CLUBS TO STRIP IT BACK

STRIP clubs are grappling with being allowed to reopen due to the 1.5 metre social distancing required between patrons and dancers in private shows.

Strip clubs could reopen on Friday under eased stage three restrictions, but lap dance rules were still evolving in the hours prior to flinging open the doors, club bosses said.

Surfers Paradise venue Toybox Showgirls had promoted a reopening party this weekend but axed it, telling followers on Thursday: “Unfortunately we have received updates advising restrictions we were unaware of initially when planning our reopening.

“Due to these restrictions, we have made the decision to push back our reopening party until our staff and customers are able to actually enjoy themselves.”

A Toybox spokeswoman said it could host only three private dances in its lap room at once.

But Hollywood Showgirls – which has much bigger lap rooms on nearby party strip Orchid Avenue – was back trading on Friday night with its stages open for dance shows and intending to push ahead with offering private shows despite the limitations.

Hollywood owner Craig Duffy was hopeful rules could ease further on Friday night just before opening.

Industry sources said they hoped touching might be allowed if strict contact tracing measures were in place, including numbered seating and taking of patron details.

Under normal pre-pandemic rules, private dances must involve a chaperone and can include touching.

But a frustrated Mr Duffy was still seeking clarification on the fine print ahead of Friday’s 9pm opening.

“I’m still trying to get my head around it – they have released COVID-safe plans for the adult industry but they keep changing,” he said.

“I’ve heard three different versions in four days.

“The girls and staff are very excited. The dancers are happy to be back in action. We were one of the first to be forced closed and we’re last to open.

“There are some restrictions in terms of private dancing but other than that it’s business as usual. We can serve people at the bar, too, which is good as a lot of people like to walk to the bar and buy their own drink.”

Asked if he planned anything special to celebrate, Duffy said: “No, just the normal razzamatazz.”