22yo takes over city nightclub as it reopens after 9-month closure

A Toowoomba nightclub which has remained closed since COVID restrictions came into effect has now reopened, with a new 22-year-old business-savvy owner.

A YOUNG business-savvy Toowoomba man has taken over a CBD nightclub and reopened its doors after a nine-month closure.

At just 22, Zachary Clarkson is the sole owner and director of Society.

Mr Clarkson took over in November after former owners Ben Quach and Joe Murray stepped away from the business.

Society had remained closed since COVID restrictions came into effect in March, but Mr Clarkson reopened the doors in mid-December.

“At first I was quite unsure of how it would go, however when we firs opened the doors we already had a line up to get in,” he said.

Zachary Clarkson has taken over the nightclub Society.

“Society has grown a very loyal following because there isn’t really anywhere else in Toowoomba that offers what we do. It was amazing to see the people flood in.

“Since reopening I really couldn’t have asked for much more.

“We are at a restricted capacity and pretty much fill the place each night while also having a line-up to get in.”

While young, Mr Clarkson feels confident he’s qualified to operate his own nightclub.

He has a background working in the hospitality industry and has worked at his father’s business, The Tatts Hotel, since he left school.

“When The Tatts reopened after shutting due to COVID, I fell into more into a compliance role and that’s when I thought to myself I should try going out on my own,” he said.

“After DJing for a few years I realised I love making sure everyone is having a good time.

Zachary Clarkson has taken over the nightclub Society.

There is nothing more rewarding than filling out a bar, club or pub and seeing everyone dancing and having a great time.

“So, I think having the compliance and DJ experience made for a good combination for opening a nightclub.”

Society has three different rooms, a main room which focuses on electronic dance music and VIP booth service, an RnB room as well as a function room which is also used as a more relaxed space for those who want to have a quiet night and play pool with friends.

Mr Clarkson said the main focus of the nightclub was the DJs.

“We have the best local talent in Toowoomba and once restrictions ease a bit more we will have guest acts come in often,” he said.

“Society is the only place in town that gives you the true experience of a nightclub.

“One thing I really wanted to focus on when reopening was getting all the people who newly turned 18 in a very strange year to come and experience a real nightclub.

“I would love to encourage them to come in and explore the venue, and hopefully we can make up for the months they lost during COVID.

Society is located at 12 Russell St and is open Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 3am.