The Brisbane queer community is grieving the loss of a familiar and beloved presence: DJ Merlin, known offstage as Glenn Price. The announcement from The Sportsman Hotel confirmed that he has passed away, and the venue has invited patrons to remember his life and contribution. For more than two decades he shaped the weekend atmosphere at the pub, providing music, laughter and steady support to performers and audiences alike. His role extended beyond spinning tracks; he quietly mentored artists, created promotional materials and helped build a welcoming space that became central to Brisbane’s drag scene.
Many in the community remember him as both an entertainer and a caretaker of tradition. He was formally recognized with an induction into the Drag Hall of Fame, an honour established by the venue to celebrate those who have significantly contributed to the local drag landscape. Colleagues and audience members often described him as someone who had sacrificed personal weekends to ensure shows ran smoothly and that performers felt supported. This combination of professionalism and warmth helped him earn awards at events like the Queens Ball and countless friendships within the industry.
A steady presence at Sporties
At Sporties, his name became synonymous with the venue’s nightlife identity. Management and long-time staff recounted how he became part of the pub’s fabric, having worked there for over 25 years. He was regularly credited as being instrumental in nearly every drag production staged on that particular platform, assisting with music editing, show posters and on-the-night logistics. The manager described him as a “right-hand” collaborator whose expertise and calm demeanour allowed performers to focus on their craft. His commitment turned weekends into anticipated communal gatherings that drew local regulars and visitors alike.
Recognition and impact
The induction into the Drag Hall of Fame was a milestone that surprised many in a joyful moment, celebrated by cheers from the crowd and heartfelt tributes from peers. The Hall of Fame, curated in the venue’s lounge area as a way to preserve memories and honour service, highlights not only performers but also the behind-the-scenes contributors who keep the scene thriving. Peers pointed to his multiple Queens Ball awards and the many nights he quietly handled technical details, saying those gestures of recognition spoke to his long-term impact on Brisbane’s drag ecosystem and on the careers he helped nurture.
Community response and memorial plans
News of his passing prompted an outpouring of memories across social channels and within the venue’s walls. The Sportsman Hotel paused regular programming to invite friends and patrons to gather, share stories and raise a glass in his memory, creating a space for communal grieving and celebration. Tributes recounted small but meaningful acts—how he edited music for fledgling performers, designed posters, or stayed late to ensure a performer had everything they needed. Those recollections highlighted not only the entertainer but the person who supported others’ creative journeys without seeking the spotlight.
Personal testimonies
Several performers and friends expressed deep gratitude for his mentorship; one longtime collaborator noted that he had been an early champion of their career, handling promotional work and musical edits until they could do those tasks themselves. Others emphasized that, despite known health struggles in recent times, he continued to be present and bring joy where he could. These reflections underline how his influence was practical and emotional—creating opportunities, smoothing logistics and providing encouragement when it mattered most.
How to honour his memory
The venue has encouraged anyone who knew him to visit the pub to pay respects and join in remembering his spirit. Bringing together people who shared stages, back rooms and bar counters is one way the community is choosing to mark his absence. Whether through stories, music selections he loved, or quiet moments with friends, attendees are invited to celebrate the life of DJ Merlin and the enduring shelves of memories he leaves behind. Such gatherings serve both to mourn and to reaffirm the connections he helped build across Brisbane’s queer cultural life.
In closing, many have used the simple words “rest in power” to convey both sorrow and gratitude for a life spent fostering creative expression and communal warmth. His shoes will be hard to fill, but the rhythms he set and the shows he helped shape remain part of the city’s cultural texture. The community continues to share stories and support one another, preserving the laughter and light he brought to so many nights at Sporties.