Mother was not allowed to enter Burleigh Pavilion in Gold Coast because of her tattoos

A mother of two has been denied entry to a beachside bar and restaurant because of the tattoos she has on her back.

Katie Hally was planning a night out on Saturday to celebrate her friend’s 45th birthday at the Burleigh Pavilion in Gold Coast.

But after entering the venue, she was suddenly called back to the entrance by security who told her she was not allowed in due to their tattoo policy, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.

But after entering the venue, she was suddenly called back to the entrance by security who told her she was not allowed to enter due to their tattoo policy

Ms. Hally has Chinese letters tattooed on her upper back which translates to ‘family, love and happiness’.

The mother claims the doorman told her, “We’re very sorry, but we can’t let you in because of your neck tattoos.” I’m going to call the manager to talk to you.”

She was then asked by the manager to leave and return once she covered up.

Burleigh Pavilion’s tattoo policy says guests with tattoos are allowed in unless they are “harassing, aggressive or offensive.”

‘The first one I got – luckily – almost thirteen years ago after I got divorced. The second, ‘family’, I did with my sister and the third I did last, ‘love’, hoping I would find love again,’ Mrs Hally explained.

“I understand why the policy exists, but the manager could have used her discretion, she could have been more caring and judged people on a case-by-case basis, but they didn’t.”

Burleigh Pavilion’s tattoo policy says guests with tattoos are allowed in unless they are “harassing, aggressive or offensive.”

A ‘disappointed and offended’ Mrs Hally later returned after putting on a collared shirt.

Last year, face-tattooed Maori woman Jadene Kini was denied entry to Burleigh Pavilion with her boyfriend of NRLW Titans star Madison Bartlett.

Moko kauae are traditional female chin tattoos believed in Māori culture to be a manifestation of a deeper identity.