They came, they saw, they sparkled! Last night’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras brought its world of colour to Sydney’s streets. An estimated 2000 people rejoiced as 144 floats and 10,000 participants entertained along the glitter-soaked streets parade route.
Now in its 37th year, the Parade brought out the LBGTQI community in all its vibrancy, under the Mardi Gras theme of ‘Kaleidoscope’, marching for pride to represent their communities and champion equal rights.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO Michael Rolik revealed the makeup of the Parade:
- 144 entry floats/groups;
- Two hours, five minutes viewing time;
- 5.91km Parade train;
- 250 bikes;
- More than 390 vehicles or pushable;
- More than 9100 walkers;
- More than 800 riders;
- 10,000 total participants.
- One in four entrants had 100 or more participants
Reflecting on the Parade, Mr Rolik said: “Last night’s Parade was one of the biggest and best we’ve ever seen in Sydney since the 30th anniversary in 2008! From the show-stopping performance by Delta Goodrem, and Magda Szubanski marching with Twenty10, to Baz Luhrmann’s epic Strictly Ballroom finale, the night did not disappoint!”
“It was also extraordinary to have Australia’s oldest and largest gay and lesbian social group, the Pollys, as our Chief of Parade. I know it meant a lot to many people to have them represented in their 50th year! And having the first Trans* and the Intersex float was significant to all of us here at Mardi Gras. We know it won’t be the last, and we will continue to work with this group in the years to come, alongside all in the LBGTQI community.”
Mr Rolik also praised the behaviour of spectators on the night, at an hour when many of the revellers continued to celebrate Mardi Gras at The Party, which took over several venues in Moore Park until 8 am
