Welcome to Pinkboard's Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2006 Graffiti Wall.

You will see something different every time you look at this season's image (on the right). You will see love, diversity, connection, excitement, luck, celebration and maybe even sex. This reflects our community which is definitely not homogenous, even though we style ourselves as homos. You might even see a butterfly.

The butterfly is not just Pinkboard's symbol, but a symbol that has been adopted by the GLBTQ community around the world. The original Sydney Mardi Gras poster used a butterfly. In some languages the slang for gay is the same as butterfly. Ankali and other groups use the butterfly as their symbol. The Pet Shop Boys sang "once a caterpillar, now a butterfly" in their song Metamorphosis which is about coming out: "But every now and then / often at night / a particular feeling would surface in spite / of what I told myself and tried to deny / I kept on asking the question: Why?"

"Why? Tell me why?" brings me to Jimmy Sommerville. He sang this as part of Bronski Beat over 20 years ago, one of the first openly gay groups. He will be singing here on 24 February. He might even do a show at the party. Pet Shop Boys will also feature in the festival with their musical Closer the Heaven.

Festival with over 100 events from 4 February to 4 March. Fair Day on 19 February, Parade and Party 4 March. Launch will happen, more details to follow. A lot to enjoy and a lot to celebrate.

Pinkboard's Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2006 Graffiti Wall 2
New Mardi Gras Home Page
Gaydar - Presenting Partner
Ticketek - Party Tickets available from 20 December

For those that dont realise Paul Goodyear has been placed in the "Retro / Disco" space this Mardi Gras.

Seems an odd odd odd choice given his dislike in the last 5-6 years of trashy camp bubblegum style music which is what the retro spaces at the last few MG parties as been known for.

A big congratulations to David Hiscock who is playing the middle set of the Retro space (its his first big room Mardi Gras / Sleaze ball appearance since the late 1980's).

And as for Greg Boladian starting off the retro space... well us retro fans couldnt be in better hands.
- Fri 16 Dec 2005 09:24:06 Replies: 1, add
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

Correct me if I'm wrong but has the most whinging about overseas DJ's usually been linked to the US ones ? ( except for 4 strings ).
Rachel Auburn , Lisa German all rocked and their UK.
Give him an hour - Fri 16 Dec 2005 18:00:31 Replies: add

Evil Twin - Fri 16 Dec 2005 21:25:05

Adamx - couldn't resist - Sat 17 Dec 2005 19:32:20

until this week there was no real info on the festival but lots on the Party so naturally there was a lot of postings about the party and lets not forget where the money comes from to pay for the Festival

So feel free to add your comments about the Festival instead of bitching
Cheesy smile - Sat 17 Dec 2005 19:47:26 Replies: 1, add

At the end of the Festival let's recap how many posts were for the party and how many were about the actual festival.

my bet is that 75%+ of the posts will be about the party on this wall despite the fact that there is a dedicated party wall here. it just shows how party-centric our community members are.
- Sun 18 Dec 2005 09:11:14 Replies: 1, 2, add

dont forget to book the nursing home
im going to home-yay - Sun 18 Dec 2005 19:32:41 Replies: add

Troi - Mon 19 Dec 2005 09:46:25

TRANCE LOVERS will be in for a special treat as Mardi Gras dedicates the Hordern to quality trance ALL NIGHT. At the helm will be Luke Leal, DJ Josh (Adelaide), Scott Anderson (Melbourne) and Rick Dreske, who will combine to take you on a journey you won't forget.

I HATE TRANCE.
toybox which is trance is the next day.
why do we have to also have such a large space alnight for trance?

please explain?

why not more alternative music in the hordern like always?
Jan - Tue 20 Dec 2005 10:28:49 Replies: 1, add

I am guessing a lot people are going to have a spare ticket to sell!
- Tue 20 Dec 2005 10:52:18 Replies: 1, add

Dont freaking beg for more members if u cant supply the forms.
- Tue 20 Dec 2005 19:39:47 Replies: add

" If " these DJ's play like they have in the past at these parties beleive me it wont be your commercial type trance.
Josh bangs it out with the best of them. Luke can go either way and not too sure on the other 2 DJ's.

Hordern has over say the last 10 years played styles like
hardhouse , hardtrance , hard dance even some hard tribal from the likes of Sveta.

Its always proved a successful formula so why play around with it. In my opinion the Hordern is THE perfect hall for it.
Wait and see - Tue 20 Dec 2005 20:39:58 Replies: 1, add

Harder the better - Wed 21 Dec 2005 19:23:03

1) Never buy tickets to Sleaze and then not go.
At least give them away at the nearest corner store.

2) Book a quite hotel room for all that come down drama.
So you can chill / recover properly.

3) When you go to Toybox make sure you got the right stuff. So you wont, stuff up your party.

That way you wont blow $1000 on airfares, hotels, parties and stuff for absolutely nothing.

PS; This time I got the right stuff and the right hotel (yet). And Im going to pace myself at both parties (I hope)

CYA
JASM - Wed 21 Dec 2005 21:42:01 Replies: add

Yep. $79.00
Information Desk - Thu 22 Dec 2005 07:15:08 Replies: 1, add

The subject of a DJ who plays a pre mixed CD is an interesting one.

I know a number of prominant Sydney DJ's and have at times seen these DJ's put a pre mixed CD at the start of a night in a pub or nightclub when the room is empty. They might allow that CD to play for anywhere from 30 to 80 minutes and go "live" once they are set up properly, have settled in and a few people have walked into the room. Personally I don't see anything wrong with that.

I have also heard a number of stories of DJ's who have various CD's with two or even three songs on them that are mixed together. This is called the "Toilet CD". It allows them to mix this CD into a live set during the middle of a night and then gives them anywhere from 10-20 minutes without having to mix another track in. This time off can be used to go to the bar , or even make a toilet stop without the DJ having to panic while doing these things thinking "shit I'm running out of time I gotta get back and mix". Again , this is a sensible DJ tool to have with you on any night.

I also know of a number of prominent dance party Sydney DJ's (and at least one OS DJ) who have used the "Toilet CD" concept at big dance parties during longish sets to have a mini break from mixing during a set. One particular instance of this was at Mardi Gras last year when I was dancing in the Hordern to Four Strings. I clearly remember one instance when the song changed over and the DJ was not at his mixing console. Five minutes later he re-appeared and then started playing live again.

All of the above is probably fair.

However what I cant see as being fair is if this Masterbeat DJ who is playing at Mardi Gras 2006 plays pre mixed CD's for the majority of his set and just stands there and watches everyone dancing away. What self satisfaction could you get out of that ? At what does he do to pass the time ? Read a nice book ? It doesn't make sense to me. I know both Shegeki and Dan Murphy who are playing the RHI on eaither side of the American DJ at Mardi Gras. I'll be sure to ask them to keep an eye on this bloke and see whether he does actually do this. In my book it's nothing more than cheating if he sticks on premixed CD's for the bulk of his set. Let's see how this little controversy pans out...........
Aiden - Thu 22 Dec 2005 07:45:03 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

that is too funny, ii LOVE that show!
oooh! - Thu 22 Dec 2005 10:24:34 Replies: add

I've worked Overseas with Brett several times and he doesn't sit idly for a full set playing pre-mixed CDs, despite the fact that his Masterbeat mixed CDs, of which I have every one, are some of the best around. He feels the crowd (wish he would...), watches reactions and changes material as needed just like any other good DJ.

Brett is a professional who's been around for a long time doing major parties all over the US, and the world. I received an email from him the other day and he's so incredibly excited to be playing in the RHI from 1-4am so expect nothing but his absolute best efforts to entertain us.

And anyway, one extended mix during a 4 hour set so you can have a pee is not a crime, not that this man does that. I've seen him many times in a long 6 or 7 hour set run for the loo during a 6 minute mix.

No more character attacks based on sheer ignorance please.

Happy Xmas all.
Noisy Gypsy - Thu 22 Dec 2005 12:41:01 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

I sense possible Tall Poppy Syndrome here or perhaps some bitter Dj's that are stirring the pot because they are have not been selected? I have heard of one venue where a certain group of people are wearing "we want (insert DJ Name) at party" T shirts.

As panther says...

"Please respect all the volunteers and staff who put in many many hours of hard work to make our festival fabulous"

Lets also not judge those working on the event until the event is over?

That sounds fair to me.
- Thu 22 Dec 2005 18:43:30 Replies: add

As usual the cats are out to play and who cares if no shred of truth in their posts.

All hearsay.

Just busting.
T. - Thu 22 Dec 2005 20:36:20 Replies: add

Excellent. Send me pics and lets make a date
- Fri 23 Dec 2005 07:24:52 Replies: add

Members should have received their season guide in the mail by now, or you can pick them up at all the usual venues. From a home-made sex toy workshop @ Manacle to Kylie, Cocktails & Canapes @ the Powerhouse to Queers on Ice @ Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink, I think it's fairly safe to say there should be something for everyone...
CeeJay - Fri 23 Dec 2005 14:18:35 Replies: add

I mean for heavens sake people its not rocket science.

I good DJ knows great music and what can send a dance floor grooving.

Let's just pray that they brief him.
- Fri 23 Dec 2005 14:52:35 Replies: add

Was it advertised anywhere ? Was it a members only thing ?

More information please.
Uninformed and Missed Out - Fri 23 Dec 2005 17:55:38 Replies: 1, 2, add

What is it with people who post here?
- Fri 23 Dec 2005 18:34:26 Replies: add

received my tickets today
- Fri 23 Dec 2005 21:50:38 Replies: 1, 2, add

Panther - Sat 24 Dec 2005 09:44:40

How bloody UNFAIR is that for people like me that do not wish to patronize that venue (or any other venue on Oxford Street for that matter).

I only attend the big parties and do not club in Darlinghurst. How was i supposed to be communicated this information hmmm ?

Me thinks a complaint email to NMG is in order.
Uninformed and Missed Out - And now very disappointed and disillusioned - Sat 24 Dec 2005 14:55:08 Replies: 1, 2, add

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countdownboy - merry christmas everyone. - Sat 24 Dec 2005 16:39:35 Replies: add

Oh REALLY ? Then where's my email ???
Uninformed and Missed Out - Now Im just getting pissed off - Sat 24 Dec 2005 20:03:40 Replies: 1, add

There are 69 Days to Mardi Gras

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countdownboy - strange twist that on a day like Xmas Day there's 69 days to MG *hehe* ... i hope Santa didnt give you a 69 for Xmas *shock* !! - Sun 25 Dec 2005 08:50:24 Replies: add

If your not out and about, or in the know, then yes you would have missed out.
Sorry that's called marketing,get over it.
You snooze you loose.
It's the oldest trick in the book.
- Mon 26 Dec 2005 11:01:43 Replies: add

geez...
- Tue 27 Dec 2005 23:41:59 Replies: 1, add

Yawn - no its actually the "party" people who put me to sleep....
- Fri 30 Dec 2005 09:22:31 Replies: 1, add

I hope this is something you can make sure will happen at the party this year -

It's very important in my opinion that you put some seating in the RHI at Mardi Gras party this year. The RHI is the hall the majority always want to hang out in but it frustrates the hell out of me that there is never seating in that hall whereas the other halls like Dome and particularly the Hordern have areas to have a sit down and a rest. Please consider my request and put some bleachers in the RHI as well as the Hordern. If there's a budget issue then split the bleachers normally placed in the Hordern with the RHI and give each hall a 50-50 share.

Theres plenty of room in the RHI for bleachers on the right hand side of the hall as you walk in from the Hordern Pavilion end. Please give it a go !!!

Feedback would be appreciated.
Luke B - Fri 30 Dec 2005 23:11:16 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

I also think that there is plenty of room in the RHI to put in seats and it gives us older party people (I am 46) the opportunity to have a rest between dancing. People who like the RHI and its music should not be consigned to having to sit on the filthy floor to rest our sore legs. If its good enough to put seats in the Hordern then why not in the RHI which is supposed to be the #1 space at the party ? Thanks for listening.
In need of a sit down - Sat 31 Dec 2005 07:04:44 Replies: add

Amen to that !!!
- Sat 31 Dec 2005 17:53:25 Replies: add

I also want to say yes to RHI seating. Tons of vacant space on the Driver Ave side of the RHI for bleaches and a great opportunity to do something DIFFERENT in that space which I know would be very much appreciated by the punters. Agree how horrible it looks as the sun comes up seeing people with tired dancing legs having to sit on the floor if they want to stay indoors - This should not be allowed to happen. Come on Brad , give us what we want.
Craig W - Sat 31 Dec 2005 18:07:18 Replies: add

but that is all i know. Don't know why NMG dumped them from the festival this year.

Surely mardi gras shoudl support our community events and especially a muli-cultural event.

Cee Jay do you know?
What happened to Arak? - Sun 1 Jan 2006 08:42:02 Replies: add
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

I remember that last year there were a heap of parties in the festival guide. There was one at Arq and a few others too. Can anyone remeber the others. Why have they being excluded from this year's festival guide.
Sure not indeed. - Sun 1 Jan 2006 09:03:07 Replies: 1, 2, add
This is the opinion of the poster.

"GAY rights activists will seize on Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to push for legal recognition of same-sex marriages.Prime Minister John Howard has ruled out recognising gay marriages, despite a push by Liberal backbenchers Warren Entsch, Mal Washer, Judi Moylan and Petro Georgiou.
This puts Australia behind countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Canada and South Africa, where same-sex marriages are legal.
Same-sex civil unions are recognised in Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, New Zealand, Britain and seven US states."

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/push-to-legalise-gay-marriage/2005/12/31/1135915725605.html

... John Howard really has a lot to answer for, as more & more young gays commit suicide (especially in rural areas) as they don't feel like they have a full future open to them as full citizens.
- Mon 2 Jan 2006 00:24:34 Replies: add

BTW, Club Arak was part of the 2004 festival, but not 2005 (page 39 of the 2005 festival guide featured the amazing Varla Jean Merman (one of my highlights for last year's festival!), Sipping the Velvet and Sub Station.)

Dirty Donkey was last year and is again part of the Festival for 2006. There's also a Greek party at the Burdekin, the DJ Spinoff at Stonewall, the Search for a DNA model upstairs at the Shift, and the Underbear party (part of Bear Essentials)

For something a bit different, there's the Pollys Harbour Cruise, the "ice skating dance party" Queers on Ice - or Kylie, Cocktails and Canapes at the Powerhouse (under $30 for NMG members including exhibition entry, music, performance, food and drinks - bargain!), or even the Bush Dance at Marrickville RSL. There's also Roundabout - a cabaret and dance night for under 25s at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre.

Oh... I think there may be a couple of parties happening on the final weekend of the season as well
CeeJay - Happy new year! - Mon 2 Jan 2006 08:56:34 Replies: 1, add

2 more likely reasons are that Club Arak might of:

1. missed the October closing date

2. They didn't want to pay for the listing.

Remember NMG doesn't make any money out of the festival events themselves anymore. Instead it makes money from listing them in the guide, so it wouldn't make sense to refuse a listing.
- Mon 2 Jan 2006 16:13:13 Replies: add

Can you guys also let us know if the party is one. I really want it on.
Club Arak please verify - Tue 3 Jan 2006 00:52:02 Replies: 1, add

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countdownboy - ALSO IN SUPPORT OF SEATING IN THE RHI PLEASE - Tue 3 Jan 2006 09:20:18 Replies: add

Going about blaming NMG for 'dumping' events is very short-sighted!
- Tue 3 Jan 2006 09:36:04 Replies: add

I recall seating being put in the RHI for some dance parties many many years ago (late 80's / early 90's) and cant understand why that practise was ceased.

It makes SO much of a difference to party goers if you can rest during portions of the night. It certainly helps you last the distance
Mark - Tue 3 Jan 2006 13:31:27 Replies: 1, 2, add

Reading between those lines, I found it quite ironic that NMG rejected the raelians because they considered them too "out there" when the actual parade is considered the same way by many people in australia (some might say most).

The more likely scenario is that Club arak just didn't feel the need to be a part of the festival as they already have their own following and don't need the publicity of the festival guide to get punters to their event.

Still it would've been abit more community minded of them to fork out $50 for the registration and consider it a donaiton to MG as a festival which has created so much for this community and in turn given opportunities for events like club arak to happen by changing australian culture to be more accepting.
- Tue 3 Jan 2006 14:04:16 Replies: 1, add

My recollection is that the Raelians' 2004 application did not meet the (widely-available) criteria that protects this community event from being exploited, whether for commercial, political or other means.

At no point did Mardi Gras indicate that the proposed entry was too 'out there'. This sounds like what the Raelians assumed, in the belief that they were being spectacularly cutting-edge or controversial.

Further, that the following year their entry application DID address the criteria and demonstrate that it was genuinely being entered by members of the glbt community. Thus the same working group, with much the same membership, happily approved the entry.

Yawn,! Conspiracy theories in this community aren't what they used to be!
- Tue 3 Jan 2006 16:16:34 Replies: add

And if it wasn't a gay pub then how could it not possibly be there for commercial exploitation? Remember the that Poppy lipstick company that had floats repeatedly in the MG in the 90s? how was that company connected to our community? (there are plenty more examples of commercial floats that used to be a part of the parade when they clearly had nothing to do with our community and everything to do with promoting their products/services.)

And I was reading between the lines by the way the NMG spokesman spoke about the raelians exclusion to conclude about their "unofficial" reasons for excluding them.

(Don't forget that at no point has JWH indicated that he thinks same sex relationships are inferior to opposite sex relationshisp, but thru this actions and legislation we are abundantly clear as to what he thinks of our relationships).

It's good to hear that the raelians were included in the next years festival but i hardly think it was "the same working group" who approved the second and not the first. (there was high turn over in those first few years of NMG - even on the board the first year). if it was maybe they realised their mistake and didn't go to the same lengths they did last time due to the bad publicity and community concern (i wrote them a nasty email about it).

I'm not connected to the raelians (i consider ALL religions to be the exclusive domain of nutjobs) but i can't stand hypocrisy, particularly hypocrisy that was so flimsly disguised as it when that issue came up at the press conference.
- Tue 3 Jan 2006 17:31:35 Replies: add

I can here the spin now "New Mardi Gras encourages all members of our community to be part of our festival"...and so it will go.

In the meantime, "Club Arak" has left the festival frustrated. short sighted of Arak i know but also of mardi gras.
it takes 2 to tango - Tue 3 Jan 2006 18:07:16 Replies: 1, add
This is the opinion of the poster.

Looks exciting. Saw them in NYC.
Highly recommended. - Tue 3 Jan 2006 18:09:04 Replies: 1, add

Influence is currently presenting Roundabout, a queer friendly event for Sydney’s youth during Mardi Gras season.
Roundabout intends to be a fun-filled space for queer individuals and their friends to have a laugh, enjoy some light entertainment, and dance the night away.

Influence is currently recruiting performers for the night, and have already managed to snag the talents of Bec Hill and other numerous competitors.

Don’t want to perform on the night?
Then come along and watch the show. It’s only $5 entry.

Where? Newtown Community Hall
When? Friday 24th Feb 6.30-11pm
Who? Everyone under the age of 25
What? Drug and Alcohol free event

Want to know more??
Contact ashleycharlton@hotmail.com or dial 0401306914.
- Tue 3 Jan 2006 22:24:16 Replies: add

so are we getting wooden flooring as well as seating - coz i cannot tell you enough - just how good that floorings is. Its a very responsible measure to ensure our little legs keep going all night.
Bring on the floor - Thu 5 Jan 2006 15:01:22 Replies: 1, add

One of the best things about the collapse of old MG is that it is now so much easier for smaller community groups to become a part of the festival. As long as you can run the event on your own and it's connnected to the community, then MG will in most circumstances accept your application to be a part of the festival. i did it for two years and it was as easy as pie (the application - NOT! the event!)

If club arak isn't a part of the festival then we should assume that either they didn't feel the need to be a part of it, or they got their application in seriously late. either way is fine as the festival guide is still nice and full!

And i'm really not spinning a MG PR line here because i'm the one who mouthed off about them excluding the raelians (for whatever reasons).
- Thu 5 Jan 2006 16:08:44 Replies: add

a friend who is involved in MG told me that there will be no wooden floor.
8 extra mirrorballs will be added instead - it is cheaper. bring your sunnies as well as two pair of shoes.
- Thu 5 Jan 2006 21:36:38 Replies: add
This message should be interpreted as being humourous.

LAUNCH AT THE HOUSE? by Myles Wearring

The Mardi Gras launch will return to the Opera House forecourt this year, according to unconfirmed reports.

While the news is yet to be announced, Sydney Star Observer believes the launch will be held at the iconic venue with an entry fee of between $5 and $10.

Last year New Mardi Gras chair Marcus Bourget said community feedback revealed a strong desire to take the launch back to the Opera House, where it was last held in 2002.

It will be the first time NMG has charged an entry fee to the launch, a step deemed necessary after the event lost money in 2004 and 2005.
- Fri 6 Jan 2006 09:44:35 Replies: 1, add

It would of been amazing to have her singing live to the Deep Dish dance version of Dreams...

Pity she would of just left the country a few days before and is over in New Zealand on that weekend with John Farnham...

But then again she could finish her Auckland concert and jump on a plane and be here in time for a 3am show...

Just an idea NMG!
- Fri 6 Jan 2006 20:10:13 Replies: 1, 2, add

Yes I'm a party goer for the last 20 years and for the last few years so much rides on $'s made from the party to put on these events that us party people end up with either less lighting or no wooden dance floor ( never again please ) blah blah blah.
Work mates love to say " I'm over the parties. I only go to the launch/fair day and festival ". Thats fine but end the free ride.
End the free ride - Sat 7 Jan 2006 12:09:24 Replies: add

How about those holding a party ticket get free entry ?
its already pricey enough and would make people buy way
in advance ?
Just a thought - Sat 7 Jan 2006 12:12:50 Replies: 1, add

Lil - luscious in leather - Sat 7 Jan 2006 14:45:17

Approx 2 months ago I send a volunteer application over the internet to NMG, and up until now no one has even bothered to contact me????????

The complain all the time that they are always wanting volunteers, but they cannot even bother to contact people back who apply???

If I am contacted now I will not even bother......... Just when I thought NMG was heading in the right direction I was wrong, too self obsessed into getting sponsorship they have forgotten the real essence of Mardi Gras, the COMMUNITY!

Not very professional at all.........and as for membership application forms don't even get me started!!

Is this is a back yard operation run by school kids?
- Sun 8 Jan 2006 12:46:39 Replies: 1, 2, add

If you truly want to help you would register your interest and wait. Being "over it" because you felt you had to wait too long is a little immature.

Lets not bitch about these organisations who do an amazing job within limited time and budget!
Nick - Melbourne - Sun 8 Jan 2006 18:28:03 Replies: 1, 2, add

Waiting a few weeks is fair, but up to a year to start work as a volunteer is unacceptable.

Surely a process of an immediate acknowledgement email indicating when they will be contacted would help surely. Or is everybody too busy to accept more help?
- Sun 8 Jan 2006 19:54:07 Replies: add

1. RHI Seating.

I cant agree more with all comments and will table it on Tuesday at Party Working Group Meeting. It does cost but will try and squeeze it it. I'm glad that people are happy to loose one of the 50 or so lasers in the Hordern to pay for them.

2. Vollies - when in doubt call Mardi Gras or if online is your thing feel free to email me and I will send on contact details. If there is one thing I have learnt working with NMG is that it wouldn't be around without vollies.

3. General Party Stuff - Now that im back from holidays and feeling fab im again throwing myself at the Party. If any of you have comments/suggestions/questions feel free to email them through to me

brad@aztechevents.com.au

As far as im concerned we can only make these parties better by listening to both the Party Working Group and the general public.

4. Platinum - more info to come next week, think VIP treatment and areas. Give me a week to sort it all out.

Hope all of this helps, if not shoot me an email.
Brad W - brad@aztechevents.com.au - Sun 8 Jan 2006 21:46:22 Replies: 1, 2, add

FREE labour should have them on your doorstep within
days/weeks.
I'll bitch if I want to - Mon 9 Jan 2006 16:57:18 Replies: 1, add

From people I've spoken to there seems to be a positive vibe surrounding the MG Party 2006.

They are all getting in and ordering tix. Which seems a much better reaction than last year.

Looking forward to it 300%
- Mon 9 Jan 2006 18:21:07 Replies: add

As a general rule - if you haven't heard back within a couple of days, email again - Consider it good grounding for the frustrations that can go along with being part of a community-based organisation. On the flip side, it can be incredibly rewarding, and a lot of fun.

Also - if you're volunteering, the more specific you are about what you're interested in volunteering for, the more likely it is to get to the right person who will reply asap (and maybe a second or third preference in case some areas are already ok when others are still crying out for volunteers).

BTW, I know Marcus has been working hard, but I'm sure the 2 other board members, 5 working group co-chairs, 2 contractors (unpaid overtime) and assorted working group members who were at Petersham all Saturday afternoon were doing more than sitting around watching one man single-handedly organise and market festival, launch, fair day, parade and party

(not to mention the people who've been meeting through the week & at places other than Petersham)
CeeJay - Mon 9 Jan 2006 21:06:31 Replies: add

Musically, for the moment think, house, anthems, trance, dirty/underground house, 70's, 80's, 90's and disco.

As far as Live elements go. ... I'm chatting with artists from all over the globe and hoping to sign some contracts by the end of the week and then make some announcements in the coming weeks.
Brad W - Tue 10 Jan 2006 01:03:58 Replies: 1, add

mmm ... don't see one single underground dj on the line-up! ... and before you start arguing about that, you know there really isn't!!
- Tue 10 Jan 2006 11:20:04 Replies: add

Live music at the party as in bands? Or do you mean vocal PAs, as in Jimmy Sommerville? Tell all!
deep housin! - Tue 10 Jan 2006 15:05:38 Replies: 1, 2, add

So that's your definition? *ROFL*

Underground dance music, in my book, is basically non-commercial dance music. Sure, it may not be stuff that you'd hear in a popular club. I wouldn't have brought trance into the equation though, as you'll find that there's plenty of "underground" trance out there if you go looking for it. Most of what you hear at the shift or arq isn't trance, in any case....
- Tue 10 Jan 2006 19:20:17 Replies: add

I might get flamed for saying this, but it was nice to dance to some pumping tunes (ie "dome" style music) but in an environment that was far more diverse than the usual dome-leather crowd. I love dancing with my saphic sisters even though I'm a gay man. The dome crowd tends to get a bit exclusive (and trashy) as the night goes on. However if that's where the good music is, that's where I'll be.

As for live acts, the Martini club were a hit in the Dome last year!!!
This boi loves chick djs - Tue 10 Jan 2006 19:41:18 Replies: 1, 2, add

Adamx - Tue 10 Jan 2006 20:01:54

GT - Tue 10 Jan 2006 20:34:24

DJ selection for this years MG party is making me think twice about going.
Evil Twin - Wed 11 Jan 2006 10:29:11 Replies: add

As for Sveta not playing at MG...hmmm, have to agree with you ET about that DJ line-up...
MVR - Wed 11 Jan 2006 17:21:08 Replies: add

But did they apply?

Perhaps they didn't.

But if they did... yes it is a pity... but its a pity that everyones favourite dj didn't get picked... but the ones that did get picked are all equally just as great...

I look forward to hearing more about whats going to happen in each of the Venues!
- Wed 11 Jan 2006 17:32:37 Replies: add

Looking at the line-up, there aren't any DJs representing those who enjoy Phoenix-style music, Bad Dog, Kooky and other undergound parties is there?
I like it dark dirty and underground! - Wed 11 Jan 2006 18:04:46 Replies: add

Rob Gilbert
Chip
Mike Kelly
Lim Jeka

you heard it here first.
- Thu 12 Jan 2006 00:41:57 Replies: 1, add

Welcome to the 2006 New Mardi Gras DJ Spin-Off!

Since 2003, New Mardi Gras has selected a number of up and coming DJ's to play at the infamous post Parade Party at Fox Studios. The lucky winners will play alongside Sydney's finest DJ talent where they will be able to showcase their talent and skills to thousands of party goers. Since 2003, many of the lucky Spin-Off winners have gone on to gain residencies and build a name for themselves in the DJ world.

The lucky winners will be selected at the DJ Spin-Off event held on 12 February at Stonewall Hotel's VIP Bar. A shortlist of up to a dozen DJ's is selected to perform at the Spin-Off to a live audience to prove their mixing ability. Contestants are judged based a number of criteria, including (but not limited to) style, consistency in style, musical journey, mixing ability, technical ability and audience reaction. Yes, pleasing the audience is important, so contestants should bring their friends along...

To enter, you must satisfy the eligibility criteria listed below, and submit one original copy of a demo CD that highlights your talent by 20 January 2006 to: DJ Spin-Off, New Mardi Gras, 297-299 Trafalgar Street, Petersham, NSW 2049. Shortlisted finalists will be notified soon afterwards.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicant’s must be over 18;
Applicants must not have previously played at a major New Mardi Gras event;
An applicant’s demo CD must be an original copy of their own work and not a reproduction from another compiler or mixer;
- Thu 12 Jan 2006 02:04:00 Replies: add

It's a different story for the UK gay scene, or event the European gay scene. This mostly reflects the Aust scene and is much more successful (Wayne G, Alan Thompson, Tina Cousins, Kylie, Dannii, Jimmy...even Little Britain, the original Queer as Folk). And on it goes.
Entertainment Boy - Thu 12 Jan 2006 13:14:08 Replies: add

Ryan Murphy - Thu 12 Jan 2006 13:23:20

Agree for the fee for adults, as it's a wise commercial decision to raise revenue but not for children...that is greedy!

Children only take up half the space as an adult too!
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 07:10:10 Replies: 1, 2, add

Would you be happy if it was $20 and kids got in for $10? Probably!

Mardi Gras are obviously trying to make it as simple as possible. A flat fee at a lower rate is a great way to go.

They have also made clear they are not trying to make a profit from the event, just cover costs.
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 10:17:01 Replies: add

Margeaux xx - Fri 13 Jan 2006 10:35:22

It's not like members of our community get pregnant accidentally. It's a conscience choice to have children and if you can't afford 10 bucks for them to attend a whole evening's entertainment then i really wonder how much money you have have to spend on other things that children need (yes children have needs too, they are not just there for your pleasure). We certainly don't want to become like that minority of heteros who constantly get pregnant at the drop of a hat and cannot afford to properly provide for those children but expect everyone else to provide for them (but of course they don't like medling DOCS telling them "how to raise my child" (just provide for them).

stop whining about the cost of things when it costs money for to set this whole thing up. NMG are not a charity. they are a community org who are trying to stay afloat so they can continue to provide community events (which cost money) that we can all enjoy.

If it's a question of some parents missing out on coming to launch night because they haven't done their sums or not having a launch at all for anyone, i know which one i'd choose.

sometimes you have to make sacrifices for your children - consider this one of those moments (heaven forbid they get a cold and you blame NMG for spoiling your night).

sorry for the rant - but complaining parents are a pet hate of mine - just enjoy time your kids and don't worry about the material things, you'll have plenty of time to yourself when your children get their own life!
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 11:44:22 Replies: 1, 2, add

For $10 dollars you should be able to BYO especially based on the experience of a NMG bar at the last Launch.
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 12:36:06 Replies: add

Maybe it's not about "affording ten bucks". Maybe it's about principle. I honestly believe the ten dollars for all children charge is simply an oversight by Mardi Gras that will be fixed like last year's charity collection fiasco, if the organisation knows what's good for them.

We all want to support mardi gras, but this is blatantly unfair. Taking an infant is not like taking an adult, and shouldn't be charged at the same rate. How much of the "whole evening of entertainment" do you think a baby is going to take in? Ten dollars worth?
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 12:40:09 Replies: 1, add

'Families' get tax breaks, support payments, discounted public transport etc, etc, etc that 'single' people aren't entitled to. NMG charging everybody $10 entry just sounds like equality to me.

I may not know anything about parenting, but shouldn't responsible parents have their children, especially infants, safely home in bed before 7pm anyway?
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 14:44:09 Replies: 1, add

If they've only just had the baby in their "heterosexual relationship" then perhaps they need time to adjust to being a part of this community and so too could just skip the night if 10 bucks is too much to spend on their baby (divorce fees are pretty high these days).

as for the consciously homosexually pregnant - perhasp they could see the 10 bucks for their child as an investment into an organisation that has done so much for our community that allowed a culture to grow to the point where they could negotiate getting pregnant with donors.

it's 10 bucks! it's really not that much for them to be complaining about it.

Why does everyone else have to constantly subsidise parents for their lifestyle choice?

would we prefer that the launch didn't happen at all if some segments of our community aren't happy with it?
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 14:47:04 Replies: add

Is it actually a good idea to take a little baby to what is basically a dance party?
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 14:58:42 Replies: 1, add

And don't they get a baby bonus anyway? how about spending that on the kid instead of some holiday or plastic surgery on themselves!
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 16:52:04 Replies: add

"Everyone attending Launch, including children, will have to buy a $10 ticket. “We have to cover our costs. It’s a per head charge,” Bourget said."

Everyone is clearly missig another point - the disadvantage/pension (HIV)/students do not receive a discount either!

"People Living With HIV/AIDS (NSW) was told it could not send bucket collectors to the event, despite Launch historically being its major annual fundraising opportunity. "

NMG has totally lost the plot!
- Fri 13 Jan 2006 17:11:10 Replies: add

As has been repeated so many times already - the admission charge is to cover the cost of the event. If there is no cover charge, there is no event. all this subisdizing by NMG and the general community just means that we are further dragged down.

If you can't afford $10, then get someone to sponsor you or accept that somethings are beyond your reach at this time.

I'd love to be able to only work part-time but my circumstances mean that I need to work full-time in 9 to 5 drudgery - but i accept that as it's just my reality and complaining about it only makes me a victim with the "woh-is-me" attitude pervading my entire life.
Accept it and move on - it's only one night - Fri 13 Jan 2006 18:16:51 Replies: add

Maybe the new group Community Angels can have a drive to raise funds so that the poorer children of our community can afford to come! I'll pledge $10!

I'm going to buy 6 Launch tickets on Monday for myself so I can bring my friends along who are never organised enough to by there own tickets. It's really not that much money!
GT - Fri 13 Jan 2006 18:49:33 Replies: add

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are now only 50 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - welcome to my black friday - Fri 13 Jan 2006 21:04:37 Replies: 1, add

Re Brett H - check out www.masterbeat.com its Brett's CD side. You can sample all of his current CD's and what he is playing in the USA.

I have briefed him and will, with local DJ's help, continue to brief him about Australian music and what has/hasn't happened here in the past with international DJ's. That said one of the reasons that we are hiring him is for something new and different from what we already have, i'm walking a thin line when it comes to telling a DJ what to play and not to play. He gets the drift and has been very responsive to all my comments so far.

As I keep saying if anyone wants to contact me directly for info or has suggestions etc shoot me an email. It may take me a little while to get back to you but I promise I will.
Brad W - brad@aztechevents.com.au - Sat 14 Jan 2006 00:28:57 Replies: add

NMG has totally lost the plot!"

If you re-read the piece in the SSO, you'll realise that the PLWHA reference is about Launch 2005, NOT 2006.
- Sat 14 Jan 2006 13:10:32 Replies: add

But youre not even realizing what we do have in Australia Brad! This years line up is probaly the most conservative in 10 years. How can you talk about new and different when youve failed on that level with the local spinners.

This is just mine and a huge bunch of the community's opininon that dont go to Arq or Home.
- Sun 15 Jan 2006 10:01:19 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

Sounds like it would be just exploiting the infants and children as trophyism rather than making any statement about diversity.

Irrespective of the $10 entry issue, I just don't see why parents would find it is necessary or appropriate to bring screaming infants and rampaging children to the launch of a festival celebrating adult sexuality (much the same as having children at that heterosexual celebration of sexuality, the wedding reception), when there'll be plenty of screaming queens and rampaging twinks to fill the quota.

<sarcasm>
Perhaps NMG should be selling 'family' tickets to the party and make the 'women's space' a child minding centre this year?
</sarcasm>
- Sun 15 Jan 2006 15:16:44 Replies: add

You seem to be quite a troubled soul thinking that a $10 gate charge will repel all but musclemen, drag queens and freaks.
- Sun 15 Jan 2006 16:27:21 Replies: add

Take bubby to Fairday. Launch is an adult-oriented event held at night which, by it's very nature, is not ideal for little ones. I'm not sure what a "more-accurate and less-sensational" gay community would look like but it sounds a bit worrying.........
- Mon 16 Jan 2006 07:24:38 Replies: add

First is that Launch is more public than Parade. Launch, even though it is held in a public place, does not really attract much media attention. It does not appear on the evening news. It does not have people linig the stree from all over Sydney and the world.

Second is that children are not a part of our community. 5 or so years ago GLBTQ families with children were an unacknowledged part of our community. Now they are an acknowledged part, and definitely part of our community.

Third is that children are not welcome at launch. The site is not 18 years or older, so people under 18 are permitted. NMG has not said that the entertainment will be unsuitable for children, but they have implied that there will be drinking, dancing and music. It is therefore up to parents whether they want to bring their children to launch.

The only thing that is strange about launch is the $10 for each person. I agree that it is not a family friendly policy. I do not know the reasons behind this.

Personally I am very happy to have a launch since we almost didn't have one. I will be there. I will be happy to pay $10 for the event. I will be happy to donate money if people need assistance to attend the event.
Arti - Mon 16 Jan 2006 08:35:09 Replies: 1, add

- media launch
- entering the short story competition
- deciding which eventto go to and filling in the calendar for February

Is this a record?
Arti - Mon 16 Jan 2006 08:37:40 Replies: add

Come into Kylie's world and enjoy her music - with DJ Sean Manley and Courtney Act performing a set of Kylie favourites live. Curators will be on hand to guide you through Kylie: an exhibition.

Your VIP package includes access to the exhibition, canapes and first hour's drinks (courtesy of 42below).

Proudly supporting the Kylie Minogue Breast Cancer Fund.

All for just $29.50 for NMG members and $44.50 for non-members.

This is a first for New Mardi Gras - producing medium-scale events that are fun, social and not too expensive (particularly for members!). It is also financially supporting women's health issues, which sometimes get overlooked in our community events.

You can book for this and a range of other Festival events online at http://www.showbiz.com.au/find.aspx?url=SearchResultsAnd.aspx?Category=Mardi%20Gras or via 1300 556 605
CeeJay - Mon 16 Jan 2006 11:11:58 Replies: 1, add

Post me an email!

Cheers,
Lance.
riverlance@gmail.com
Lance - riverlance@gmail.com - Tue 17 Jan 2006 21:45:45 Replies: add

- Tue 17 Jan 2006 23:18:22

re comments about the DJ selection - true I was not part of the selection process, please also keep in mind that not all DJ's submit and believe it or not, not all DJ's want to play at Mardi Gras. Its the ones from Home, ARQ, Shift, Stonewall that do, there has been a lot of damage done to DJ's who play at other places such as Bad Dog, Phoenix, Kooky etc... NMG is aware of this damage and are working on it.

I hope that's what you were getting at re DJ's?
Brad W - Wed 18 Jan 2006 01:48:40 Replies: add

It won't hurt that Brett is probably the hottese DJ that i have ever seen either.
- Wed 18 Jan 2006 15:37:45 Replies: add

I desperately want to see Closer to Heaven. I thought maybe it would be 3rd time lucky. I was in London the week it closed. It played in Brisbane last year but I couldn't get there. Now I miss out in Sydney.
Panther - Wed 18 Jan 2006 21:14:13 Replies: 1, add

Meanwhile, for a PSB fix - if anyone is heading down to Melb for Midsumma - I would *love* to see "Seriously" - the songs of Tennant & Lowe performed with a string quartet and some fabulous vocalists, including Maria Mercedes and Tania Doko.

http://www.midsumma.org.au/index.cfm?eventid=149
CeeJay - Thu 19 Jan 2006 09:33:48 Replies: add

All the DJs mentioned above as underground at some time played at Midnight Shift and Arq. Some of them even ran their own nights.

Acknowledged the Bad Dog djs are good, but they are no longer front runnners.

Mark Murphy is really the stand out underground DJ in Sydney, so it is a shame he is not DJing.

Would also be nice if the new kid on the block space used half brand new djs, and half djs who are just 'relatively new kids' on the block
john dygweed - Thu 19 Jan 2006 10:17:37 Replies: 1, add

Giggly_Freak - vote 1 for gay marriage - Thu 19 Jan 2006 14:53:35

http://www.mardigras.org.au/media/paradekit06.pdf
http://www.mardigras.org.au/media/paradeform06.pdf

NMG has also just announced its parade grants scheme - applications close at the end of the month.
CeeJay - Thu 19 Jan 2006 14:58:45 Replies: add

I look forward to these fresh Aussie queer shorts. When I got to the web page however where the craft awards are given, I am just aghast at how the festival has belittled what could be a film's most important craft -- the screenplay.

With all due respect to IF magazine, I think that just by relative cash value, the Screenplay award is at the bottom of the list, even overshadowed by editing, sound and cinematography.

Why is that MGFF organisers? How insulting can you be? Don't you know that what makes a good film first and foremost is a good story? It can be superb in all the other crafts but if the story is bad, the audience will still say it is a bad film.

As a screenwriter, this was just a slap to my face and those of my screenwriting colleagues. I hope you reassess this before awards nights, or else face giggles and ridicule from the filmmaking community, queer or otherwise.

Queer Screenwriter
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 02:34:51 Replies: 1, add

Well yes, but it wouldn't be happening cinematically without production, direction, actors, editing, sound and cinematography.

Maybe MGFF will rotate the awards next year? If not, you could always write a screenplay about how your life was changed forever by inferior ranking on the Awards page, get it produced and submit it to the festival
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 16:36:50 Replies: add

I guess MG must read Pinkboard!
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 17:56:16 Replies: add

Exclusive Platinum raised dance floor in the Royal Hall of Industries (first in best dressed*)
Exclusive Gaydar Platinum Cocktail Bar in the Dome and veranda
Access to the Members and Guest Bar
Gorgeous little treats to keep you refreshed throughout the night
Platinum entrance to the Party
Priority coat check
Platinum lanyard with full details of DJ and show time
* The raised dance floor will hold a limited number of people so at very busy times it may not be possible for all Platinum ticket holders to get in

So is all this worth the $170??

or will I be the only one dancing on the raised dance floor?
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 19:45:00 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

Unless you attend the party on your own, or all of your mates buy platinum tickets, you're gonna be a very lonely snob dancing on the raised floor wearing your lanyard sipping your cocktail and enjoying your little refreshments.

And then here's another angle:

You have nought to check-in, you find you just can never get on the darned dance floor until around 5am, and never seem to be quick enough to get a gorgeous little treat before they run out, and it's just not worth hauling arse over to the dome for that free drink.

A $71 (or 71%) premium on current ticket prices. Good if you're Kate Fisher or Gav & Wazza.
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 22:17:31 Replies: 1, 2, add

Someone is surely taking the piss.......please tell me that someone is taking the piss..........
- Fri 20 Jan 2006 23:14:48 Replies: add

I know times are tough but not that tough!!!

Oxford Film Critic
- Sat 21 Jan 2006 12:34:31 Replies: 1, add

...and is it worth paying an extra 70 dollars for one?
confused - Sat 21 Jan 2006 20:50:15 Replies: add

It's a cord you wear around your neck from which might hang your platinum pass and your Gorgeous Little Treats entitlement badge.
- Sat 21 Jan 2006 22:03:42 Replies: 1, 2, add

Regardless of all this chat about Platinum tickets it appears that the party is selling extremely well so enjoy your flight in economy class with all those gorgeous hot men.
Kate Fisher - Almost a Packer - Sat 21 Jan 2006 23:27:30 Replies: add

http://www.texpromotion.it/images/Lanyard%20Toshiba%2020mm%20sgancio.jpg

Doesn't that tantalise your testicles?
- Sun 22 Jan 2006 00:42:08 Replies: add

Arti - Sun 22 Jan 2006 12:56:52

I've just GOT to get into the platinum party now. I wanna see Warney, Kate Fischer, John Hopoate (the bum fingerering footy player) and all the C list celebs.

Mind you I'm not sure how I'll go paying $45 extra to party in a rather small walled off First Class section of the RHI, unable to move around unless I go through "Economy"...
- Sun 22 Jan 2006 15:51:24 Replies: add

it's really uplifting !
Rhiannon - Sun 22 Jan 2006 21:22:44 Replies: add

Indeed, Arti. The reason why everyone from airlines to AMEX to gay porn sites offers "premium" membership is because human beings leap at the chance to be a cut above the rest. It's brilliant marketing.

Is there no thrill better than snuggling into one's First or Business class seat while the embarking coach hordes stream past you to rear of the plane ignominy?

But....I didn't think that there were Premium and Coach Class Poofs or First Class and Cattle Class Dykes before now.....I understand why NMG are doing it but if we can't afford to party together any more, why are we bothering?
- Sun 22 Jan 2006 23:18:05 Replies: 1, add

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 40 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - Mon 23 Jan 2006 03:05:13 Replies: add

Arti - Mon 23 Jan 2006 08:12:37

For me, it is not important to be in a separate class when dancing at a party. But, I am quite happy that those who are too busy schmoozing, boozing and c-celeb cruising are separated from me

It just means more room to dance with those who know how to party!!!
volgus profanum - Mon 23 Jan 2006 08:30:43 Replies: add

It's not my point at all Arti. As I said, I understand why NMG is doing this. The more important question for me is the notion of a community party experience that will be categorised and privileged in terms of your ability to pay for a premium experience. I've absolutely no difficulty with NMG looking at innovative ways of increasing revenue. I just think that this is a major philosophical departure from the basis on which Mardi Gras has always operated. I should also say that I have absolutely no problem with members being privileged over non-members. That has always been a feature of this and other community-based organisations. Until recently, it wasn't possible to attend unless you were a member or knew someone who was and I thought that was entirely reasonable.

American circuit parties offer a premium/platinum experience but they don't generally claim the emblematic community representational status that Mardi Gras does. It's not "just another party" suppposedly.

So, maybe it now is?
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 11:38:52 Replies: add

"Are the knockers of this promotional scheme all hoping for freebies, in which case all the paying customers of any price are subsidising them."

No, I am talking about equality. We all should be able to have a spot to chill and dance. Effectively Mardi Gras are creating a financial segregation on the dancefloor, one of the most democratic levellers our community we used to have. We raise money from sponsors and intellegent programming of events, not becoming economic separatists within ourselves.
My neighbour, a drug dealer is getting a "First Class" Dancefloor ticket, where as, a good friend who works with Ankali as a vollunteer cant afford the premiuim lanyard.

But of course, if its about "raising money", thats all ok, is it?
Economic segregation within our party - a truly frightening prospect.
One observer - i think this one will come up at the parade somehow!! - Mon 23 Jan 2006 11:45:40 Replies: 1, 2, add

what about all those of us who don't like dance music (or even talking about the party on the "festival" wall)? we are "segregated" from the rest of the community going by your argument because we don't enjoy that kind of music nor recreation.

The party is a fundraiser - MG are only just getting smarter and making it a good revenue raiser.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 12:30:17 Replies: add

See you on the dance floor.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 12:48:37 Replies: add

For the sake of a small portion of the crowd, and making an extra few bucks, NMG is willing to a) put 15,000 other people off side in order to cater to this 'market' of wankers and b) NMG is willing to change the dynamics of the entire party by allowing this sort of segregation to occur in the first place. NMG should look at creative ways of making the party viable in a COHESIVE manner. MG parties have NEVER been about this sort of crowd seperation. Lets not start now, because it will sound the end of the community soul of the party, beleive me. This is a very bad (and uninspired) move.

Anyhow, we'd ALL love a quiet place to sit down during the night. There are many, many poeple who for one reason or another NEED a quiet place to sit down during the night. MG is the only party they go to, and they save their pennies diligently to be there. Thats what community parties are about (or should be about anyhow - silly me) , so lets provide this for everyone. Thats good customer service.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 13:00:31 Replies: 1, add

maybe something nice like a new MacBook Pro? hehehe...
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 13:05:05 Replies: add

Oh please. The purpose of NMG is to celebrate, empower and validate GLBT community.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 13:57:35 Replies: 1, add

and as long as they put on a good party otherwise people wil complain about lack of some dance space/music/DJ line up/pre recorded music/performers/ventilation etc.

and alot of people seem to have lost their community spirit the way the numbers for recent parties have gone.

Let's not be precious about what the party is really about - $$$$ for MG.

and there's nothing wrong with that.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 14:30:50 Replies: add

Plus you then get discounts for most festival events, and other benefits throughout the year).
CeeJay - Mon 23 Jan 2006 14:50:27 Replies: 1, 2, 3, 4, add

I volunteered for the first time last year on the parade (even tho I already had free entry playing at the party) and it was really a lot of fun! I had a group of about 10 friends with me in my team, and we had a ball, and my friends saved a bit of money going to the party

I'm doing it again this year for sure. If you want me to pass your details on to the Volunteer Coordinator directly, send me an email at murray@murrayhood.com.
Murray Hood - www.murrayhood.com - Mon 23 Jan 2006 16:29:51 Replies: 1, add

And where will the raised floor be located? Will it be a fenced (and shade clothed) area across the front of the stage in the RHI?

Will the Premium people get broken necks trying to look up and over the stage from right at the front?

I'm amazed people are paying for something completely unknown.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 18:30:59 Replies: add

Re Platinum.. interesting comments, we did look at the US market and looked at many models and things we can offer at the party, its a great way for NMG to raise some more funds, provides something new (which so many of you are asking for) and allows people who may not really like being squashed in the middle of the RHI dance floor the opportunity to be comfortable in the Platinum section.
Brad W - brad@aztechevents.com.au - Mon 23 Jan 2006 20:35:53 Replies: 1, add

the NMG site says that not all platinum holders will fit on the dance floor at peak times (prolly 1-5am) so how do they really avoid the dance floor crush?

I agree it's new, unusual, different, just wouldn't want to be a guinea pig the first time round while the thing is being tested.

And why cant NMG reveal the location of the platinum space so punters know what they're getting?
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 21:14:52 Replies: add

Out of interest, Brad, when you considered the premium model, did anyone question whether it might be perceived as antithetical to the spirit of the party?
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 21:21:12 Replies: 1, add

do you guys just not realise? if MG doesn't do something drastic this season or the next there WILL BE NO MG.

the spirit will be dead.

they HAD to do things like this.

I stand up and applaude the board for making the tough decisions despite the fact they knew the naysayers and the knockers out there would be having a field day.
- Mon 23 Jan 2006 23:19:26 Replies: add

"the spirit will be dead" - Mon 23 Jan 2006 23:19:26. For many, after this, it already is.

""....they knew the naysayers and the knockers out there would be having a field day." - Mon 23 Jan 2006 23:19:26

No, this isnt a field day. It is a very real economic divisive action that needs to be questioned. I want MG to be a party for all.

Interesting tit appears that Mardi Gras did nott look at models that may have drawn other people to the party. For example, an entertainment line up that would stimulate more ticket sales perhaps?
Just a gay, but not an rich gay. - Tue 24 Jan 2006 08:56:12 Replies: 1, add

Good point. Sorry but the line up this year is the major reason at least 20+ friends of mine have found something else to do after the parade.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 09:56:04 Replies: add

I too applaud the board for it's efforts to date but it's not unreasonable or "knocking" to question whether the intoduction of tiered ticketing represents a seismic shift in the culture of Mardi Gras. Of course NMG has to be financially viable - it's a no-brainer - but to restrict a premium party experience to those able to pay, cuts across the whole notion of a unified tribal celebration. A separate raised dance floor where premium payers get to dance apart from - and observed by - the queer masses is tacky beyond belief, quite apart from anything else.

If this is the only way that Party is viable then why are we bothering to do it?
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 10:04:55 Replies: 1, 2, add

Forgive me if I'm wrong, but the excitment that surrounds the party is dying and now faster than ever because of this greed attitude.

This is a party put on by us for us - end of story.

NMG what are you doing?? trying to kill it?
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 11:35:02 Replies: 1, add

Huh? Where did you get that from murray? Concession tickets are &79.00 each this year. Prices are as plain as day on the NMG website. But I'm still happy to pay because I think the trance DJ lineup (for the Hordern I believe) featuring MG virgins Ric Dreske and Scott Anderson is far from "conservative" and will go off!
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 12:52:36 Replies: 1, add

In any case, it's a good incentive for people to volunteer!
Murray Hood - www.murrayhood.com - Tue 24 Jan 2006 13:18:40 Replies: add

I'm sorry guys, love you heaps but as a member for well over 20 years I think I'm already a Platinum member for hanging around and supporting. And so should any other dear old stalwarts of the organisation (in it's various forms).

Membership should have it's rewards, not purely based on individual bank accounts. Most of the people who actually give the most time to our community do not earn a lot - that's why they have the time in the first place. That's what community is about.

Given everything else, this is only a small 'missing the boat' but could antangonise many long term supporters.

Just my opinion.
Noisy Gypsy - Tue 24 Jan 2006 13:20:17 Replies: add

NMG is trying to become a corporate giant and has lost its community spirit. Where's the balance in their greed? It's disgraceful that they are not providing a concession for launch. What's next? Entry fee for dogs at Fair Day? Well...they do have a pet food supplier as a sponsor.

Think the NMG Chair is becoming Gordon Gekko!
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 13:20:22 Replies: add

Seriously tho, the party will be profitable no matter what. NMG should have focused more on increasing Membership numbers and benefits, rather than marketing Platinum privileges. They also need to eek more money out of Launch, Fair Day and Parade instead of having the Party subsidising the freeloading.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 14:28:32 Replies: add

New Mardi Gras is now an events management company only, nothing more and nothing less. Yes, they receive grants from Local & State Government but that’s where the community aspect stops.

New Mardi Gras will and should only listen to their members (the members are the Boards leash holders) and the results from the members forums are platinum tickets, $10 per person at Launch, etc

Are we all members of New Mardi Gras? Until we are they are not a Community Org and this not a community event.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 14:28:50 Replies: add

"I want MG to be a party for all."

(but what about those of us who aren't into hardcore dance music? where are the jazz/pop/classical/heavy metal halls?)

and

"cuts across the whole notion of a unified tribal celebration"

(but how is it unified if it only caters to those of us in this community who are into dance music?)

And then have asked questions like:

"If this is the only way that Party is viable then why are we bothering to do it?"

Answer: because the party is a fundraiser - nothing more - nothing less. if it was only about "tribal celebration" and "unity" then you wouldn't care that some people are in a different section/hall/venue because we are all supposedly unified.

"This is a party put on by us for us - end of story."

Nup. The party is put on by MG as a fundraiser for the rest of the MG festival. THAT is what is "put on by us and for us" - the FESTIVAL.

For too long people have only seen the party as the genuine MG event. Just look at countdown boy's incessant countdown the party and not the festival - the party is the last event of the festival so it's like he's counting down to the end of something good! Imagine counting down to how many days until xmas is over? or when your holidays end ("only 35 more days and my holidays will be over! can't wait!!!!")

Last year there was a clash between sleaze and another commercial party on the same weekend - alot of people chose only to go to the commercial event. so arguments that this is about community are nullified.

The party is a fundraiser - if you don't like it then don't go - i'm sure there'll be plenty of parties on that night that you can go to.

And if MG hadn't done something like this and went broke again (hence no MG party at all) - then people would STILL be complaining! they really can't win. no wonder people don't want to be on the board anymore. with so many whiners in our community it takes a brave or very foolish person to put themselves up there.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 14:47:50 Replies: add

Wednesday 8th February 2006 8pm
Chloe Dallimore (The Producers, Chicago)
Margi de Ferranti (Mamma Mia, Fame)
Enda Markey

Wednesday 15th February 2006 8pm
Tal Rabinowitz
Kitty Minge & Jody Ekert
Andrew Bukenya

Monday 20th February 2006 8pm
Ian Stenlake (Cabaret, Oklahoma)
Scott Irwin (Kiss Me Kate, Les Mis)
James Miller

Monday 27th February 2006 8pm
Belinda Lemon (Bette Midler)
Natalie Gamsu

(If you've never heard Natalie - an amazing performer from Africa via New York (and Lithuania), do so! "Move over Mahalia Jackson, step aside Sarah Vaughn, Natalie Gamsu is serious competition.'" The Sunday Times)

http://www.showbiz.com.au/find.aspx?url=SearchResultsAnd.aspx?Category=Mardi%20Gras or 1300 556 605
CeeJay - Tue 24 Jan 2006 18:00:59 Replies: add

Arti - Tue 24 Jan 2006 19:51:47

The truth is that if Mardi Gras actually delivered a great Party, people would go to it in droves and there would be no need for the current ticket structure as an attempt to boost the MG Bank account.

I have to say I find it funny that MG looked to the US Market for ideas -

The same US market where the production of most circuit parties is abysmal and attendance levels are dropping to pretty drastic numbers.

The same US Market where alot of annual events that have been running for years as staples of the circuit calendar are continally ceasing to exist.

Yeah thats the direction you want to follow!

Good one Mardi Gras, you used to put on the best gay dance parties in the world with everyone as one on the dancefloor but this is just more evidence that you guys just have no idea.
Nick - Tue 24 Jan 2006 20:38:35 Replies: add

*LOL* Couldn't agree more with your comments! I personally don't understand what all of the fuss is about. The platinum tickets are a bit like the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation seating at the Parade - you pay to sit down and you get a better view of the Parade. Instead of the money from the Platinum tickets going to the BGF, it goes to NMG! Sorry, but I couldn't care less if a few people want to pay extra $ to be in a roped-off area with slightly more space to dance. I'll be quite happily dancing with the other 95% of people at the party who, most likely, will be having a great night despite not being in the Platinum area! :p
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 20:43:04 Replies: 1, add

Wrong. Years before there was a festival there was a parade and party. Those events have been and are the heart of the whole operation. Apart from launch and Fairday, Festival is a series of "umbrella'ed" events largely unconnected to NMG itself and self-supporting in financial terms.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 21:32:50 Replies: add

That's the BGF seating, not the NMG seating. And there is a difference, Virginia.
- Tue 24 Jan 2006 21:39:30 Replies: add

Adamx - Tue 24 Jan 2006 23:13:21

Entertainment - we have only announced DJ's at the moment the full entertainment line up is coming as soon as I get some more contracts back in from the UK. We have live performances from local talent and international talent. Hold your horses as these things take a little bit of time. Should be in next weeks press.

Seating - we have added seating in the RHI on the Driver Avenue side.

Platinum - we will be producing a full site plan for all to see that will be published on the MG website and in the press just before the party. If I can get things approved before hand I will get it up on the MG site.

re consultation about Platinum - we market tested it as the concept came up after the community consultation and had great feedback from the community. The community keeps asking us for new things, this is just one thing that we looked at. The concept comes from the USA, that doesn't mean that we are taking any other concepts from the USA, our parties far outshine anything I have ever seen in the USA and we intend on keeping it that way.

Hope that helps.
Brad W - brad@aztechevents.com.au - Wed 25 Jan 2006 00:02:43 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

It wasn't that long ago that some of your comments came accross as reactionary, thin skinned, and short fused. But look at you now!

Diplomatic, responsive, patient, effective, and succinct. You've become a genuinely effective community leader, and along with the current Board of NMG, have made a fantastic contribution to the success of the parties you've been involved in - BRAVO!

On top of that, you're still at the top of the heap as one of the Country's best lighting designers and operators. Thank you for being willing to work hard, ignore the constant barbs and criticism, and focus your enormous talent on helping to make a big difference to what is, without doubt, one of our most important community events on the calendar.

Rest assured that there are plenty of we quite majority out here who acknowledge and appreciate your tireless efforts to make a difference, and to help keep our important community fund-raising parties alive and kicking.

And we know you're not the only one putting in the hard yards - but your efforts and responsiveness are greatly appreciated by many of us who think that MG and Sleaze are two of the "must do" events of each year.

Just wanted you to know that : )

: )
Jeffgg - Thank you Mr W! : ) - Wed 25 Jan 2006 06:44:46 Replies: 1, add

FANTASIC NEWS !! Bleachers in the RHI !

Excellent. I'm excited now.
i need a good seat - Wed 25 Jan 2006 06:52:20 Replies: add

But your local theatre wasnt built by people getting arrested for gay rights. The 78ers deserve platnuim tickets, as do life members. VIP isnt just about who's cashed up the most. This isnt about being able to" ignore the constant barbs and criticism". It's about not fogetting where we came from, and actually listening to the community.
i didnt get punched by cops for this - Wed 25 Jan 2006 07:55:22 Replies: 1, add

And it's just a cordaned off area - really nothing to be envious about. i know plenty of 78ers who aren't even interested in going tothe party because it's just a whole lot of loud noise to them.
let them have their cake - i'll enjoy the festival - Wed 25 Jan 2006 09:36:13 Replies: add

Ouch, so this is what it has come to. I think you need to really think about what youre saying here. The 78ers deserve a say about the New "supersize your ticket, anyone?" McMardiGras.
Agreed Mardi Gras need more funds, but a narrow entertainment line up, already alienating a large chunk of the community, then asking for more money for exclusive dancefloor space, is a little sad, in my opinion.
I wasnt even born in 1978, but acknowledge the sacrifices that were made for me. We still have a long way to go in gaining equality with the straight world, and it seems we dont even have a handle of what it is even within ourselves.
I am so fortunate that luckily we had people with more courage standing up for me back then. Please pay respect where it is actually due.
too young to remember, but old enough to respect - happy mardi gras to those who really care - Wed 25 Jan 2006 10:50:37 Replies: add

thanks for that little bit of condesending advice.
I am sick of reading about people whose lives are great, who have lots of money and travel first class, who buy platinum tickets at US parties etc etc. and then feel they have to describe the experience to the rest of us plebs (as if we dont know what its all about) and finish it all off by saying: well its not that great, or youre not missing anything. This is exactly the problem a tiered ticketing system at a community party creates.
Why buy the tickets in the first place? Because you want to support the organisation/event? all you financial people should just support MG with extra monetary donations, not when you are prompted in the form of a tiered ticketing system (ie, when you get something out of it - great attitude).
Lets go back to the days when you should be a paid up member to be able to buy tickets - if its the extra revenue the MG wants. Otherwise, even if there is a perception of a sort of 'class' distinction between some party goers as compared to others, you have real trouble (and i mean pholisophically) imagine MG 20 years ago charging two ticket prices for the party, then roping off a section of the dance floor. There would be no MG today. but i guess we are now happy to feed off the back of the hard work that has been put in over the years and jeopardise the future of MG by this sort of lazy and uninspired revenue raising tactic - which is disrepectful to all those who support the MG principle of equality and inclusion for all.
- Wed 25 Jan 2006 12:17:12 Replies: add

Yeah, yeah. It would be good if everyone could attend every community forum but the fact is - overwhelmingly - they don't. That doesn't prevent people from having an opinion, nor should it.
- Wed 25 Jan 2006 14:50:50 Replies: add

Panther - Wed 25 Jan 2006 19:34:25

Today the Sydney Opera House confirmed that they will not allow New Mardi Gras to sell tickets on the night of Launch Feb 3rd, 2006 as it is against their policy – safety issues etc, etc.

We therefore need to SPEAD THE WORD that

Tickets for LAUNCH MUST be purchased prior to the event.

Tickets are $10 for everyone (members and non members) and can be bought from:
The New Mardi Gras Office at Petersham
Gold’s Gym
Sax Fetish
Froot Store Newtown

Please help spread the word and I hope to see you on the night.
via email - Wed 25 Jan 2006 19:42:40 Replies: add

hrrmmm ...

Jimmy Somerville?
Daffyd from Little Brittain?
The Queen, on her way to open the Commonwealth Games?

- Wed 25 Jan 2006 21:41:31 Replies: add

Most of us are not really complaining about aspects of the party as much as asking (albeit in a narky way) for more information).

It just takes the release of small bits of info to quell curiosity or anger.
- Thu 26 Jan 2006 12:40:27 Replies: add

Oh, and let's not forget cynicism. Last year I post a lengthy ode to the miracles of Mardi Gras and shamelessly bare my bleeding heart and soul for how it completely and utterly negates any party we have in the States, and what happens? I get somebody claiming I'm not even American, but rather I'm just well meaning Sydneysider. Oh, and better yet the moderator has to prove where my IP was located. (Mardi Gras 2005 graffiti wall 1, 25-Jan-2005 - trite)

And after the dust settles on Sunday morning, most of us realize the party was better than the year before and all this rhetoric is all for nought.

So here, here! On this 1 year and 2 day anniversary of the original post, let me proclaim once again what gave some people chills down their spines!

"So I had no clue...just no clue that the gay community took so much interest into how/who, etc., gets chosen to dj/perform at Mardi Gras. No clue. It's a real eye opener.
I have found that you Australians take great pride in your partying and music. Very commendable. Even more commendable is the amount of interest in the gay community this generates. Regardless of the views, the opinions expressed here just don't happen at home here in the USA.

This will be my third Mardi Gras. Kinda says a lot about what you all can do down there to get the boys from America to visit.

Regardless of any bad publicity, bankruptcies, or "scandals" regarding who is dj'ing or performing, one thing is for certain: you always throw one heck of a party. It's phenomenal, the magnitude and sheer size of an event so large. The planning, the interest, the support - a huge success just to get it to work.

From an outside viewpoint not embroiled or even knowledgeable of a lot of the debate this board brings - your Mardi Gras is a huge success in our eyes. Ask a gay Yank where his circuit party is, and most will say Mardi Gras in Sydney. We have nothing that compares to it in terms of size and length. Not Fireball, NYC/San Fran Pride, Southern Decadence, nor either White Party (Palm Springs or Miami), and definitely not little ole Chrome Party.

The only thing that comes remotely close to Mardi Gras is Gay Days in Orlando. Sure, we'll have over 2 million homos descend upon Orlando for the Gay Days week for various parties and trips to Disneyworld. Sure, there are tons of different dance parties all week long. But we sure don't have anything the size of the Mardi Gras party - the dance parties max out at about 7,000.

It's also great to see the interest in the music being played. That doesn't happen here. Tragically, more interest seems to be put into which letter of the alphabet will get you the highest, fastest. House, err rather the clanging of pots and pans, has taken hold in the USA, with the only real trance found at the Roxy in NYC on a random Saturday night. And everybody complains about there being so much house, but nobody speaks out about it like you all do. Until then, we're doomed!

I implore you all to realize what you've got. This party, this time of year: You have something special. You have the party that is the envy of gay boys and girls across the world. Living with this year after year, I can see how one could become immune to it and not appreciate its full worth - but it's because of all you that makes this possible for the rest of us. We see you as a gay mecca, a bastian of GLBT identity and voices.

This time of year for you all is so much bigger than just you. So much bigger than Sydney, Fox Studios, and all of Australia. This is the time of year when WE look to you all to see how a real unified GLBT voice sounds and looks like, how a real community comes together to celebrate diversity, and how a real party is thrown.

And at the end, for one night, if only for just one night, your party absolutely, truly, without a doubt lets a person be themselves. No presumptions, no explanations, no excuses needed. Leave it at the door. And for that one night, it's worth the entire flight over."
trite - Fri 27 Jan 2006 16:42:16 Replies: 1, 2, 3, add

Loved your post last year. So much so i still have it saved!

Didn't see you last year, make sure you say hi this year! Remember me? We went to a restaurant in newtown when you were living here way back.
Adamx - Fri 27 Jan 2006 23:24:58 Replies: 1, add

These are the people we need at our Parties!
OZ Party Boi! - Sat 28 Jan 2006 07:57:19 Replies: add

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 35 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - 5 weeks ... oh my God ..... I need to get organised - Sat 28 Jan 2006 09:18:34 Replies: add

Once again the tickets are not available west of King St Newtown - where gay bois fall off the edge of the Earth.
- Sat 28 Jan 2006 22:04:11 Replies: 1, 2, add

Do you have any friends who live closer to the outlets who you could ask to get the tickets for you?
Arti - Sun 29 Jan 2006 09:41:23 Replies: 1, add

I live out Liverpool way and work at Minto.

I cant see how I can get launch tickets at all. You're another one who thinks Petersham is western or northern or Southern Sydney.
- Sun 29 Jan 2006 12:15:14 Replies: 1, add

Adamx - Sun 29 Jan 2006 13:39:09

more details soon
the misfits - party on y'all - Sun 29 Jan 2006 18:16:05 Replies: 1, 2, add

I too, can't get launch tickets unless I trek into the gay ghetto and it's just not worth my time.

I hope it goes well for those who can get tickets.
- Sun 29 Jan 2006 18:20:53 Replies: 1, 2, add

The $10 fee doesn't worry me too much, and the problem of having to make a special trip to somewhere I wouldn't normally go to buy a ticket is a pain, but I'll get over it (it might require an extra-long lunch break though - somewhere in the cbd would have been nice as well), but can someone tell me what particular relevance Andy Clockwise & Sarah McLeod have to our community?

When I first heard it I thought 'cool - I didn't know they were one of us', but Sarah appears to be straight, and I can't find anything to suggest Andy isn't either online or in the lyrics of his album (other than a 'guest appearance' by Sandy Toggs). His website doesn't even mention he's doing the gig, and it was updated a couple of weeks ago, so either doing it isn't a huge deal for him or maybe he doesn't want his fans to know?

I think it's great that it's not just the usual suspects performing, but I'd also like to know why these guys are getting one of the biggest gigs in our community. Do they have a particularly gay or lesbian following? Sveta's a no-brainer of course, and Sista She are part of the festival. I was assuming there would be more acts announced.

What does it say about our community if we have to get a couple of straight musos (or at least musos who don't want to be publicly gay) to start what's supposed to be one of the world's leading glbtq celebrations? I hate to say it, but five girls (including Clover) and a seemingly straight boy don't seem particularly representative. A bit of balance would be nice.

I don't mean to stir and really hope it's a success, but I need a reason to get excited!

Is it just me? Maybe it is, as no-one else seems to have mentioned it. On the other hand, none of my friends seem to be interested in going.

Any idea if anyone else is performing? Or who is the guest speaker, if there is one?

Should I just save my money and go to another festival event?
Please give me a reason to buy a ticket! - Sun 29 Jan 2006 21:18:46 Replies: 1, add

There are heaps of us around this industry can we at least and for once do something positive and help.

Call mardi gras directly if you have ideas.
- Mon 30 Jan 2006 03:53:33 Replies: add

Answer - Affordable housing.
not a renter - Mon 30 Jan 2006 09:35:45 Replies: add

better yet ring/email MG and they'll see theres a demand for events out west!
- Mon 30 Jan 2006 15:33:08 Replies: add

year after year i can't really remember any stand out performers (a couple of great guest speakers but no performers apart from the sisters of perpetual endulgence doing their guided tour of the opera house) - but the thing that stands out every time is the community feel.

who cares who's performing - i'll probably be talking over them anyway! Launch is always a great night and this year it'll return to that great feeling of living in such a scenic city and being with your friends in such lovely surroundings. the smell of the salt water in the air!....
- Mon 30 Jan 2006 15:37:43 Replies: 1, add

Suspect that many of the 78's are unable to attend the Launch due to no concession or those who have survived the virus from the 80's. What a shame considering they fought for the space we so proudly claim today! We need to start looking after our own backyard.

The Launch is a great night but won't go to an event that does not support all of the GLTBQ community but only those with deep pockets.

Happy Mardi Gras! At least we don't have to pay to say that. Opps..maybe I'm planting a seed for NMG.
- Mon 30 Jan 2006 16:37:41 Replies: 1, 2, add

How offensive. Let me tell you, the 78'er didn't turn up 28 years ago so they could save the cost of two beers when one night when they were three decades older.

It's TEN dollars. If it was two dollars, would you still be asking for a concession?
- Mon 30 Jan 2006 22:57:33 Replies: add

where and how much? whos spinning?
I'm excited! - Tue 31 Jan 2006 11:36:57 Replies: 1, add

Can't we get Deborah Cox :-D
partyboi - Tue 31 Jan 2006 11:51:24 Replies: 1, add

featuring:
Coda (live)
djs.....
sveta
mark murphy
miss yeti & lanny k

steven allkins
ben drayton

annabelle gaspar
steve sonuis
gemma

plus more Bands more Shows more Suprizes
stay tuned... details released this week.
donation to New Mardi Gras too!
a totally gay mIsfit X X X - Tue 31 Jan 2006 14:28:13 Replies: 1, add

My friend works for MG and said that there was no possibility of using any other ticketing agency for launch than opera houses inside agency. Apparently opera house wanted to charge something like $7 per transaction, the same as Ticketek for tickets which would have made the tickets $17 each or there abouts. Opera house is one of the biggest terrorism threats in Australia, going back there for MG launch was never going to be easy but im glad they did.

Enough bitching about this and that and be thankful that there are a group of people busting there balls at Mardi Gras everyday including weekends, many of who are not paid, to put on these events for us.

We should be very thankful that people like this exist. I for one am.
- Tue 31 Jan 2006 23:37:21 Replies: 1, 2, add

Why travel 2 hours to buy a $10 ticket. Sure you can buy one on your way to the Launch (if the supplier is open) but what is they sell out? Not good enough NMG!

As usual not enough thought into the "what if's?.
- Wed 1 Feb 2006 07:46:39 Replies: 1, add

Two local artists I would like to see do shows are Paul Mac and Sassin. Paul Mac's new album Panic Room has some fabulous tracks on it. And Sassin is doing so well with his new name and track Xtraordinary.
Arti - Wed 1 Feb 2006 08:02:19 Replies: 1, add

NMG is inclusive as long as you know the organisers or live in the area the organisers frequent. Also with more and more things being segregated this year, it's no wonder people are excited about the alternative parties/events that are being arranged.

I know a lot of people work hard on NMG but they've just midjudged a lot of things this time.
- Wed 1 Feb 2006 08:03:59 Replies: 1, add
This is the opinion of the poster.

http://www.ssonet.com.au/display.asp?ArticleID=4992
- Wed 1 Feb 2006 11:10:25 Replies: add

Based on a dream I had last night, I can see it all now.

The music stops. The sound of a clock ticking can be heard.

Then a female voice can be heard half singing half speaking saying "Tick tick tock It's a quarter to two".

The curtains on the main stage are opened and there before everyone are 100 Madonna drag queens.

Could one of them be the real lady herself?

That's when I was woken up by the boyf farting.
- Wed 1 Feb 2006 11:19:16 Replies: add

Darling, you may have been awoken by fart, but your sense of humour is like a breath of fresh air after all these deadly serious missives
J - Wed 1 Feb 2006 14:31:59 Replies: add

My guess is that a few weeks ago somehow they discovered that they would not be able to sell tickets on the night. It was very likely a decision the Opera House made just recently. I am sure Mardi Gras expected to be able to sell tickets on the night and put their plans in place on that assumption. They would have made the Opera House aware of that intention.

I received a number of emails from various people involved with Mardi Gras telling me to get my tickets beforehand. This knowledge was quickly spread to the people who are on the various email lists.

We have organised to get tickets for friends who do not live near the outlets and to meet them on the night.

With so many details to organise in such a short time it is not surprising that not everything works flawlessly. The launch almost didn't happen. It is only because of the sponsorship that it is possible.
Arti - ... We have normality. Anything you still can't cope with is your own problem. - Wed 1 Feb 2006 21:47:52 Replies: 1, add

That clearly reinforces the concerns of many posters here that the folk at NMG really only see out to the edge of Gaysville.

Even the was RAS moved out to Homebush to be a bit more central, yet NMG still lives in the 80's thinking Oxford and Norton and King Streets are where we all live.

It is well known that there's been a Sea Change in recent years and you can find poofs way out at Penrith, Campbelltown, Engadine, and Gosford. But ya carn't even get a copy of SX and SSO out there.
Thoroughly Modern Mal. - Wed 1 Feb 2006 22:49:46 Replies: 1, add

from Mardi Gras via email - Thu 2 Feb 2006 08:07:04

I think all of the people on here who created such a fuss about this should publically apologise - unless, of course, you just being opportunistic and wanted something to whinge about? We'll see what your real intentions were soon, depending on whether you say sorry or not.

NMG, you're doing a great job considering what problems you've been facing and I'm sure the Launch will go off.

Now what is this I hear about the Pool Party being on again this year?
- Thu 2 Feb 2006 08:15:00 Replies: 1, add

Why do you think NMG changed it to "under 5's free?" There was no mention of under 5's free before it became a discussion topic on Pinkboard. Coincidence? You decide
- Thu 2 Feb 2006 09:50:12 Replies: 1, add

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 30 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - ticket bought , other "stuff" organised.. now what to wear ? - Thu 2 Feb 2006 10:26:05 Replies: add

It's great that we provide feedback to them (but it could possibly be less bitchy and more contructive), but never forget to thank the people who work so hard to get it right for us.

There's no excuse to be bitchy towards them - they will never deliberately want to exclude anyone, just sometimes there are tough decisions to make and inevitably someone will not agree with those decisions.

Good work NMG! (especially Marcus)
- Thu 2 Feb 2006 10:58:33 Replies: add

What ever happened to the anticipation and the shock of seeing someone you never would have expected on stage? (I'm looking at you, Jimmy Barnes) and of course who could forget Kylie's legendary performances?

I'm a big supporter of the parade and I've got some wonderful memories of the party. I'd love to see NMG shake things up and give us an experience that is worth the price of admission.
Linkstar - Lights go down, curtains go up.... - Thu 2 Feb 2006 12:17:52 Replies: add

Go The Misfits

This is the line up I could only dream about!

And money goes to Mardi Gras! Cool.

I saw the ad in the Star & SX. And hello sailor!! All my fave djs under one roof. The live bands so exciting too... Coda at the Sydney festival were f'ken amazing, aaaannd some of the sexiest underground performers - I also heard today that some of the Girlesque and Manjam crew are in too.. A party for the community or what! Woo Hoo!
thanks, thanks, thanks for giving me what I want - happy happy joy joy happy slappy joy! - Thu 2 Feb 2006 12:44:05 Replies: 1, add

Oz show Biz Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Presents

HATS OFF!
to the Legends
A Sydney Gay & lesbian Mardi Gras Festival Event

A one-off concert featuring the cream of Sydney's stage and cabaret stars all paying tribute to legendary shows, composers and performers, plus special appearances by some of Aussie showbiz's true legends.

FEATURING:
Lisa Adam, Trevor Ashley, Lisa Callingham, Barry Crocker, Tim Draxl, Lucy Durack, Michael Falzon, Lesley Hancock, Nancye Hayes, Avigail Herman, Scott Irwin, Shauna Jensen, Toni Lamond, Donna Lee, Jeannie Little, Claire deLune, David Mallick, Enda Markey, Mitzi Macintosh, Darren Mapes, Aunty Mavis, Deb Mitchelmore, Caroline O'Connor, Paulini, Cherine Peck, Shaun Rennie, Tony Sheldon, Maria Venuti, Susan-Ann Walker, Jack Webster, Liston Williams
and many more…

Hosted by Peter Eyers and Garry Scale

Don't miss this night of outstanding voices performing with an eight piece band all on the one stage.

PRODUCED BY Laurence Stark and Trevor Ashley
MUSICAL DIRECTORS Michael Tyack and Bev Kennedy
DIRECTED BY Trevor Ashley

Hats Off is a fundraising night for the AIDS Council of NSW and is generously supported by Star City Casino.
Monday 6 February 2006
8pm Star City Showroom.
Tickets $55 from Ticketek 13 2849 or www.ticketek.com.au
CeeJay - Thu 2 Feb 2006 14:07:58 Replies: 1, add

It is a direct fundraiser for MG so well worth suppoorting!
- Thu 2 Feb 2006 20:17:59 Replies: 1, add

CeeJay - Thu 2 Feb 2006 21:09:04

Not only is it a fun night, it supports both NMG and the NSW Cancer Council. Please come and say hello to the exhausted looking vollies who will have started at 6:30 sat morning getting everything ready

Just $25 for NMG members on the door (and if you're not a member,you can join on the night and get your 1st member discount straight away!) $40 for non-members. Door sales are cash only! And it'll be over at 9pm in time for whatever else you plan to do on Saturday night...

Special thanks to 42below vodka & Fiji Water. Catering and bar by European Catering (with the help of yet more NMG vollies...)
CeeJay - Thu 2 Feb 2006 21:26:52 Replies: 1, add

Seeya there
CeeJay - Thu 2 Feb 2006 22:51:35 Replies: add

Arti - Sarcasm intended - Fri 3 Feb 2006 08:10:09

I'll shout you a ticket ! Seriously. Post back here by lunchtime today and let me know how to get in contact wth you, I'll meet you at the Box Office in Opera Quays.

You can't really review the event unless you go ?
kpm - Fri 3 Feb 2006 08:24:30 Replies: add

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 29 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - less than a month to go , exciting isn't it ? - Fri 3 Feb 2006 10:06:18 Replies: add

Interesting article. any comments? it's currently the 6th most read article on smh.com.au
CeeJay - Fri 3 Feb 2006 10:21:29 Replies: 1, 2, add

Whilst you have appointed yourself as the community arbiter or all that is fair and reasonable, I for one reject your self-appointed status. It is really easy to sit on the sidelines, make very few contributions to the community, and then attack the NMG Board for charging a $10 entry fee to Launch. These sorts of events cost money to host, and with such a large loss last year, is there any wonder why a nominal fee has to be charged for entry? Would you rather see no launch? Or would you rather see no Mardi Gras? It seems to me that it is in the community's hands: we either support NMG or we lose Mardi Gras. It is really that simple. I've made my choice, and will happily pay $10 to support NMG.
Concerned community member - Fri 3 Feb 2006 10:45:09 Replies: add

May I suggest that if 'gary burns' feels so aggrieved by the $10 admittance fee, then perhaps he should join NMG and make changes from within? Being involved in the process seems to have done wonders for others outlook.
- Fri 3 Feb 2006 15:49:38 Replies: 1, add

I also disagree that the festival is about "black-and-white photographs of naked men, wannabe cabaret stars or bad theatre about rent boys".

We have already booked or planned for a number of events including:
- Kylie, Cocktails and Canapes won't have any photo's of naked men
- Jimmy Sommerville is not a wannabe
- Kiki and Herb are internationally famous cabaret stars
- Queer Screen is much more diverse than this
- Buggars Opera is probably both wannabe cabaret stars and about rent boys - but it has some friends of mine in it and sounds like a lot of fun
- The Short Story Comp and Perverse Verse are neither photos or theatre
- Ice Skating is unlikely to have anyone naked, but I hope there will be plenty of black, white and otherwise men there

I haven't worked out which exhibitions to go to yet, but you can be sure they will be much more diverse than photos of naked men.
Arti - Fri 3 Feb 2006 17:08:57 Replies: add

Anyway , how do we get the word out to lovers of a good cruise at parties that a certain area is the place to be ? I'm not sure how we do it. Now I dont wanna hear people say "do it on the dancefloor" because some people (like me) arent as flamboyant as others and have no interest in "doing it" in front of 100's of gorking eyes on a well lit dancefloor , that was always the beauty of the darkened toilets under the RHI or Hordern. The people that WANTED to be there were there for a reason and the people that didnt want to be involved with sex were NOT there and everyone was happy with that arrangement. Then the prudes at Fox Studios killed it all.

So , Im all for a bit of a grope and a bit more if we can find somewhere to meet up. Isnt there a dark corner in the Dome normally ? What about that back wall of the RHI (Behind where the stage normally is, isnt that a darkish area) ?? I dont know ... Any suggestions ??
rambling back room boy - Fri 3 Feb 2006 22:49:36 Replies: 1, add

Instead of the endless tilting at windmills, MG should be about a cause we can actually achieve for a change.

Good on ya Maxi, we love you!
- Fri 3 Feb 2006 23:55:11 Replies: add

Going

To

Happen.

Please dont!
You'll only cause a nightmare for Mardi Gras. The liquor licencing laws prohibit anything naughty going on. And Fox security aren't going to let any wanky panky go down.

Im not putting a downer on the party. Just save your juice for a sexy recovery (in a sauna, backroom or bedroom) Or go to the sauna on your way to the party. Nothing like going out after getting a load off, try it!

The irony of no sex at a party that celebrates sexuality will be written about one day in text books. Is it time to move from Rupert Murdochs land? Just a thought...... but thats another story...........
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 01:49:37 Replies: 1, add

If the SOH was responsible for setting the bar conditions, after previous experiences of trying to run an event with on bar NMG should have gone somewhere else and not forged on with some ideological decision to stage at the SOH. The 'entertainment' amateur, the speeches uninspiring and more of the same. At least we didn't hear the one about the Nigerian crying when he/she saw how easy it we have it in gay Australian again.

Not a very auspicious start for a season that is claimed to be one of the 3 icons of Sydney that tourist can name about Sydney, The Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and what did that really good gay festival used to be called. ? If this was an attempt to raise the bar higher I'm certain a slug could have cleared it.

And don't take this as some rant from a MG nay sayer. I've been a member and active participant for 19 years and believe that I have a right speak out. Let's hope the some of the community events and the parade can wash the stain from this awful, awful night.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 06:06:17 Replies: add

I didn't think that paying $10 i could feel ripped off but i do.

NMG (if sold out) got $50,000 for the launch from tix sales and if they paid half of that in costs then i think they were ripped off.

No one i have spoken to that attended thought that launch was any good, many saying it was the worst ever.

If this is what is supposed to be fantastic when we are paying to attend i can only haope and pray that the party will not be to the same standard or NMG will have a revolt on their hands for the entire community.
Disgruntled Gay Boy - Sat 4 Feb 2006 06:10:08 Replies: 1, add

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 28 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - The Party is gonna be fantastic , cause nothing could be as bad as the launch - Sat 4 Feb 2006 07:37:59 Replies: add

Mardi Gras if a vollie based organisation and I for one was one of those volunteers that gave up there time, MONEY, and effort to be there and support Mardi Gras.

It appears to me if people put more time into helping the community and less time bitching about MG the community would benifit more.

What the hell is $10, 2 drinks (not even), a magazine, come on guys!!

About 10 volunteers made it happen and for f..k sake give them a break.

So please guys its our community and lets support each other.
Clone 13 - Sat 4 Feb 2006 07:58:00 Replies: 1, 2, add

I overheard a convesration at Launch (oops) about the entertainment for the party. Apparently they are getting some drag queen from Ibiza, who sings in Spanish, to perform. Can anyone confirm?

When will NMG understand it? We would much prefer to see our exceptional local talent! Australian performers are cutting edge, world class and most importantly, understand how to entertain us. PLEASE no more overseas "talent" that no one has ever heard of or cares about!!!
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 09:01:57 Replies: 1, add

First let me say that the production team for each event is separate. Party and Fair Day live on their own merits. After Sleaze 2005 I think the Party will be great.

For Launch there were a number of poor decisions and unfortunate circumstances:
- Queues at the bar should not have happened. The apology is accepted, but next time a board member must take responsibility to ensure that there is adequate bar staff and supplies. There must be contingency plans that can increase the number of staff as soon as the queues reach more than 5 minutes wait. This is more important than the venue. If you can't do the bar properly then return it to a BYO event.
- I thought Sista She were great, but I was expecting a duo and it took a while for me to work out which were the duo. Once they got started they were great and clever.
- The movie was poor, it was too long and it should have been shown in snippets. It should not have been restarted. It should have been stopped when it was discovered that there were sound problems and not allowed to keep playing.
- Didn't hear Clover because I was in the bar queue. By the time I returned it was obvious that the crowd had lost interest in the proceedings.
- Marcus' and Helen Westwood AO both made good speeches, but they were totally ignored. Neither of them managed to recapture the audience.
- Both the acts went on for too long. They should have done 2 or maybe 3 songs each. Such a radical departure from the "traditional" sound should not be so overwhelming. Were they actually lesbian and gay? There was no indication.
- There needed to be a decent drag show.
- The weather also has to take some of the blame, but this is out of MG's hands.
Arti - Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:10:11 Replies: add

I'll start off by saying - that I have been an EXTREMELY involved member, volunteer and NMG supporter over the years - giving up extensive hours of valuable time and skills. And that being so - I appreciate the time taken by volunteers to make this event happen.

Truth is - it should never have happened in the first place. It's another example of NMG constantly trying for "bigger and better" without really considering the consequences - or doing the correct financial planning.

Remember: "bigger and better" is why old MG collapsed.

If 2 weeks wasn't enough time to get things together, don't do it. If the SOH had control of the bars/ticketing and wouldn't listen to NMG - don't do it. If you can't get valuable names and worthwhile speakers - don't do it.

NMG had the option of a combined Launch / Fair day - but no - it's tripped up on it's own need to be flashy.

Truthfully - I though Sister She were really talented girls - but were let down terribly by what was going on around them.

$10 to me is not a lot - but to a single mother with children over 5 - it IS a lot. Also, when you add a charge to a previously free event, people EXPECT more, what they got was less (and that's putting it politely).

My final words are to the NMG board: PLEASE look after OUR organisation - make decisions in it's best interest, not ones that are just based on ideals. Do the correct planning and due diligence. Keep it something that our community can be proud of.
Foundation Member - Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:13:27 Replies: add

See the back cover of this weeks SSO - "Baby's coming to party"
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:15:58 Replies: 1, add

But I'm really happy that it returned to the Opera House and don't feel that $10 was too much for the night.

If sydney had turned on spectacular summer weather I think that there would've been a larger crowd and that in turn would've made for a better fun community atmosphere regardless of the crap (and more importantly too long) entertainment.

WE are what make MG fun - not the singers nor the speakers, but US as a community getting together and socialising.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:30:07 Replies: add

Do you mean sell 1000 tickets? Or close a community organization? Your post is erroneous.
There is no condoned sex space at Fox studio anymore! Youre dreaming!

To quote Bananarama

"Na na na na,
na na na na
hey hey goodbye"

Commiserations to Mardi Gras for the launch. We really need to up the talent an all Mardi Gras "events" . Poor dj Sveta, a dj just wasn't really suitable entertainment for such an event - I really felt sorry for her watching it fall apart like that!!
Go Sarah Mc Leod though, what a hottie.

Anyway bithcy comments on Pinkboard aint going to change history. Lets leavi it behind us and get to creating a great festival .File under "we can do better". Now lets celebrate!
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:35:27 Replies: 1, add

Nobody is interested in whether the Launch almost didnt happen.

What you are saying is that it's perfectly acceptable in 2006 for an international city (Sydney) to launch its annual Gay Pride festival at one of the most iconic locations in the world (Opera House), and have it look like it was run by a group of Primary School kids?

What is even more infuriating is your amateurish attitude to the many, many fair and intelligent complaints/reports on the Launch!
"There is a heel of a lot of bitching going on here..........."

Clearly yourself and the 9 other vollies deserve a huge thank-you (and I believe that was given by the people complaining), but you seem to think a 'Red Faces" style of launch is acceptable rather than embarrassing. How can you call it a "success"?

(sorry for the rant, I was not in attendance but think that punters have the right to post their experiences and observations without being told they are being bitches).
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 10:52:03 Replies: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, add

If the launch almost didnt happen twice, then based on what was presented last night it should have been cancelled.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 11:31:30 Replies: add

Bottom line, there was a lot of it going on at Fantasy NYE in multiple venues at FOX. It may not have been a condoned sex space but it did happen and security turned a blind eye.

back in your cage girl!
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 11:33:21 Replies: add

The Q's at the bar were aobviously the opera houses fault as the were running the bar. So dont blame NMG.

Who did the entertainment?! even girlfriends of mine said it should have been called "lesbian launch" it was terrible. The guys kept asking the girs who the acts were.

The VIP tent well its good to see Mardi Gras looking after its members. Why not call it The friends of the board tent? most people i spoke to in there had nothing to do with NMG they just knew someone to get a wristband from. why wasnt it a members area? im sure the volunteers on the night were told not to alter there T-shirts so what made the board members so special they made trendy sleeveless versions and told the volly's they couldn't change theres.

i appreciate all the hard work that goes into it and all the volunteers time. but somethings shouldnt have happened last night.

better luck next year.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 11:43:05 Replies: add

"(sorry for the rant, I was not in attendance but think that punters have the right to post their experiences and observations without being told they are being bitches)."

No you're not being a bitch, and I'm sure you got feedback from Friends

BUT - How can you comment on an event you didn't see !
kpm - Sat 4 Feb 2006 12:40:59 Replies: 1, 2, add

Sarah McLeod isn't performing as part of the festival.

I have to agree - last year's launch - great lineup, not-so-great venue. This year - great venue, not so sure about the lineup.

Anyway, looking forward to Kylie, Cocktails and Canapes tonight (with Courtney Act, Aunty Mavis and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence for those who missed their drag fix last night)
CeeJay - Sat 4 Feb 2006 13:16:20 Replies: add

Bar, SOH should be shot for only putting on one bar, this is not NMG's fault, Im assuming that SOH were informed of the clientele and capacity. This is bad planning on SOH's part.

Entertainment. What was all that about? Sorry not appealing to my mates and I.

Speeches. If people don't know how to use microphones somebody should go up to the stage and re-adjust the mic.

Sound Levels. Were up and down all night.

People mention production standards being better after Sleaze, it did not show last night, if there is a separate team for party and parade then there is hope, why these people do not work on Launch as well I do not know.

Come on NMG, we support you by staying members and paying for these events, if you don't support us back with decent events then it will be all over.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 14:32:58 Replies: add

If we are a group of 'Primary School kids' why then dont you come and give us your vast knowledge of event management??

Everybody is missing the point as its a night to listen to the speakers, and for all of the community to stand together and fight for our rights, its not all about the BAR's the DJ'S and the entertainment, thats what the Party is for, remember!!
clone13 - Sat 4 Feb 2006 14:42:02 Replies: 1, add

The launch was a disaster. That I think is the overwhelming consensus. There were a number of factors that made everything go so horribly wrong:

-The Video/sound stuff ups. This is supposed to be a world class festival that attracts thousands of people worldwide and snags the attention of international media. These glitches were embarrassing to watch and got everyone off side after the long wait for the bloody thing to start.

-The entertainment. Who are Sista She and why were they there? Then Sarah Mcleod came on, and I understand that she is a community supporter and all, but why let her do a mini concert that only seemed to appeal to the lesbians? I don't think I'm alone in feeling there was not a lot of love for the gay boys last night - I looked around and seen boys with bored faces exchanging puzzled looks. Where we were, up the back, people started leaving after Sarah's 4th song.

-The bar. What went so wrong? I thought NMG had listened to complaints about bar facilities at previous launches. My friend and I had arrived early so we got some drinks before the rush, and that looong queue of people stayed long most of the night. The organisers should have foreseen that this would be a problem and maybe set up TWO bars or kiosks around the place to cope with the demand. It was a friday night and people wanted to have a drink! The no BYO rule should have been abandoned.

-Charging 10 bucks to get in. I personally have no problem with donating for the event so NMG can put up funds to make the parade and party something truly remarkable. $10 is not an unreasonable amount (We pay more to get into ARQ) But if someone is paying for entry into this event it should be worth it. My friend and I left during one of Sista She's unfunny raps, so I have no idea if the night improved. From the look of the posts I have read so far, it didn't get any better.

-The speeches were not inspiring or particularly interesting. Clover made a valiant effort to inject some interest in the event and the festival in general, and she spoke well, but she was fighting a losing battle.

-I've mentioned this before, and I don't mean to offend or anything, but the event was too lesbian-centric. I'm sorry, but it was. There was little if anything of interest to gay men except the odd flash of nudity on the big screen. The people in the restaurant behind us were looking on in puzzlement.

I have been going to the launch for more than five years now and this was the first time I left before the thing finished. I genuinely felt cheated and offended that this was all NMG could come up with.

Let's try and make the best of the festival and of course the parade and Party, and hope NMG still has it in them to knock our socks off. Judging from the tragedy that was the launch, let's all hope they can.
Linkstar - The Opera House was beautiful though, - Sat 4 Feb 2006 15:31:47 Replies: 1, add

come on guys - it's a volunteer organisation - cut them some slack.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 16:04:23 Replies: 1, add

Then Sista She back again. By now the sound was turned way up and there was no avoiding the incessant chatter, and bits and bobs of half a song here, a bit of song there. I realise the girls were put on the spot by badly organised stage direction, and had to fill, but really? Putting Sveta back on between bits would have been lots nicer. We listened to Clover. Then more filling in time, and still the NMG speeches didn't come. We had to leave.

The weather was not too terrible, just misting every now and then. I like the Opera House steps, and the view etc. We only had water with us, so didn't brave the long bar queue.

I like the speeches at Launch. It's nice to hear community leaders say inspiring things, because if you don't hang out with them socially or in committees you don't really get a feel for them as people instead of names in SX or SSO. But we had to leave.

I'm sad that it didn't go to plan.
Evil Twin - Sat 4 Feb 2006 16:30:32 Replies: add

I read all the reports here on pinkboard.

My post was 90% about how can anybody put a cheap schoolies event on at the Opera House? And especially how can they tell people who hated it "Bitches"?

Its like Cityrail labelling their passengers a bunch of whingers...
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 17:40:03 Replies: add

In my experience, most G&L events have always been 80% geared towards the boys, and it has always been this way for as long as I can rememeber....which is a long time!
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 17:47:14 Replies: 1, 2, add

To be honest, i come from central Europe and to think that we could have an event like launch at such an iconic venue such as the Opera house, would be unbelivable.

I really am shocked at the lack of community support. Mardi Gras is trying its level best to put on a great festival and no disrespect to the australian volunteers, lots of them are from overseas.
What does this tell you, the locals dont give a rats about it, all they are really interested in is alcohol, and parties and drugs(not all but lots)

What are lots of the complaints about? The Bar, if people asked one of the volunteers last night they may have been informed that its a Opera House venue, and the Bar is operated by the Opera house, so direct your complaints at the Opera house, I think!

NMG had 6 vollies behind the bar trying to speed up the Opera house staff, what more could we the VOLUNTEERS do?
Clone 13 - Sat 4 Feb 2006 17:47:26 Replies: add

Stop this nonsense. Sex at Fox, cant and wont happen. Sex space at Fanttasy, was it next to the packed dance space
Revisionism bllows, lets be honest now x - Sat 4 Feb 2006 18:18:26 Replies: add

I agree with Gussie’s sentiment exactly. The board must resign immediately. What was passed off as a launch last night was abysmal. NMG as a community based event management organisation is a farce. If that’s the best you can do then you leave me with no confidence in any of your other 'hallmark' events that you serve up year in, year out with the same difficult ties year in year out.. Regardless of which teams produce which event, the board must take responisbility for the shocking sound problems, the miscued audio, and the bar situation.

Even after almost 24 hours I can't stop thinking about the following.

1) An events company launching its wares and services and they cant even get the basic technicals right. Wether you want to be newy agey and say "oooh bad omen for the rest of the festival" or call it as it is and say "how unprofessional", they are both appropriate comments on the sad indication of what NMG has to offer.

2) The fact that a multinational company (Gaydar) saves your sorry arse with a cash injection and then Mr Gaydar's video message is played with out audio is just purely unforgivable. I agree with one other poster, if I were Mr Gaydar, Id been cancelling next years cheque and the year after that. If you cant look after the punters who give you $10 then at least look after the punter who gives you lots more then $10. Yes I know it was an audio glitch, but at least stop the visuals whilst you are rectifying the audio problem.

3) However, what really got my goat is Marcus (and he gets it twice, so I guess that’s 5 bucks a pop then).

How dare he get up there and make a joke about the bar queue and the fact he would like a drink but couldn’t get one. Come on Marcus lots of us saw the VIP area with its own bar and wait staff (not to mention the usual dignitaries, invited guests, and the close personal friends of the NMG board). Don’t tell me you didn’t have a little pink wrist band or laminate to get you in, after all you are the Chair of NMG. So don’t patronise me by saying you couldn’t get a drink. We all know board members (and their personal friends, and entourages) have access to VIP bars. Don’t get me wrong. I have been on boards of community organisations as well, so I know the amount of hard work and time that you do. I don’t begrudge you that perk, or reward even. But don’t try and bullshit me mate. I waited 35 minutes for my beer, how long did you wait for yours. Don’t patronise 3000 people.

4) Lastly, Marcus grow up. You are the co-chair of an organisation. Don’t, after patronising me by telling me about how thirsty you are, then blame it on the SOH caterers, Someone at NMG chose and engaged the caterers and would (I hope) had several meetings leading up to the event with them about their plans, This is YOUR event, YOUR situation, YOUR problem, you and your board are ultimately responsible. So take ownership and take it on the chin. Like I said I’ve been on boards before, even led them. The honourable, responsible and mature stance you should have taken last night was We are sorry about the bar; we didn’t do a good job. Don’t stand there like a school boy and say “I didn’t do it, it was him!”

Anything good about last night - you bet!

Sista She, my god if that’s what they can do in that "wight cafuflle" I’d love to see them in their own show. They were fantastic.

"What r you girls doin’?" You girls are doing some great hip hop, some kickin ryhmes, and that commentary over the audio-less video, was the funniest thing all night, apart from Marcus' apology.
B-Boy - Peace Out - Sat 4 Feb 2006 18:51:32 Replies: add

NMG had a crowd of 3000 people, a diverse crowd of all sections of the community, and judging from the bored looks on the faces of a lot of people they failed to connect with a hell of a lot of people. The Opera House Forecourt was hemorrhaging people and by the time we left, I looked back and the crowd had almost HALVED.

I found the event lacking in quality, which is what the main thrust of my argument was. However, I don't seem to be the only one who thought it was nonrepresentational.
Linkstar - I didn't pay for a Sarah Mcleod mini concert! - Sat 4 Feb 2006 18:57:52 Replies: add

When night falls, it's supposed to chase away the grim reality, but in this case it simply revealed
the most staggeringly amateur and inept "production" in Mardi Gras history. The weather is not attributable to NMG, the rest of it is.

I should acknowledge that the bar was also, not NMG's responsibility. The SOH operated it - with a few surly, straight people who assumed the personas of meal queue assistants at Long Bay Jail, though the wait was considerably longer and far less pleasant.

Unlike other people, I don't expect the NMG Board to resign immediately. They've got a festival, parade and party to put on. But by the end of this Season, my patience will be at an end. If this is the best we can do, then please - for God's sake - let it die. Something will emerge to take it's place. Please don't let nearly 3 decades of Mardi Gras fizzle out in dreary, "going through the motions," prolonged death rattle stuff.

Alternatively, we could have the best Season we've had for years. And there's a month left till judgment day.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 19:08:10 Replies: 1, 2, add

No finger pointing, no cries of "but there were only 6 of us there".. that's the point. Severely under-resourcing an event, and embarrassing the major sponsor.

Mardi Gras is no longer a community funded thing, it is funded by corporate dollars and as such NMG is answerable to Gaydar.com more than anybody else.

The NMG team are all to blame, especially the person in charge.

You stuffed up. You're fired.
- Sat 4 Feb 2006 19:59:19 Replies: add

Staff the bar at an appropriate level
Have enough toilets
Put the stage dead centre facing the stairs
Set a varied program of entertainment (feature more performers from the festival events)
Make sure the evening is entertaining and relevant
Get the bar and toilets right
Have some roving entertainers to engage the crowd
Give the evening a sense of event (Seriously you are setting the tone for the entire festival)
Get the bar and toilets right

Let's face it it ain't rocket science.

Yours sincerely

Peter

PS: The 8 of us who attended this event have decided not to attend the ball.
Peter - Sat 4 Feb 2006 22:02:43 Replies: 1, 2, add

Any performer on this kind of night should only be allowed 1 song - 2 if they have majority appeal. the night should've been short and snappy. MC, song, Speech, song, another speech song, then party on the forecourt.

PS. Also found the rappers abit off with their explicit content considering it was a family event (under 5's were even allowed in free!) - if i was a parent i wouldn't want my child going to school on monday and asking people if they had a "dick for a brain".
still sticking by NMG - but just make it abit more - Sat 4 Feb 2006 22:24:48 Replies: add

People like your good self give our community a bad name ie Drama queens.

You have lots of ideas, why dont you help and not complain so much
Do something proactive and not so reactive!!!!
clone13 - Sat 4 Feb 2006 22:37:30 Replies: add

I have been on here for part of today, and I have listened to all the comments and I must admit I am very disappointed with the reaction from the general public. I worked as a volunteer yesterday here is how I fell today with regard to this terrible attitude the Sydney GLBTQ community has:

1- There is a lot of individuals who dedicate a substantial amount of time in preparation for the festival season, taking time off work, working late on Mardi Gras Projects, making telephone calls etc all at there own expense.

2- I am now more motivated than ever to try and make this Mardi Gras a success in what ever little way I can.

3- I received a few complaints from the attendees last night; they were all precious, out spoken typical Sydney gay boys.

4- It’s apparent that the majority of the complainers are people who have no idea what is actually going on at the MG headquarters and what a dedicated, and amazingly great group of individuals work there.

5- If people spent more time helping make OUR FESTIVAL, OUR CELEBRATION, OUR MARDI GRAS, a success and less time and effort on the side line complaining about the demise of the New Mardi Gras, we as a community would have a fantastic Mardi Gras and a fantastic friendly less pretentious Sydney.

6- I come from a city in Europe it’s a fantastic vibrant, friendly city but we have not got GLBTQ festival. All the bars are in back allies, homophobia is everywhere, and very few people are out to there families. In Sydney you live in a stunning part of the world, beautiful city, great social assets in Oxford Street and surrounding suburbs, but in general a very unfriendly negative community and this is never more evident than today.

Give Mardi Gras a break. If you have a problem and some of you people do, get off your ass, meet some of the organizers and become a volunteer. You have this great internationally recognised festival please don’t loose it, support it, and help it be the fantastic/political event it once was.

Thanks for listening but I am one very disappointed individual/volunteeer, with the Sydney GLBTQ community. I thought you were above all this crap.

Happy Mardi GRAS!!!!!!!!(obviously not really)

Clone 13
clone13 - Sat 4 Feb 2006 23:17:40 Replies: add

First, thank you to each and every volunteer. You´re all heroes. Second, I don´t think the $10 was unreasonable, and I hope that our community can find ways of supporting those who find it a stretch. And I don´t think that the payment altered anyone´s approach to what was expected at Launch. Events cost, and it´s only appropriate that people attending contribute. Third, the weather was grey and slightly wet, but that would not have stopped a soul from having a great time. Fourth, glitsches happen - the alcohol and the technical problems do nothing for the organisation and its prospects, but they are problems which we can identify and fix, and the NMG Board, if it wants to hold future events, is just going to have to make sure they get these things right.

Now the brickbat. All my friends were dismayed, and most left early. Noone I spoke to had any sense that they were being involved in, or connected with. Several have now decided to give the party and other festival events a miss. People understand that we need to hear from Clover Moore, that we need to acknowledge our sponsors, and that a range of entertainment has to be provided to cater to various tastes. What they did not seem to get was what huge lapse of judgement, or misguided committee process, or whatever, led to the debacle that was last night. Unlike any other NMG/MG event I´ve been to, I, like others I have spoken to, am upset and deeply concerned about NMG´s future after this. Never before have I been to an event where guests have felt that have been so disregarded, and which has aroused so much frustration.

Yes, let´s move on. But if that is code for saying ´let´s just pretend it didn´t happen´, please think again. If the NMG Board does not frankly admit widespread dismay at its choices, analyse why it happened, and fix it urgently, the entire organisation is doomed. On that analysis - in the hope of making some small contribution - I can´t help but feel that the program was the result of (a) a botched committee process, (b) personal preferences, and (c) misguided notion that the captive audience would just cop whatever was dished out to it. I struggled to find anything the program which was recognisably ´gay´, celebratory or involving. It was more like a collective wrist-slashing. The NMG Board might well have some thoughts on all this, and it´s clear they will be wanting to focus on what´s coming up over the next week. But the perception and the sour taste we were left with on Friday must be addressed if we are to move on to better things, rather than just move out.
JS - Sun 5 Feb 2006 01:06:49 Replies: add

hehe - is that the queer way to do it?
- Sun 5 Feb 2006 02:06:55 Replies: add

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 27 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - Sun 5 Feb 2006 08:11:39 Replies: add

Despite the doubts I expressed prior to the event, I did go to launch, but it ended up pretty much as I was afraid it would.

The annoying thing is, NMG learned a lot with the first 3 launches and in my opinion at least the content was getting better each year. Aside from the obvious problems with the venue, I thought the lineup last year was great, and the crowd seemed to think so too.

I think the most dangerous sign for NMG is that it didn't learn from this, or consult the people who were involved in the planning of these events. It's great to have fresh blood, new ideas and stir things up a bit, but it needs to be tempered with experience and, if not, some genuine research - and not throw the baby out with the bathwater.

I think it would have been good Fair Day entertainment.

Anyway, last night's event at the Powerhouse was a lot more fun, and I think everyone left happy.
- Sun 5 Feb 2006 14:00:54 Replies: add

When SGLMG was in its death throes, unable to save itself, the board refused to accept that their demise was of their own making - wildly overblown spectacles costing the punters and the organisation to not generally contribute to a healthy business, and that what SGLMG was in those days - a business.

When NMG was formed, the principles on which the parade is based were foremost in the minds of those who helped resurrect the organisation, or so they told us, and we gladly attended fundraising events in the months leading up to the first 'new' Mardi Gras. That year, NMG put on a great festival and parade with what little funds it had. The atmosphere was great. Mardi Gras was saved.

So what happened? Why now are things going horribly wrong? How did NMG manage to alienate a good proportion on its supporters by staging the travesty that was the launch?

There are answers, and I think we know that the answers that will come from NMG was that it wasn't their fault, or they took bad advice, etc.

But simply put, the real answer is they didn't listen. Its as simple as that.

There were complaints about the launch before this - mainly to do with providing adequate toilet and bar facilities, and the decision to bar under 18's from the event. They responded only to the licensing issue this year, making it an all ages event, but what good does this do when what followed was a total disaster?

From what I could see, all the problems that occurred on Friday were FIXABLE BEFORE the event, and therein lies the similarity with what happened to SGLMG; they simply couldn't read the writing on the wall until it was too late. Paying attention to the warning signs and listening to the complaints of your members and the wider community would be a start. A complete replacement of the board I think would be welcomed after this season, unless they can gain the support it so clearly needs by putting on a great festival, a spectacular parade and a memorable party.

I realise it is a tad hypocritical of those detractors of the launch to criticize when we do not know what it involves to put on an event of such magnitude, but we know a good event when we see one - perhaps in Sydney we are used to expecting more. Maybe we are being to precious, as one previous poster said. But I really don't think it is too much to expect a well run, entertaining event.

The only way forward is for the bitching to now stop, and for those who want change within the organisation to do something about it. I for one am putting my hand up to volunteer this year. The launch didn't scare me off doing so - I walked away with a determination that NMG can only survive when people believe passionately that it should exist, that it is worth the time and effort and it still stands for something.

If you think the board did a horrible job after the entire festival is over, demand change by running for the board yourself. Get involved and tell them that things need to change. Make them read the writing on the wall.

Don't just allow NMG to limp on like this. Indifference killed it once already.
Linkstar - actions - not words - Sun 5 Feb 2006 16:22:06 Replies: add

In any case, I don't believe it's accurate to say "The ‘festival events’ owe nothing to NMG and may have very little connection to the gay and lesbian communities." Most of the key promoters have worked very closely with NMG in general and the festival working group and co-ordinator in particular to get their events happening and (hopefully) successful. The working group has put a lot of time and effort into fostering some fo the smaller events, whether it be advice regarding venues, or just encouragng people to have a go and pointing them in the right direction for information and resources.

As such, I think it's much more community focused and enabling than SGLMG's festival ever was. A case in point: Queers On Ice. I hope the organiser won't mind me saying this, but he's a young guy and a keen ice skater who after a night's skating and a conversation with his bf, said 'wouldn't it be great if there was a gay ice skating night'. He contacted NMG to see if anyone else thought it was a good idea (it was!), and we said why don't you think about organising one and making it part of the festival - and full credit to him, he organised it despite a few setbacks along the way, with some friendly support and encouragement from NMG.

As a result, the festival has an event it's never had before, out of the 'ghetto', which is not only *very* inexpensive, it raises funds for BGF. And it's not an event put on 'for youth' but actually *organised* by a young person because it's the type of event he wanted.

On a more hands-on note, the festival working group was solely responsible for last night's Kylie, Cocktails and Canapes (and Kylie-oke!) which seemed to be a great success (and raised funds for the NSW Cancer Council at the same time). Major thanks to a team of very hard working volunteers, and especially to Courtney Act who arrived straight from the airport after doing a show in Melb, and then had to rush straight from the powerhouse to catch a flight to Brisbane to do another show there!
(and for no financial reward I might add, just the satisfaction of supporting the community), plus the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and Aunty Mavis, who led some very... umm... unique guided tours of the exhibition before Mavis led the crowd in a kylie-oke singalong (I'm sure the 42 below passionfruit cocktails had a little to do with the crowd's enthusiasm as well - but unfortunately I was too busy to get one of those).

I can assure you that the working group spent much more than just their lunch hours organising it!

Please everyone - support those who tirelessly support the community - Courtney Act's show "Boys Like Me" at the Civic Hotel, and Aunty Mavis's "Scones & Songs" at the Slide Festival Bar (which is another example of NMG fostering local performers with a bit of international talent to spice things up).

Anyway, I'm off to Human Resources at Darlinghurst Theatre tonight, and Hats Off tomorrow night. Then I'll be volunteering at the festival bar Tues-thurs, which I'm really looking forward to.

Speaking of which - there's a special offer for the first week of the festival - there will be a limited number of standing room tickets at all festival shows this week for just $10. see www.mardigras.org.au for details!

If you prefer table seating, please book via showbiz.com.au instead.

Have a great festival, and Happy Mardi Gras!
CeeJay - Sun 5 Feb 2006 16:37:05 Replies: 1, add

Speaking as someone who used to run a small community group I can tell you that it's a whole lot of hard (voluntary) work to make an event happen and no matter how hard you try, there is always someone in the background whinging that they didn't like something. No matter how successful something is you will always get someone complaining because they think it's their right to demand a perfect event every time (and they want it for free too).

why the hell should marcus or anyone else ever reconsider standing for board next year when we have a bunch of whingers like the people we do here?

There was a comment on the wall here earlier that there is a loss of historical intelligence from old MG and NMG - well DUH!

if you keep on gettign shot down everytime you try to do something why would you stick around for more mud to get slung your way?

If MG dies it won't be because of the people on any of the boards, nor the volunteers, nor the people who have supported MG by attending events. It'll be because of all the WHINGERS who whittled it down bit by bit.

Would anyone here seriously consider standing for the board next year with this lot ready to criticise at your slightest perceived failure?

I think not.

If you don't like the way things are done then just don't turn up to events - don't come to fair day or the parade or the party (trust me, the rest of us will be thankful) and let MG die it's own death - don't kill it because you are a little "princess" who expects the rest of the community to do all the work making this city a vibrant fun place to be, whilst you just sit around and do nothing but whinge.
Time for people to grow up - Sun 5 Feb 2006 16:51:40 Replies: add

Will the same mistakes be made at Fair Day or the Party? I don't think so, however New Mardi Gras must take action NOW! It is time for some serious damage control. Someone needs to take responsibility.

Unfortunately selling party tickets has just become much more difficult. Let's publicise the fact that a different group of talented people are responsible for putting on the party. Lets stop the publicity drip-feeding and release all the party and production details as soon as possible. Let’s give people something to look forward to.

Hopefully there will be 20,000 people at the party screaming YES, YES, YES they finally got it right!
Laser Boy - Sun 5 Feb 2006 19:02:18 Replies: 1, add

You are wrong on every single point you make in your post.

Point one: To begin with, if you took the trouble to read the posts the people you desrobe as "whingers" have made, you would see that nobody is begrudging the volunteers the respect and thanks they deserve for their very, very hard work.

Point two: what the "whingers" are justifiably furious about is that NMG has the nerve to create a lot of spin about how fabulous launch is going to be, then manages to put on an event that will go down in Mardi Gras history as the worst ever. I wonder whether you were actually even there?? And if you were, did you actually think it was GOOD????

Point three: please don't call me or anybody else who complains about a pathetic example of incompetent organisation a "princess". The fact is Launch was truly shocking, and people having paid to be there have absolutely every right to make their views known about it. I wish people like you would stop using the tired old "well if you don't like it, join the board and change it" mentality. That's like saying that everyoine who complains about the government should become a politician. Sheesh
Grown up and over NMG - Sun 5 Feb 2006 20:20:13 Replies: 1, add

"perceived failure??!!" You must be joking. Launch was an actual, real, people fleeing in disbelief, disaster. People who love and care about Mardi Gras and our community are genuinely angry that our currency was devalued in this way. I'm really, really over people who think that donning a vollie T shirt gives them some God-given right to serve up any old unmitigated dross with the expectation of receiving grateful, ringing applause.

The board have a month to redeem themselves. If they don't , the answer to "would anyone here seriously consider standing for the board next year" should be self evident.
- Sun 5 Feb 2006 21:05:39 Replies: 1, add

Look to the future! A gay gay gay future for this month.
bEATKID!!! - Sun 5 Feb 2006 22:00:52 Replies: 1, add

And I'll tell you what, I have been a volunteer before and I just don't understand clone 13 (and his precious princess vollies who all thought Launch was a world class event) effectively telling us that's as good as it gets and how dare we complain!

In my opinion Launch should have been cancelled. And the $50,000 or so raised should be handed to gaydar.com as a refund of part of their sponsorship.

Perhaps then people will realise you must face the consequences of your actions.

It's a truly Basil Fawlty attitude indeed to imply that you could run Mardi Gras perfectly if there were no "customers".
- Sun 5 Feb 2006 22:12:48 Replies: add

Since you are "over NMG" i take it we won't be seeing you at fair day, parade, party or any other thing they've organised - seeing as they are doing such a bad job......
- Sun 5 Feb 2006 22:24:32 Replies: add

Murray Hood - www.murrayhood.com - Sun 5 Feb 2006 22:48:15

I went to the Launch and although it was indeed all the things that you have all so merrily cited on the wall maybe we should remember that we are so lucky to be able to celebrate our diversity and queer culture in the open - no matter how bad the entertainment or sound production.

I feel sorry for the MG people who were in charge of this event as this will be a very hard situation to live down over the following few weeks.

Lets just get into the Festival and party like only we as Queer Sydneysiders know how and not focus on what has gone wrong..I used to work on events and always referred to it as going before the firing squad and you are all firing an awful lot of bullets right now!!
Miss Maree - Sun 5 Feb 2006 22:51:01 Replies: add

'New' Mardi Gras? I tried ringing. Left my name. Zip. Gave my name to a person who (apparently) was a board member. Any response? ZIP! In talking to other people in the profession this is a common response. Mardi Gras in either incarnation couldnt give a fuck about the talent in our community. The debacles that get served up are the direct result. If YOU were a volunteer last Friday then you should be the ones demanding an apology.
NOT a volunteer - Sun 5 Feb 2006 23:40:14 Replies: add

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 26 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - saving saving saving for that big big big weekend - Mon 6 Feb 2006 00:04:06 Replies: add

But would it be so awful if NMG became a smaller, simpler, cheaper, community-focussed event that celebrated our GLBT culture? This might entail a fair day, social and sporting events, debates, movies, shows and a daytime parade with floats by "Liverpool Lesbians and their High School Teachers". Gay festivals in London, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Melbourne etc are actually pretty ho-hum but they mean something to local people. Why not go for simplicity and sincerity?
Miss and Mr Simplicity - Mon 6 Feb 2006 00:33:11 Replies: add

I was my first time volunteering this year and I am damned if I am going to sand by and listen to this crap go on.

I worked my ass off to help the working group on Friday, they dealt with the difficult situation they had, such as Opera house’s strict guidelines, and endless terms and conditions, the best way they new how. If all you budding ‘event organisers’ have so much vast knowledge, why didn’t I see any of you there putting your hand up to assist?

The working group is a dedicated great group of volunteers. And for someone to publicly insult them is so disgusting. I know one of the girls personally and she is a fantastic hard working individual that gave it her all and she for one will be extremely upset by that remark. And for some ‘Petty individual’ (laser boy) to insult the group like that makes me sick to the stomach.

How they are to remain motivated and optimistic if they are not supported by the community in the good and not so good times, I don’t know.

It’s not by demoralizing them.
knight1 - Mon 6 Feb 2006 00:48:38 Replies: 1, add

Use a tiny little bit of common sense and call again maybe a third, or wait a second a fourth time…………

Maybe you partner need to speak for himself if he is so fantastic at event management, you think!!!!
Minni - Mon 6 Feb 2006 00:58:49 Replies: add

Lets all have a Happy Mardi Gras, and not dwell on the past.

Please??
Lisa - Mon 6 Feb 2006 01:08:42 Replies: add

The point isn't to demoralize them. If you think that, you've missed the point of the majority of the posts here. The criticisms that are being voiced have almost overwhelmingly been towards the board and its handling of one of its tentpole events. Poor organisation of an event such as this only helps to frustrate and confuse those volunteers on the ground trying to make things work, and that is more demoralizing than anything we can say on the boards, don't you think?

No one is interested in making a bad situation worse, but I think there needs to be some level of accountability for what went down on Friday. Someone from NMG should stand up and say 'We dropped the ball, we let down the attendees, we let down our sponsor and we especially let down our volunteers.'

If NMG had shareholders there would be blood on the floor come Monday - people would be shouting and screaming and demanding answers, and I think everyone in attendence on Friday and the members of NMG deserve them too.
Linkstar - Still looking forward to the festival - Mon 6 Feb 2006 01:56:46 Replies: add

But that's the point, say organisers. Pride March aims to show that for gay men and women, their sexuality is but one small part of their identity, along with their religion, occupation or ethnic group. Gay Aborigines marching under the Outblack flag received a rousing cheer and Greek, Italian and Jewish gay people showed dual pride in their culture and sexuality.

He said the march broke down stereotypes and demonstrated that the gay community was as diverse as the rest of society. "I don't dress up in outrageous costumes and I think for the most part we are just normal, down-to-earth people."

But Arab, Muslim and South-East Asian groups did not march this year for fear of being outed in their communities, said Cinzia Ambrosio, the president of the Australian Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Intersex Queer Multicultural Council. "There is that issue of taboo and silence and a lot more pressure to live up to expectations in multicultural communities," she said. "I can only shudder to think what our Muslim brothers and sisters go through often having to live a double life."

For the 93 groups and large crowd of gay and lesbian people who attended the march and concert at Catani Gardens afterwards, the celebration had many different meanings. "Some use it to burst out of the closet with a great big show while others use it to just discreetly make a connection with their community," Pride March president Jamie Ivarsen said. (The Melbourne Age, 6 February)
We do things differently in Melbourne - Mon 6 Feb 2006 07:14:44 Replies: add

If people are so unhappy why isn't there an opposition to NMG? I'll tell you why. People are to quick to criticise and bad mouth anything that is planned, managed or even suggested. It's a shame that technology such as the internet and the use of forums such as Pinkboard is dominated by the negative as unfortunately we human beings don't put as much energy into responding with positive feedback or words of encouragement.

Quite frankly I wouldn't blame NMG for just folding for the sake of it. But there those of us who appreciate whatever is planned, held or managed and while it's a big call to enjoy every event at least there is the opportunity to do so.
NMG - You are doing great - Mon 6 Feb 2006 07:31:58 Replies: add

When NMG does something that merits positive feedback I will offer it. In fact, I'm desperate to offer positive feedback because Mardi Gras means a lot to me and thousands of other poofs and dykes and many of us put a lot of work in to resurrect it. What happened on Friday night was inexcusable and to call those who are pointing out the bleeding obvious,"whingers", is also inexcusable.
If you're part of NMG, you'd be better engaged in winning
the hearts and minds of our community by making up for Friday night with a fabulous Season. It would be a much more productive use of your no doubt considerable talents
than popping up here to defend the indefensible.
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 07:59:30 Replies: add

After that it is time to move on to the rest of the festival. There are over 100 events. (Or at least there were. I am not sure how many have already happened.) Kylie on Saturday evening was fun.

Hats Off is tonight with a cast as long as your leg. There is lots of stuff at the Slide Festival Bar all week. Club Arak is this coming Saturday.

There is something for everyone in this coming month. You may even be lucky enough to see a pair of pink elephants walking up Oxford St.
Panther - Mon 6 Feb 2006 08:33:50 Replies: 1, add

Sadly though it doesn't suprise me the debacle, particular when you read Marcus' interview in the SMH on Friday where he comments that Mardi Gras is not about sexuality and then goes onto to say it is not about politics either really. Come on Marcus, things indeed have changed over the decades but the basis of Mardi Gras is sexuality, you have got to be kidding if you think it isn't. Then to go on and state that Mardi Gras is all about values, but then not to say what the so called values are is just laughable. No wonder the headline was "Mardi Gras Identity Crisis"

The worst thing of all was the desperation of it all on Friday evening. The majority of the Presidents speech was aplogising for the bar, begging for volunteers and members and then pratically running through the festival guide almost page by page trying to drum up support.

I am used to dissapointment from NMG, but I always in the past have gone back for more, hoping deep down that the next time it would all be alright. After Friday I now know it never can be, our values are just not the same anymore.
Bye bye NMG - Mon 6 Feb 2006 08:58:50 Replies: add

I think there's something in that for all of us don't you think ?
No Sex , No Community - Mon 6 Feb 2006 09:14:02 Replies: add

Evil Twin - Mon 6 Feb 2006 09:20:42

More importantly - volunteers, great job. Well done. But everything that could go wrong - did. The entertainment WAS bad - girl, boy, woteva. The sound was awful - I tried really hard to hear Clover but just couldn't!

And no food? One bar? It really did feel like organisation started 2 weeks ago. Really - no offence to volies - honestly. I'm just really sorry it all went so horribly wrong.

Suggestion for the future - how about asking for entry by donation at the gate in future - I felt like a lot of people didn't come either due to the difficulty in obtaining tix or due to their philosophical objection to paying to attend this community event. It's easy to criticise, I know - so I'm trying to make a positive suggestion. Keep your chins up NMG people - happy mardi gras!!!
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 10:38:07 Replies: 1, add

As Sista She might say Yo Yo Yo Peeps that is rank!!!
Disgruntled - Mon 6 Feb 2006 10:45:39 Replies: 1, add

The launch of Midsumma now at Fed Square is always a fantastic night (and only a gold coin donation). Yes the entertainment can be substandard with the same old drag queens wheeled out again. But this year with the help of Melissa Tkautz and Katie Underwood everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

About 20,000 people attended after an inital thunderstorm and the bars around the outside of the square provided plentiful drinks and toilets, and the main area is the perfect place for 20,000 people to enjoy a great night....
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 11:16:06 Replies: add

So there was a silver lining to the night then? hahahahaha

- it's a joke joyce! I thought we needed a smile today. - Mon 6 Feb 2006 11:18:11 Replies: add

Thank you panter for putting deadline on all the whinging about why launch was so bad for people who like to sit back and let everyone else do the work of creating a community.
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 12:03:52 Replies: 1, add

Personlly recommend everyone to attend.

I'm heading up to Mardi Gras for the first time in a few weeks and will be Marching as part of VIC presence. Melbourne got a sneek peek of our costume yesaterday at Pride. I am really looking forward to both the parade and party.

Mardi Gras launch may not have been a success but I am sure the rest of the festival will make or the naysayers eat there words.
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 12:10:12 Replies: add

There is 150 of the board, staff, and working groups trying to form a community event that brings approx $47,000,000 to NSW and mainly Sydney (which granted is down from $99,000,000 in 1999)
I really dont think its an event that we as a community let die. It shows we are a strong and vibrant part of the Sydney community. WELL DONE MARDI GRAS......
sean - Mon 6 Feb 2006 12:40:23 Replies: add

Its called the law of averages. Some poeple go once, some people dont go at all. Others go 4 or 5 times (in the gay scene, it usually has nothing to do with a weak bladder). "fabricated statistics" are necessary for events management. If they had 'fabricated' some statistics, they would have realised a ratio of 384 people per toilet was unacceptable.
Prof. Sumnermiller - Mon 6 Feb 2006 13:29:34 Replies: add

I think the point is that Friday night was anything but strong and vibrant. We need to do much better and I'm sure that everyone shares in the fervent hope that we will.
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 13:30:55 Replies: add

I Didn't go to the launch personally for various reasons, butI think the people who did have all voiced their opinions quite clearly over the last few days and have basically said everything I would have, from an event managers point of view.

My only comment would be that its critical that NMG do not forget this organisations History or they are obviously doomed to repeat it. NMG and all other event producers: Please pay attention to past issues and plan around solving them before the event.

I hope the rest of the festival is fun & exciting; I think once the weather warms up a bit the future may look rosier
IceBoy - Mon 6 Feb 2006 13:32:34 Replies: add

Count me in. My homosexualist is inow n full bloom.
Bring on Club Araak this weekend. Fair Day. Underbear. Pool Party. Parade. The Misfits. Im in and celebrating.

bEATKID, Im going to make a tshirt with your words. Who wants one?
FurryFace - its our christmas, our grand final, our wedding aniversary.... come on people lets celebrate - Mon 6 Feb 2006 14:20:17 Replies: 1, 2, add

Tonight: Dikes on Mikes
Tuesday: Shaun Rennie (Winner of the Sydney Cabaret Convention, as well as MAMMA MIA and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF - and you may have seen him behind the bar at Slide as well )
Wednesday: Aunty Mavis, with special guests Margi De Ferranti, Trevor Ashley & Enda Markey
Thursday: Keeping Young with Matt Young (The Producers) and Rose Keeping (a friend who's seen this says it's the campest show he's seen in a long time...)

If you want to be guaranteed a table/seat you'll need to book at www.showbiz.com.au or call 1300 556 605, otherwise just take your chances for ten bucks! Mon-Wed shows are 8pm, Keeping Young is @ 7:30pm

And don't forget the other great shows coming up, including Andrew Threlfall's Valentine's Day Celebration; Outrageously Divine - tribute to Bette Midler; and Sophie B Hawkins.

For more details see www.mardigras.org.au

Also, don't forget Hats Off to the Legends tonight at Star City - all proceeds to ACON.
CeeJay - Mon 6 Feb 2006 15:27:05 Replies: add

please enjoy!
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 16:03:29 Replies: 1, 2, add

very well design mardi gras photo!
- Mon 6 Feb 2006 16:14:00 Replies: add

GT - Mon 6 Feb 2006 18:48:57

If I make my own will I break some-one elses copyright?
GT - Mon 6 Feb 2006 18:57:05 Replies: add

Enough said about him.

Mardi Gras will be fantastic...lets not focus on mistakes, lets enjoy all the gay people from all over the world who are coming to celebrate with us and keep the negativity away!
happy lesbian - Mon 6 Feb 2006 19:41:26 Replies: add

Thanks, Koman Tam (KtGraphic.com)
Koman Tam - Mon 6 Feb 2006 21:59:18 Replies: add

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 25 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - 25 days ... so far but so close as well - Tue 7 Feb 2006 00:13:45 Replies: add

Yes I did attend the Launch and as such it was bad. As for THAT YoYoYo sista thing and that other..who was she well lets not go into that. And where were the male performers in all this??? No the only thing I can say is that those poor vollies deserve better of the organisation. They had to put up with a lot.

But NMG isn't the only organisation that demands a high admission promising one thing and producing another. The former by shear inexperience, the latter by design.

Last year BGF proudly announced it's reserved sitting in it's stands located at the tail end of the parade in Flinders Street. Accessable food&Booze stalls and "entertainment" of a sort.

Well what you paid heavily for was not what you got. In my book Reserved Sitting means a numbered seat in a stand. What BGF means is you get in and you fight for what seats you can get.

The other drawback was the stupid idea of placing seats in the near middle of the road and setting them back row by row to the gutters.

Now does every one understand what a macadam road means. It means that the road is curved to relieve rain runoff. So all the people who managed to get sets in the second to fifth rows suddenly discovered that they were a head below those in front.

But never mind once the parade began the over booked reserved seating was swamped and every man,woman and child pushed and shoved their way to the baracades and those how couldn't stood on chairs or table tops. And yes it got nasty there in places.

In my mind it was a waste of good money and false advertising. But I hear in the grape vine that the mighty Bev Lange, remember her - Gay Games and Old SGLMG is thinking of moving the BGF "Stands" to a new location for this comming parade.

Personally I'd rather donate my money to the BGF collectors tin than buy another "Reserved Seat". That way I can rub my naked shoulders with my gay brothers and sisters in the crowds cheering the marchers on.
Value for money - Tue 7 Feb 2006 17:17:30 Replies: 1, 2, 3, 4, add

I have noted that there will be two ways of viewing the parade this year: standing tickets and the traditional seated viewing, both in different locations. Is this in line with the thinking behind NMG's 'platinum' ticket scheme? making two classes of ticket holders is an interesting way of making the divides in the scene more pronounced - The haves and the have nots. Maybe I'm wrong about that.

While on the subject of platinum party tickets - can anyone who bought one tell me what they expect to get, and what the benefits are to them? I'm not trying to be inflammatory or re-ignite the debate, but as someone who might want to buy one, I am having a hard time justifying it to myself.
gayghettoboi - gayghettoboi.blogspot.com - Tue 7 Feb 2006 18:46:40 Replies: add

Yes its was unmarked tiered bench seating at the arse end of the parade when the paradesters were pooped, and the facilities were behind the stands. It also rained on that parade.

But in terms of seeing and enjoying the parade it was noice, unusual, different. And the money went to a good cause.

Mine Jew, If they are overselling places nowadays and it's nostril to nostril, that's not a nice state of affairs. Wasn't the idea of the BGF stand was comfort?

I was just thinking about it last night. The stands could be closer towards Flinders Street I reckern.

You don't REALLY want VIP velour seating do you?
- Tue 7 Feb 2006 20:51:52 Replies: add

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 24 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - which hall will YOU be dancing in all night ? - Wed 8 Feb 2006 08:42:30 Replies: add

Murray Hood - www.murrayhood.com - Wed 8 Feb 2006 08:55:17

You can still catch some of the performers at various festival events, including the boys from Legends at @newtown, and Aunty Mavis and Shaun Rennie in their shows at Slide Mardi Gras Festival Bar. I saw Shaun's show last night - great voice, and a good crowd there to enjoy it. He has one more show coming up later this month. Aunty Mavis opens her show tonight, with special guests Trevor Ashley (who pretty much stole the show at Hats Off with his Cher tribute), Enda Markey (one of the boys from Legends), and the fabulous Margi De Ferranti.

I also saw Human Resources at Darlinghurst Theatre on Sunday night - 3 funny and well-written monologues, and three excellent performances (and enough shirtless boys to divert your attention if you prefer...) It got a great review in yesterday's SMH.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/arts-reviews/human-resources-amp-the-rood-screen/2006/02/07/1139074205960.html

Believe it or not, there *is* quality theatre that happens as part of the Mardi Gras festival
CeeJay - Wed 8 Feb 2006 11:16:41 Replies: add

Are all performing in the 1am show in the RHI
Its gonna be huge - Wed 8 Feb 2006 21:28:39 Replies: 1, 2, add

Get Well Soon Kylie
a friend of Dorothy - Wed 8 Feb 2006 21:47:18 Replies: add

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!

There are 23 Days to Mardi Gras !!
countdownboy - 23 days , woo hoo. it's getting busy now - Thu 9 Feb 2006 00:07:07 Replies: add

The ultimate irony was that just across the road on the other side of Flinders St. the crowd was only 2 or 3 deep and much more civilised not even any need of milk crates.. Of course they could BYO and drink to their hearts' content without waiting 30 mins at the bar.

As much as I'd like to support a valuable cause, I know where I won't be watching the parade from this year....though I'll happily make a donation if someone comes past shaking a tin.
milkcrates and stubbies - Thu 9 Feb 2006 04:01:59 Replies: 1, add

www.djjustinscott.com - Thu 9 Feb 2006 08:11:48

I hope the person who told me that (you hear me Steve) is not fooling me.
Dolly covergirl - Thu 9 Feb 2006 10:43:19 Replies: add

F*ckin hell...how about some acts that are relevant for 18-30 yr olds? Not two or three hit wonder 80's dance acts.

Yeah...J'aime and Sonali doing Cinderella would be hot. Look to local talent!
partyboi - Thu 9 Feb 2006 11:51:47 Replies: 1, add

They wouldn't really have to do much at all. Frolick about with some drag queens dressed as them, get them to mime something suitably camp, and presto! Gay boys squealing with delight. I can see it now!

Just a suggestion....
gayghettoboi - gayghettboi.blogspot.com - Thu 9 Feb 2006 13:52:03 Replies: 1, 2, 3, 4, add

The quality of the performers has consistently improved over the past few years and last night they were all fabulous.

Great hosting too from the thinking man's drag queens, Claire and Verushka.

Who said the Frtival had died in the ass? Here's living proof that in spite of all the up-its-own-arse politics, there are people out there who are more than happy to get out there and enjoy the month of Mardi Gras. Let it grow!
- Thu 9 Feb 2006 14:20:42 Replies: 1, add

Jumped.

The.

Shark.
- Thu 9 Feb 2006 14:23:52 Replies: add

I always thought that the decline of the parties could be attributed to the fact that the patronage was getting older and older as the younger ones didn't seem interested in coming along and keeping the party alive (because it's not their scene).
- Thu 9 Feb 2006 14:33:55 Replies: 1, 2, add

Murray Hood - www.murrayhood.com - Thu 9 Feb 2006 15:24:19

I did mention that.

And besides, would it be so bad for something FUN and frivolous to happen this year? Something that makes us smile and not groan would be welcome after a shonky start to the season...
gayghettoboi - gayghettoboi.blogspot.com - Thu 9 Feb 2006 15:53:03 Replies: add

petez xx
petezimagez - www.petezimagez.com - Thu 9 Feb 2006 18:39:55 Replies: add

Is it really our way of thinking.

Australian be proud of our international PARTY.

Happy Mardi Gras and see you on the dance floor.
tim - Thu 9 Feb 2006 19:46:41 Replies: add

I have just today got all the final clearance I needed to announce entertainment at the party and pending some phone calls tonight the first announcement will be here either over night or tomorrow.

Also im not sure that we have posted party DJ's by hall yet, will do that tonight as well. I'm really excited and its about time that you guys know most of the stuff that I do,
Brad W - brad@aztechevents.com.au - Thu 9 Feb 2006 20:42:03 Replies: add

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