How quickly time passes. In May 1996, a Star was born...the old Morning Star Hotel in Abbotsford was renovated and took its place as a cornerstone of   entertainment for all the diversity of the LGBTIQ community.

Frits Maatens and Andy Stevens established the bar with the already established Lotus Club basing itself at the hotel on a Wednesday Night.   Lotus is still going strong and is now the longest running night for gay Asian men and their friends in Australia.

Other nights have seen drag shows, karaoke nights, leather nights, variety and cabaret style shows, dance nights, boot scooting and drag kings. The Star has also hosted and been involved in many fundraisers for Melbourne LGBTIQ community groups and campaigns.

The Star was sold in 2003. It was purchased by a consortium including Eric Asche, Alison Asche, Wendy Hogg and Rob (). This meant the hotel remained in gay hands. Entertainment was still the main thrust of the pub. New nights and new ideas saw the Star now holding a firm niche within the community. This consortium leased the Hotel in February 2006.

New proprietors Tom Robb and Chuck Chan have taken a hands on approach to the Star. With the hotel undergoing a major revamp in décor and patronage and a name change becoming the Opium Den. Tom and Chuck are encouraging an atmosphere of 'community through diversity'.

The Star Hotel has been the introduction to the gay "scene" to many people and has been the starting point for many a performer. This comfortable and family like atmosphere endears the pub to regular and visitor alike.