay speakers.
Nearby Amenities
Surrounding Club 189, Fremantle offers plenty to do and see. For pre-show dining, Fremantle’s famous “Cappuccino Strip” (around South Terrace and High Street) has many cafes and restaurants: try H&C Urban Winery or Emily Taylor’s family-friendly bar for casual Italian; Silks Asian Kitchen in nearby King Square for Sino-Singaporean fare; or the historic “Moore & Moore” on Collie Street for shared plates. Directly next door is the Hardy Brothers’ pub-style fish and chips, and just a block away is the Fremantle Sailing Club restaurant (Galley) if you want a fancy waterfront meal.
For drinks before the show, plenty of beer gardens and bars are a short walk away. The Little Creatures Brewery on Mews Road (behind the train station) is a popular brewpub with hearty meals. Quirky spots like Latitude 32 (brewery and tasting rooms on Stirling Highway) or the espresso bars on South Terrace are also nearby. If arriving early, grabbing a coffee at Dan’s Beans or Susco’s on High Street can kick off the night right.
Staying overnight? Fremantle has many accommodation options. A few blocks north is the Esplanade Hotel (a rooftop bar upstairs), and nearby on Pakenham Street you’ll find Fremantle Backpackers and a handful of motels. For a boutique stay, the Heritage-listed Porter’s Boutique Hotel on the corner of William and High is just a 3-minute walk. All are within easy reach so late-night partygoers can stagger home (or upstairs) on foot.
What Makes This Venue Special
Club 189 stands out in Fremantle for blending old and new. The building itself is over a century old, part of Fremantle's rich heritage streetscape, yet inside the decor is thoroughly modern – neon vinyl booths and mirrored walls under exposed brick. That contrast gives Club 189 a unique charm. Unlike the typical pub or live-music venue, it’s designed purely for club dancing and nightlife, filling a niche in Fremantle’s scene. The upstairs 29+ lounge is especially uncommon, catering to an older crowd with quieter seating and eye-level views of the dancefloor below. In that way it feels exclusive and mature, compared to the usual 18–25 nightclub vibe.
Culturally, the venue ties into Fremantle’s music history. It’s essentially the latest incarnation of that old Scottish Hall / Sinbad’s / Kit Kat lineage, so going to Club 189 is almost like stepping into a piece of Freo folklore with a new spin. Many local clubbers have fond memories of “the Bog” or Kit Kat nights, and flagship DJs often hold residency at Club 189, making it a go-to spot for Perth’s hip-hop and disco crowds. The club also shows strong community support: at times it has hosted charity afterparties and locally themed nights. Whether it’s a legendary DJ set or a themed party bus taking festival-goers straight to the door, Club 189 injects a bit of old-school Freo grit into modern nightlife. In short, both visitors and performers love it for its cozy size, serious sound system (for a club this compact) and a fun yet safe atmosphere that feels authentically Fremantle.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The ground floor is wheelchair accessible (flat entry off street level and an accessible restroom is usually available). However, the upstairs lounge is only reachable by stairs. If wheelchair access is needed, plan to enjoy the main-floor space. The venue typically provides standard access for all (wide doors, flat floor), but patrons have noted that very narrow heels or large strollers may be awkward to maneuver once inside.
Entrance Requirements: ID is strictly checked on entry (Western Australia law requires photographic ID). Everyone will need to be at least 18 to enter a licensed nightclub, so parents should not bring minors. As an added twist, note that the upstairs lounge is a “30+ only” area (some bookings restrict it to 29 and older) and door staff enforce this. Dress code is casual-smart; regular club attire like clean sneakers or boots, jeans, t-shirts or polos is fine. Avoid beachwear, sports jerseys, “gang” apparel or offensive clothing – comfort and style go a long way. Some resourceful punters wear layers, as club rooms can get hot near the dance floor.
What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home): Most guests bring only a small wallet or phone – large backpacks and bags are discouraged, and any sealed drinks from outside are not permitted. Consider bringing earplugs if you’re sensitive; the speakers are loud near the DJ booth. A small amount of cash is handy for drinks (though cards are accepted), and keep your wallet on you – bustle areas can be crowded. A friendly reminder: photography with flash or professional gear is usually disallowed to protect the club’s vibe and artists; casual phone pics are typically tolerated, but it’s always best to ask if a particular event has stricter rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Plan your transport in advance: the last train to Perth leaves around midnight, so if you stay later you’ll need a taxi or rideshare. Failing to check parking restrictions can lead to fines – many visitors have found out the hard way that some street zones enforce city limits even on weekends. It’s also wise not to arrive too late on busy nights (after midnight many locals arrive) or you could face a line. Finally, since Club 189 is small, try to manage expectations: it’s a high-energy dance scene, not a sit-down concert. Knowing the layout ahead can help – for example, if you’re with a group that wants to chat quietly, the upstairs lounge is the spot; dancing and active mingling happen on the main floor.
Last-Minute Info: Keep an eye on Fremantle’s climate – though the venue is indoors, you may wait in an uncovered line outside. In summer, nights are warm so dress light; in winter, bring a warm coat that you can leave in the car or hotel. Finally, embrace the Freo spirit – friendliness is common here. Regular patrons praise the “lovely staff” and the fun vibe (localitybiz.com ). With the right prep, a night at Club 189 is a snapshot of Fremantle’s unique nightlife: historic, hip, and wholly its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Club 189 located?
Club 189 is at 189 High Street in Fremantle, Western Australia (in the city’s West End precinct) (localitybiz.com ). It’s just a few blocks from the Fremantle train station and easy to spot by its street address. Look for the two-storey historic red-brick building with the entrance on High Street.
What are the opening hours?
Club 189 is primarily a late-night venue. It typically opens on Friday and Saturday nights only, from around 10:00 PM until the early hours (commonly 5:00 AM) (nightcruiser.com.au ). Double-check social media or local listings for special event nights or holiday schedule changes.
How do I buy tickets?
Most nights at Club 189 have entry by paying at the door. There is usually no advance ticket page or box office for regular club events. On many Saturdays entry is free or requires a small cover charge (around $10–$20) after 10pm. Special DJ events may offer pre-sold tickets via social media, but for the most part you arrive and pay at the door. It’s wise to arrive early to avoid waiting.
Is there a dress code?
Dress is smart-casual. Club 189 does not enforce a formal suit-and-tie code, but avoid sportswear, flip-flops or overly casual beachwear. Clean streetwear (neat jeans, dresses, shoes or boots) is appropriate. Remember it’s a dance club atmosphere, so you’ll want to dress comfortably but respectfully. Local clubbers often coordinate outfits with friends for a night out.
What parking is available?
Parking near Club 189 is a mix of on-street and public carpark. High Street and side streets have metered spots (often free late at night, but check signs). Nearby public lots include the Ellen Street and Queen Street parking garages, each a few minutes’ walk away (with 2–3 hour rates, often around $5–$10). During busy weekends, these fill up, so it’s best to park early in the evening or use other transport if possible.
Which public transport serves Club 189?
Club 189 is about a 10-minute walk from Fremantle train station (on Marine Terrace). Transperth buses along High Street and nearby roads also stop close by. For example, bus route 511 from Perth or route 503 from Murdoch stop right near the venue. The Fremantle Busport (on William Street) is 5 minutes away on foot. Late night, trains stop around midnight, so plan to catch a bus or taxi if staying later.
Is Club 189 wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor of Club 189 is generally wheelchair accessible with level entry from the street. However, the club has multiple levels and the upstairs lounge is only reached by stairs, so some areas are not accessible. An accessible restroom is available on the ground floor. If wheelchair access is needed, notify the venue in advance and use the ground-level area and facilities.
What is inside the club?
Inside, Club 189 feels like an underground dance space. There’s a big dance floor with a DJ booth and two stocked bars (one up, one down). The decor is modern industrial – exposed brick walls, neon lights, and comfy lounges in corners. It’s loud with speakers covering the dance area, so it’s geared to dancing and socializing. Restrooms are on both floors. There’s no stage for live bands, just pubs-style seating and dance areas.
Are cameras or recording allowed?
Club 189’s policy is that casual phone snapshots are generally okay, but professional cameras and video recording (especially with flash or tripods) are not allowed without permission. This is common in nightclubs to protect performers’ rights and atmosphere. If in doubt, check with the door staff or management at entry. In practice, most people simply use mobile phones discreetly for photos or clips.
Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No, Fremantle liquor laws prohibit bringing outside alcohol or food into Club 189. The venue has a full bar, so drinks (and any snacks) must be purchased inside. Bringing sealed bottles or cans to share is against policy. It’s best to eat beforehand or after at neighboring eateries, and to arrive with just a small bag or none at all.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, standard Western Australian licensing rules apply: you must be at least 18 years old to enter after dark. IDs are checked at the door. On top of that, the upstairs lounge is strictly for older patrons (30+), so if you’re under that age you won’t be allowed into the upper VIP area. This helps maintain a mixed-age environment in the club.
Can I reserve a table or VIP area for a group?
Club 189 is primarily a general-admission nightclub, so formal reservations and tables are limited. You can usually join any open lounge seats (especially upstairs) on a first-come basis. For larger groups, some private bookings may be arranged for special events (with bottle service), but this requires contacting the club management in advance. In short, most nights it’s not a reservation-only club – it works on a walk-in/dance-in model.
What drinks do they serve and how much do they cost?
The bar offers standard club fare: bottled beers, local craft brews, spirits and cocktails. Drink prices are typical for Perth nightclubs: casual beers or ciders start around A$5–$8, house wines about $8–$10, and cocktails (like martinis, Aperol Spritz, etc.) in the range of $12–$15 (www.findglocal.com ). Pitchers or “jugs” (e.g. Pimm’s) can be ~$18–$20 (www.findglocal.com ). Happy-hour or event drink deals sometimes bring prices down during the early part of the night.
Does Club 189 have food?
No full meals are served at Club 189. It’s not a restaurant; the focus is on drinking and dancing. You may find a few packaged snacks (like nuts or chips) at the bar, but nothing like a menu. For dining, guests usually eat at nearby cafes and restaurants before heading to the club.
What should I bring/not bring to Club 189?
Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) and maybe some cash or card for drinks. Wear comfortable shoes for dancing. Don’t bring big bags or outside alcohol; large backpacks may be refused at entry. Also avoid wearing things that can be snagged in crowds (loose scarves, etc.). Check the weather — you might wait outside in winter — but once inside it’s warm and crowded.
When is the best time to arrive?
Door opens around 10pm. Arriving between 10pm and 11pm usually means a short line and sometimes free or reduced cover. After 11–11:30pm, crowds build rapidly and cover charges often kick in. If you prefer less lining and sometimes drink specials, earlier in the night is best. (Late arrivals still get in, but expect heavier lines and full dance floors.)
