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Mardi Gras 2015: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade

HORDES of spectators have packed into Sydney’s city centre for the annual smorgasbord of sequins and flesh that is the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Rebecca Sullivan and Charlotte Willis
2 min read
March 7, 2015 - 5:40PM
L to R: Mike Sinclair and Steven Capp make their way down Oxford street, Getting ready for Sydney gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Picture: John Appleyard
L to R: Mike Sinclair and Steven Capp make their way down Oxford street, Getting ready for Sydney gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Picture: John Appleyard

AUSTRALIA’S LGBTIQ community partied hard on its biggest night of the year, the 37th annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, affectionately known as “gay Christmas”.

More than 10,000 people strutted their stuff down Sydney’s Oxford Street, dressed (or undressed) to the nines to celebrate and pay their respects to those who have fought for gay rights.

The celebration kicked off — as always — with a convoy of Dykes on Bikes. As the sun went down, the riders were followed down Oxford Street by this year’s lead float, the First Australians Freedom Riders bus, designed to celebrate Australia’s indigenous people and the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Rides.

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Thousands of people turned out to see the Mardi Gras parade. Picture: Jeremy Piper
Thousands of people turned out to see the Mardi Gras parade. Picture: Jeremy Piper

Former NSW governor Dame Marie Bashir and her husband Sir Nicholas Shehadie were honoured as chiefs at the march. The distinguished couple sailed along the parade route in a convertible in recognition of their work to combat homophobia, following behind a double-decker bus celebrating the first Australians.

This year's Mardi Gras parade kicks off in Sydney. Picture: Jeremy Piper
This year's Mardi Gras parade kicks off in Sydney. Picture: Jeremy Piper

Police were out in force, with 800 patrolling the parade route and surroudning areas, and plenty taking part in the march as well. The NSW Police Force’s marching contingent joined 150 floats spanning five kilometres, more than 800 volunteers and thousands of onlookers lining Sydney’s streets, not to mention half a tonne of glitter.

True to form, there was no shortage of six packs, feathered frocks, sequins and colourful wigs.

Almost 20,000 people were expected to watch Danni Minogue, Nick Jonas and Jessica Mauboy perform at the official after party at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park following the parade.

Kylie Minogue shared this selfie of the famous sisters on Instagram, along with the caption: “She’s looking FLAWLESS and HERE SHE COMES @danniiminogue about to dazzle @sydneymardigras!!!!!”

Sydney turned it up for the 37th annual Mardi Gras parade. Picture: Jeremy Piper
Sydney turned it up for the 37th annual Mardi Gras parade. Picture: Jeremy Piper

Plenty of celebs have showed up — Nick Jonas, 2Day FM’s Dan & Maz, Jess Mauboy, Miranda Tapsell, Richard Reid, Justice Crew, along with several high profile athletes, including former Olympians and football players, who took part in the parade.

KIIS 1065 FM’s Intern Pete was having the time of his life.

Police said they were pleased with the overall behaviour of spectators, with 30 arrests for a range of offences including assault, goods in custody, malicious damage, offensive conduct/language and drug-related offences.

NSW Ambulance paramedics and medical volunteer staff responded to 44 medical incidents during the parade, with alcohol and drugs playing a significant role in many cases. Paramedics transported 25 patients to hospital for further treatment.

How did you celebrate Mardi Gras? Tweet us using the hashtag #MardiGras2015 @newscomauhq

Read related topics:Sydney

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Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/good-news/mardi-gras-2015-sydney-gay-and-lesbian-mardi-gras-parade/news-story/45bdd5e39d539d86251f676c34670cbf