Pinkboard's Mardi Gras Graffiti Wall 2009 #2

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Mardi Gras 2009 Graffiti Wall #1

Yeah am I the first ? I have never been the first on a wall before! Happy Mardi Gras boys and girls! Starting to get excited now

Oh I am first, first, first! Always me, always will be!

Oh no not nudity in these shows.....so makes me wunna go and see these plays....not.

Actually saw "Tuesdays with Morrie" on Sunday night - worth every penny.

Olivia Newton John was terrible! Xanadu is the most inane song ever written. Kylie is too tiny to see. I just want a good thumping song with lots of sexy dancing boys and girls. Some local celeb is just fine.

The Excitement Builds... ONLY



DAYS TO GO TO MARDI GRAS !!

Today is Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday, Pancake Tuesday.
Happy Mardi Gras everyone.

He he, well almost anyway

The PAX figure has been on the last few sleaze and MG tix I've bought.(and i suspect all Ticketek tickets for audit purposes) The difference could be the amount of complimentary tickets that are allocated to MG to give to media, photographers, etc?

Only 5 days till Harbour Party!

I know there is only one Countdown Boy but imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and besides I'm exited!

Congratulations Party Girl. You won fair and square (well maybe not square!)

it looks like we have a real candidate- amy winehouse has checked in for rehab in port macquarie, and is due to be released on march 5. now all we need to do is find enough drugs to get her to sing!

Keep going, Countdown Boy. LOVE 'em!! My good girlfriend and work colleague, Caron, and I chat about your posts, and the countdown is making the time between now and Parade and Party bearable!

Any news on the times of shows? I know one year MG announced times of shows, which was fab! Maybe that was for Sleaze. Any insiders giving hints away?

I feel I owe it to you all and put and end to some of the rumours going around. NMG have approved this and you hear it here first.

Yes - I will be performing a medley of all my hits at the Mardi Gras Party.

I feel honoured to be asked and pleased to accept this invitation from NMG. I'm sure that this will be the most memorable performance of my career.

Can't wait to see you all and I'm hoping to see a few people dressed in outfits reminiscent of my own.

While I am not permitted to reveal the exact time or location of my number, I have given away a couple of hints on my website.

I'm elated to be wishing you all a Happy Mardi Gras and honoured to be a part of it.

Last of the double digits folks... There's now ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS ... W00T !

This time last year MG party had sold out. Wonder how it's going. Anyone know how many are on sale?

Panther, that is such a great summary of where we are at. Yes it is worth noting the parade and party are the main event....... What an exciting time this must be in Sydney. Your experience clearly shines through, can't wait 2 see your outfit on the night..... Looking forward to the night of celebrations that completes a season of Nations United. Hope 2 see some of u there....

They say ticket sales are on a par with last year and if you noticed they have increased the footprint .

Hey Party Girl,
wanna meet up on the dancefloor Mardi Gras night?
Seeing as you're that keen, it looks like it might be fun to connect.
Interested? Get back!

Now wouldn't it be very, very special to have the face of successful youth, Matty Mitcham, sitting alongside the recently retired mentor of the community, Michael Kirby. Has anyone asked him?

I just went to buy my ticket and was told that members' price tickets are sold out. While it pisses me off greatly that NMG put an artificially low cap on the number of member tickets, it probably bodes fairly well for the party being busy.

Sorry if it's been discussed already, but are DJ set times in the public domain yet?? Can't wait for Ben Drayton's set!!

The Ticketek Agency I obtained my tickets from today confirmed that sales were steady but implied that they were still readily available.

Just noticed that there are plenty of Mardi Gras tickets available through Ebay as well as Pinkboard classifieds.

Members' price tickets have not sold out, they are still available. Your statement the "NMG put an artificially low cap on the number of member tickets" is incorrect.

Firstly, members tickets are still available on the Ticketek website so no problem there.

Word is that Mardi Gras have increased the footprint of the party a couple of times now to cater for demand so I am sure it will sell out before the party.

Finally, from todays Mardi Gras email...

Mardi Gras Party is set to feature the stunning Bimbo Jones and Freemasons singer Katherine Ellis. In a performance of raw energy and awe-inspiring vocal talent, Ellis’ show promises to be one of the biggest moments of the entire night. She has had huge success with The Freemasons’ “When You Touch Me”, has a massive following and a remix catalogue that transcends genre and artist with Bimbo Jones. She has also toured with the likes of Chaka Khan, Boy George and Roger Sanchez. Make sure you’re there when she makes her Mardi Gras debut.

We expect a sell-out. Don’t be left without a ticket!

Look for the Pink Panther.

Thank you David, I was having a damn heart attack thinking that post was correct.

How the hell can people be so nasty as to blatantly lie about member tickets like that?

And it is not like tickets went on sale last week or anything. And there have been a lot of warnings that the party will sell out, just like last year. So if anyone is left disappointed, only themselves to blame... IMHO

Last night we saw the dance piece Four Faces. It was excellent with the dancer Jay becoming the different faces during the performance. Unfortunately there were not many people there to enjoy it. It was only on for two nights.

Tonight we went to the opening of three exhibitions at TAP Gallery. Boys Life is 30 gay Japanese artists. There is an enormous variety of styles. Some of the works are a bit confronting at the same time as being beautifully executed. There were lots of red dots. Mancer Bear had a great collection of drawings which he introduced personally as he had run out of catalogues. Upstairs were Marcus Mok beautiful nudes. Make sure you pop in to enjoy these three exhibitions.

Well hello there Bat Girl!
Absolutely! You know the spot. RHI - Third pylon in on the right hand side. I'll be the one with the big grin and the glow sticks...I just wanna fucking dance

Hi David,
On behalf of myself, my partner, and I suspect Laser Boy as well, can we please, please, please have some lasers in the RHI this year!

Expect some aerial dancers suspended from the ceiling for one of the shows.

That video is sooo camp! It would be a brilliant MG show!

HURRY HURRY .... ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS ... I'm already wet.

My foot is in my mouth re member tickets. I flicked off a message to pinkboard a little too hastily (and as a result of missing out on members' tix at sleaze last year which DID sell out).

It turns out this time that the Ticketek person I spoke to made a mistake in telling me MG Member tickets were sold out and saying that full price tickets were the only option. I later spoke to NMG and David himself called me back to sort out the misunderstanding. Kudos to him and the organisation for taking the time to look into this sort of thing.

And full credit to you for this post!

attended the mardi gras great debate at factory theatre last night - the topic was " is same sex marriage worth the price of the rice" .

By far the best arguments (and most entertaining) came from the opposition and the debate was handed to them.

As a girl plannin her wedding to her partner this year - a tad disappointing the affirmative team were so much less prepared then the other team.

An interesting argument was made on the night though - as same sex marriage is one of the last fights for equality for our community - if its made legal - will it take away whats special - that we are different and fighting a war for equality. What will Mardi Gras look like when theres nothing left to fight for? when u and i are the same as them and those.

What will Mardi Gras look like when theres nothing left to fight for?

We might one day achieve equality in a legal sense but I am sure that it will take much longer to achieve full acceptance in peoples hearts and minds.

The religious right will continue to vilify us. Homophobes will continue to bash us and governments will continue to use us a a political football for their own gains (think Howard and his marriage ban and more recently Proposition 8 in the USA).

HIV will continue to be an issue and we will always need to stand up for those who can't do it for themselves. So many countries still oppress, torture, kill gays and lesbians.

As we reach towards legal equality in Australia I think Mardi Gras should embrace a wider human rights agenda. I think we have a long way to go before our work is done.

I don't quite get why not having to fight is such a problem? Sounds like bliss.

"I think Mardi Gras should embrace a wider human rights agenda"
Interesting thought but you know some think MG should be all things to all people - a sort of gay government. I disagree.
MG is not a human rights organisation. It is not even a Gay rights organisation. MG's own mission statement, it's purpose to exist if you like is "to promote Gay and Lesbian visibility through a festival of visual and performing arts".
I may bitch about the guys down at MG when they f up (sorry but the music at sleaze was shocking and it was all their fault for booking a bad DJ line up) but let's give it to them that they do a prettty god damn terrific, ok not terrific but fantastic job through out the year and what they do they do for free. Yes NO SALARY - maybe a few freebies to MG festival events and stuff like that.
They have full time jobs and on top of that give up their evening and weekends to run what we know as Mardi Gras and poofters from around the world travel to our city to particapate.
Gay rights is more than adequately looked after by the G and L Rights Lobbey. HIV issued by ACON and BGF.
So my question do the small group of people who run MG not do enough ?

the answer is they do more than enough!

ONLY ONLY ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS WOOOO HOOO !!

Very much agree.

Mardi Gras is there for us to celebrate who we are , to pay respects to the 78'ers etc.

There are other Org's as you mention like the G & L Lobby Group to push for equal rights.

ACON to help with HIV and other diseases. Educating people. ( but have you read the argument going on samesame about how much from the Grants ACON receive actually goes back to the community ? doesnt seem a lot ).

Sure NMG have got it wrong a few times but after attending their events for about 25 years I thing they do
an awesome job. A much better job than the armchair critics.

I went to see Quick and Dirty at Carriageworks last night... very interesting indeed. Some great acts mixed up with some disturbing ones.

And what an absolutely amazing space Carriageworks (or the Australian Technology Park for the matter) would be for a dance party. If only they would move Sleaze Ball here. I don't suppose it would be sound proofed enough for the residents though... but then again neither is the RHI or Hordern.

I disagree. The Hordern & RHi were renovated with our events in mind, soundproofing was part of that process. The levels are continually monitored during the night, as a courtesy & is required residents surrounding that immediate area recieve a letter drop before the event. The parties do not need 2 be moved, it is the best venue for our event. Thats prob why many international artists also choose 2 have their performance there.... Our parties need to stay where they are!!!

The Hordern has always been a sound proofed hall going back at least to the 1980's - The RHI is still and always has been a major concern as it leaks sound so much more than the Hordern does. To suggest the RHI is anywhere near the quality of the Hordern regarding soundproofing is sheer folly as well as being a complete and utter fabrication of the truth !

Horden is adequately soundproofed. RHI isn't.

There was a rival Mardi Gras party at Australian Technology Park about 10 years ago. Some parties after that had noise problems because it is too close to local residents. I suspect Carriageworks would have similar problems.

Don't forget when Mardi Gras used to be held in the Commemorative Pavillion at the old R.A.S. It was only moved to the R.H.I. and Hordern in 1991 I think when new noise restrictions came in and the cost of soundproofing the Commemorative pavillion (District Exhibits) which was twice the size of the R.H.I. wasn't feasible. As the R.H.I. has been used as a sound stage by Fox studios it's sound insulation would have to be more than adequate.

"As the R.H.I. has been used as a sound stage by Fox studios it's sound insulation would have to be more than adequate"

Great leap of assumption you make there.

Maybe the insulation has been beefed up a bit , maybe it hasn't.

Lets remember though when Fox use that space I bet it's not during the dead of night at 3-4-5am like we use it. The times of the night when nearby residents are most likely to complain.

At the end of the day Mardi Gras would have to meet the legal requirements for noise levels otherwise they would not be able to use the R.H.I. and Horden. And using the R.H.I. as a sound stage in the middle of the day means alot of outside surrounding noise so if they can keep the outside noise out they can keep the inside noise in.

Yep Hordern may be soundproofed but (as I understand) it, because the RHI isn't then the sound levels are equalised across the whole site. So Hordern sound levels are reduced in line with the levels RHI needs to be so that as a party goer you don't notice the difference in sound levels as you move between halls. I stand to be corrected on this by a sound expert.

But that not the point anyway. The point is that Carriageworks is an amazing space. Someone should seriously look as putting on a dance party there. Raw, industrial and not far from King Street.

Honestly have u been in the RHI during the day? Look up, wot do u see on the roof, i'm sure u'll find black insulation. Were u around when the renovations occured, did u go to the party in the 90's b4 it got renovated? It's much quieter now only due to the structural changes that were made. Please think b4 posting incorrect information!

Carriageworks is definitely a great space but there is no way in hell anyone would ever get permission to run a dance party there...we live in a city where the 'powers that be' do not encourage such decadent events...especially right in the middle of domestic bliss

I've never given one single thought to the quality of the sound. It's always loud. Some I like more than others. I'm not a huge fan of endless doof doof - unless I'm surrounded by handsome hot men in which case doof doof is just perfect thank you. I suspect that 99.9% of the audience, like me, wouldn't know their tweeters from their woofers. NMG does the best it can. The Hordern and RHI are huge! And that's why we love them....

Thanks Dome Denizen for taking the time to add this post, and I'm happy that Ticketek were able to fix their internal problem. See you at the Party!

And may I add that I saw Gentlemen Prefer Blokes last night and Heir Raising tonight, and they are both well worth going to!

The Time Has Come

Only 1 Week , OR



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS. WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW !

So little gossip these days re who will be the special guest at Mardi Gras Party...

Thoughts, inside info, clues anyone???

And no Madonna or Kylie rumours please. We all know Mads is money driven and I think Kylie had outgrown us (and to be fair she has done it twice already).

So Pink? Tina Arena? Lady Ga Ga? Britney? Jessica Mauboy?

Surprise guest ??

Hmmmmmmm
.
.

Natalie Bassingwaighte
Alison Jeir
Katherine Ellis
Peyton
Tina Arena

I have also heard that Donna Summer is doing the last show which is very exciting - just hope she sings 'Last Dance' - that would be VERY special!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The weather forecast has just been updated for Sunday by the Bureau of Meteorology and it looks like the forecasted rain will be restricted to the morning:

Cloudy with the chance of a shower or two, mainly morning. Light to moderate southeast winds.

City: Min: 20 Max: 24
West: Min: 18 Max: 30

Well theres no suprises anymore now is there?

The forecast for Mardi Gras is in...

Saturday mostly fine.

City: Min: 16 Max: 24
West: Min: 12 Max: 29

ONLY ONLY ONLY



Days to Mardi Gras !!

Perhaps the carrageworks / ATP could be used for a day party - in competiton with Toybox ?

Don't wanna put a damper on the pre MG buzz but this time next week it'll all be over.

Any ideas on the theme? with only 6 days to go time is running short.
Max.

Well then, JUST 364 DAYS to Mardi Gras!!!11

Yes I have fond memories of that alternate party (couldnt get tix to MG at the time)fab venue for big parties but alas I cant remember what happened. Usual old story.

Hey does anyone know the dj set times????????????????????

Last year they were on the NMG website but not this year. Hmmmm.

PS; I voted for Oakenfold and I just want to know when he and Freemasons are spinn.

Tanx

United Colours of Benneton(sp?) T-shirt?
Shirt with flags of various countries sewn to it?

IT'S VERY VERY CLOSE.... ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS .............................. ARE U EXCITED ?

C'mon NMG, where are the DJ set times, I am chomping at the bit to know....
Thank you!!!!!!!!!

Happy 21st birthday to Matthew Mitcham!

No posts on the Harbour Party. Did no one on here go? Or are you all still recovering?

http://www.samesame.com.au/gallery/sydney

DAVID IMRIE ---- POST THE DJ TIMES PLEASE .... Geeeze

We went, and we had a lovely time. (And we are still recovering!) Great location, as always. Music was pretty good, particularly Kate & Shigeki. Happy, friendly crowd, lots of fun. Lots of police and puppies everywhere, but a great vibe otherwise. Sam Sparrow and Peyton were both great.

Well done New Mardi Gras. Looking forward to next weekend

We had a great time. The location is stunning plus having two cruise ships pass us by added to the ambience.
The music was good and the general presentation was well delivered.My only request to NMG is to have toilets at both ends of the party if possible so as not to cross country and stand in long queues.
Thankyou NMG very well done....

Harbour was great. Such perfect weather (I'm never reading the forecast again - they couldn't have been more wrong!). And I was so pleased to see all the hot boys back again... including plenty of internationals. Everyone seemed to be in a really good mood too. It seems like NMG are really doing good things with this party now and I'm sure they can really begin to build it back up again

CAN YOU FEEL IT .... ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS ... OH MY GOD !!

Thursday
Fine. Mostly sunny.
City: Min: 16 Max: 23
West: Min: 13 Max: 25

Friday
Fine. Sunny.
City: Min: 15 Max: 24
West: Min: 12 Max: 27

Saturday!!!!!
Fine. Mostly sunny.
City: Min: 17 Max: 25
West: Min: 13 Max: 29

I heard that Paul Oakenfold played an awesome set at Future Music, so to all you in crowd people going to Toybox instead of MG :P

MG Party will rip all over toybox!!
So those of you going to something else, other than supporting our MG, unlucky! You will all have to hear what an awesome time u missed out on!!!

Where are the DJ set times please ??? Where are the DJ set times please ??? Where are the DJ set times please ??? Where are the DJ set times please ??? Where are the DJ set times please ???

Could we please have the DJ set times for the Mardi Gras party, its a bit of a joke compared to last year....

Macy Grey is in town. Wonder if she will be playing party?

Have to agree - where on earth are the set times - they are not on MG website or the myspace website (which links back to MG site), nor same same....?? Come on MG!

"Where are the DJ set times please"

All in good time...

Indeed, could we please have the set times? There's so much to hear and see that this helps us all plan our fabulous nights.

I've emailed MG via their website. If I get any answer, I'll post it here to help us all out.

I was asking one of the DJs what the set times were - they don't even know the time of other DJ sets. Why so hush hush?

Just saw Milk tonight... such a powerful story... now I'm really pumped for Saturday's parade.

Bring it on!

Grab a copy of SX (our media partner) on Thursday, or look on their website. All (most anyway) will be revealed!

I agree with the comments about the Harbour Party. It did have a nice feel and a good looking crowd.. but the over the top Police presence (dogs walking through the dance floor!!) and the even more aggressive and arrogant security??
Could that be the reason for the low numbers? I was working there so was in a position to see what was really happening (no party favours for me!).
I did wonder if I would have spent $140 and $9 a beer to be harassed and bullied by Police and Security? Was the music and stage performances really worth it? The location is but other than that??
Obviously I wasn't the only one thinking along these lines as the small crowd of just over 2000 showed.

SO SO CLOSE YOU CAN TASTE IT .... NOW THERE'S ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS !! OOOHHHHH YEAHHHHHH !!

Sorry.. typo in my last post.. cost of a ticket was meant to be $130 (well it was $129 actually).

Also a huge happy 21st birthday must go to that beautiful person Matthew Mitcham. It was his birthday on the 2nd and he celebrated it at the Harbour Party and the official after party at GAZE@Trademark.

Give him a massive cheer as he heads the Mardi Gras Parade next weekend!

If Matt Mitcham shows up at the mardi gras party there just might be a few thousand queueing up for him during the night

yum.

Just released by NMG!

RHI
Anthems
10.00 - 12.00 Kitty Glitter
12.00 - 3.00 Wayne G (UK)
3.00 - 5.00 Freemasons (UK)
5.00 - 8.00 Dan Murphy

Hordern
House | Progressive House
10.00 - 1.00 Brent Nicholls (UK)
1.00 - 3.00 Paul Oakenfold (UK)
3.00 - 5.30 Alan Thompson (UK)
5.30 - 8.00 Mike Kelly (Germany)

The Forum
Rock | Electro | Disco
10.00 - 11.30 Avra Cybele (DJ)
11.30 - 12.00 Beau Monde (Band)
12.00 - 12.45 Dan Random (DJ)
12.45 - 1.30 Miami Horror (Band)
1.30 - 2.00 Matt Vaughan (DJ)
2.00 - 2.30 The Ones (Band)(NY)
2.30 - 3.15 Matt Vaughan (DJ)
3.15 - 4.00 Infusion (Band)
4.00 - 5.00 Stereogamous (DJ)
5.00 - 7.00 Lauren Flax (DJ)(NY)

Dome
Tribal | Dirty House
10.00 - 1.00 Annabelle Gaspar
1.00 - 3.00 Ben Drayton
3.00 - 5.00 Rob Gilbert (Mel)
5.00 - 7.00 Feisty

La Discotheque
Original Retro | Disco
10.00 - 11.00 Natasha Chamberlain
11.00 - 12.00 Live performances hosted by Trevor Ashley
12.00 - 1.00 Brett Austin
1.00 - 3.30 David Hiscock
3.30 - 5.30 Justin Scott
5.30 - 8.00 Jake Kilby

Girls’ Republic
House | Electro
10.00 - 12.30 GI Jode
12.30 - 2.30 Sveta
2.30 - 4.30 Sista P
4.30 - 7.00 SNiP (Mel)

There will also be performances by a huge range of artists:

Natalie Bassingthwaighte
Alison Jiear
Katherine Ellis
Roshani Priddis
Peppermint
Emilia De Poret
Faggot Rooster
Glace Chase
Lilian Star
Sexy arialist Ari
The Four O’Clock Dancers
Drag king and queen shows

and massive surprise guests…

Sorry to say but he's very happily taken. His b/f is a really nice guy as well and they are devoted.

Harbour Party was great but I agree that it is such a shame about the massive Police presence. It was just such a dramatic over-reaction. They could have had less than half the numbers of cops there and still kept an eye on the party. It is like they deploy them there knowing full well they are going to have an easy night. Even for those people who don't have drugs with them the excessive Police presence can feel intimidating. I can understand if it was one of the big straight festivals with thousands upon thousands of patrons. Rather than deploying Police to overly target an event which is likely to produce little if any assaults how about hitting the street and some of the dodgy clubs on Oxford and other areas during high risk times? It's all very well to be out in force at a friendly gay event or walking up and down Oxford Street at 8:30pm when there is no sign of trouble but how about getting involved when and where they are REALLY needed

My advice to NMG is to ditch this event. It's had it's day. Gone are the days when guys queued overnight to buy a ticket and it was sold out in a matter of hours.
The problem with Harbour is that ever since the original operators got tired of it and moved on numbers have declined. Mainly for the following reasons. The guys that took it over cut back on production and the quality of the event (sound, lighting even a cover over the dance floor) were left wanting. Then there was the year when it p*ssed down with rain (or was it 2 yrs in a row) and then again the year after closed down by the police.
Granted since MG took back control production has improved dramatically but it's gonna take time to restore the reputation of this event and I don't think MG should keep losing money on it. MG let this party die. Focus resources on a bigger and better MG Party or Pool Party or even The Parade or Fair Day. I used to do Harbour and so did many of my friens but don't now and won't again 'cos of the reason's expressed above.

Woohoo! Thanks Mardi Gras for not overlapping Freemasons and Oakenfold. I was a little worried I'd have to keep jumping from one to the other.
Does anyone have any idea about who the "massive surprise guests" are??!! ANY (realistic) IDEA?!!?

It would have been nice to see Oakenfold and the freemasons play a 3hr set each.... 2hrs is only just getting warmed up. Oh well, at least you can see Oakie then go across to see the freemasons and get 4hrs dancing in.

I totally agree with this post, Thanks Johnny!!!

kylie!

heard michael jackson was makin a come back??

oh u want realistic ...

hmmm

what about the sound relief crew that are in Syd the followin week

presets
cold play
???

lol

Great buzz building around the place for Mardi Gras this weekend!!

Cant wait to see Oakenfold... should be a great set! Also I missed Freemasons last time so plan to spend some time in the RHI before going back to the Hordern for Mike Kelly.

Also from this weeks SX...

The 2009 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade has been confirmed as the biggest in the event’s 31 year history, with individual parade entrants now exceeding 9,500.

Speaking to SX this week, New Mardi Gras (NMG) Chair David Imrie said that entrants had now exceeded last year’s number, which at the time was a new record.

“To be honest, we weren’t expecting to exceed last year’s number for some time, as it was the thirtieth anniversary – obviously quite a significant anniversary,” he said. “We thought that numbers would probably come back a little this year. But we’ve been able to build on the momentum of last year and take it to the next level.”

The production values this year would also be taken to the next level, he said, with the parade benefitting from State Government funding for the first time.

“This year, there’s going to be 136 floats, and I can promise that the parade will be visually spectacular; just stunning” he said.

No No No. Why on earth would you want to miss out on Wayne G. i ain't moving from under the mirror ball of the RHI. Matthew Mitchem couldn't even drag me off the dancefloor to give me a blow job in the toilets.

my picks - alison jiear midnight show - kathryn ellis for 3am. - natalie for 5am and tina arena to close.

Is there like a bar/drinks available in the VIP area in Taylor Square? And do people stand up all the time?

I agree with this post. The harbour is so beautiful, you don't need a party to enjoy it. And who wants to party so close to tourists and passers by (presumably the reason for the major police presence)? Time to let it go and focus on things of importance to much bigger numbers of GLTBI people.

ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS .... WHOOSH !

Matthew will need his own security people. Or else he better get used to being kissed and kissed and kissed. Dear Matthew, we love you!

Donna Summer flew into Sydney yesterday - It's not rocket science to work out why given the comments she made in an interview for one of the gay papers about 4-5 months back where she discussed her desire to perform at Mardi Gras

Yes the Members Viewing Area has a bar, food and toilets. Oh and this year there are 5 DJ's.

Because its essentially the area on and around Gilligans Island there is no seating but everyone gets a pretty good view because of the grass hill. And yes that means people stand up the whole time.

From memory there are usually a handful of plastic seats for those that need them but I would get there early to guarantee one.

It's got to be the best spot to see the parade and I still remember the year that one of the floats (the Cher look-a-like one I think) stopped the parade and did a full production number right in the middle of Taylor Square.

Alternatively I think BGF still have general admissions and Glamour Bar tickets available. But thats probably standing too???

Macy Gray and Kaz James were just on the radio saying they were in Sydney to four days to promote their new "club hit".

I think the Harbour Party is a beautiful party, like it's location. It is quite different from the main party. It would be a pity to lose it.

I hope it's not Donna Summer considering her anti-gay remarks from a few years back. I'd much rather a home-grown diva like our Tina who has always been appreciative and open to embrace her gay fans.

Please read Wikipedia about this alleged remark: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donna_Summer#Controversy
Also: http://www.donna-tribute.com/articles/99/wrongly.html

"I hope it's not Donna Summer considering her anti-gay remarks from a few years back. I'd much rather a home-grown diva like our Tina who has always been appreciative and open to embrace her gay fans"

Unbelievable.

The so called "anti gay comments" happened TWENTY SIX years ago in 1983. Give it up will ya. The G&L community forgave her over twenty years ago when gay DJ's started to play her songs again in 1988 upon the release of "This time I know it's for real"

But what's more important Summer herself says the so called comment never even happened.

Here - Learn you're history , check out an interview with Donna Summer regarding this topic.



If Donna Summer plays at Mardi Gras it will be the biggest international act ever to play this party. She is THE original diva icon.

I am sooooooo hoping she's on at Mardi Gras - God I hope so.
-

Jessica Mauboy and the whole troop from Dance.

Yes, ditch the party but not the venue. Much as I love Victoria Park and it's handy cos I live in Newtown, imagine having the MG Launch and Fair Day in that harbour setting! Wow!

I do understand that drugs are illegal, but with people getting bashed and robbed all over the place, haven't polic got better things to do?

http://sxnews.e-p.net.au/news/police-intercept-mardi-gras-drugs-5095.html

The Daily Telegraph thinks it might be Dannii Minogue - http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,25139718-5006002,00.html

im so glad i can catch oakenfold, then freemasons str8 away!!
mardi gras rocks!!

why does oakenfold only get a 2 hour set?? thats like only 15 songs!!

His rate / hr is higher???

http://www.smh.com.au/national/mardi-gras-drugs-stash-raided-20090305-8p38.html

What a load of crap. Did the bag have a delivery note "To Mardi Gras" attached???

Perhaps I expect too much. But I'm disappointed by the lack of visual support for Mardi Gras by the shops and clubs along Oxford St.A few display small minor tokens but considering the level of financial support they recieve from us they could do more. Especially the pubs and clubs who receive considerable financial benefits from gay clientele. I was in Castro St San Francisco recently and I was amazed by the number of rainbow flags hangng outside shops and restaurants. Other than the flags that line Oxford St there is little credible indication that it is Mardi Gras here in Sydney. I just came from the Oxford Hotel where there is only one small rainbow flag and all the others are stylised versions advertising Vodka.Shame on the club owners for such little effort and support!

I agree that MG should ditch the harbour party. I went along and had a nice time, but I can't help but feel a little ripped off by the experience.

Point 1 - The party costs more than ever, for half the space we used to get.... I so loved being able to walk along the top footpath and gaze over the heads of the main dancefloor across to the opera house and bridge. It was brilliant to do that lap for some fresh air, a chat with a friend etc.... granted the top dancefloor never really packed them in, but it certainly works as a chill out space/break. Arriving via that route and down the stairs is absolutely one of the highlights of the whole event, Now that it's gone I'm left wanting.
Point 2 - The queues at this years party were horrendous - the bars were so slow (were staff laid off due to lower than expected ticket sales? If it had been a sell out the queues would have been unimaginable!) and expensive. It's ok to be slow and cheap, or expensive and fast/good quality, but that combination was not acceptable for the ticket cost.
Point 3 - Whilst the dancefloor tent is great whilst waiting for the sun to go down it really destroys the amazing view across the dancefloor when it's not there.... (yes we'd probably complain if it rained....) It also leaves most of the party without a view of the show....
Point 4 - where was the ambient lighting? The place looks amazing when the trees are lit up.... the location is the star... use it
Point 5 - The lighting rigs scream nothing but "I function to hold lights"(and advertising) - can these not be more interesting?
Point 6 - The whole experience feels very much like a party put on by a public service.... the bare minimum was delivered. For this reason I feel NMG should make a deal with TOYBOX (those coat tail riders) and give them the Harbour Party weekend/event in exchange for ditching their after MG recovery. This will see the Harbour Party improved in production levels when it no longer function to raise money, and ensure more people get to the party that counts! Mardi Gras!
THoughts?

Hey thanks for all that information!

I'll definitely grab a couple of tickets

I must agree with you on this. Years ago Oxford Street used to be awash with displays in shop windows and in the shops. The venues in particular The Oxford used to have a great display inside. These days its as if it is too much work to do anything different to the venue to celebrate this time, of year. They are quite happy to accept all the money from the visitors but do nothing in return except maybe put the prices up. I must admit that despite all the "positive stories" that seem to be emanating from Mardi Gras as to how big this years festival is I suspect that that may not be the case as the vibe is not as strong as it has been in previous years. I also have found that a lot of interstate people that normally would be coming to Sydney for the parade and party are simply not coming. I also noticed while in some of the cities that I have visited in the last few weeks that there is very little enthusiasm for it this year which is a shame.

Who are the fifth DJ playing this event? Mardi Gras previously announced only 4. Doug James, Baby Bear, Kitty Glitter and Kate Munroe. Any idea on the 5th?

i think numbers for the party should be good.
I bought my ticket on tuesday and it was number 13500 ish..
with the pre party rush attendance should be around the 15000 mark?

Sigh. Can't make it to Mardi Gras again this year as I'm going bush. Would be great to be on the dance floor or watching the parade with my family of choice, so please feel free to cheer like buggery on my behalf. Above all, take care of yourselves & each other.

Why are we so down on Toybox. Commpetition and choice is not a bad thing. Keeps MG on their toes. Some do not like the big parties, prefer the smaller more intimate ones, for me I would always choose MG but let us have the choice not to if we don't want to.
It is not the fault of Toybox that thier event has sold out and MG has not and probably will not. MG should be prudent and not budget on sell out.
MG wins the battle of the ticket sales by putting on a great party with good production quality and value for money. I think they will do it. Last year was gr8 and so was sleaze (though music at sleaze was crap) so MG rise to the challenge and deliver a great party.

I bought 2 MG Party tix a week ago numbered around 15,100, would have thought it's close to a sell out.

Hey Party Girl, I just got my ticket to Mardi Gras today. My ticket number was just under 16,200.

I'm treating Mardi Gras as a warm up for Toybox but I really hope that there will be lasers in the Hordern and the RHI this year.

Happy Mardi Gras!

I certainly am NOT down on Toy Box! I'm going to both parties and am equally excited for both of them. I think it takes a pretty immature person that feels the need to diss one party in order to lift up the other.

15100 is the batch number. It is not the number of tickets sold.

ITS NEARLY HERE .... ONLY



DAY TO MARDI GRAS --------------------> Can You Believe It ?

Is there any way for us outside Oz to watch this parade????
Please add a webcast Mardi!

David Imrie was quoted in SX saying that the capacity for the party was 17,000 and that they expected to sell out before the night.

If 16,200 reflects the latest ticket numbers then not long to go!

Maybe today???

Getting soooooooo excited now...

The MG season and the weeks leading up to the closing party is the one time in the year that I can feel connected to the bigger gay picture. I probably sound very insecure but the straight world isn't exactly a fun place to be? Even my straight friends love this time of year when even the straight guys can have little girlie moments without feeling unmanly.Perhaps thats the whole problem with the world too much macho bullshit and not enough girlie moments!!?

are people really warming up for toybox with mardi gras??? where can i get this acid you seemed to have found? i want some too!!! it must be great!

yeah...more like an anti-climax I would have thought.

re the last 2 posts , I see that the toybox promotional bandwagon is still chugging along, isnt it ?

Must be some very bitter people out there - you just cant seem to let people make their own choices without poisioning the marvellous atmosphere that Mardi Gras brings to Sydney.

Let's not forget one important thing, Toybox wouldnt exist if not for Mardi Gras.

Let's not forget one important thing, Toybox wouldnt exist if not for Mardi Gras.

Load of crap! Toybox has been on several other weekends in the past, other than Mardi Gras weekend. Please people! Get real, it's simply another party. If you're so bitter about Toybox, don't go! Let the rest of us happy people enjoy it... it's better that way. And yes, we'll be at Mardi Gras too! Both utterly fabulous parties!

In the Out Perth magazine, during anOakenfold interview he mentionned :
'' At Future music Festival audiences can expect a more experiemental and diverse set, while Mardi Gras punters will be treated to something a lot faster with more energy''.

I wish we could have that experimental and diverse set because the ''faster and with more energy'' is so trance music and that is what you usually hear at parties like Toybox, Frisky etc.

Hoping to hear a fresh set anyway, not something we can hear over the radio.

Happy Time boys !

"re the last 2 posts.....I see that the toybox promotional bandwagon is still chugging along"


I was saying the opposite...Toybox would be be anticlimactic after MG for me....MG is best!

huh? "a lot faster with more energy" is NOT trance.

Faster with more energy does not = trance.

That comment was too too funny.

Ever been in Dome ? it can be quite fast at times with lots of energy and no way does it ever come near Trance.

Enough bickering. This weekend is about us. About community.

Wherever you end up this weekend have a safe and happy Mardi Gras... and for gods sake HAVE FUN!

I could not agree with the above post more...it is just a shame that Toybox is threatening a community event such as Mardi Gras.
The loyal band that goes to Toybox would happily go to their event anytime they hold one so why do they persist in tying in their events with MG and Sleaze?
If they want to hold a party on a weekend that has a community run event then at least hold it the following evening so that it is feasible for people to do both.
Just my opinion of course

Why is it not feasable to do both? I am doing both and I don't go out all that often so it's not as if I'm a massive drug pig. I do MG up until about 5am and then go home for a few hours sleep and then over to Toy Box. Why does that party get picked on anyway?! Every club/party promotor does recovery parties following Sleaze/Mardi Gras and no-one says anything about them. It's so ridiculous the way Toy Box is always the one picked out.

It's Time ..... There are now



DAYS TO MARDI GRAS.... YES !

Toybox is always the one picked on cause everyone knows its the best party of them all. It leads the way in everything - sound system, lighting, atmosphere and production values. It's just a great party and being on the Sunday after MG allows OS and interstate visitors to experience this party as well as MG.

This in itself is a good thing as it has pushed MG to lift it's game along the way over the past few years. Last years MG was one of the best I had been to and I am so looking forward to tonights party as well and hope it has the same high standards. Cause the parties ain't cheap anymore and people expect more for their money.

Enjoy your weekend of partying peoples no matter which party/parties you attend and party safe and look out for each other.

One last thing.......HAPPY MARDI GRAS TO YOU ALL.

Well NMG have well and truely kept their special guest under wraps.

No Tina Arena. No Donna Summer and no Danni Minogue. No Madonna, no Britney and no Cher but the the special guest is someone they people will not be expecting. The guest is "massive" but just not in a pop star kind of way that we are all expecting.

People will love it.

it is purely ONLY a point of wiev. i am not a fan of toybox and would never say it is the best party.
while it may have good lighting / sound / production and means nothing without a proper music which is this party lacking big time.
i dont care if theres 300 lasers or the sound is clear. if theres nothing good coming out the speakers theres nothing to enjoy.

and of course, atmosfere would be fantastic anywhere with ppl trashed from the night before.
i think it si simply overated. not to mention all the stuff you need to take to "enjoy" everything you mentioned.

i wish you a very heatlhy tbx.

Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Very excited now....

your post was the one i needed to push me over the edge baby! i remember the buildup in the old days, versus everyone being headliners...much more fun and i can't wait to be suprised tonight!

Hours To Go

It will only be a special guest for those in that hall.

To be honest I think its not fair of NMG to announce by today who it is.

If you like them you will head to the hall if you dont you would clear out.

Who wants to be told by someone after the event that one of your favourite stars was on and you missed it because you were in another hall ? I for one would be mighty
p*ssed.

By the same token, 17,000 people at the party.

Let's say half hate the guest star and half love him/her. The RHI cannot comfortably fit 8,500 people, so there still would be plenty who would miss out even if they knew who it was.

hmmmm ... hugh jackman?

To be honest I think its not fair of NMG to announce by today who it is.

I sort of agreee but I also disagree. MG have only started annouceing the guests recently. Previously it was a surprise and this was a good thing for 2 reasons.

MG didn't market the event on that guest appearing so their fee was cheaper. But also for reasons of crowd control. Remmember Olivia. You couldn't move in the RHI dancefloor for an hour before. I saw one guy being carried off after he fainted or something.

On the other hand I would be disappointed if I missed a huge star but you know it wouldn't ruin my night especially if I was snogging a boy at the time in another hall.

If you see a cute boy tonight...... just go up to him and snog him..... maybe even slip your hand down his pants. Who needs huge stars to have fun.

I'm told thought it's Tina Arena. But who knows for sure.

Happy Mardi Gras to all my gay brothers and sisters.

Have a fun and safe night! (must be going or I will miss yet another flight). Se you there somewhere, I'm so excited!!!

if you see me remember to wish me Happy Birthday, sex or kisses would be okay as well!!!

Hours To Go

Magda Szubanski would be our special guest tonight. She would be promoting Jenny Craig. She will be duet with Nikky Webster.

This is a ridiculous move by Surry Hill LAC Donna Adney.

It’s lazy policing and nothing more. It’s about their convenience and having a quiet night at work and nothing about a major community event.

Mardi Gras is an adult parade aimed at adults. Of course, families and children are welcome and it should be fun and safe. However, I am sick and tired of being treated like a child incapable of managing my own drinking and behaviour. We have to start standing up to this all-pervasive nanny-state in NSW. It has killed Oxford St and now they want to kill Mardi Gras in a sea of blandness and propriety.

New Mardi Gras COmmittee also needs a serve for being asleep at the wheel on this issue and letting it happen.
Do you seriously expect us to arrive on the street at 5pm, hang around for 3 hours, then watch a 3 hour parade then wait a further hour till the street settles post-parade and still create a buzzy atmosphere? That’s 7 hours without so much as a beer to make it a pleasant experience. Forget it - our group of 15 or so just rang round and decided to give it a miss and head of top a Surry Hills pub instead.

last night on the news they were rehearsing to "enough is enough" for a stage show...
Wonder who it could be...

Donna Summmer & Tina Arena dueting together with Tina filling the Barbara Streisand role.

They've done it before folks.

Hours To Go !

Hi All,
Happy Mardi Gras. Hope your night/weekend is filled with lots of fabulousness. xxx

Nah......it's gunna be Chris Isaac. I can feel it in my waters.

Baby did a bad bad thang.........

Where any of you guys out last night. Let me tell you i was coming home from Joan Rivers. It was scary. One person got glassed with a bottle of rum. Fact while most of us gay boys are responsible and have never been in a fight in our lives there will be a lot of aggressibe narky people out there tonight looking for trouble and alcohol will tip them over the edge.
I think while some times the police go over board and are too heavy handed and authoritarian we got to understand their concerns for our safety.
Are the bars serving drinks or just a ban on BYO

clearly you had your eyes wide shut last year where thousands of yobbos drank themselves legless then started becoming filthy, annoying, and obnoxious.

If you can't watch a 2 hour parade without having a drink then don't attend.

Alcohol is a major problem and the best way to handle it for the parade is a ban.

Drink indoors.

I am just about to leave for the parade assembly. Being in the parade is an amazing experience. Walking/marching/dancing past all those cheering crowds. Running over to kiss special friends.

Then it will be a quick change and off to the party. Watch out for a pink panther.

And have a great Mardi Gras!

I'm told the police will not be enforcing this unless a person is intoxicated. This gives them the power to confiscate the alcohol and arrest the person if they are misbehaving. Take your drinks and have a good time! It will be only the dickheads and violent people that will have trouble!

Geez, can't go a couple of hours without alcohol. What kind of drug addicts/alcos are we??????!!!??!?!?!?!?!?!?

President Obama at MG - you're kidding!!!!!!!!!!!

True but


it should be my choice if I want to go an wait in a hall
for the star.

Fair enough if the hall fills and I get there too late thats my bad luck but if its someone I really want to see then I should be allowed to go to the hall and dance/sit and wait for them. If they are not my favourite star then I can steer clear of the hall.

last years Toybox was just annnounced on U.S Website "The Edge" as best international party for their 2008 list!

Toybox

2 March 2008

Sydney Mardi Gras, Sydney, Australia

Because Toybox is a word spoken like Oz, a place where dreams come true-in the middle of Sydney Mardi Gras-an afternoon party that feels like everyone has arrived happy on the home planet. With deejays from around the world, a splendid setting, glorious sunshine, fairground rides, thousands of smiley people, laser and light shows, arms in the air, ice pops and lollipops, frozen face towels, and confetti cannons shooting something like two tons of confetti into the air, Toybox @ Luna Park more or less defines transcendent collective ecstasy.

Cannot wait for tommorrow!

Hi LaserBoy!
Happy Mardi Gras! And to all other Pinkboarders too, particularly Panther & Countdown Boy. See you all in the laser beams later tonight

Just back from rehersals at the showground. It's Bette Midler. She's doing a number at bodyline first.

Hours to Go !!

LOL! You could imagine the twinks at Bodyline...."eeewww, there's like some like really old woman here.."

I hope Oakenfold plays a great trance set for all you trance lovers out there - after all, he is one of the pioneers of the trance sound. And for those of you complaining about the possibility of trance at MG, get a grip - there are a ton of other spaces to choose from if the music isn't 100% to your liking....

Hours to Go !!

Hours to Go !!

IS NOW







Hey Gang .... I hope you've enjoyed the countdown , see you all there ... I'm leaving now.

Dear All, I am so sorry I cannot be there. Can you please give really detailed accounts of how the night went? I want to hear everything - halls, lighting, DJs, shows, outrageous behaviour - tell us all!!!!

How was the party? [had to work]

Ok but not great. I think Mardi Gras Party has become so predictable and bland that they seriously need a massive shake up.

Scenic was boring to non existent.

Lighting was minimal.

Paul Oakenfold was good in parts but what was with the sound levels fading in and out?

Also there seemed to be a mass exodus once Oakenfold had finished - I've never seen the Hordern so empty at 4am. It wouldn't have happened if trance was in there.

Alison Jear had the RHI jumping.

Dan Murphy in the RHI was fantastic.

Natalie Bassenthwaite was ok but her new song was a tad boring.

So Mardi Gras:

More and better lighting.

More creative scenic in the RHI and Hordern and Dome. Blow our minds.

And for gods shake up the production formula so the parties don't constantly become a rewind of the years before.

This should have been introduced years ago. Police are not going to search every single bottle people are carrying...Its jus the yobbos walking around with a bottle of rum etc that they will target.
It was a shame last night that there were absolutely no police on george street after the parade. I was absolutely terrified at one point. I think they should realise MG night is also a night that the yobbos come out to piss it up in public and be disorderly.

OH MY GOD!!!!! How fecking good was his set? It was truly magic - lots of trance, lots of house - he was out of this world. Hope everyone had a great time last night.
And yes, I'm now off to Toy Box!

9/10.

One of the best parties in years. Loved the Hordern. Loved Brent Nicholls and Rob Gilbert in Dome.

Great friendly peoplem, great vibe all around. Really mixed crowd which I enjoyed.

Keep it up Mardi Gras ! here's waiting to see what you do with Sleaze Ball.

This was the best Mardi Gras party I've been to! The Retro Space was fantastic, much more room than when it was in the Forum in years past, and the constant rounds of intimate drag shows made it really really fun.
The only big stuff up was that he actual retro music did not begin at all until 1am!
The retro space was packed from 1am to 3am, but was virtually empty 10:30pm to 1am when they had amatuer DJ's playing current techno music (during part of that time, we went over to RHI & actually heard retro there instead!).
The bar in the retro space was popular... but the separate Cocktail bar at the back was a fizzer- as none of the drinks were visible so you didn't even know what the hell the stall was- it needed a sign saying "Cocktail Bar"... plus a couple of tables & chairs in front of it would have been nice touch.
Drag queen "Peppermint" & the male dancers from New York were great, not to mention the Drag Spice Girls.
Had sooooo much fun.... well, once the retro music actually started commencing from 1am. DJ David Hiscock was the best!
Also was able to pop over & catch two of the shows in RHI. This year, the crowds & halls seem to flow really well... and didn't see heaps of people leaving around 4am like last year... seemed like everyone was happy to stay. The heat in the RHI was bit much... though the new Retro space has cross airflow & was mostly cool.
Thanks so much for making a FANTASTIC retro space, with the loverly drag shows & male dancers. Was HOT! & so much fun! Thankyou NMG!

snaps with the Oakenfold sound levels - they were irritatingly random with fades in and out. He was DJ dancing from the very beginning of his set - was he partying too early?
Alan Thompson came on strong and all of a sudden the sound was perfect. Alan does know this audience and it showed.
Lighting in the Horden was the best for ages - a super low rig with interesting designs right away from the moment we sat at 1am to have a lookie.
Really nice vibe overall, miles better than last years' MG

Feisty hitting it hard from 5am in the Dome
the dance floor was pumping and the punters on the edges and around the party trees were having a great time. Well done babe and chookas for Extra Dirty tonight, I hear only 50 tix left at the door ...
Equal second for Alan Thompson in Horden, Ben Drayton and Rob Gilbert in the Dome.
Dance hands to Sveta for saving the girls space from some gad-awful mixing in the Fuse Bar (who was that? never give them a major event gig until they learn how to mix music, a crime to Priscilla).
Love to the lighting guy in Horden, much enjoyed.
Overall a good night out and well done David Imrie on organising the lovely weather x

Thank you New Mardi Gras! What an awesome party!

Paul Oakenfold really mixed it up and had the Hordern rocking like it hasn't done in years. Alan Thompson and Mike Kelly were sensational. Rob Gilbert in the dome we excellent. Popped into the RHI and it was going off. Everyone was having a great time.

The crowd were so sexy and playful and while the scenic was minimal the lighting in all the halls was great.

Caught a couple of the shows but think we've seen the song and dance routine too many times. Ditch the shows or get a bit more creative.

The police presence was a bit over the top but it didn't spoil the very up, very happy vibe of the party.

It was great to have Oakenfold play at Mardi Gras. So who are we going to have next year? Armin Van Buuren please!

Well i LOVED IT!!
Paul Oakenfold had me in the Hordern for his entire set!
The shows were GREAT! (Tina Arena my favorite!!)
The lasers were phenominal!!
The Freemasons rocked, and the vocalist at the end of their set was AWESOME!!
Cant complain! Me and my mates had a great time!!!

I strongly disagree with this post. No one is to blame for only 2000 people attending this event is Mardi Gras.

The previous producers of this event did a great job, donated about $250,000 to the community over five years (how quickly we forget). The party also always sold out including in its last year (when the previous party had rained out 3 hours before the event - they reinvented it and the marketing campaign (so if they were producing a crap event why did everyone go? They went because it was well produced and well marketed and added enormous benefit to the community. I know I worked (as a volunteer for teh previous producers for five years). I am proud of the work we did and the magic we created. Your comments here are disrespectful of our whole team (not just the individual that you seem comfortable defaming on this board). Your post is nothing short of insulting, rude and factually incorrect. The reason the former producers decided to not continue producing the party more than one but mainly because the royal botanic gardens wished to move the date of the party to the next weekend to allow Open Air to keep the venue for the extra week. The producers did not want to get into the logistics of negoting moving the date of the party and going up against mardi gras party. I genuinely respected this decision as it was carefully considerate of our community's most important fundraiser. Mardi Gras oin the other hand was in a greta position to move the date of the parade back to its old date - no problem. I think the previous producers were also just over it - and judging from the posts on this board over the years i can see why - they are plainly untrue and always unconfirmed.

Yes Mardi Gras may well consider dumping the event because if it cannot sell more than the break event point of that event (about $3500 tickets) then they are wasting their time. But Please please please the reason that the event is now no longer selling can not be blamed on the people who produced the event 2 years ago - it is ancient history - Mardi Gras must take responsibility for its own event failures and reinvent the party and stop blaming others.

the last dj in the hordern ... wow! who was it?

There was something for everyone at the party!!

Liked the extra retro space tent to cool down after the RHI. What was with the RHI? just standing on the side of the dance floor caused you to sweat.

Great DJ line up and great friendly people.

Mardi Gras organisers you excelled yourself!

I normally love Oakenfold but last night was just a 2 hour mega mix.

I've been on Sydney busses that have had more direction than that set.

Thanks for your lighting comments - Glad you enjoyed it!
Paul Marin
Lighting Operator and Programmer for Mardi Gras 09 - Hordern Pavillion.

The last dj in the Hordern was Mike Kelly. And I agree...WOW!

Great party NMG, here are my thoughts:
- Loads of people, very friendly and diverse crowd must have come close to a sell out!!!
- Arrived at front gate around 11pm and have never seen a line going all the back to the cricket ground!!!
- An overkill with all the police outside the gates (felt very intimidating)
- Hordern, fantastic lighting and a bigger than normal dance floor, sound system very average at times with sound dropping in and out. What happend to Paul Oakenfold's set.... for a international DJ who has done it all, he was very disappointing to say the least, I have never seen so many people leave the dance floor 20 minutes into any DJ set. Thought Allan Thompson saved the night after Oakenfold's effort.
- RHI, as usual too hot (cooling needs to be installed, it is an OH&S issue with over heating) unfotunately did not get to see the Freemasons becuase of the heat, although lighting looked great and did not stay longer enough to listen to the sound system.
- Forum was a hit, I was in there around 3pm and the dance floor was packed and the music was diverse to all the other rooms.
- Dome, looked a little empty throughout the night but music and lighting was great.
- Retro space, finally this area should have kept all the retro hard heads satisfied.
Overall for the space allocated I thought NMG made the best with what they had with diverse music, chill out areas, and providing seats and extra portaloos where possible. Thank you NMG for another great Mardi Gras season, I am looking forward to next year already.
Matt

Could not agree more, his beatmixing was woeful, track selection was uninspiring and the sound from his CD's/Vinyl could not be heard though the speakers on the dance floor.

Well I could hear his music...are you sure you weren't standing up the back of the Horden dancefloor?...because I found the music from the speakers wasn't getting through there, mainly echo, due to poor placement of the speakers I guess.

Track selection sounded ok to me. Could not get into the Horden music till Oakenfold came on.

The dj before him played what sounded like...funky house?...in the Horden?!...no thanks.

The Hordern looked fantastic Paul..............

Loved the big low hanging squares and WOW the lasers were amazing.

How the Hordern should always look.

the whole night since I arrived at the party at 12 midnight, most of dance floor were not packed by party goer. The music at RHI was crap, and very hot, must've been the aircon problem. I felt like being at the midnight shift with all the music between 1 - 2 am. The Dome a bit empty. Lots of people staying outside the venues. sitting on the ground. Spent $140 (including bloody booking fee)was very dissapointing. The police and dogs outside the entrance were very annoying. As soon as I got out of the Cab, I saw lots of people got arrested with 2 of their hand on the wall while the police doing the body search. what an awful night.

i have to dissagree.
i went to two of those paties back before nmg took over. kill me for saying this but i didn not enjoy. i was a punter. i have got no idea how much work you put into the azure parties - i guess you got my $$$ in return.
i believe the performers for the main floor were simply not suitable. i know , we could go into a very long discusion about this. i simply didnt enjoy it.
that was probably the time when i started checking the line ups before paying for (any) tickets.
also must say - was much much more happier to pay for the one just gone.

I think you mis understand me. I was certainly not attacking Phillip Dimnent and his team who were the orginal producers of Harbour. They did a fantastic job and if that's what people think I apologise. Yes Phillip's team donated profits to our community and production quality was spot on. It was a great event and he should be thanked for his outstanding contribution.
I criticised the guy that took it over from Phillip. In my view they did not have the same attention to detail, production was sloppy and cheap and coupled with the two years of wash outs and police close downs and think that has impacted significantly on the reputation of this event. I know some guys who went this years Harbour and said it was awesome so let's agree that MG did a good job this year. For me I think this is one of the events because of it's location is specifically targeted by the police, Phillip didn't have to deal with the problem of sniffer dogs back in his day the police had a more sensible policy to policing. Anyway it's what should be on the agenda. Keep Harbour or come up with something new.

i think your expectations were a little bit too high hon

...tried the railway network yet?

Well what can I say. Agree scenic was hardly exsistant and the stage design was cheap but you know I didn't care. I loved the globe in the RHI and I thought the lighting design was ok. I could see all the sexy boys around me so the lighting in my view did it's job.
Music was fantastic. Thank you Kitty Glitter, Wayne G (you absolutely fuckin rocked the world my man) and Dan Murphy was great to finish. My regret is that (against my better judgement) we went for a walk around after Tina, Hordern, Dome - I though those halls were dreadful (but then it's not my style of music as I'm sure those in Dome would have hated the RHI)and I missed listening to the Freemasons. Next year I'm going to stick to the plan and not leave the rhi. My big beef with MG as was the case last year was the height of the stage. For the first two shows I was at the front so could see everything on stage clearly - and what an opening number - full of energy one of MG's best production numbers for many many years. For the final show I was towards the back and couldn't see I had to look at the monitors. Please MG build a slightly higher stage next year. My second complaint was that why did MG not air condition the RHI. They did last year. Expensive thing to do I know but the RHI was so hot it was at some stage almost unbearable (hence our walkabout at 3am). Did MG pull the plug on a/c when they realised the party wouldn't sell out to save some $$$$$.
I think air conditioning is almost as important as lighting especially if next year it rains and it's really humid. Please consider this MG.
Overall though I had a great time one of the best MG for a long while - yes I'll say it - The magic is back!!!! Enjoyed it more than last years. Loved the music (in the RHI). Loved the crowd. Loved the shows.

Surely the RHI was air-conned several years ago?

Was there really a lot of police this year? how many people were arrested? I went last year, and really didn't see that many police officers, and didn't see any dogs.

I know we all have different tastes in music that's why MG was so fantastic. RHI for us anthems guys, Horder for the trancy/house stuff and dome for the dirtier cruise music. There was something for everyone.
Really don't know how anyone can say MG was a bad party.
$135 ($120) for a 10 hour party with 5 venues come off it mate you can't get better value than that. Other parties are charging $60 - $100 for a single space.
Terrible that people get arrested at the gate (not that that is MG's fault) but people are stupid somethimes and attract attention to themselves. You have to be smart and aware.

Nope never been air conditioned with the excetption of last year when MG installed a portable system and what a difference it made. So please MG lets have the a/c ongoing for future. Maybe all the stakeholders who use that venue through the year could pressure Playbill to permanently install a/c.

Ditch Harbour Party?! Are you mad?!!
I have had the joy of going to Harbour Party since I discovered it in 2001 when Phillip Dimment and his team were still running it. I fell in love with the whole thing: the amazing harbour setting, the city skyline at dusk, the bats, the really friendly crowd, the mix of ages , the absence of attitude, the inclusiveness and consideration people showed, and of course, the great music. I have been going ever since despite Azure's less than inspiring productions. I was there two years ago when we were all thrown out at 9.00 pm, having had the really scary experience of witnessing my girl being targeted by a police guy and his dog, watched as she was made to take off her boots and socks, made to shake out her bra, and listened as the police tried to push her to give them her name and tried to make something of her reason for not carrying ID. We got in that night and still had a great night despite this inauspicious start and the intimidating presence of police dogs meandering among the crowd on the dancefloor. We were very sad to go when we were told to leave, but left determined to return the following year.
From what I've seen last year and this year since that time, I think the shutdown and huge police presence scared a lot of people away and I think that's the main reason for the drop in numbers.
This year, there was an even bigger police presence at the gates, though thankfully not inside, but it still gave a creepy feeling to the start of the party. Nevertheless, once we were inside, me and my girl had a fantastic time, as good as I remember it from when Phillip Dimmemt and his crew ran the party. The music was fantastic, the shows were great, and the crowd really diverse and friendly. Well done New Mardi Gras!
As a community, we just have to accept that there is going to be more police presence at these affairs and we need to not curb our choices in what party we support just because of these kinds of experiences with police. Harbour Party is unique on the party callendar and we should all get behind it and not let police intimidation and scaremongering dictate our choices or our lives! Come on people: next year, come to Harbour Party and party with your tribe. Don't let the police intimidate you. Once you get in, you'll have a fantastic time, I promise. If we don't make the party financially viable, we will lose it and I think that would be a big loss.
Come on people: don't let the police scare you away. Claim your space! Come to Harbour Party in 2010. I'll see you there. I'll be the one gazing out adoringly at the skyline, smiling up at the bats overhead, kissing my girl on the dancefloor, or smiling at you while we dance.

What a great Mardi Gras it was! Whole stack of great Parade and Party pics here:

http://sxnews.e-p.net.au/news/biggest-ever-mardi-gras-5097.html

a wonderful night

I spent it all night jumping from dome and the forum. The live bands made my night. Miami Horror were amazing as were Beau Monde. The dj's kept it really diverse too.

I popped into the RHI and the Horden and all I could see were smiling faces. Seems like we all had a good time!

Happy Recovery all.

Where can I find the best photos of Mardi Gras? Links please.

Well the hell where you ?

12:30am RHI you couldnt move on the dance floor then show came on.

Went to Horder and had to squeeze onto the dance floor.

About an hour later went to Dome and had squeeze to be under the Dome as dont like dancing on the sides which a lot were doing.

Fantastic party and thank you NMG. More like em.

The drag shows & hot male dancers in the Retro Hall were a welcome bonus. The temperature was nice & cool in the Retro Hall, and some really great music from 1am. Was mixed fantabulously well- DJ David Hiscock was a true genius/artist. Really enjoyed dancing in there for hours. I actually prefer this new space to when Retro was in the Forum!
Well done Mardi Gras organisers! I will be back again in force next year & make sure I drag along all my friends who were hesitant after retro was bumped last year. The new Retro space ROCKS! The only thing- next year start the retro music from 10:30pm not 1am. And love the drag shows & male dancers.

Expectations should be high, Paul Oakenfold is a world renowned professional DJ and gets paid lots of money. You should perform at a high standard when playing at these events.

Yes I was dancing in the back left hand corner, maybe I should have wandered around looking for a better spot, but then why should I, I am paying that much money I should get a great sound everywhere? Oh well you can't win them all..... I still had a great night.
matt

Fortunatly it doesn't sound like we will be seeing you there next year.

That will make more space for the rest of us who can find something positive in the experiance.

Last DJ in the Hordern was Mr Mike Kelly! He was and is totally awesome, you know how to close a party....... Huge Well Done to you, best DJ of the night by far !!!!

These comments about Paul Oakenfold's (which happened to be quite good I might add) set are factually incorrect. The Hordern was so full during his set that extra crowd control measures had to be put in place for the duration of it.....

The party was definitely better than some previous years for me - and obviously this is one gay man's personal opinion. I loved the lighting/cubes and globe in the RHI and the Hordern - Oakenfold wasn't as good as I hoped - a few too many big anthems back to back for me - missed Freemasons but the sounds in the Dome made up for it - hot, dirty, sexy...just the way I like it! I flew in from interstate and thought this might be the last one but can't wait for 2010! To be honest I really don't mind what the decorations and shows are - just as long as there is one place (of the many) that plays the beats I like. So 2009 delivered for me. From a state that can't maintain even a few gay venues - enjoy the fabulous Mardi Gras that is on offer. It really is a great event - kudos to all involved. Now someone tell me where I can buy a CD of Tribal music as featured in the Dome - PLEEEEEEASE!!!!!!!! Seriously!

paul oakenfold - tocas miracle, lola's theme, sweet dreams...was he trying to please all the people who were missing out on RHI?
maybe he lost his cds but always carry some ministry of sound gem. or perhaps it was easier to plug in an iPod... dissapointing for me. god, my standards must be way too high

Parade, Party, Harbour, Recoveries (Extra Dirty, DTPM etc) photos are here:

http://www.samesame.com.au/gallery/sydney

Firstly, the comments about the Hordern being "trancy" or playing trance are incorrect. Mardi Gras clearly billed the Hordern as House and Progessive House which is why I suspect so many trance fans stayed away and went to Toybox instead.

It is true that the Hordern was packed when Oakenfold was on, so much so that so that you had to queue to get in. While Oakenfold did play a couple of old trance tracks in his set that was about the extent of trance for the night.

It's also true that when Oakenfold finished his set the crowd cleared out of the Hordern (and possibly the party) leaving a VERY roomy Hordern, Quite unusual.

As for police dogs I myself did not see any but I hear that they were in the park as you came off Flinders Street and at one stage at the entrance to the party. Inside the party did see a guy in speedos getting taken away by police in handcuffs.

Mardi Gras have clearly made cuts to the party production over the last couple of years. The dance floor was once again smaller, the stage was again smaller with the tacky projection screens either side and the scenic was barely there.

My biggest gripe is that its become all so predictable. You know what time the shows will be on, you know that it will be on a small stage, you know that there will be no lasers in the RHI and minimal ones in the Hordern, you know that the dome will have no scenic and that the scenic elsewhere will be a variation of what they have used before... etc etc. Tape this party and you can roll out what next years and the year after will be like.

Great night the RHI was hot and I couldn't stay for long. Horden and Dome were also fantastic. The strong presence of police was overkill and coming into the toilets and checking up on people isn't acceptable. I'll write a letter of complaint to my State MP that this is Australia and not some former Soviet bloc country like East Germany!!
Being greeted at the gates both before entering and then again afterwards is utter invasion of personal privacy.
I witnessed police and dogs entering the Hordern at about 2.30am and simultaneously watched people freak and swallow whatever substance they had. A collective overdose of a few thousand would send a clear message that this strategy of fear and intimidation is not acceptable.
My thanks to NMG for a great festival and a wonderful party...

Matt, why didn't you even make the effort to find a good spot? I can't believe that you would mouth off in this way with so little evidence to back up your opinion.

Yes I agree, and I had a great night too, but my point was, I don't think one can hardly blame Oakenfold for the placement of the speakers (sound not being heard at the back of the dancefloor) or do djs organise where to place speakers? Does my memory serve me correctly in that in previous years the speakers were set back BEHIND the back corners of the dancefloor? Did not seem to have this sound problem last year.

Feisty's set in the Dome really hit the spot!, but then she always does...one dj you can always rely on to deliver.

Thankyou thankyou, thankyou, for the perfect retro space. Loved it. Can't wait to go again next year.
Only tiny criticism, is put the DJ comp winners out in the open air area between RHI & HP area next time, or anywhere but NOT in the retro space, so the retro can actually start at 10:30pm (was a bit of an anxious wait till 1am for it to kick off properly- especially after the scare last year with the vanishing "discotorium").
I really enjoyed catching up with friends, dancing to some great retro music, and watching some first class drag shows up close.

Meh! I thought he was absolutely awesome, the best DJ I've heard in a very long time and I don't care what other people who like to think of themselves of experts think or say! Fact is, I enjoyed it and that's all that matters (to me).
I did notice the sound fades and was a little confused by them, I admit, but by the same token, I had a fab time during his set and the Freemasons set.

True there was a big queue of people wanting to get into the Horden to hear Paul and in a relatively short time they all gained entry because of the equal numbers leaving. We came back to the Horden an 30 minutes later later there were no queues to get in just people leaving. The DJ before Paul had no sound problem neither did the one after him.

We had a great time at the party, so well done NMG they cannot be held responsible for DJ's that fail to live up to their reputations.

well the place to be was the RHI...just brillant...the bears was just crazy to dance with...Kitty was a hoot...was a small fuck up with the Freemasons. Shows were great so over all 9/10....

The Dome was just hopeless...where was the leather crowd? 2/10. The horden can't say too much...but found the sound not as good as the RHI...8/10

over all 8/10 and better than Sleaze

it is interesting to read the dome was hopeless from someone who says kitty glitter was a hoot.

Predictable ?

I just dont get this ?

What difference does it make if they changed show times ?
whats wrong with knowing the times so you make sure you are either in the Hall or out of its way so you dont get
crushed ?

Predictable ? I want to know what style of music is being played in the Hordern and the Dome as my two favourite halls. If I didnt know a thing about what was on/going to happen I may decide not to go. You have to work out is it going to be worth it or not therefore it has to be predictable to a point.

As for lasers in the Hordern ? they were great. Certainly better than has been in the past.

Alan Thompson really did it for me. His set was just amazing. Didn't stop dancing. The Hordern really needed him!!! Thanks MG for selecting him.

Yes Paul I could not agree more with your comment, but what more evidence do I need when dancing on a floor professionally put down and I am directly in front of a bank of speakers? the sound was terrible... I do not like to dance in the middle of the floor where the sound is most likely at its best. If you know anything about plating from CDs and I hope you do, playing MP3 format can sound dreadful through a sound system that is not set up for it as to playing WAV format.

I saw Tina Arena. Who else was there? Was one of them Donna Summer?

DJ David Hiscock was brilliant.
Such a good vibe & mix -would love to see the playlist for his set.

Kudos to Paul Marin - the lighting in Hordern has been the best for the past two years. Luved watching the magic you created from the bleeches. Spent all night dancing in the Hordern with my mates and we had the best time ever.

Loved the lighting in the Hordern. Only pouting because the lighting guys were too far back for me to send them love from the floor. But they gave me and the girlfriend some special party moments.

Alan Thompson - lovely.
Dome DJs - lovely/dirty. Feisty "inspired" more than a few punters.
And for the first time for a few parties, wandered into the Forum to be pleasantly surprised by Infusion! Crikey, but they were good! Very very good.

Also, loved the drag king show in the girl space at 2.30am. No love to the tall annoying straight guy in there, taking up room at the front while short girls were trying to watch the show from behind him.

Thanks all for a good party.

Thank you mardi gras!

Best night ever. The coolest bands and really great dj's. Stereogamous we're so hot!

Here's to a awesome year!

I lost a very (sentimental)valuable fake diamond bracelet.

Cash reward for someone to be so kind as to let me know if they found it

Thanx

i dont think you can really compare MG to toybox as they are really different parties...
MG tends to attract everyone to the party as it is the main dance party on dyring that weekend.
toybox on the other hand attracts all the regulars that always go to toybox so people know what to expect hence why you get this great atmosphere.
i personally prefer toybox/frisky any day over MG but thats just me.

I saw at least 6 people arrested, taken away by cops dressed undercover. Saw a lot more undercovers around the party.
It was a very big operation by the looks of it.
Lining up I saw more than ten uniformed hanging around the entrance around midnight and 1 dog.
I heard on the radio in the taxi going home 48 were arrested, but that might have been at the parade for alcohol. No news sites I have seen seemed to mention party arrests.

In no particular order....

Marc Almond – Shining Brightly (Intro)
Utah Saints – Something Good (Warren Clarke)
Wayne G feat Rebekah Wheatley – Love U Right
Peyton – Ride Like The Wind (Moto Blanco Mix)
Mary J Blige – Just Fine (Moto Blanco Mix)
14th Precinct - All Out Of Love (7th Heaven Mix)
Darren Hayes & Wayne G - Love Hangover
Rhianna – Don’t Stop The Music (Wideboys Mix)
Wayne G & Shauna Jensen – Respect
Wayne G V Peyton – UR The Best Thing
Sylvester – You Make Me Feel Mighty Real (Jewels & Stone Mix)
Inaya Day – Natural High (Out Of Office Mix)
Kurd Maverick – Blue Monday (Vandalism Mix)
Debbie Holiday – Joyful Sound (Wayne G & Porl Young Mix)
Cher – Believe (Wayne G & Andy Allder MG09 Mix)
Beyonce – Single Ladies (Dj Escape Mxi)
One Republic – Apologise (Lenny B Mix)
Ida Corr – Let Me Think About It (Original)
Demarko feat Heather Leigh - Drop A house 09 (Wayne G & Andy Allder Mix)
Wayne G & Michael Wheatley – When Doves Cry
Staxx – Joy 09 (Dancing Divaz Mix)
Erasure – A Little Respect (Wayne G Mix)
Jamie Knight – Run (Wayne G Mix)
Katie Perry – Hot N Cold (Almighty Mix)
Sabrina Johsnton – Peace (Wayne G & Porl Young Mix)
Wayne G – Somewhere Over The Rainbow
Deborah Cox – Nobodys Supposed to be here (Wayne G & Porl Young MG09 Mix)
Kylie – Your Disco Needs you (Almighty 08 Mix)
Fergie – Big Girls Don’t Cry (Phil B Mix)
Madonna – Dance 2Nite (Wayne G MG09 Mix)
Pet Shop Boys – Go West (Club Junkies Mix/Re Edit)

wayne g is who i call a real dj. he should go as an example for the other ones. if i was a dj he would be my role model.
look at the excellent choice of music. this person should be on the top. why wayne doesnt have a regular spot?? he deserves one.
where are all the club owners? you all should be reading this and do something instead of wasting such TALENT!!!!!

Ummmm, doesn't he live overseas??

Just looking at Wayne G play list, I can't tell which was the one he played with a woman's voice, singing something like a beautiful love ballad? It's hard I know, being Tuesday and all

Ooooh some great memories there Wayne. Thanks so much! I also really loved the mix of "heard it Thru the grapevine" from whoever was up next in the RHI. Totally unexpected, totally great. Alison Jiear's midnight show was awesome too!
Yay for Mardi Gras! See you at Sleaze!

Alison Jear was singing with Tina Arena.

DAYS TO SLEAZE BALL ... ARGH !!!

Why is there such debate about Mardi Gras and Toybox. What about Frisky and the other parties on that weekend. Why the obsession just with Toybox?
There has always been recoveries on the Sunday after MG nothing new there.
The atmosphere is so great at Toybox cos they play really uplifting music... MG did the same this year in the RHI which is why in my view that was the hall to be in. But not everyone is like me and likes the camp music so MG provided choice with the heavier stuff in the Dome and Hordern. Provided MG continues to provide such choice will ensure it's future success.

Would love to see some photos from the drag shows. Someone was also on stage taking photos of the crowd when DJ David Hiscock was on.

"Why is there such debate about Mardi Gras and Toybox. What about Frisky and the other parties on that weekend. Why the obsession just with Toybox?"

The answer is quite simple.

ALL of the other recovery parties are held the next evening giving attendees at Mardi Gras between 12 & 14 hours of rest from the end of Mardi Gras at 8am Sunday to the start of Sunday recoveries from 8pm to 10pm on Sunday night. In this respect all Sunday night events should be considered stand alone events that have no direct link to Mardi Gras.

Toybox on the other hand flies in the face of Mardi Gras banging on its event only four hours after the completion of Mardi Gras by starting at Midday. This start time regretably makes many punters have to choose which event they want to go to. There are some out there who have the stamina and cash to attend both but those people are not in the majority.

The price to attend Toybox is also similar to that to attend Mardi Gras. NONE of the other Sunday night parties have an entry price that remotely comes near that of Mardi Gras or Toybox. And so naturally Toybox becomes Mardi Gras closest and natural competitor.

It's just the same as the debate regarding shopping at Coles vs Woolworths.

It is also well known that relations between to the two parties (MNG & Toybox) have never been all that cordial and that both parties have often run subtle campaigns bagging each other out.

And so thats why tempers fray on occassions when Toybox vs Mardi Gras debates start on this wall. It's simply a case of hot headed loyalists stating their case against the other who is perceived as the closest competition to each other.

From my perspective I think the Toybox vs Mardi Gras debate would very quickly disappear if Toybox shifted its starting time to something a little later in the day (ie 4pm to midnight) and give punters more respite from Mardi Gras's 8am finish time until Toybox started 8 hours later at 4pm. If that were to happen then Toybox would be viewed as a seperate stand alone event on Sunday arvo/evening rather than as direct competition to Mardi Gras, AND more importantly it would give punters ample opportunity to go home after Mardi Gras and get at least 6-7 hours sleep before hitting Toybox. This most sensible of ideas would certainly make it more palatable for those who find it difficult to choose and cope with the horrible situation we now have with only four hours between the end of Mardi Gras and the start of Toybox.

FINALLY - Let us not forget that Mardi Gras has already done its bit 2 years ago bridging the gap between the end of Mardi Gras and the start of Toybox. 2007 was the last time Mardi Gras parties finished at 10am. Now days they finish at 8am giving punters a 4 hour gap instead of what was once only a 2 hour gap. Now (from my point of view) its Toybox's turn to contribute towards this situation by moving back its starting time for future events.
.

Yeah Evil Twin! Infusion we're amazing! All the bands were really special!

So glad retro, tribal, house and live music all have a home at Mardi Gras now!

Totally disagree.

only competition would be if its on the same night and virtually nothing else is.

MG and night time even. Toybox a day time event.

I only every support NMG and have friends who do all Toybox parties.

Toybox have different music style, different day , differnt time.

I just wish posters would let it drop.

No comparison at all and not even competition.

Hey guys

Thought I'd echo Paul's comments and say thanks for the kind words on the lighting; I designed all the rigs for the sites and opped in the RHI and usual stick my head up once in a while on here to respond

Was great to work with Justin @ MG Scenic again and I think the Hordern really came up looking good. I went a bit different in the RHI this year and lowered the trim height of the lighting rig below what we've had it at before which closed the space in a bit more (and I promise it didn't raise the temperature - I've never been so hot in there before!)

I will say that I had more fun in the RHI than ever before - Wayne and the Freemasons were awesome to work with and it really makes the night more fun for the lighting guys when the music is good and the communication is happening between everyone.

Other than that; I'll keep reading comments and it's always good to get feedback on any aspect of it

Cheers
Richard Neville
Lighting Designer
RHI / Hordern / Dome / Forum / Tent
richard@mandylights.com

Red Herring.... Why on earth would Toybox change a successful time slot apart from the fact that Toybox can't operate at Luna Park past 8pm on a Sunday anyway? There are very sensitive noise issues at that venue with residents immediately above.

Mardi Gras also had to pull back it's closing time to 8am as required by the venue reducing a 12 hour party to a 10 hour party.

Responsible people who want to attend both do so. Many on Sunday had watched the Parade being on the street, in seating, wherever, for some 4 or 5 hours, then the main party for 6 or 7 hours (note the total Mardi Gras timing of 10-12 hours), before getting a solid rest and heading over the bridge around Noon or 1pm. Some even kicked on to frisky from 9pm and paced themselves (there were no ambulances at the Metro Sunday night).

It really comes down to responsible self abuse. Those that can't do that shouldn't be going to any parties, let alone two or three. Consider the 14 ambulances that left Mardi Gras party.

"Mardi Gras also had to pull back it's closing time to 8am as required by the venue reducing a 12 hour party to a 10 hour party"

This is a statement that in no way whatsoever can be substantiated by anybody here on pinkboard.

My source being a board member of NMG would strongly suggest that the decision to cut back the party in 2008 to a 8am close time rather than 10am was three fold -

(a) It was a cost cutting measure, one that saved NMG an extremely significant amount of money

(b) Surveys from Mardi Gras parties in the previous 5 years (2003-2007) suggested that numbers of attendees at the party at closing time of 10am was in sharp freefall compared to pre Toybox years.

(c) The emergence of Toybox with it's Midday starting time was seen by the board as a hinderence with Mardi Gras closing at 10am. So a responsible decision for safety reasons was taken to cut the party back to an 8am finish.

"Responsible people who want to attend both do so"

I suggest you re-read Red Herring's well thought out post.

I know of plenty of people who had to choose between MG and Toybox....due to pricing, times etc.

I felt sorry for Alan Thompson. Having to come on after such an amazing set from Paul Oakenfold really showed him up. Sorry but it was very standard & predictable music which just didn't do it for me at all.

Yes - MG had aircon i RHI last year - No air con this year made it disgusting

OMFG I HAD THE BEST TIME EVER AT MG THIS YEAR. GREAT MUSIC, GREAT CROWD, GREAT PEOPLE. thankyou sooooooo much MG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(d) the venue requested an earlier closing due to the inevitable interaction of 'out of it' partygoers and SCG or Football Stadium crowd that particular year. MG heeded the warning of possible homophobia based on the venue pushing for a safe exit strategy for the party goers.

Same diff - they were asked by the venue and agreed.

Hi All,

Does anyone have a copy of the foxtel broadcast?? I am DYING to see it. I had friends record it on their IQ boxes but it auto-erased on tuesday morning at 10AM and, well, I was not long home at that point so I couldn't make a copy! Any suggestions or pointers would be greatly appreciated!

Had a FANTASTIC Mardi Gras this year, marched for the 1st time. What a thrill. Party was ace and the freemasons rocked as always. Bring on MG 2010!

i thought it was oak n fold who played tocas miracle. did i hear sweet dreams in horden too? such a shaved head dj moment.
aaaaah those unforgetable moments.

Yes I had heard this as well as been attending parties for over 25 years and a few times the 10am crowd leaving were greeted by the Cricket/Footy crowd arriving plus it was turmoil in the car parks etc and remember a few posting about the comments flung their way when walking home.

8am close just worked better to clear out one crowd and car parks to be ready for the next crowd coming in for another event.

Of course unable to verify that.

I think you should keep in mind that last year the party was preceded by a cold front and the outside temperature dropped to 12 degrees! This years party has been the warmest (weather-wise) for a couple of years.

you can download it from demonoid

The were no sporting events held at the Sydney Cricket Ground or The Sydney Football Stadium last Sunday.

The 'need' to close Mardi Gras at 8am to steer clear of sporting hooligans last Sunday is simply not factual.

Really? were you in the same room? As much as the first part of Paul Oakenfolds set was good the second was awful, he kept dropping out the sounds and at 1 point there was silence! maybe he forgot to put the next track on? He played a lot of anthems and as predictable, sweet dreams!!!!! How many times have we all heard that?

As other posters have mentioned, in my opinion Alan Thompson saved the night in the horden, his set was full of exciting sounds, great drops and highs and some really upfront music I haven't heard before, and you call that predictable?

I thoroughly enjoyed Thompsons set and he delivered for me personally, but it is a personal thing and we all entitled to our opinion.

I popped into the Dome after his set and got deep and dirty in there to end the night.

All in all a great Mardi Gras party, I didn't make it our the next night as I had work Monday but by all accounts there were some great parties on...

it was okenflod who played tocas disco and sweet dreams

My last word on the whole MG / Toybox thing is that this whole drama could be resolved if they worked together like they used to in the past. Rembember when Toybox used to be the official recovery party? Alos remember Toybox a few years ago at NYE - it was in the Hordern and what a fantastic venue for it.
So my suggestion is MG and Toybox work together. They split the cost of the Hordern, lighting, stage and sound and so on. MG use the Hordern for the Saturday night and Toybox take it over on the Sunday. Why is this so unrealistic. We are a community and should be able to work togehter.
They could even issue a joint ticket.... say for $200.00 which gets you in to both parties.
Just a suggestion.

thumbs up to having the toilets unisex again. part of what mardi gras is all about.

ahhhhh that is the answer I was looking for - THANK YOU!!!

Re: aircon in the rhi. apparently last year mardi gras did not install the airconditioning but leased it after it was installed for a function in the rhi preceeding mardi gras. to actually install the airconditioning in the rhi themselves this year was prohibitve due to the cost. anyway, that sweatbox feel in the rhi has been and always will be part of mardi gras.

I actually can't find it on demonoid - are you able to please give me a hint how to find it? Search term? Have tried 'mardi' 'sydney gay mardi gras' and 'mardi gras' to no avail. Thanks!

"that sweatbox feel in the rhi has been and always will be part of mardi gras."

And yes, that sweatbox feel in the RHI is what will kill somebody one day and lead the family of the deceased launching a massive lawsuit against New Mardi Gras. And that would be the end of Mardi Gras as we know it. Bye Bye.

More care for the paying public please. It was so hot in the RHI I spent no more than an hour or so in there. I feel a tad ripped off. Just a little bit.

What a bummer about the a/c 'cos it made such a huge difference. how about huge industrial fans? There were two boys about 2 am carrying on a bag of ice each and pressing them up against our backs as they moved thru the dancefloow. donno if they were MG people but thanks again boys.

One of the funniest things was to come out of MG or Sleaze a few years ago to see marathon runners - all sleek and healthy looking - surging past as we tired, saggy-looking people limped out, shielding our eyes from the bright sun!

Any reports on the Dome? Was it really empty most of the night as somebody suggested above? I hope not. Were people suitably depraved? Did you have a close-up, hot and (very) friendly time there? Please tell all!

Your're time for moaning over the 8am close is past its use by date. It happened many parties ago.

No there were not any sports events on last weekend but there certainly were quite a few of the parties that clashed with sporting events.

Complain all you like it wont change now, its too late.

How fantastic was the parade this year? I really loved it. I watched from the members area at Taylor Square and what a fantastic place to be. It is right in the middle of the action and is a very gay and lesbian crowd, no drunken yobbos hurling abuse here. The DJs were great, easy access to toilets and bars and a friendly vollies. Loved it!

Thank you NMG, what a great space.

thumbs up to having the toilets unisex again. part of what mardi gras is all about.

here here.

now if we can have all spaces unisex (whats with the girls republic??) the whole party would be more about what a united glbti community should be about.

"Your're time for moaning over the 8am close is past its use by date. It happened many parties ago."

"many" parties ago ... You mean TWO ,don't you ?

MG 2008 which was twelve months ago and MG 2009 which was all of 4 days ago.

Talk about over-stating things and a grasp of the over exagerations

I really enjoyed the scenic at this year's party.

The stage in the RHI was good, though I could not recognise most of the buildings. The globe in the centre was great. Was Australia pink the whole night, or did it change colour?

The Horden scenic was great. The lasers and lights made the central cube beautiful at times. The flags were also beautiful. I remember Italy, Sweden, Australia, New Guinea, Dominican Republic, Lebanon, UK, New Zealand(?), Germany(?).There were a number of others that were more difficult to identify.

yes but you're talking about 12 months in gay years. that's almost a life time.
seriously though i'm sad that MG closes at 8am. i always stayed until the end and got thrown out with the rubbish but i suppose the hard fact is that i'm in the minortiy. i really noticed how the rhi appeared to empty from about 6.30 or 7am. lot's of space on the dancefloor as guys leave to go and rest for the next party.
i think it's a real shame. maybe MG will consider moving it back to 10am if our habits change and we want to stay longer. those that say a 10 am close clashes with the sports ground is quite frankly nonsesnse. we managed a 10 am closed quite successfully and safely for over 20 years.

nobodys talking about freemasons. did they even play?
if they did was the boring same old boring or something exciting?

i think the 8am finish is a sign of changing attitudes and times.
the time when mardigras was the only main party on the weekend is gone.
there are too many large/highly organised recoveries (500 plus patrons) that have a lot of money pumped into them. these organisers stand to lose a lot of money and face, if their events don't go well. so they market them aggressively and at the expense of mardi gras.
in the past we all used to converge on oxford st and support our various gay venues and recover there in the company of a couple of hundred friends, hopping from one venue to another and stopping off for a coffee or a bloody mary along the way.
of course the face of oxford street and our gay venues have also changed.
people are happier to go home at 8am and get ready for their next event.
oxford street and the venues are not that enticing anymore.
and mardi gras is more dollar driven these days and saves a lot of money closing the party early - and given all of the factors above - i dont blame them.

mardi gras videos form parade and party on http://www.guidetogay.com enjoy

Hi All,

Does anyone have a copy of the foxtel broadcast?? I am DYING to see it. I had friends record it on their IQ boxes but it auto-erased on tuesday morning at 10AM and, well, I was not long home at that point so I couldn't make a copy! Any suggestions or pointers would be greatly appreciated!

Had a FANTASTIC Mardi Gras this year, marched for the 1st time. What a thrill. Party was ace and the freemasons rocked as always. Bring on MG 2010!

With a bit of luck, this story will ring some bells with someone reading this and it will prevent something horrific happening to someone.
I first tried G a couple of years ago, and it was amazed at how it made me feel. I’ve always been happy go lucky, and got a lot out of life, have had a reasonably successful career so far, had supportive family and a good bunch of mates, but like many of us I have on occasion sought that something extra to make that party night a little bit more special. Pills were about as far as I’d go until, one night I tried G. What a night that was. I won’t go into detail ;o). The week after I tried it again, and that night I even met my current partner (of 2 years now) while on G! The 3rd time I tried G (yes this was only 3 weeks after the 1st time), my new boyfriend almost dropped. We got in a cab and headed to the hospital, and I really didn’t know what was going on, but just as we approached the doors of casualty he snapped out of it. It was all pretty confusing as I’d never seen anyone just turn like that, and was very worried. Anyway, the more people I met, the more I learnt that that stuff just happens, unless you are really really careful. Don’t do more than 2ml first, and then don’t do more than 1ml an hour. Yeah you’ve all heard the rules. The first year we were together partied hard, and got up to all sorts of naughty mischief. Some very memorable nights, and we have made some great people and made friends as a result. Quite often on our weekly pilgrimage to the clubs we’d stick to the rules, but then throughout the night we’d somehow forget the rules, and there would be a messy moment. One would lead the other out (if the bouncer hadn’t) and we’d come round in a few minutes and go home.... and do one last shot in the bedroom. And then maybe another one. ;o) After that I’d be falling asleep, but my boy would sometimes carry on. On his own. To the point where sometimes I’d wake up at lunch time on Sunday and he would not be there. He’d have gone to a day club, with the bottle. This drove me insane after it had happened a few times. It had gone too far. It seemed like it wasn’t about going out with friends and having fun anymore, it was about G. On one occasion I didn’t see him for the whole of Sunday, or the Monday (even when I’d got back from work), he’d had the day off sick and was still high when I got home on Tuesday.
The first 2 or 3 times that happened I got angry but ended up forgiving. After the 4th I said Enough was enough, and wanted out. Don’t get me wrong, I was no angel on the stuff, I used to f*** around and flirt and do stuff you really shouldn’t do if you have a partner, but I felt I knew when to stop. So the day after a fight/break up we had a teary moment and both promised to change and give it another go. From that point we didn’t go out as much. Yes wWe had our occasional relapse/night out, mainly on the big party weekends, and did G. But the fun wasn’t really there, and we normally ended up arguing. The agreements would never have happened if there was no G involved. But we were going out much much less so it because much less of a big deal. During the same period the G drought started. So on the rare occasion when we did go out the G that we got hold of was not that good.

Then came Mardi Gras 09. We’d decided to save ourselves, and our money and go to one party only this time. We managed to get hold of some G, but given the quality of the last few batches we didn’t have high expectations.

We were told it was not that strong so did a 3ml shot on arrival. 1 hour later felt nothing. We did another 1.5ml shot, waited 30 mins and felt nothing, so did another 2ml and felt nothing. The party didn’t seem that great. We thought this stuff just can’t be the real deal, rubbish, and had a couple of cans of beer. After another hour we started to feel something off it. Was it that this batch just took 3 hours to take effect? No surely not, maybe it was just weak stuff? Nothing to lose we thought, we did another 2.5ml. Started to feel like dancing, but we weren’t going crazy. 30 mins later another 2.5ml. We were dancing around by then like very happy bunnies getting into the spirit of things, and at that point managed to lose each other in the crowd. We searched around for each other for a while but knew mobile phones weren’t going to be heard.
About 20 mins later the party finished and the dance floor started to clear. Tried to call him again. No answer. I got a call from an unknown number, and answered it. To my horror it was a paramedic telling me that that my boyfriend was in a bad way and I needed to come to the medical area right away. Shit. I battled though the leaving crowds and eventually found him on a stretcher. Oh my god. Although I was obviously shocked and concerned and worried, after my own unqualified medical examination, I was pretty sure he’d be OK in a couple of hours as to be honest I’d seen him in much worse states before! The medics questioned me about what he’d had, and his details. I was told that he was going to hospital in an ambulance, and was given the OK to go with him. I made a couple of calls to friends, and then sat down in the ambulance beside him re-assuring him that he’d be OK. It was at that point that my memory went blank.
My next memory is of me waking up on my back in a very unfamiliar bright place. I was choking, on a ½ m pipe that had been pushed down my throat . There were machines all around, I was attached to all manner of devices and was surrounded by some VERY nervous strangers shouting at me, running round me, sticking things in me. What the? I drifted in and out of consciousness for a while and the voices kept shouting my name, the machines bleeping and bleeping. They kept asking me simple questions to which I didn’t know the answer. What is your name? Where are you? Where have you been tonight? Over the next hour or so I started to be able to answer them, and it dawned on me that I had dropped in a serious way. I was told that I had been on life support for 2 or 3 hours. I had stopped breathing on my own. I was in a state of shock. They moved me into another room and said your boyfriend is next door. What? I didn’t really understand. They pulled back the curtain and there he was in the bed next to mine, on a drip, sitting upright. Oh shit. This is a nightmare. He was in a much better state than I was. He had been totally conscious throughout, and had been counselled as they tried to revive me. It was much worse for him to deal with. I think even the doctors were doubtful that I’d pull through, and they had been keeping him updated throughout. As I recovered I realised that I was connected to 3 drips, and had a catheter inserted, had heart rate pads stuck all over. All my clothes had been cut off with scissors.
The medical staff were fantastic! They’d certainly saved my life. If I’d come so close to death after dropping while I just happened to be sitting in the back of an ambulance, I don’t think I’d have stood a chance if I’d have dropped outside the venue, or on the way home! A number of very good friends came to the hospital too and were there throughout our recovery. That meant a lot to know how much they cared.

Reality check! I feel like an idiot. These wonderful people had coaxed me back to life and given me another chance. They should have been helping people who were sick through no fault of their own, not healthy boys looking for something to make a party a bit more magical.

Well I won’t be touching the stuff again, and with a bit of luck after reading this you will think twice too.

Horrendous story and you're right - the medics should have been looking after sick people. Can I ask what on Earth made you take sooooooooo much? Yes, we all know the rules about G but my GOD, the amount you took is out of this world! It's difficult to believe that someone who had taken G for so long would have taken so much so regularly.
Well, I had my own G experience on Sunday evening. I'd had 2 during the day (but very well spaced out and was fine), a friend I was with took 1 vial and then a big swig of some out of a Diet Coke bottle (which no-one knew how much was in) and we had to call the ambos as well. He was convulsing, writhing, grunting, couldn't stand... it was one of the most horrendous experiences of my life. He made it, but I tell you, if we hadn't have called them ambos when we did, I have no doubt he'd be dead.
Get real people! G CAN BE FATAL! Watch yourselves!

Yes you were an idiot as well as your friend. I only trust that you and your friend now remember for the rest of your life what this drug is capable of and that other idiots that use this drug also realize what it is capable of. But the sad fact is that most probably will not heed the moral of your story. I am glad that you have both now recovered but please please remember what happened to you and don't do it again.

Even if was changed back to 10am they would still whinge
for a 12 closing so could taxi straight over to Toybox !

Funny how these posters finish off a Wall with the negative moaning.

The party was great. Very well received but they still have to moan over something that happened 12 months ago.

If it was a commercial decision to save $'s by cutting back 2 hours then live with it.

Or better still email Mardi Gras and post a copy of your email on Pinkboard instead of your contstant moans then we can see you have the balls to do something about it other than whinging.

You and your boyf were fools but have realised your huge
mistake and thats great.

I reckon anyone who gets taken to the medical tent or to
a hospital should have their names taken and made to attend emergency wards at the hospitals and sit and wait and attend when a g drop comes in.

Forget all the useless words as people will not listen. Make them see the effects and see the waste of resources on these people and just maybe they will wake up to themselves.

So glad you both came through this OK and you are right if it hadnt happened in the back of the ambulance your friends may have been attending your funeral today.

Good luck.

Your story is one to be taken seriously and a message to everyone out there, DON'T TAKE G, it is unpredictable as you have found out to your near death.

This drug has been the cause of many near deaths and I personally have known 2 people who have died.

May this story be a lesson to everyone in clubland about the serious dangers if taking it whether your a first timer or an experienced user, it doesnt discriminate!

the scene would be a better place without it!

So the question is - if the G didn't work then why did the BF and you end up dropping ? Doesn't make sense.

11.5 mls of G, plus alcohol, in 3 hours by your timing above..... What does one really say? 3.8mls per hour when you shouldn't have done more than 1ml/Hour, under the 2ml every 2 Hour rule, let alone the NO ALCOHOL fundamental rule.

The story is a good one but I really question why you shouldn't have to pay for the cost of saving your life, the cost to the community for yet another bad party, medically wise, and the publicity that costs all of us. The cost of the emotions of your friends who were terrified you might die.

I'm so totally over that crap destroying what was once a vibrant party scene. Mind you, it isn't that crap that gets into our bodies by itself....

I work the party scene, I watch what happens, I even help with drops on occasions, I look on with absolute admiration in the Rovers, Nurses, Doctors (almost always volunteers) all trying to save your sorry butts.

There needs to be a register or something so that, as would happen in any venue, you are given a very, very long holiday from all gay parties - the only way to really learn.

Mind you, that doesn't stop the same thing happening at home. The situation you describe, at home, quite possibly would have meant there would be a funeral today. More pain and emotions for friends, let alone families who probably have no idea what G is and would be destroyed thinking their boy died of a drug overdose - normal people don't differentiate between one drug and another when thinking drug overdose. A stigma your family then has to live with as well.

The list goes on, but I wont anymore.

Your story angered me, as I'm sure it has others. I am very glad that you have survived and hope you will offer your service to ACON to proactively educate others and get trained as a Rover.

Was that 11.5ml each or the total shared between the two of you? Either way, I'm staggered anyone would take that amount into a party let alone consume it within 3 or 4 hours. And breaking the golden rule of drinking alcohol! Not to mention complacency! Is there really such a thing as an experienced drug user.... or just lucky ones?

I had a rover at toybox warn me that the "stuff going round" at the moment was very "slow release"

On another note I still have been unable to find a copy (DVD/VHS/Quality Download) of the foxtel parade broadcast, so just putting it out there again - if anyone knows where it is, please get in touch. I'll be your best friend...that's a sweet deal if ever i've heard of one :P

Hey Adamx - I hear that foxtel are going to broadcast the parade on one of its regular channels (Arena I think) in the first week of April.

I rang Foxtel today & they couldn't give me any info this far out - might I suggest you give Foxtel a call every 3-4 days until they know more.

UPDATE - A friend of mine who is in the TV industry has this message as his facebook status at the moment -

"XXX will watch the MG parade replay on Arena at 9.30pm Fri April 3"

Brilliant. Thanks so much for that info. Bit of a wait but that's what you get for being a free-to-airer lol. Bring on an ABC broadcast in 2010 I say!

Am I your best friend now Adamx , what do I get for providing you the required info ... c'mon put out for me !

Adamx, I was at Toy Box and the people I was with that had the G told me it took between an hour and an hour and a half to hit which is highly unusual for any G I've had.... I did have some and sure enough, it did take ages and ages to come on, but I didn't go have anymore. I just waited and waited. If I hadn't have had the warning about the length of time, I'd like to think I would have still waited. I didn't know it could take that long to come on.

Firstly, thanks to Mardi Gras and Indulgence for having me out this time round, and of course to 4x4 in Melbourne. It is always nice to be back in Sydney, and of course to see the gang in full swing.

Playing Hordern is always a joy, and this time was no exception. I was so surprised how many people stayed til the very end and wanted just one more! After I'd already done it lol. Ok, so chems count for something, but it was pretty sweet

I had a ball listening to Alan Thompson and Sista P, who were definitely standouts for the night in my book. Hmmm, I was expecting more from P.O. in the Hordern, but let's say he's done enough great cds to justify a slightly imperfect set. I was pleased to walk in during his Gabriel and Dresden mix of his own tune Southern Sun. If you don't know this tune, look it up, you may feel inclined to fly or cry... your choice. In any case, give Oakenfold a break, and give NMG a MASSIVE thumbs up for all the efforts they made to accomodate ALL OF YOUR hopes for a great party.

Thanks again, and here's the playlist... until next year, oder bis naechste mal mike (ps - forgive the plug for the new single... shameless i know, but it is my first ever dance release and i am kinda stoked!)

THE HORDERN 5-30-8am MG 2009 MIKE KELLY

Format is: Title of work - Remixer - Composer - Label

1. C’Mon This - Manuel Del Mar Mar - Noferini - Deeperfect italy

2. Block Party Feat Benny Blano - Sultan & Ned Shepard - Defected In In The House

3. More - Junkie XL - Matthew Dekay - Tool room

4. Human - D-rods vds Armin vs Ferry Corsten - The Killers - White XXX

5. On Demand - Original Instrumental Version - Jean Philps & Mike Kelly - Plastic Fantastic

6. Yytaca - Manuel De Marse Stealth mix - Alex Kenji - Hotfingers

7. The Longest Road - Original Mix - Dengue Fever - Nettwerk

8. 6am - Soulcheck - Simon & Shaker - Armada Music

9 I Want You - Sultan & ned shepard remix - Dean Coleman ft DCLA - Yoshitoshi

10. 4am - Adam k & soha mix - Kaskade - Ultra

11. All Over the World - Original mix - Kurd Maverick - Cr2

12. Perfect Control - Original mix - Black Horse - White XXX

13. Hulk - Original Mix - DJ Wady & Patrick - Cr2

14. So Much More - Shawn Mitiska Mix - Andy Moor & Carrie Skipper - AVA

15. Africa - Dub mix - The Gltterboys - Kontor

16. Muzak - Original Mix - Robert M - Proton

17. Morumbi - Original Mix - DJ Tocadisco - Superstar

18. There’s Something Going Off - Mike Kelly Mix - Jean Philips & Mike Kelly - Sorry Shoes

19. U Don’t Even Know Me - Original Mix - Sharvais - Yoshitoshi

xx
mike

Yes a register should be kept but not banning them from that club or party.

Handed over to Emergency Ward at say St Vincents and they get rostered on for many a Fri/Sat night.

Make it as in your face as possible so they can see what it looks like, the resources wasted on their foolishness then you hopefully they wont do it at home , do it at a
Club/Party but more importantly dont do it ever again.

After taking dance party drugs for so many years, I come to the conclusion a long time ago, STICK TO WHAT YOU KNOW. Just take the 'E' and 'Speed" at least you can test them with testing kits and get some idea how strong it may be and what it may contain. It has always worked for me and I have never seen the inside of an ambulance or hospital...

Early-on (say 11-11:30pm) the music in the dome was not my cup of tea (sorry I really cannot recall it to tell you why).

But after 1pm it was fantastic.

The Dome had a good crowd generally, around 3/4 full, which made it very comfortable - not too hot or cramped.

I recall finding a friend in the Hordern at 5:30am where the music was rather patchy - couple of good tracks then something like pots & pans - and took him to the dome. Was going off, great bouncy beats, easy to dance to and NO pointless vocals

Why should Mardi Gras or Toybox have to change either of their running times? Let them go head to head. These parties are both businesses in competition for the same dollars.
Of course they are going to be on the same weekend - similar businesses congregate (just count the number of Thai restaurants in Newtown!)
If you can't attend both (either because you can't afford it or 18hrs of dancing is a bit much) then you'll choose the better one.
The fact that many people did choose Toybox over Mardi Gras, and vice versa, says a lot about their individual successes.
The fact that Toybox sold out and MG didn't says a whole lot more.

Agree re Dome and especialy at 3am for Rob Gilbert.

Dont suppose Rob would put up a playlist ? would like to buy some but its hard finding that right beat.

Just want to say a big thank you to both NMG and Toybox crew for giving me and my mates a great time partying last weekend. Both parties were outstanding in the visuals and music department for us lot and the up for it hot boys and gals at each was just icing on the cake.

And an especially a big MWAH to the lighting crews, who for me personally put on great displays at both parties. You guys deserve my plaudits then you get.

Again thanks to the organisations and especially the vollies who put in the hard yards so we could have a great safe time.

Wollowing in my happy memories now until next time it all comes around.

The fact that many people did choose Toybox over Mardi Gras...The fact that Toybox sold out and MG didn't says a whole lot more.


Mardi Gras 17000 people. Toybox 3000. I would like to see Toybox see 17000 tickets.

A few people have asked me for my playlist for the Retro area...here it is in no particular order...


Together Forever - Rick Astley
This Time I Know Its For Real - Donna Summer
What Have I Done To Deserve This - Pet Shop Boys With Dusty Springfield
Love In The First Degree - Bananarama
So Emotional - Whitney Houston
Don't Leave Me This Way - Thelma Houston
Respectable - Mel & Kim
Preacher Man - Bananarama
The Boss - Diana Ross
Happenin' All Over Again - Lonnie Gordon
What A Feeling - Irene Cara
I should be so lucky - Kylie Minogue
always on my mind - Pet Shop Boys
Where Love Lives - Alison Limmerick
Your Disco Needs You - Kylie Minogue
The Only Way Is Up - Yazz
Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You - Jimmy Somerville
Together In Electric Dreams Philip Oakey
Like A Prayer - Madonna
Last Thing On My Mind - Steps
All I Wanna do - Danni Minogue
What Is Love - Howard Jones
In The Evening - Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sometimes When We Touch - Newton
I had a great time....thanks for all your comments!

I do agree with you about choice and competition - it's not a bad thing but I don't think you're comparing like for like. Remember the days when Toybox sold out the day they went on sale - not this year. Toyox only sold around 3,000 tickets whereas on the other hand MG was selling 17,0000 and although they did not sell out came close to sell out. Do we think if Toybox had a capacity of 17,000 they would sell out - me thinks not. We may all bitch at MG sometimes (and for sure I have) but it would be a very dull Sydney in Feb/Mar without it. Lets not fortget the MG buzz in Sydney and think what it would be like with no festival, no Film Festival, no Fair Day, no Parade and no end of season Party.
I think if we were to loose MG we'd all regret it 'cos even though you (the poster) did Toybox and not MG I bet you did at least one MG festival event.

In comparison, this years Mardi Gras party seems to have been a GREAT success...

Overall the comments have been positive and you can see that the Committee took all previous complaints on board in formulating the 2009 offer - retro tent, live bands, larger dance floors, nicer scenics in the halls, good mix of DJ's and very good layout.

Whenever I've come across a friend who attended they have smiled and said they enjoyed themselves and that it was a nice party

Yes agree that the music in the Dome certainly improved as the night went on. Feistys set was among the best of the night and provided some memorable mardi gras moments. Great to see the Dome was still rockin til late. Well done girl.

Success not always measured by sell out- what about overall attendance numbers, diversity/ sense of community, for perfect wrap up to the celebratory & inclusive Parade?
ie Qty of tickets sold of Toybox vs MardiGras? (eg, what are we talking, 2,000 Toybox tickets vs 16,000 MardiGras Party tickets?)
Mardi Gras is THE perfect wrap up to an inclusive & diverse Parade, with dance spaces for leather, live bands, anthems, fun retro, drag shows, etc, to keep 16,000 diverse people engaged & entertained. I don't see how Toybox or perhaps it's fans, can insinuate it is part of, or in "competition" to Mardi Gras, or why it ends up on this wall as though it is. Toybox is a stand alone incidental, musically non-diverse / one dimensional, specialised single-focused (& succesful) event, separate to & very different to the diverse & inclusive MardiGras After Party.

Firstly thanks for posting the playlist.

I had an experience during Wayne G's set that has never happened at any other Mardi Gras Party I've attended. When he played "Run" I started crying. I was just so happy to be at the party instead of the small country town that I live in - it just came out. Lucky I wasn't with my friends at the time. They already think I'm odd.

Respect to any DJ that can bring me to tears - happy tears that is.

Is that "whole lot more" that ToyBox holds 4950 and MG holds 17,000 by any chance?

OMG I was on the dance floor in the RHI when he played "Run" and my group of freinds we're going off (helped by the fact that I think we were all peaking).... a great moment plus let's not forget "Your Disco Needs You" - so many great MG Party moments.
I wish it was on again this weekend.
How many days to Feb 27th (I think that's next years MG date)

Well of course I'm now your best friend, that was the deal!!!

ahhh it's a magical time of year that's for sure. So sad it's all over!!!

Don't get too excited about the broadcast AdamX is was extremely bad.

It just seemed like one big commercial for Pam Annes new show on the Comedy Channel.

Who gave a crap on who was in the special VIP area with her... we wanted to see the parade and missing most of it!

Wendy Harmer did her best to salvage the parade and give it back it's community focus.

My God! How many other stories were there like this from the party? It's so interesting that NONE of these "incidences" are nowdays reported in the wider or even gay press! Apparently another gay dying whilst on drugs is no longer a big deal!
Yes, daily life is hard. Especially these days with people losing jobs and the whole financial crisis. We all are looking for some escape from reality. But why drugs? Why are gay guys so motivated to use drugs to spice up a party? It all catches up with you, sooner or later. You either lose you job, friends, family, career or whose still your life.

Glad to see that someone else had a "moment" when that song was played. It was so much more than that for me. I'll explain, if you care to listen.

The reason I started crying was as follows. I,at the time, worked at a (the) pub in Nelligen NSW. It was absolute torture going to work each day dealing with the (some - not all) homophobic ?&^%#'s. I had never heard that song before and as it played, I looked around and every single person I could see (alot) accepted me for who I was, or so it felt. I belonged.....

There is one angry pub owner in Nelligen beacuse 45 minutes before my first shift after MG I called and said "I quit as of now".

I've decided to leave the Bay. I moved down here, close to my family, because I was worried about my health. I now realise that staying here is even worse, (mentally) health wise.

I now crave that feeling of acceptance. After all, I'm a beautiful person and I will not ever allow anyone to make me feel otherwise.

Normally, the party is a kind of a blur for me. This time, the comedown has never made me think more clearly.

The lesson here is - don't keep doing something because you're used to it, THINK ABOUT WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU!

Well, I went and saw Bison/Natural Born Hooker yesterday afternoon.... How wonderful. Natural Born Hooker was a particular stand-out - one man but wow, what a performance!
Thank goodness for that, after having seen Holiday, I was a little concerned. Eeeek!
Thanks Mardi Gras for a fab festival, I adore that time of year - it's truly magic, there's nothing like it anywhere.

Lots of parade and party photos are now on http://www.petezimagez.com/

It was Julie McCrossen, not Wendy Harmer, just FYI. and yes, she did a fantastic job under very difficult circumstances. We got the lowdown on the BGF float - but never actually saw it in the parade! Agree completely with you - awful coverage of the parade - fantastic coverage of Pam Ann.

Wendy Harmer??

Wow. What a story. Very lucky you and your partner pulled through.

I tried G last year for the 1st and last time as I ended up in hospital after collasping on the street of where I live, was in hospital for 7 days as was very sick and nearly died 3 times.

Walking on the street to get some fresh air after taking G and then everything started to spin very rapidly - the last thing I remember.

Woke up in hospital shocked to see family and friends crowded around my bed. It was just awful beyond words. Neighbour had seen me collapse and called the ambulance (Pays to keep in touch with neighbours regularly).

Suffered a severe nervous breakdown afterwards that lasted 6 months. Could not eat, sleep well and felt very guilty for putting family and friends through hell. Had to attend intensive counselling and still do today but to an lesser extent.

Got my life back on track now but never, ever will touch G again. Curiosity almost killed me in this case, not the cat.

Drugs destroy. Period. Stay off them permamently.

Aftr seeing what G did to my fiends phone in his pocket after it spilled out, I would never do G. His phone melted....
People need to be more responsible. Stick to the regular stuff and you can play it safe...er. There is a website to check whats in your pills so thats all I will EVER do.

Thanks NMG for a totally awesome & memorable 30th birthday celebration the 2009 Parade and Party! I totally enjoyed the music and the shows. Paul Oakenfold rocked for the time that I heard him, Freemasons kept the party going for me and the standout DJ best for the night that kept me dancing right up until 8am Mike Kelly! Paul, lighting and lasers in the hordern were magical, the cube was such a unique & awesome concept. RHi Duet at 3am just sent me off into another world! Looking forward 2 Mardi Gras 2010 ( a space odyssey- well here's hoping). Congratulations on a huge success 2 all involved!!! A special thanks 2 all the many people who volunteered their time and made it happen.

>Lots of parade and party photos are now on
>http://www.petezimagez.com/

Cool photos. The lighting looks amazing, especially Horden. Well done!

If I could find you I'd give you a big hug

Your one of the lucky few that "see the light" as a result of an incident. It usually does take an incident to get people to wake up to themselves. Some do, others do not, and end up ruining their lives and the lives of their family and friends in the process.

What party. If you read some earlier posts, a life changing party for me.

I want to express my gratitude to all involved in making it such a fantastic night. I personally thanked every single "drug rover" that I saw during the course of the night for their efforts in keeping us safe. I'm sure there were many I missed.

As for the rest, it's like an Oscars speech. I don't want to leave anyone out. For this reason I will issue a blanket thank you to all involved. I realise that some chose to criticise and that is their choice. Thankfully, I'm one that only sees the good in things (sometimes to a fault). I'm overflowing with praise for each and every person involved that made this party absolutely perfect.

It was so great to see so many smiling faces that came out to help me celebrate MY NIGHT.

NMG - You can please some of the people some of the time, some of the people all of the time, all of the people some of the time, but never all of the people all of the time. Qu'ils mangent de la brioche (Let them eat cake).

Still smilin'

I can feel the kindness in that hug from all the way down here love. Thank you.

Playlist is in Rob's blog on his myspace page:

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=135491890

Cheers.

Where's the rest of the playlist? I heard U DOn't Even Know Me about 6:50 am, and I know I heard Ultra Nate's "Automatic" not too long after that!

I agree... I think who ever does the telecast whether it be the ABC, Channel 10 or Foxtel just f*uck it up. They are not capable of capturing the energy and excitement of the Parade. I watched the Parade on the street and it was so much better than what I saw on TV. I was disappointed with Joan Rivers (who i normally adore she was fantastic at the Enmore Theatre), Pam Ann and Alex Perry were cringeful, Julie McCrossin was OK and so was the other lady host (sorry i don't know her name). But purrlease what was with the split screen tongue kissing - it was shocking - i didn't want to see the presents pash i wanted to watch the parade entrants marching, dancing and strutting their stuff. Can we really not do a better job of filming and presenting the Parade. MG please give the job to poofters and dykes to do....... not just present but the technical side of filming and editing it too. We'd do a much better job I reckon.

Glad you are ok and able to reflect on the situation you and your BF put yourselves in.

Having told your story here - a brave and valuable thing for sure - I would encourage you to send a personal thankyou to the NMG Volunteer Medical team. Jem Masters and the team do an amazing job at the Parade and our community parties, helping all sorts of people in all sorts of situations without fear, favour or judgment. We are all lucky they are there for all of us.

I am no longer directly involved but I have had the pleasure to work with the team in years past and their professionalism is unsurpassed - I am not a medic, but I have stood in the Medical tent at 4.00am as waves of drops were occurring - this was during a period a few years back when there was a lot of cheap G around. We were terrified we would lose a punter - apart from the human tragedy (very well described by Noisy Gypsey above) it would have called in to question the future of our events. Period.

Every party I go to I acknowledge that NMG Medical, ACON Rovers, and NMG Vollies who have all saved many lives over many years.

1ml, 2ml, 3ml, 4ml ... whatever! Lets be more considered about what we take and how we take it, the consequences are huge!

You might be interested to know that Joan Rivers was about 30 minutes late and missed getting on her float, so they stuck her on the ANZ float instead.

I guess thats a lot of free publicity for them... or perhaps not given Foxtel's inability to follow the action!

We saw both those shows on Saturday night as our last farewell to Mardi Gras 2009. (We were two of the only four girls in theaudience!.
Agree that both shows were great and particularly Natiral Born Hooker. Daniel Scott is a real talent and his performance was outstanding. Also loved him in Priscilla - all five times I saw it! Tragic I know .
How many days to Sleaze, Countdown Boy?

cool, thanks for the list! Was such a great set- good choices.

Dan Murphy, Please paste your playlist here!!!!!

OMG, that's the song i was rambling on about a few days earlier! I too, had a few tears of joy...Who would have thought "jamie" was a girl's name

last post for another year... apologies, it is Ultra Nate "Automatic" (taito tikarro mix)

it is really hard to make a perfect playlist for these sets. i play completely unrehearsed, never planned, and prefer to wing it based on the room and people's needs (and mine). i never write it down at the time, too busy thinking and mixing... i hope that makes sense.

best regards, mk

There are only



Days To Sleaze Ball !

Bi Bi Guys, I think I'm done with this gig now. Will be overseas for Sleaze & probably Mardi Gras 2010 and I think I've done my bit.... Getting too old & tired and this forum isn't as vibrant as it once was.

Thank you Panther, what an amazing contribution Pinkboard is to the G&L community. A point lost on so many people on here.

See ya's all , it's been a blast..................

More photos at http://www.grunt.com.au

Hey Countdownboy - thanks for all your work put into the countdowns over the years, it's been a blast and always built up the excitement for the parties coming up.

Gunna miss ya posts - enjoy your time overseas.

PS: Maybe you could pass the baton to one of the gals and we could have a countdowngal?

Cheers matey.

Nice way to end - you've outdone yourself this year!! You will be missed but I totally get it. ENJOY!!

Thanks for your contributions over the years. Enjoy your time overseas!

Hey Countdownboy!
Really, really, really sorry you are leaving us, because you have been a constant source of fun, enjoyment, anticipation, enthusiasm, and downright silliness....AND WE HAVE LOVED YOU FOR IT!!!

You have been a great counter point when things get a bit narky on here. And you always bring a smile to my face.

Sorry to hear you think you are getting too old and tired, cos I know that cannot be true
And I am no spring chicken, I can tell you!

Hope you have a great time overseas. Hope to see you back sometime soon. And maybe we could still just have an occasional countdown fix....

Thanks for all the fun!

i dunno what is with some people ..... But maybe thats why you were the best on the night! That takes so much courage to just play wot u feel! Your tunes that night reminded me of someone else when he used to spin records. To close party is a huge task, to build on that same energy played previously and keep it pumpin takes great skill and u certainly have that! Well done again! Have a great year, see u at Mardi Gras 2010 (or maybe earlier at Sleaze even???)

Molly Meldrum sends his condolences to Countdown Boy

Thank you Countdownboy. You've gone out with a bang. The best year ever! I can't imagine where you found all those numbers! I loved the embroidered old car especially. Have a safe trip.

Aaarrggghh no more CDB! Very sad indeed. All the best with your future countdowns wherever they may take place! And I'm with one of the last posts, the "16" old skool car was absolutely my favourite as well. Hilarious! You were a picture of rainbows and fluffy clouds on this sometimes negative and narky wall.
See ya CDB!

well there must be 2 factors to account for when you take G. The factor that makes you feel good, and the dangerous factor that makes you drop/ill. This stuff must have been totally devoid of the 1st factor, and full to the brim of the 2nd. As that ad we've all seen says, every dose is different. Never believed it until now

does anyone remeber the BAD countdowns? the fonts, the colours, the size of the whole thing?
will i be the bad guy if i say i wont miss the countdown at all?

i must say i love this year's MG wall. thanks a lot panther. this wall looks awesome, nice, simple, easy to read. no silly colours taking attention from the important stuff. well done.

Yes you will - bah humbug to you. Let's not have anything silly or distracting in our tiny lives. Heaven forbid.

arrr yes.... here we have the classic tall poppy syndrome. dragging something popular down just for kicks.

The classic killjoy, spoilsport, complainer, dampener , grinch, moaner, stick in the mud, phophet of doom, wet blanket, scrooge, partypooper, my glass is half empty type.

The one who stands on the edge of the dancefloor grumbling when the other 99 in the club are on the dancefloor with their hands in the air.

GIMME A BREAK please. Geeze.

Countdownboy is a legend on this site... He will be sadly missed

You'll be sadly missed!

I feel kind of special. I posted a clip of Dan's first 2 tracks on Youtube. He took the time to thank me for it via Youtube and sent me an xo. What a great set and he's such a sweetheart to boot. I feel honoured that he sent me a message and "favourited" my clip. If I see Dan on a bill, I'll bend over backwards to be there - that's a given.
Aretha summed it up when she said "RESP...
Faithfully, Daisyboy

Mardi Gras from Keith Loutit.