The first unofficial Mardi Gras took place on June 24, 1978, as a protest march for LGBTQIA+ rights in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots.
Since then, the celebration has evolved into what we now know as the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, one of the largest festivals in the world and a massive source of income for NSW.
Mardi Gras celebrations have become so huge in Australia that they have attracted international performers such as Dua Lipa, Cher, U2, Cyndi Lauper and Village People, as well as beloved homegrown stars like Kylie Minogue and Tina Arena.
In this pre-millennium collection, we take a look at the history of Australian Mardi Gras celebrations with the most fabulous pictures from the archives.
AFL star allegedly punched, broke man’s jaw at Burleigh Heads
An AFL young gun has been charged after a former NRL star’s nephew was allegedly assaulted and left in hospital with a broken jaw. Read the latest
Protesters’ threat after rally at PM’s home
Pro-Palestinian protesters have issued a serious threat to the Prime Minister after storming the street outside his second home.
Royal rift: Harry’s texts and emails with Meghan in ‘exile’
As he marks a milestone birthday, Prince Harry has been trying to heal a rift with the Royal Family. But close friends say he’s at a crossroads in his future.
Former detective, stripper and an ambo walk into a mining town bar …
There’s something wild and untameable about Australian opal mining towns - most having the gritty, lawless feel of a Clint Eastwood western. White Cliffs, in far-west NSW, is no exception.
Humans and elephants clash in striking image
An image has captured the confrontation between humans and elephants. It’s one of the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year finalists.
Heartbreaking moment as fallen soldier mourned
This was the touching moment fellow soldiers mourned the loss of one of their own. Here is the rest of this week’s best photography from around the world.