Pinkboard: Mardi Gras 98 Graffiti Wall

1998 is the 20th anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. In 1978 a Mardi Gras was planned as the celebration in the evening after a day with demonstrations to mark the 10th year after the Stonewall riots. This parade ended with police brutality and many arrests. Now-a-days the parade is the largest nighttime parade in the world with over half a million in and watching the parade live and millions around the world on television. The Mardi Gras is also a month long festival celebrating lesbian and gay arts, theatre and community.

Mardi Gras is the 10% of the year when we are normal.

You are welcome to leave messages here telling us about things you have seen, people you have seen, people and things you are really hoping to see, people and things you are really hoping to do, and anything else on the subject of Mardi Gras by using the form at the bottom of the page.

Mardi Gras 97 Graffiti Wall
Sleaze Ball 97 Graffiti Wall
Mardi Gras 98 Graffiti Wall 2

Pinkboard's Mardi Gras Coverage
Pinkboard's Mardi Gras Parade Gallery
The Mardi Gras Web Site

The cover of this year's guide:

Rumour number one Sir Reg and RuPaul for the closing number.
Sat Jan 10 18:10:04 1998

I've got my party ticket, my BE98 pak, and my first dance of the night organized - see you all in 48 sleeps!!
Sat Jan 10 18:53:59 1998

True or False Kylie is performing at Mardi Gras pleas let me know
Greg - Sat Jan 10 22:44:21 1998

To all my freinds downunder, With rumours amok and guess' running wild; whoever surprises us in the early morning hours on the first day of March in that cavernous hall; for the ones with the stamina and holding power to witness, we will no doubt enjoy and take with us on our travels for the remainder of the day and time to come untill next years spectacle. Always a treat and always appreciated. Still trying to get a cheap flight down. Hopefully I will join all of you on the night of nights; if however I don't a special message to a special freind, you know who you are. Our lives have no doubt moved in many forward directions, and far apart at that; however, you will always stay dear and close to me even with our great distance that the ocean seperates us by. I love you now, always did, and always will. One day we will meet up again, and I do look forward to that day. My very special freind M., keep well, look after yourself, and never let go of the dreams that get you through the days and nights. Have a dance for us, a moment to reflect on the past and then progress with the festivities.
G.S.R. (eternally passionate) - Sun Jan 11 4:44:27 1998

First trip to OZ and we planned it around the festivities., arriving on Feb. 24. We are so anxious to be part of this great celebration. Looking forward to meeting alot of great people. See ya in Sydney. All the way from Pennsylvania, USA
Mon Jan 12 1:59:26 1998

Rumour file: Kylie and Danni together on stage with a chorus of drag queens performing "Sisters Are DOin' It For Themselves."
Tue Jan 13 13:17:45 1998

Rumour file Celine and Tina come out on stage as lovers
Tue Jan 13 19:54:58 1998

wot a drastic situation, im so confused i dont know wot to come as, perhaps a slick farm boy or something, any suggestions thanks
james jnr - Tue Jan 13 22:17:51 1998

I hope that we as a community can make the parade and festival a very queer time. I hope that we don't fall into the easy mass product of appealing to the majority and that there are lots of parade entrie that shock, or at least sit uncomfortablely with the crowd. Floats that focus on raw sex. Looks at parties that make the straight touristy "also went"s feel what they are... outsiders.
Thu Jan 15 23:20:33 1998

Would anyone be interested in a Pinkboard get together sometime during Mardi Gras?
Panther - Fri Jan 16 8:44:56 1998

Bravo to Bev and the Mardi Gras Board for coming out to ACON Parramatta to recruit members. It's great to see their committment to Gays and Lesbians throughout NSW.
Scott - Fri Jan 16 15:46:00 1998

Pinkboard get together.... how about at the fair?
Cumrat - Fri Jan 16 16:07:15 1998

Pretty much confirmed: Kylie and Danni doinga duet ala YTT. Jimmy Somerville closing with "Don't leave me this way"
In the know - Fri Jan 16 16:52:26 1998

Agh, Uhm! What Mardi Gras '98 means to me. I wasn't out twenty years ago. I was but just a young boy. It was ten years ago that I seriously started to question and allow myself to realise just who I was. In ten years I have seen the most amazing changes in my life. When I think about what I have acheived in those ten years, and then realise that the lifespan of Mardi Gras is only double that, then I realise just how much we as a community have acheived. When I first started going to the parties they were just a bit of fun. The first time I went in the parade I thought it was really silly behaving as we did. Now I look at these events and realise what a wonderful celebration they are of who I am, even if it is only I who celebrates it. I can never forget a Mardi Gras party about four years ago, when about two hours from close, I stood at full height, which usually puts me above everyone in the hall, I looked around and realised just what a wonderful time everyone was having. What a wonderful part of my life Mardi Gras is. And how important, glad, and proud I am of being an eXtra Large Faggot. I reduced myself to tears, tears of Joy unlike I had ever had before. It was my magic Mardi Gras moment, one I will treasure for ever. ~~ So what Mardi Gras means to me is a wonderful celebration of all that is important in my life. All that I treasure, and all that I **Love**. ~~ I look around at parties and I see young 'kids' having a wow of a time, like I use to have. I hope that one day that they'll look back on those times and treasure them. One day I'm sure we'll no longer have to fight as we do for all those little things that we have to now. But when that happens don't think I'll ever give up celebtating who I am. I don't need a parade or a party to that. I can do it every day of my life as I do now. ~~ My fondest wishes, and happiest thought go out to all that will be participating in the '98 Mardi Gras festival. I hope it is as wonderful a time for each of us that is has been for all of us before.
Sat Jan 17 12:32:33 1998

Happy Mardi Gras! Only 42 sleeps to go, this is by far going to be the best festival to date, Hope we all have a blast of a time and join forces and celebrating who we really are!!!! See You All At Mardi Gras, Love you all!!!!
New Guy on the Block - Sat Jan 17 21:32:43 1998

If the Dulwich Hill Mostly Gay and Slightly Lesbian Mardi Gras is any indicator - the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras party will go off! There will also be a lot of very sore heads in the morning.
Rocky - Sun Jan 18 11:12:41 1998

Newcastle and the Hunter is putting in a float with the theme of Butterflys and Fairies. If any local is interested in helping or participating contact the Wickham Park Hotel for more info. This is a HLGI coordinated float.
Speg - Sun Jan 18 21:37:55 1998

Announcing ... the Queers for Reconciliation website http://reconciliation.queer.org.au What is 'Queers for Reconciliation'? Our group was formed in response to the need for a presence in the 1998 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade to express our communities support for the Reconciliation process and the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander community. Queers for Reconciliation is an inclusive collaboration. We believe that a Reconciliation float at Mardi Gras can draw local and international attention to the struggle for Native Title. This year marks not just the 20th anniversary of the Mardi Gras parade but also ten years since the first organised Aboriginal presence in the parade. (A 'Black Gays' banner was on the 1980 Parade). 1998 is also being touted as the year of the 'race-based election' in Australia following the government's decision to pursue its racist 'ten point plan' opposing the High Court's Wik decision and Aboriginal land rights. For many thousands of Australians, in every city and town, it is vital to the future of this country that the Reconciliation process occur. We believe that it is vital that our communities play their part. A number of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organisations have already made statements this year supporting Reconciliation and organisations are involved in practical and ongoing support - we are not the only ones taking action. Our website contains information about the group as well as extensive information about Wik and the 'Stolen generation' a section full of actions you can take to support Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people and Reconciliation an online apology to the stolen generation from our communities a guestbook to contribute your thoughts on Reconciliation and a large section of links including information about indigenous gay & lesbian people around the world and the relationship between black and gay communities. Using the new Altavista translation service, part of the site has been translated into French, German, Spanish and Italian to encourage gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people from around the world to learn about Australia's indigenous peoples during this year's Mardi Gras. Nous espérons que vous supporterez notre cause et visualiserez ce website! Speriamo che sosteniate la nostra causa ed osserviate questo website! Wir hoffen, daß Sie unsere Ursache unterstützen und dieses website ansehen! Esperamos que usted utilice nuestra causa y opinión este website! The site is expanding and welcomes contributions - particularly of documents such as clippings and anti-racist policies and the experiences of other queer and indigenous communities on these issues - which contributors can make available for others to view and learn from. The site aims to be a central point of contact for our communities for information and interactivity on these issues at http://reconciliation.queer.org.au The Queers for reconciliation email address is reconciliation@queer.org.au The group plans a large entry in the parade for which we are seeking funding and other in-kind support. Your support is vital. You can join the entry - see the Diary section of the website for information on when and where we meet and contact points to find out about rehearsals. If you can financially support in any way this would be a great help. Please send donations to PO Box 121, Newtown NSW 2042 Australia, making any cheques to 'Queers for Reconciliation'. ..... Want to help? Please feel free to Forward on this information to friends and contacts. Thank you. Link the site to others if you're a website maintainer
Paul - Mon Jan 19 10:36:52 1998

Is DO@1 happening again for Mardi Gras. I was 10m away whilst it was happening at Sleaze. Surely a repeat performance is called for.
Mon Jan 19 14:43:19 1998

It's no nice to be back on the Graffitti wall, but I can't even begin to think about who will be performing until I get through the stressful, stressful, and very stressful experience of trying to get through the Mardi Gras switch board to find out what happened to my membership. Oh how I envy the rest of you just able to gossip and speculate.
Wondering. - Mon Jan 19 21:52:57 1998

Thank you to all the comitted people who, twenty years ago, decided that it was time to start marching for rights that we take for granted today. Had it not been for your dedication and belief we might now not enjoy anywhere near the levels of freedom that we do.
pussy galore - Wed Jan 21 6:33:06 1998

pussy, who said we take for granted the committed people of 20 years ago. I see each parade as a rememberance and celebration of their actions of twenty years ago. Some people do take it for granted I know, but don't think everyone is complacent.
Wed Jan 21 16:55:44 1998

Rumour File : For those in the know Kylie has prior engagements, although she would have like to appear beside Danni. Jimmy will be closin to the tune of "don't leave me this way" But this is just the tip of the iceberg dudes, expect more shows then ever and big big performers
Very In the Know - Wed Jan 21 18:37:29 1998

Seven shows in the RHI during the night, thats one every hour and 40 mins. The crowd starts to build up 20 mins before and takes about 20 to clear. Thats about 5 hours of chocka dance floor. Please please please let there be no flicky hair girls.
Dicks Out - Thu Jan 22 8:54:35 1998

P
Thu Jan 22 12:12:16 1998

S
Thu Jan 22 12:12:44 1998

B
Thu Jan 22 12:12:56 1998

The best three words I've ever heard.
Thu Jan 22 12:13:42 1998

To Really in the Know: Could you possible mean the woman whom Lourdes calls mum.
Boy in the front row all night - Thu Jan 22 13:51:36 1998

DO@the front gates.... in their face
Thu Jan 22 19:42:55 1998

DO@MG: If there are that many shows maybe it had better be totally naked so we don't overheat.
Panther - Thu Jan 22 21:14:55 1998

I'm going to be hot no matter how many shows there are. My biggest drama is going to be do I want to hang out in the Dome, where the 'best music is going to be, thanks to Mr. Alkins and Ms. Gillerman, and all my friends will be. Or, do I want to be in the RHI where all the shows are going to be, and the main body of part of the crowd too. I suppose it'll depend on where the trizzy queend decide to hang out.
Fri Jan 23 12:27:24 1998

I was under the impression that Dome is not being used this year, construction site etc, I noticed that half the entrance gate was pulled down last week and that the three plastic steel frame pavillions are gone. The RHI and Hordorn seem to be all on there own in a sea of carpark.
the all seeing eye - Fri Jan 23 15:33:17 1998

'eye' Dome has been under 're-construction since before NYE, hence why we didn't have it at Pride. Completion date is scheduled for before M.G. The party is still 5 weeks away, they can do a lot in 5 weeks. Yes those hideous white plastic 'pavillions have gone, which is no great loss since they were a major sound problem. Expect an entirely different party this year. I just hope I don't get lost in an eternal car park.
Fri Jan 23 16:06:32 1998

I wish I will, I wish I might, I wish I get to see Shirley Bassy & the Propeller Heads do 'History Repeating' on Mardi Gras night.
Endora Finn - Sat Jan 24 17:56:59 1998

Watch out Miss Flicky, Scarlet has bought some cordless clippers especially for you..... be warned!
Scarlet Gash - Sat Jan 24 17:58:51 1998

Rumour: Tickets for the Mardi Gras party have sold out.
Panther - Sat Jan 24 20:50:59 1998

Aaaaggghh, not sold out already!!!! I put my new membership number in a safe place & couldn't find it again. I really need 3 tickets for some very queer friends of mine from Melbourne. If anybody can help me out please email me at endorafinn@mindless.com Please mail me even if you only have a single ticket to spare or there will be some very unhappy campers after my blood, could be handbags at dawn......
Endora Finn - Sat Jan 24 22:01:14 1998

Its not a rumour, its sold out, I have just spoken to spmeone in ticketing.
Dicks Out - Sat Jan 24 22:11:24 1998

Could we find out what show is what at which time and where so that I can know when it's worthwhile to squash into the RHI and when to stay dancing in the Dome.
Sat Jan 24 22:31:46 1998

Pssst - Elton John arrives in Australia at the end of February for the tour with Billy Joel.... I wonder.....
Endora Finn - Tue Jan 27 9:01:36 1998

I luv the background. I feel I'm already at the party.
You've done good Panther - Tue Jan 27 9:31:52 1998

DJ lineup I've heard is: RHI Warren Gluck and Steve Carley Hordern Luke Leal and Brent Nicholls Dome Dr John
But then again I could be wrong ... - Tue Jan 27 9:34:38 1998

I'm on my way down under guys. I've heard how thumping the toilets are at MG and you all know how much I love head jobs. Looking forward to it without Hilary, Paula and Monica. Might bring Chelsea though.
Bill C - Tue Jan 27 9:53:32 1998

I had a bit of a clean out over the Australia Day weekend and found an old Sydney Morning Herald article I kept. It was an article by Penny Arcade (of Bitch Dyke Faghag Whore fame) and was about her observations of Mardi Gras and in particular the festival. Her final comment was 'Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras could only happen in Sydney because boys and girls it does happen in Sydney'. This festival is unique and we should be all proud of it. It's our precious little baby (ala the poster).
The things you keep - Tue Jan 27 11:13:22 1998

To Paul. If you are reading this now then you have got my message on your answering machine. This may be hard to take - but I am calling off our six month relationship. I want to be free gay and happy for Mardi Gras. Also I have sold the spare Mardi Gras ticket which I said you could have. If you are lucky enough to get another ticket (which I doubt - the party is now a sell out), then I am prepared to have one dance with you should we bump into one another on the night. However, you must not cramp ny style. Thanx for the memories.
Dave - Tue Jan 27 12:51:20 1998

Dave, hope I don't bump into you at the party, what a deadshit, hope a bus hits you.
Im on Paul's side - Tue Jan 27 14:33:34 1998

Yes its only two DJ's in each hall, which means if there not up to it, your stuck with them for six hours. Warren Gluck from NY closed the party last year and was just OK. Steve Carly had a very mixed night last year and knows it so will be out to impress. Luke Leal is the big improver this year, while Brent Nicholls, who baged the shit out of the Sydney scene, clubs, and gays in a recent UK music mag, will play his usuall DCM style straight music.
Dicks Out - Tue Jan 27 14:42:35 1998

Aaaaah, heaven. Pinkboard does it again and my MG buildup is complete....thanx Panther. I've been counting the days since sleaze (not a lot happens up here in brisbane!) and can't wait to feel that incredible vibe when thousands of us unite and spread our love, beauty and sexuality over sydney. I sometimes wonder at the height of my E if you can't see a radiant light spreading over the eastern seaboard of australia, emanating from the showgrounds when all our minds and bodies have fused into one all powerful, all loving energy. Stop and say hello to all people who catch your eye. Wish everyone a happy MG. Embrace your friends and lovers and truly appreciate them for who they are. Come and talk to me....I'll be the one with so much love in my heart it will be beaming from me (don't worry about my bf, he's v. big but his bark is worse than his bite!). To my ex bf......there is part of me that will always love you....MG signals almost to the day the 12month anniversary of our breakup and don't think there have'nt been times when I've missed you so badly it hurts, but know that I will always hold you in the fondest regard and would do anything for you if you needed it. I know that your heart is breaking still but remeber that there is enough love in this world for everyone. To my bf......thank you for your love and support especially where the ex is concerned. this is our first MG together, and I am going to be so proud to be with you...without a doubt the most devestatingly handsome man in the joint with a heart as big as an ox (which is just as well 'cause there's an awful lot of blood to pump around!) To everyone at MG, have the most beautiful, most empowering, most loving MG ever!!!!
Sleepless in Brisvegas - Wed Jan 28 11:00:38 1998

Madi Gras ticket for sale... There was a serious accident last night on the very same street that we will all be travelling down on the 28th. Some guy called Dave was hit by a bus. We belive the drivers name was Paul.
Eye Witness - Wed Jan 28 11:24:47 1998

I remember when Brent Nicholls was a ticket seller at the Dendy Cinema in Martin Place. But he sure has (had???) a great body.
DJ trivia time - Wed Jan 28 11:53:40 1998

Any views anyone on the need for overseas DJs (even if one of them is an ex-pat)?
bpm - Wed Jan 28 12:05:58 1998

My best Mardi Gras party memory - Marcia Hines closing show 1992(?). My worst memory - 1990 Mardi Gras and the bad drugs I took. I started tripping badly and went home. That was the year there was a rumour that Blondie would perform (untrue of course). But she did do a private show in my terrace !!!!!
the good old days - Wed Jan 28 12:34:02 1998

well I may as well try once more...did you think anyone will mind if I wear my black and white, fake fur, cow hide pants... again? I haven't changed out of them since Sleaze in anxious anticipation of MG. Oh, by the way, Grace Jones is arriving in North Queensland in a couple of weeks to do some filming on a set at Mission Beach...possibly?
Mr.Hygenic - Wed Jan 28 13:19:34 1998

I'm sick and tired of all those tragic 40 something old queens at the party dressed in their lycra shorts and thinking they look fabulous. You look hideous guys. Act your age and just retire gracefully. And as for your taste in music - every song has to be a remix of some tired old 70's or 80's song.
The new generation - Wed Jan 28 13:35:29 1998

So, Pop's going to Mardi Gras. I bet Mom 'll be as happy as a rattler in a sandstorm when CNN break that story. First it was Paula, then that snooty Valley girl bitch, Monica, and next it will be half the queens at Mardi Gras. I can just see the headlines "President goes down....under at Sydney's Mardi Gras", or "Clinton blows the lot down under"!!! In the interests of the American people, I must accompany him to keep him out of trouble. What d'ya think gals, can I party with ya all?
Chelsea C. - Wed Jan 28 13:48:01 1998

New Generation - Just be careful what you say about those 40-something old queens. My boyf happens to be one of them and he always looks great! I admit he wouldn't be seen dead in lycra though. He also is probably more up-to-date with music than most people. I agree that the lycra look aint good, but remember that some of the people at the party may only venture out to these parties once or twicw a year, and they only wear what is comfortable. Not everyone wants to spend a small fortune on a new outfit for the party, nor afford too. So tell me, what will you be wearing?
Wed Jan 28 13:52:29 1998

Be careful what you say New Generation, there are more lawyers per square foot on the dance floor at Mardi Gras than at any other place in the world.
I'm one of them - Wed Jan 28 14:13:51 1998

Dear "New Generation" how & why do all these 40 something old queens at the party dressed in their lycra shorts upset you, they are just having fun, enjoying themselves, off all the people at this party it will be the 40 somethings who have most earnt the right to be there; whithout them there simply would'nt be a Mardi Gras. That is why they will be leading the parade. This is a community fighting for acceptance and equality. The last thing it needs is bigoted, narrow minded people being intolerant and divisive within that community.
Dick Out - Wed Jan 28 15:25:06 1998

Yes I have a veiw on the need for overseas DJs (even if one of them is an ex-pat)? We don't need them, there are plenty of DJ's here who could do the job.
Fishfantasy - Wed Jan 28 15:29:41 1998

Hear Hear, if we can't get our own act together on acceptance and equality why should the straights be accepting toward us.
male to male - Wed Jan 28 15:32:24 1998

OK we'll give the oldies a Mardi Gras pension card for services rendered. That will get them discounts at two festival events. Just stay away from the party.
The new generation - Wed Jan 28 15:45:31 1998

To the silly little queen who has a problem with how other people dress: Honey, I've got news for you - I couldn't give a flying flick how people are dressed, how old they are or what shape their body is in. All I'm interested in are happy smiling queens, dykes and trannies having the night of their lives. Insignificant body-fascists like you should get a clue and realise that if we all fitted your narrow view of how we should look, the Party would be filled with buff himbos in sequinned shorts, chunky work-boots and push-down socks. How original! Haven't seen that look before!
Wed Jan 28 15:47:43 1998

And of course they'll be white push down socks. There's nothing sillier than white push-down socks. They do seem to be very prevelant in the Barracks however, no matter how serious the leather look, they alays wear white push-down socks. Oh, and they don't serve Corona either.
Wed Jan 28 16:18:28 1998

The party has become a glorification of the use of recreational drugs. Isn't it great how those happy smiling faces are meant to create a sense of community? Some of us are easily pleased. We're all meant to say no to racism, ageism, sexism and every other ism. Unfortunately so many many of need to be off our faces to do it.
Say no to drugs - Wed Jan 28 16:42:29 1998

I've contacted John Howard and he told me that it is OK if we do drugs at the party. He has also seen the error of his ways and is going to apologize to the stolen generation. Also there will be a message of support for Mardi Gras next year.
Oh shit my drugs have kicked in already and I'm tripping - Wed Jan 28 17:21:30 1998

Queers for Reconcilaition - does that mean I have to get back together with my old boyfriend ????
No way - Wed Jan 28 18:25:02 1998

Do you get to do the Nutbush City Limits dance at the party ???
My first party - Wed Jan 28 18:26:53 1998

With the exchange rate the way it is, I'm getting the Americans to shout me drinks at the bars and party.
I'm for an international redistribution of wealth - Wed Jan 28 18:29:59 1998

The new generation , all looks and the personality of a garbage can. Lets ban the them from the party, from my experience they expect the goodtimes to made for them, dished up on a platter, they don't know to make there own, hence the complaints about music, other peoples looks, the shows etc etc, its all to cover there own inadequacy, there jealousy of others enjoying themselves.
and I'm under 30 - Wed Jan 28 19:08:22 1998

Oh Dear, the new generation doesn't realise that he will not be new for ever. Mardi Gras is for all Queers. The party is there for us all, not just teeny boppers with attitude. By the way are you a 2.1 km Sydney Queen with an inverted body fascist and ageist type attitude. If you are then the Mardi Gras party for you in ten years time will be very sad.
Karma, Dharma and nice nipples for all Queers - Wed Jan 28 23:11:22 1998

I agree. My overtanned and sagging skin still looks fab in my macrame g-string. The same outfit I have worn for the last ten years. Honey, those young queens are just jealous
See you there - Wed Jan 28 23:16:53 1998

Looking Fabulous dos'nt mean you are Fabulous Ms TNG. I'm 25 & the single thing I enjoy most about the party is getting to meet & see all the thousands of queers, dykes & trannies who don't desire to be a part of the conformist nightmare that the Oxford street scene has become. Pull your head out of your arse and open your eyes, heart & mind to all that you will become. You may even find something to aspire to....
Endora Finn - Thu Jan 29 8:57:11 1998

Can anyone tell me where the liposuction machine is located at City Gym ????
Not enough time - Thu Jan 29 9:42:52 1998

An idea for a float - The Marching Hillary's - Music of course is 'Stand by your Man' - wearing that fabulous yellow dress and beads she wore when standing by her man (as he made that impassioned plea "I did not have sexual relations with that woman Monica Lewinsky")
Does John Howard have a libido? - Thu Jan 29 9:47:19 1998

Does John Howard have a dick? He certainly doesn't have any balls!!
Thu Jan 29 11:30:09 1998

Little Johnnie Howard - there has to be an idea for a float there as well.
Size queen - Thu Jan 29 13:15:32 1998

New Generation you dissapoint me......if you can't learn to allow people to be who they want to be then maybe you just should give the party a miss. I for one want to personally congratulate each and every person at the party just for being there in the spirit of solidarity and community. Please check your own self loathing and internalised homophobia in at the door!!!!
Sleepless in Brisvegas - Thu Jan 29 14:11:27 1998

A quick observation. We are all meant to be so accepting of one another in all our various shapes and forms. A few girls walk through the dance floor with shoulder packs on and it's OK to go ballistic about them.
Gay and lesbian at any cost? - Thu Jan 29 15:45:31 1998

It is so easy to heap shit on someone like new generation. The responses are as venomous as his (her) original comments. I suggest we should reflect on the environment which produces someone like new generation. I in fact feel sorry for these kids. They are coming to terms with their sexuality in an environment where the body beautiful is of utmost importance, drugs are an integral part of their socialising, the community is espousing policies of exclusion. It's easy to pin HIV on the previous generation etc etc. No wonder his peers end up with views similar to his. He needs to grow and develop and maybe the Fun and Esteem project run by ACON is worth his consideration. It's a pity that the Discovery and Aurora programs also seem to have fallen by the way. One day I hope new generation will empower myself. I wonder about the positive support he has around him. I doubt he has much hope if the negativity thrown back at him here is anything to go by.
I hope you guys had 'fun' venting your anger - Thu Jan 29 16:37:32 1998

You doubt he has much hope if the negativity thrown back at him here is anything to go by. Here a few excerpts from his two posts: "tragic 40 something old queens"..." You look hideous guys"..". Act your age and just retire gracefully"..."give the oldies a Mardi Gras pension car"..."Just stay away from the party" So who is the one with the negativity??
A tragic 30 something old queen - Thu Jan 29 17:04:47 1998

Dont forget to find out How all this started by going to http://www.mardigras78ers.com and see some of our History as a Community.
ozboy@ibm.net - Thu Jan 29 17:11:53 1998

And remember that back then in 78 we were 20 something too!!!
Gary Mcknight-Smith - Thu Jan 29 17:18:41 1998

There are a lot f***ed up 20 something, 30 something, 40 something and 50 something people out there; all f***ed by the same environment. But I agree with you throwing negativity at negativity doesn't achieve much.
I guess we are all f***ed - Thu Jan 29 17:29:20 1998

Where is David Schwartz when you need him ?
Some of us will know who he is - Thu Jan 29 17:37:38 1998

Just a little note to let everyone know that "outFM 94.5" will be broadcasting live from Friday the 30/01/98, 24 hours a day until the 01/03/98. Please tune in and give us your comments and your support. Many thanx !!!!
Brad Shearer - Thu Jan 29 17:45:26 1998

I did Aurora a couple of years ago. I must admit that experience gave me a greater awareness of myself and where I fit into this fabulous community of ours. More so than attending any (or for that matter every) Mardi Gras event.
I luv the big MG as well - Thu Jan 29 17:48:47 1998

Thu Jan 29 18:42:32 1998

Rumor has it that Miss Bette Midler and MaDonna are staring at this years Mardi Gras .., True or False ...I wonder ?
Thu Jan 29 18:44:52 1998

false
divine mr m - Thu Jan 29 19:28:10 1998

Is anybody going to the launch tomorrow night?
Rergional Queens reign supreme - Thu Jan 29 22:42:24 1998

Is anybody going to the launch tomorrow night?
Regional Queens reign supreme - Thu Jan 29 22:52:50 1998

Is anyone not going to the launch? Out-of-towners are exempted.
Thu Jan 29 23:01:06 1998

Is anybody going to the launch tomorrow night?
Regional Queens reign supreme - Thu Jan 29 23:01:14 1998

Madonna, great! Another on screen appearance from her perhaps. The Divine Ms. M. I suppose we could have a voice over from her.
Thu Jan 29 23:02:39 1998

Elton John will be on stage at 2AM in the RHI. And Jimmy Summerville will be appearing on the night as well.
A mole in Eltons Australonn Reps office - Fri Jan 30 7:47:12 1998

K D Lang as well
Ditto - Fri Jan 30 7:48:44 1998

Sveta and Steven Alkins in Dome.
Fri Jan 30 8:42:21 1998

Paul, I survived the bus accident but not feeling so good . It did make me realise how much I needed you. To help me get around etc. Need you back.
Dave - Fri Jan 30 8:43:15 1998

MG is bigger than Ben Hur. Check the liftout in Sydney Morning Herald.
See you at the launch - Fri Jan 30 11:24:48 1998

O.K ! now for the real entertainment gossip.... Elton John,Petshop boys,K.D Lang,George Michael,Jimmy, Dannies out unfortunately. Now if someone would let us know the time of shows it would be great.Come on Mardigras organizers lets get over it,lay it on the line
Sydney Marching Guy - Fri Jan 30 11:36:33 1998

Happy happy mardi gras everybody!!!!!! Hope everyone has a fabulous launch. Let the party begin!!! See you all in the RHI at 4.00am
Bette M. - Fri Jan 30 11:37:48 1998

Can anyone tell me where to get a roman skirt in sequences from?
Sydney Marching guy,Yes we're back - Fri Jan 30 11:39:09 1998

Shows> Midnight, 1am 2am 4am 6am 8am 10am
GL - Fri Jan 30 12:42:22 1998

I can't decide to be a Marching Drag or a Marching Boy! However, I'll audition for both, I'm soooo desprate for a ticket! Can't believe I left it to the end again. My favorite Mardi Gras was the one when I told Marcia H. my ex-boyfriend loved her (sincerely). My least favorite was when I told her the same thing again (without spontaneity).
Nathcock - Fri Jan 30 12:59:27 1998

I'm really impressed with the S.M.H.'s M.G. festival liftout. A good production. Perhaps next year M.G. could save all that money and leave it up to them.
Fri Jan 30 14:13:38 1998

I would still like to see a Pinkboard get together sometime soon. How about early one Saturday evening. After dinner and before the clubs get going.
Fri Jan 30 16:41:41 1998

When I first heard about the rumoured 7 shows in RHI, I thought wow and then double wow with the names of the rumoured performers. I must admit i now have a few reservations. I just hope that the RHI doesn't become more like a concert than a dance party. The crowds start to congregate half an hour before each show, the pushing and shoving etc etc. Also remeber that the most the RHI can take is about 12000 people. The only time in my recollection that the doors to the RHI were closed was with the Kylie performance 3 years ago. I think it is possible we are going to see a repeat of that more than once on the 28th. Could it be a case of staying in the RHI once you are there and hanging around just waiting for the next show. I've added bladder control to my gym routine !!!. And what about the locked out ones if that happens?
I just hope my reservations are baseless - Fri Jan 30 16:47:44 1998

I too think it could be an ugly scene in the RHI between 11 and say 5.
I've added elbow walking to my gym routine - Fri Jan 30 16:53:20 1998

The shows: Mogadonna does Elton, Mogadonna does kd, Mogadonna does Pet Shop Boys, Mogadonna and Mogadonna
It must be Mardi Gras - Fri Jan 30 17:11:12 1998

I'm 6ft 4 ins
What problem - Fri Jan 30 18:28:13 1998

I'm 6'4"! That's what makes the party for me. It puts me 'head and shoulders above the rest!'
Fri Jan 30 23:41:37 1998

The launch was fantastic! A litle flat on other years, and I got a little feed up with the ochestrated comments about 'reconcilliation', but on the whole a great night, until my boy friend turned into a total arsehole. Hopwfully he'll die soon, and that'll be one less thing to stop me enjoying myself.
Fri Jan 30 23:49:31 1998

Well the launch has been & gone & my positive self image has gone with it. I don't think I can face 20,000 people in this body, anyone want a ticket....
Sat Jan 31 0:12:39 1998

Re the Launch: what a let down! Weak speeches, weak performances. Hugn Monroe can't sing to save himself. Julie McCrossin didn't seem to know what we were fighting for half the time. I hope things improve!
David - Sat Jan 31 1:12:17 1998

ozboy@ibm.net. You have taken my address! Missed the launch (they didn't show it here in FL on CNN) but looking forward to being one of the tragic 40 something hideous old queens with a pension card and NO through of retiring.
Etty van Cartier-Izitizi-Colby-Carrington-Dexter-Pitt-Cruise-Stryker-Idol-Amyl-Florida Keys-Smith-Smyth-JAX-yda yda yda Spice! - Sat Jan 31 6:01:27 1998

I thought the launch was great. Only criticism. There was no action happening in the toilets.
Will have to wait till the party I suppose - Sat Jan 31 10:49:04 1998

If you have extra tickets or are looking for one please go to Pinkboard Classifieds - Tickets. Also, please make sure your tickets go to people who we want to have at the party.
Panther - Sat Jan 31 18:08:02 1998

g'day peoples. i'm not going to be able to make it to mg this year. can someone please have a dance for me?
gogoBoy - Sun Feb 1 11:19:56 1998

g'day peoples. i'm not going to be able to make it to mg this year. can someone please have a dance for me?
gogoBoy - Sun Feb 1 11:20:12 1998

I thought the Launch was great, including Julie McCrossin! She's a great entertainer. Stars Come Out was a spectacular night - great acts - and I don't have a bf to 'turn into a total arsehole' (Jan 30 23:49:31 1998) but I did see that gorgeous boy Matthew - the last time I saw him was being a great slaveboy!
Sun Feb 1 12:23:06 1998

Who said that Steve Carley's set was a "a mixed bag" his set at MG last year was faaaaaab and his set at Sleaze was even better. Only prob is how to be there when theres a bit of groping to be done in the Dome.
Sun Feb 1 12:58:04 1998

Not being one to spread gossip but guess who'll be in town at party time...Kd and Elton! Two very out and proud stars, who else would ask to do the big 20!
little bird - Sun Feb 1 14:00:00 1998

Pinkboard Mardi Gras get together: How about Friday 20th at the Nubar at the Oxford at 8pm. Please email me if you are interested in coming, or if you would prefer some other date/time.
Panther - Sun Feb 1 18:02:56 1998

Please!!! put some portaloos around the Party this year. I have tried on numerous occasions to perform and receive felatio on a full bladder and it is'nt very sexy. I know it sounds discusting but apparently toilets were originally designed for the purpose of expelling used alcohol!!!!
My private party - Barracks Boy - Sun Feb 1 23:06:36 1998

I agree. There is nothing worse that wading aroung in complete darkness in a sea of sweaty half naked men only to be grabbed on the penis by some huge... Oh get over it honey - there always the ladies toilet
stretch that bladder girl - Sun Feb 1 23:16:14 1998

Its a big NO on Elton for the party, seems he wanted $100,000.00 apperance money, even MG, which is rolling in it this year, can't aford the big queen.
guess who - Sun Feb 1 23:42:15 1998

Unlike Tina Arena who paid MG $100,000 to let her perform last Sleaze.
Scarlet Gash - Mon Feb 2 9:47:34 1998

Maybe we should start the Elton John for Mardi Gras fundraiser. All we need is 20000 queens donating $5 each !!!! Such a good cause.
Who needs Elton anyway ? - Mon Feb 2 10:43:05 1998

Mens Only Space = Hordern Toilets with DJ Buck Naked ???
Rumour or Not ?? - Mon Feb 2 10:59:12 1998

When is the official DJ lineup to be announced ? I think we know you they are but I haven't read it officially anywhere.
Need to know - Mon Feb 2 11:04:06 1998

Enjoyed the Stars Come Out. Only 2 cock ups that I noticed. Both Vanessa Wagner faux pas. Vanessa got the pronunciation of Judy Connelli's surname wrong. She said it as if it were Connelly (as in Billy Connelly). Also the Town Hall toilets joke with the punchline about a dead judge was in poor taste in my view. All is forgiven Vanessa - you were great !!!!!
Nit picky queen - Mon Feb 2 11:10:12 1998

Hey, reading the comments here makes me so excited to be coming home to Sydney for the biggest party ever! Have been living in LA the past 8 months and let me tell you there is "nothing" like this party anywhere!!!! Enjoy! Cherish the moment!! I'll be the even more...overwhelmed one...to spend a wonderful evening with friends I miss so much!!! Dust off those dancing shoes people!!!!
Moggadonna's Antioch class! - Mon Feb 2 11:20:01 1998

It's amazing how boyfriends can turn into arseholes this time of year. Must be something in the air. Do lesbians have the same problem with their girlfriends ?
Blame it all on Mardi Gras - Mon Feb 2 11:38:34 1998

I loved "The Stars Come Out" as well, especially when the 78ers came on stage at the end. Nice to see the bunch of "tragic 40-something queens" (and dykes) who made it possible for the rest of us. Only one quibble about the show - what was Krusty the Klown doing on stage during the finale?
Mon Feb 2 11:54:58 1998

It wasn't Krusty the Klown, it was 'Crisco the Klown'. Check out for a slightly better understanding. It isn't truly a M.G. costume , buut then again it is good.
A little bit of knowledge goes a long way. - Mon Feb 2 16:01:45 1998

That last message should have contained the following address: http://www.ozemail.com.au/~kabi/slz96.htm Panther must have some control characters hidden in the code.
A little baffled. - Mon Feb 2 16:07:05 1998

I don't have a strong view either way on the men's only space issue. I'll be in the RHI all night. I assume the Buck Naked and the Hordern toilets rumour is a bit of a joke. If not then I think Leeson (or whoever is responsible) has finally lost the plot.
It just better be a joke (reasons to be given later if it is not) - Mon Feb 2 16:46:47 1998

Good onya Gloria for becoming a Marching Drag. One year a Marching Boy - the next a Marching Drag. You are a legend !!!!
A former Marie Antoinette - Mon Feb 2 16:48:53 1998

I want a men's only D a n c e S p a c e....why do some people always seem to think all men want is sex!
Mon Feb 2 17:29:24 1998

Can I pay $5 for Elton John not to perfom - Ok, I'll change my mind if he does a disco version of the Di song. I want tack, tack and more tack.
If Elton died nobody would care (except me mum) - Mon Feb 2 20:34:08 1998

I still don't see the issue about the Men's only space - if you were in the centre of the Dome about 4am at Sleaze you'd probably know why. But I do want Buck Naked (especially naked)
Wondering - Mon Feb 2 20:35:50 1998

Are there any fab leather events that anybody coming from out of town absolutely must be at in the week before the party?
Itching - Mon Feb 2 20:42:51 1998

i would love to see elton at a mardigras but where are we going, too get 20,000 queens from.
pjk - Mon Feb 2 22:21:55 1998

Let's hope we see DJ "Dicks Out" as part of next year's Mardi Gras DJ line up as he obviously has far greater experience & talent at successfully entertaining 10,000 people than either the internationally renowned Steve Carley (that's Carley with an E you loser) or Warren Gluck. Anyway I'm sure no-one listens to the pathological ravings of a wanna-be-if-he-could-be DJ commentator. Fortunately people like you don't decide the fate of all those who attend the party that actually matter.
Put your dick away - Mon Feb 2 23:58:35 1998

cant wait to the mardigra,by the way seen this unreal dick hanging candleholder in Eat n out, Bondi,nsw,unreal cool erotic stuff guys ,glad to see erotic art .
Tue Feb 3 1:06:05 1998

I'm scared - very scared. With the DJ line up in the RHI. My hands will be in the air all night flapping around. I just might take off and start to fly. So if you see a 6'2" 40 something guy floating (literally) around the hall, then you will know who it is. Just wave at me.
I might be 40 something and tragic - but I'm going to have a fine time - Tue Feb 3 8:16:18 1998

If Elton wants such a large sum of money then he obviously doesn't **want to** play at **our** party that desperately. I would love to see him, I think he'd be amazing. I hope he changes his mind, thus showing some desire to be part of such a great celebration.
Keen to see him. - Tue Feb 3 9:06:00 1998

The real reason Elton is not performing is that he could not get a ticket. He sent four emails to Mardi Gras ordering tickets but received no response. Three phone calls were unreturned. He then found out that the party was a sell out. Maybe if he gets his act together and organises a ticket earlier, he might perform at Sleaze. Dannii I believe may have a ticket though.
Any spare tickets ? - Tue Feb 3 9:38:30 1998

Which proprietor of a well positioned coffee shop on the strip left his run too late to get a MG ticket? Could be a cheap cappucino in it for someone with a spare ticket!
The things you overhear - Tue Feb 3 9:41:54 1998

February is going to be a slow month @ work. I'm not getting any work done. Between reading every festival guide, deciding what enets I wish to go to. Organising my outfit. Reading this grafiti wall, watching MG's site etc, work is just not happening. Unfortunately it's that time of year for staff bonuses so I have to look productive. I should just take the month off.
Mostly Gorgeous - Tue Feb 3 10:57:38 1998

What to wear? what to wear? what to wear? Although I suppose something that comes off easily and doesn't stain might be appropriate - not that it really matters because it's dark in the Hordern toilets isn't it???
Moving to Sydney the week before Mardi Gra - Tue Feb 3 13:47:38 1998

Rumour #12 Bill Clinton comes on stage and performs oral sex on Tina Turner!
Captivare - Tue Feb 3 14:36:14 1998

Rumour #12 Bill Clinton comes on stage and performs oral sex on Tina Turner!
Captivare - Tue Feb 3 14:36:36 1998

Sorry guys ... posted it twice!
Captivare - Tue Feb 3 14:38:13 1998

Mardi Gras is again organising an Economic Impact Study. Although Mardi Gras may bring some $60 million into the economy, I reckon the economic loss to employers is probably $100 million !!!!!! But who's counting ?????
An economist - Tue Feb 3 15:12:49 1998

Yeah, that would be about right. I'm worth $100 million to my employer.
Mostly Gorgeous - Tue Feb 3 16:02:15 1998

Rumour #13 John Howard comes on stage and magnifying glasses are handed out!
Tue Feb 3 16:19:51 1998

Re Economic Impact Study: Is the consumption of recreational drugs taken into account?
$60 million sounds too little - Tue Feb 3 16:21:35 1998

I heard that Mardi Gras did some foreign currency exchange speculation with the cash reserves from Sleaze Ball. Unfortunately, they speculated on the Indonesian rupiah. All the planned shows have been cancelled and there is now only one show - a guy with a banjo singing an old Donna Summer song.
Can't wait - Tue Feb 3 16:27:44 1998

No Good, Helga and Vinny are in the know.... here it is the Real.... line up... and dont forget where you heard it.... straight from the silk sheets of BodyLine... midnight... Baby Im burning...Dolly P 4am Those 2 sisters.... 9.45am (to be precise)... Elton 'free, out of the goodness of his heart' John and Marcia H...... so read it and weep Dave from your hospital bed, whilst Paul has front row tickets to the biggest party of the decade... see you there
No Good - Tue Feb 3 21:39:16 1998

I am one homosexual man that appears to have a life outside of organising my party frock, speculating on the DJ's and shows and looking forward to all the action in the men's toilets. Similarly, I am over all the Mardi Gras hype, and the grandstanding of certain women on the board. Julie McCrossin's pathethic speech concerning the lost generation at the launch was an attempt only at political correctness (so what??? Do you have to speak foe every minority???), and her views lacked any substance. Loved Hugh Monroe, but always remember him from his days on wonder world, which is kind of nice. The only way I will attend the parade is in the BGF seating, as I hate the crowds, and all the straight guys with their tongues hanging out, fantasising about what is in the drag queens knickers.
Over it (at 29) and going home with a gin and tonic after the parade. - Tue Feb 3 23:23:52 1998

Well good for you "over it(at 29)" I too have alife outside and away from all this, but I stll love it and know how to have fun.
Fishfantasy - Wed Feb 4 0:38:39 1998

"Put your dick away" my my, hit a nerve did we honey. To close to the mark? Must have been, considering you over the top reaction. One of the four, or maybe a misguided friend, calm down sweety.
Dicks Out - Wed Feb 4 0:44:10 1998

No good: I want the dirt all all the 7 shows!!! Get back to Bodyline and have sex with whoever you have to in order to find out.
Desperate and Dateless - Wed Feb 4 7:47:48 1998

Not all the shows will interupt the music, whatever that means. Moggi swinging on a hoop from the ceiling again?
Sunny Bono - Wed Feb 4 8:04:37 1998

Oh and by the way, "who said DJ Steve Carley had a mixed night last year" he did, thats right, the wonderboy himself.
Dicks Out - Wed Feb 4 8:08:36 1998

Over it and 29 - if you were really over it, you wouldn't be typing messages onto this bulletin board.
Wed Feb 4 9:06:03 1998

Did our Mardi Gras wall chart last night, Yeah I now I should have done it a month ago. I've got two free days between now and March 4.
Dumb and Gorgeous - Wed Feb 4 9:34:02 1998

There is still more to life than getting your rocks off in the men's...surprising isn't it! What ever happened to romance?, oh yeh ditch this reconciliation bullshit...we haven't fixed up our own backyard yet!
Pete - Wed Feb 4 10:01:49 1998

Well, people with less than a month to go. 25 sleeps in fact. It's nice to see all the rumors, bitching, and gossip. I'm just so dissapointed that I'll only be in Sydney for the parade. Such is life living in the South. Anyway, looking forward to a great weekend. Hope everyone has a great time. It's been nearly 10yrs since my last Mg. Still looking forward to seeing those over 30's - it's everyones parade, and party..
hamish - Wed Feb 4 10:51:41 1998

Over it, you show signs of closet alcoholism. Maybe instead of going to the parade, you should check yourself into the nearest rehabilitation centre.
Don't rain on my parade - Wed Feb 4 12:04:11 1998

If Marcia Hines does close the party (with or withour EJ), then all my prayers will have been answered.
There must be a God - Wed Feb 4 12:06:45 1998

Aren't we so lucky that Mardi Gras party is not on this weekend? We would probably be stuck with Celine and Mariah !!!!!
A fate worse than you know what - Wed Feb 4 12:09:29 1998

Party, Party, Party!! I just can't wait to go " down under" at the MG!! Big up all those from London making the journey!!Kudos Bar & Benj's slappers especially!!
Marky Mark Spencer - Wed Feb 4 13:12:38 1998

There is more to life than "Getting your rocks off in the men's" - but why not have that and everything. There isn't time for romance at a dance party, I've already got that - and I still want to get my rocks off, and I still will.
The Thrill of It All - Wed Feb 4 15:49:07 1998

How can I lose my boyf at MG, so that I can "get my rocks off" ??
Any Suggestions ?? - Wed Feb 4 21:53:55 1998

There must be tickets out there somewhere. Go to pinkboard classifies and sell them to the people that belong at a queer party.... Queers.
Thu Feb 5 0:50:16 1998

Suggestions: Honesty?
Panther - Thu Feb 5 8:43:06 1998

Aren't you the luckiest thing Any Suggestions. I'm running a workshop this Saturday on 'How to lose your boyfriend at Mardi Gras with style, grace and dignity'. For registration details etc contact Mardi Gras and ask for the workshop registrar.
Entrepreneurial Queen - Thu Feb 5 9:15:45 1998

I am a man on a mission this Mardi Gras. I'm out to find myself the perfect Dutch boyfriend. I will be at the airport to greet every KLM flight as it lands. Look out for me at the bars - I'll be wearing my "I'm looking for a Dutch boy" t-shirt (it has tulips on it). I can spot a Dutch accent from one end of Stonewall Bar to another.
You have been warned - Thu Feb 5 9:22:12 1998

The Thrill Of It All....Any Suggestions...yes be honest with your BF, you cowardly bitch, let him know that you are indeed one of those egotistical pricks, that you are a slut, that you are liar, that you are dishonest...let him know who and what you are....then you will surely ditch your boyfriend and then you can bonk whoever, wherever and continue on with your self absorbed, glamorous life....may you enjoy your own company!
One Who Cares! - Thu Feb 5 11:33:41 1998

I have never had the thrill and honour to share a Mardi Gras with a boyfriend. I feel so inadequate. What is it that is wrong with me that I cannot attract another human being to develop some sort of meaningful realtionship. I try to maintain my self esteem but find it a lost cause. Mardi Gras should be a time for celebration. I find I am crying myself to sleep most nights. I just feel sad, so very sad. I do not blame others and want to find an inner strength. Thank you for allowing me to express what are very painful feelings.
Best wishes to you all - Thu Feb 5 12:06:42 1998

Best Wishes. Don't be sad. Boyfriends are not the be all and end all. Nor are they some kind of indicator on your abilities. I went many years falling in and out of relationships, usually of no substance. When I finally gave up trying, I found myself being celibate for a while, and then I started enjoying those flings and one night stands that I did have. I began to really enjoy life and developed a wonderful group of friends, some of whom where in relationships and some who weren't. Slowly I developed a relationship with someone within the group and because we already new each other rather well we were comfortable with each other to start with. My advice would be to not look for a boyfriend. As long as you have a group of friends you are comfortable around, and who you can be yourself with. Not that you will find love in that group, but as long as you are having fun with your life, that's what matters. My boyfriend and I have been together several years and each year at MG we spend some time 'together', some with friends, some time just roaming about, but we will always end the night together, usually with All our friends taking over the dancefloor where ever we are. MG is a time for celebration. Celebrate your sexuality. Celebrate that you aren't like the vast majority of society. You are unique. Don't cry! Spend this month being what you want to be. It's February in Sydney and we OWN this town.
Ra Ra Mardi Gras - Thu Feb 5 12:40:31 1998

Dear "One Who Cares" - your thoughts are based on the theory that you have to be monogomous if you have a partner - not always the case, particularly if said partner and you have an understanding - in fact, it usually results in you knowing that what you've got with partner is actually the best. NB For Any Suggestions - forget the losing the boyfriend with dignity bit - my best move so far was to drop to my hands & knees in the Hordern and crawl through the crowd. Met some interesting people along the way! (NB that was with ex-boyfriend that anyone would want to lose) - but my advice is that if you have to lose boyfriend to get your rocks off then it's not worth getting your rocks off.
The Thrill Of It All - Thu Feb 5 14:15:07 1998

PS Any Suggestions - maybe you and your boyfriend could get your rocks off with someone else. Enough typed.
Thu Feb 5 15:26:53 1998

Menage a trois at Mardi Gras ??????
Thu Feb 5 15:34:04 1998

Dear "You have been warned...." have you given up trying to find a rich american boyfriend at Mardi Gras... after 19 attemps I would too.
Lucky once - Thu Feb 5 17:50:14 1998

I've ordered every exercise machine, depilatory technique and moisturising treatment there is to buy from the Bert Newton Show.
Hope they arrive in time - Thu Feb 5 19:08:22 1998

Did they come with a free ab trainer
I think it's probably a little late now - Thu Feb 5 22:01:30 1998

Dear "best wishes", mardi Gras is not all that fun for some people. I am 30 years old and although not "on the scene" I have not had the opportunity of meeting many men with whom I could be friends and perhaps attend some events with. Has anyone ever attended a night at the theatre on their own, or sat by themselves at fair day?? Have they suffered the laughs and bithcy stares from those buffed types who consider themseleves gorgeous, and have no other aims in life than the gym and propping up a bar stool in the Albury??? I am not ugly, or desperate but sometimes I think it would be nice to meet some likeminded guys to experience things with. On the rare occasions I have attended the shift I have never been short of offers for sex, but anything more that that seems, for some people a little too much to handle. For me, although I would love to attend, being a wallflower in the main hall is not my idea of a fun night out.Jjust remember that everyone is not "on the scene" and has thousands of gay friends, and Mardi Gras is not a clebration for everyone.
maybe next year..... - Fri Feb 6 18:06:07 1998

Another year, another MG....this one's an anniversary, so let's make it worth remembering....never forgetting how lucky we are and how hard we've fought....oh, politics aside, let's have a fabulous, gorgeous and scandalous time on the night. To all my fellow cyber-queers, happy Mardi gras!!!!!!!!!
Katya xxxxxxxxx - Fri Feb 6 20:08:48 1998

"maybe next year", perhaps if you propped up a bar stool at the albury once in a while, you could make some friends. get out and live a little, and dont bore us all, happy mardi anyway...
the scene is my life - Fri Feb 6 20:49:28 1998

Stop Press!! Sandra Sully is performing at Mardi Gras. She will be lipsynching one song while something completely different is playing. What a way to maintain her image.
Secretary , Sandra Sully Mucks It Up Again Fan Club - Fri Feb 6 22:35:55 1998

Friday 20th 8pm at the Nubar for Pinkboard Mardi Gras Get Together. RSVP
Panther - Sat Feb 7 8:43:42 1998

You have been warned... I am a 28 yr old Dutch boy comming out for his first mardi gras. I have heard very much how friendly Australian boys are and would like to meet up with you. It would be nice to have an Australian boyfriend if only for the two weeks I am here. My KLM flight is arriving in Sydney on 19th Feb at 6.50 pm. If you have a car, it would be great if you could meet me, as my friend will not be back in Sydney until the Friday night.
Excited Dutch boy - Sat Feb 7 16:44:41 1998

Please help its our first time a Mardi Gras this year and a friend said they would get our tickets and didn't is there any one out there that has three tickets for sale. we will be for ever in your debt if you can help us . please please can some one help if so email us at bdjones@powerup.com.au yours truely (lucky)
hope to get lucky - Sat Feb 7 17:09:15 1998

Come wide world of Mardi Gras have we any more news on whose playing.The tickets are sold out so there wont be any need for secrecy.It would be nice to actually know what show you are waiting for in the RHI.MMMM ????everyone agree
Sydney Marching Guy - Sat Feb 7 18:16:30 1998

DJs are: RHI Warren Gluck and Steve Harley, lights Steven Hales, stage lights Barbara Williams; Horden Luke Leal and Brent Nicholls, lights Allan Parkinson; Dome Steven Alkins ans Sveta, lighting Jamie Ivarsen; Carousel Mandy Rollins, DJ Kat, Sioux Spears, lights Lisa Kemball, Barbara Williams,
Panther - Sat Feb 7 19:23:41 1998

You forget DJ Buck Naked, playing in the mens under the Hordon, asked the man himself about this one, it is going to happen
Dicks Out - Sun Feb 8 8:40:40 1998

Friday 20th 8pm at the Nubar for Pinkboard Mardi Gras Get Together, I'll be there
Dicks Out - Sun Feb 8 8:42:50 1998

To all the bitches out there. I am sick and tired of hearing all the downgrading bitchy comments from the so called fab crowd about the more mature age group of our society. let me tell you bitches a little something. guess what ! we all grow old and we all get wrinkles and yes it does hurt when gravity takes hold, but the thing is that we all have a lot of great friends and real friends at that. but as for you my little worms one day you will wake up to find all the wrinkles and gravity grabbing hold of place's you never thought possible with no friends left to be bitchy with. then you'll be the lonely old queen. love karma does get you in the long run and for you it will hurt even more. so instead of putting these people down (yes they are people) you should be thanking them, because all that you are enjoying today would not have been possible if it was not for them. do you get it yet? you see we have enough pauline hansens in the world and don't need that shit from our own kind, we are suppose to be celebrating how far we have come. you fab crowd waste so much energy. its about time you got it together and put all that spare time and energy to good use. like the( what you call the oldies) oldies did for you so we could all enjoy our sexuality instead of hiding in the closet all our lives. fab crowd just get it together ok you still have time. on closing i would like to say to all the older men & women out there thank you for making Mardi Gras what it is today without you guys & gals we would not have this celebration to enjoy. thank you. hope to see some of you there cheers and thank you again. lots of love n stuff Rod
Rod - Sun Feb 8 11:20:00 1998

Good on you Rod if everyone at Mardi Gras this year has that outlook on things we will no doubt have the most ammazing time. see you there sister hehehe. by the way Rod is a friend of mine and he is only 34yo so anyone thinking he's just an oldie writing for himself. wrong. love ya babe now party boys & girls.
a friend B - Sun Feb 8 12:02:33 1998

Ok Rod, see you at the Parade, will your wheelchair or walking stick be accessorised to match your frock? Let me know so I can give you a wave, and a hot water bottle, Daaaarling.........
30 years old and proud of it - Sun Feb 8 12:35:53 1998

everyone should take time to read Rod's letter titled to the bitches out there dated sunday feb 8. onya Rod
ken - Sun Feb 8 12:41:13 1998

30 years old and proud of it well I wont take that smart ass reply to heart as I do have one, unlike some others by the way i am 34 yo and also proud of it and i can walk without a stick i feel you will be quite amazed at what you will see but never mind i will still talk to you daaaarling
Rod OOXX - Sun Feb 8 12:47:50 1998

I too have heard that Buck Naked is telling everyone about his DJ gig at Mardi Gras. Can anyone please explain the reason for having a DJ in the men's toilets? Is this Mardi Gras' way of responding to the lobbying for a men's only space?
Someone has a lot of explaining to do - Sun Feb 8 13:53:49 1998

Oh my God I have a major dilemna. I'm the guy looking for the Dutch boyfriend over Mardi Gras. The reply from Excited Dutch boy sounds - well what can I say - exciting !!!! He arrives on 19 February early evening. Unfortunately, I will be at the Belvoir Street Theatre seeing the Tim Conigrave plays. Can someone pick him up at the airport for me and deliver him to the Belvoir? See it as doing your little bit for international relations.
You have been warned - Sun Feb 8 14:04:46 1998

Is this the Sydney Gay Lesbian and McCrossin Mardi Gras??
Sun Feb 8 14:08:21 1998

It looks as though there may be a Men's Only Space at the party. Is it possible that we could make it an Uncut Men's Only Space? I prefer men with foreskins and so much time wasting goes on with my search.
The unkindest cut - Sun Feb 8 14:17:36 1998

Call we sick and twisted if you like. I enjoy reading the Mardi Gras tickets section of Classifieds. All those desperate stories of why people do not have tickets. The betrayal of friendships etc etc.
My ticket is in a safe and secure place - if only i could remember - Sun Feb 8 14:32:46 1998

Yes it seems the mens only space will be in the mens, thats the mens down the ramps outside the front of the horden. Oh joy!
Dicks Out - Sun Feb 8 18:11:45 1998

PS. You won't see me there at 1am or any other time.
Dicks Out - Sun Feb 8 18:13:52 1998

What did everyone think of Fair Day? I thought that the new venue was much better and even though we had a little shower it was a lot more people friendly. Hoping it will be there again next year.
Mrs White Trash aka Miss Fair Day 1995 - Sun Feb 8 21:37:39 1998

Mr's White Trash aka Miss Fair Day 1995 looked a positive wreck on her way home to Newcastle without her power pussy frock on. Many accolades to the Menzies Hotel in Carrington St Sydney for their professionalism in not batting an eyelid to a drag queen with a moustache, frilly pussy umbrella, power pussy dress and a gold handbag.Although I think the American tourists looked at his garish earings with a stunned look. And a message to the ex pat Novocastrians who have moved to Sydney there will be a reunion picnic up here sometime this year. Read Pinkboard, Star Observor,LOTL, Dunny walls or E Mail us on trash@white.aljan.com.au for more info.
Mr White Trash - Husband of well over 7 years to Mrs White Trash - Sun Feb 8 23:34:38 1998

Fair day.....Julie McCrossen thrills us once again! Our very own all-australian dyke-next-door. VIVA McCrossen!!!
Tracey - Mon Feb 9 2:39:56 1998

Fair day.....Julie McCrossen thrills us once again! Our very own all-australian dyke-next-door. VIVA McCrossen!!!
Tracey - Mon Feb 9 2:43:50 1998

I feel personally insulted that the Sydney Lesbian Mardi Gras Board feel that the community's overwhelming desire for a predominantly gay male dance space can be satisfied by plonking a DJ into the male loos. Besides the fact that the men only dance space has such an odiferous venue, why oh why did they choose the loos under the hetro hall? If this is genuinely considered to be a satisfatory solution then why did'nt they just put a DJ in the female only loos years ago & call that the Dyke hall? Can you imagine the uproar? What this really appears to be is a petty, sarcastic & bitterly resentful jibe directed at all the people, male & female who believe that a male only dance space is justified. Maybe if gay men were the minority at the party then their requests would receive more posotive responses.
Livid - Mon Feb 9 13:35:24 1998

Victoria Park was fantastic for fair day, you could see the stage for miles, in years to come I can see huge picnics all over the grassy hill. Good food, chilled wine, good friends all together watching the show. Well done mardi grass fair day committe.
Fishfantasy - Mon Feb 9 14:23:57 1998

The showground is still a huge messy building site. Piles of gravel meters high right outside the horden, rubble from pulled down buildings everyware, huge holes outside the entrance and scatered between the hordern and the dome(which still looks like its been bombed) Will they finish in time?
male to male - Mon Feb 9 14:31:20 1998

Well that solves the what to wear problem, saftey boots and overalls. I share male to male's concerns, in the last few days its got worse not beter.
the all seeing eye - Mon Feb 9 14:36:00 1998

Mr White Trash, your gorgeous significant other,Mrs White Trash (aka Miss Fair Day 1995) could never ever look positively wrecked. She exudes trashy glamour from every pore.
Miss Madeleine Von Mantrap - Mon Feb 9 14:45:30 1998

I know we're all sick and tired of rumours but which Mardi Gras choreographer was heard to whisper to his 5 girls "You'd Better Work!"???????
Mon Feb 9 14:47:48 1998

If the news is true of a men only dance space in the mens dunnies, then I for one will not be visiting it. This is the slap in the face to the men from the dykes on the board, perhaps the girls dance space could also be moved to a public toilet also in the interests of equality. May I remind the board that the queue to the loos is always a rather large one, due to the fact of people lingering there for sex, not that I have a real problem with that. Where do the people go who need to take a slash?? Work your way through the crowd of dancers, and those engaged in various forms of sex, to finally end up at the urinal?? This is an inappropriate decision, and those dykes on the board should be ashamed at themselves. So do not even think for one moment that you know what the boys want, Ladies..................
Sick and tired of the incorrect decisions of organisational dykes - Mon Feb 9 15:21:55 1998

Hang on is this true or a rumour ?
Mon Feb 9 15:38:56 1998

It has to be a joke.
Mon Feb 9 15:45:32 1998

To: "Sick and tired of the incorrect decisions of organisational dykes" ...... what makes you think that it was the "dykes on the board" to make the decision (if the rumour is true) to have a mens only space in the loo ?? Maybe it was the "poofs on the board" that made the decision (if the rumour is true). If you are so sick and tired of the incorrect decisions of organisational dykes - why are you not on the board ???? I enjoy going to Mardi Gras ... Mardi Gras brings everyone under the one roof to party together - it's a time of celebration .. not a time to claim your alloted space. Which "minority" within our very own "minority community" will be next wanting their own space? Keep Mardi Gras under one roof - so that we can all celebrate together !
A Non-Separatist Gay Male - Mon Feb 9 15:46:18 1998

How about this for a solution - For a limited period of two years, make the RHI for the male identifying members & the Horden for the female identifying members. Perform every show once in each hall so nobody misses out. Maybe this radical solution will help to exclude the undesirable party goers/members from attending & re-newing their memberships. After a couple of party's in this format we could quietly re-integrate the halls & party like we deseve to - together.
All or nothing - Mon Feb 9 16:41:41 1998

Maybe this is all based on a misunderstanding. Perhaps Buck Naked meant something else when he said that he was going to play in the toilets? All this angst without a confirmation. Besides - how are you going to wire the toilets?
Mon Feb 9 19:37:38 1998

This is the first time I have ever taken to reading this Graffiti Wall. It amuses me to read comment after comment (mine won't even raise an eyebrow) and laugh at the way some people react. Paul and David will hopefully get back together and attend the party hand in hand. The oldies and the younger generation will perform together on stage in an amazing show of solidarity . . and as for the "Boys Own Space" . . . let the Boys have it and let the Men party with everyone. Whatever happens - I wish everyone a Happy Mardi Gras.
Just Matt - Mon Feb 9 23:06:49 1998

It is not a misunderstanding, it is confirmed by both the DJ and head of MG party committee(collored him at fair day), Buck Naked will be playing in the mens under the horden. So belive people, belive.
Dicks Out - Mon Feb 9 23:34:40 1998

I think it would be nice nice to have 'piano and violin music' playing in the loos. Not necessaraly classical but something nice to cum to. Maybe a piano bar in the Horden and a 70s disco in the RHI would be nice.
It would be fabulous if everybody would stop bitching and just have a good time. - Tue Feb 10 0:53:06 1998

But what's the point of having the Graffiti wall if we can't bitch - when was the last time you heard a witty line which was nice about somebody? (I'm happy to be nice about the whole universe about 4am at the party though)
Keep on bitching - Tue Feb 10 9:26:33 1998

"Non - Separatist", It was the women who got their own space a few years ago, Darling, not the men, so much for intergration there honey! What is good for the women, must also be good for the men, so why should we be stuck with the straight hoardes, including back pack bimbos and their kebab munching muscly lebanese boyfriends??? Honey, if I wanted that sort of environment I would go to DCM. It is so typical that as soon as one comments on the womens space being inappropriate and unfair, there are cries of discrimination, and dyke bashing, and this is Sweetie, quite unfortunate. If the women can have a hall to themselves, then why cant the men? The justification of why the womens space is necessary is pathetic, so if they wanted to join our Mardi Gras in 1988, they should have accepted things as they are. Instead they have created their own space, excluded the men and relegated a mens space into a goddam public latrine. All halls catering to one gender should be abolished, or else one for the men created in the interests of equality. Perhaps the gals next year would want to party in the toilets,and if the mens space is indeed in the loos, then I intend to submit that the women use this space at the party next year when the MG board meets (and of which I am a member) in April 1998.
Dancing with a dunny brush, and opposed to the decisions of certain members (women?) on the Board - Tue Feb 10 10:48:12 1998

I gather that Dancing with a dunny brush is on the Mardi Gras board of directors (and not just a Mardi Gras member). If so, I assume the decision re Loo dancing was made by the Party Committee without Board consultation or at least not discussed at a formal Board meeting. I find this amazing !!!! I suppose Troughman is excited by the decision.
Skip to the loo my darling - Tue Feb 10 12:23:58 1998

I really do believe that a picketing of the Hordern loos is justified. Off my face or not I would be part of it !!!!
Forget the Melbourne water dockets - this picket could be bigger - Tue Feb 10 12:30:24 1998

The toilet decision is a big smelly shit in more ways than one. I cannot think of even one reason how you could justify such a decision. I'm sure though we will hear some good reasons soon enough from the powers to be (and probably ex-powers - AKA Richard Letters to the Editor Cobden).
Stay tuned - Tue Feb 10 13:09:35 1998

Buck Naked's CV will look great - I played the Mardi Gras toilets.
Podium dancing on the toilet bowls - Tue Feb 10 13:14:49 1998

The loo decision was made by Richard "Letters to the Editor" Cobdens Boyfriend
Tue Feb 10 13:27:03 1998

I have a solution. Let's turn the VIP room into the Men's Only Space and the loos into the VIP room.
Lateral thinker - Tue Feb 10 13:40:28 1998

The loo decision the shitiest decision ever made by Mardi Gras. Piss weak if you ask me.
More toilet jokes ..... - Tue Feb 10 13:45:55 1998

Yeh it's a very scatty decision.
Tue Feb 10 13:47:57 1998

What's happened to everyone's sense of humour? I thought Mardi Gras was at least partly about having fun, poking fun, and being a bit off the wall and silly. Who said that putting a DJ in the toilet was answering the mens only space people? There's a whole lot of men down there right through the night. Why not give them some music? It's the kind of in-your-face idea that Mardi Gras used to be all about.
Lighten up a bit - Tue Feb 10 14:00:49 1998

It has nothing to with a sense of humour, as you put it..... It has to to with the total disrespect of a mens only space, with the attitude that to shut those silly queens up we can have OUR dance space and we will string up a mirror ball, and some speakers and the men can dance down thre seeing that they love it so much. It is not an "in your face" decision darling! The only thing that will be "in your face", will be the turds floating around in the toilet bowls, and I dont care whether they bob around in time to the music or not.
Please flush - Tue Feb 10 14:10:14 1998

I've contacted the Festival of Light about the decision and the woman I spoke to is keen to 'take it further' (quote unquote). She said she will also contact the Sydney Morning Herald to get them to 'pick up the story'. May as well get our enemies working for us. Obviously Mardi Gras doesn't.
Tue Feb 10 14:32:16 1998

Having only lived in Sydney for a couple of years now I have to ask the question - "Who the hell is Richard Cobden ?" Every time that I ask any long time Sydney siders I just get some vague reply that he used to be somebody, but not sure who / what he is now !
Bewildered - Tue Feb 10 14:46:09 1998

Richard Cobeden is an Ex MG President & all round pie fingerer. I have heard from some people that he, not Bev, is the person who is really pulling MG's strings although I personally know nothing on this matter.
What the hell is the festival of light? - Tue Feb 10 15:39:36 1998

As a Mardi Gras member who does not live in Sydney, I am unable to attend board meeting. I do have a suggestion however. When Mardi Gras sends out the membership re-newal forms they could include a sheet which tells the members phone numbers they can ring to express their point of view on the Boyzone issue. For example - dial 0055 6969 for 'the boyzone is justified' or dial 0055 0000 for 'The boyzone is unjustified'. When you ring the number you could give your membership number & DOB for verification. They could set a minimum call cost of say $5 which would cover the cost of administrating the vote & would probably even leave them better off. I think this would be a great way to find out how the *Members*, not the board, really feel about this issue.
Tina Sparkle - Tue Feb 10 15:56:45 1998

Dear Tina, you're assuming that the board gives a flying f***k what the members think, a mistake we have all been making for too many years.
Name and address supplied - Tue Feb 10 16:00:29 1998

The Male Space is not about avoiding women & hating dykes, It's about being able to dance in a safe & friendly environment without being gawked at, hearing people say "oh Yuck" when you kiss & caress another guy and not feeling intimidated by huge straight body builders who enjoy the party in their own way but feel the need to assert their heterosexual inclinations at every opportunity, to the point where they deliberatly make others uncomfotable. I don't hate women, nor do I hate straights, I just want to be comfortable at my own party like I used to be when I first started going 6 years ago. The atmosphere had definitly changed & is less homo-friendly (this is not one of those "the drugs used to be so much better in the old days rants either"). The last thing i want to do while buzzing away on the dance floor is hunt down a security guard & tell them that that big muscly semi-naked man over there is being abusive & then try to find said guy again!!! purleezzee would'nt it be easier to create an environment where they simply wouldn't want to go?
Endora Finn - Tue Feb 10 16:10:30 1998

Now now stop being so bitter.. I think it's odd that pinkboard and other queer media are telling us how many sleeps there are to the parade and party. I don't plan to sleep every night between here and then. There's pool parties, harbour parties heaps of other events and costumes to create. Well if I can't sleep alot I'll sleep around alot instead...
born again whore bag - Tue Feb 10 16:14:18 1998

Pinkboard@Nubar@20:00 20/2/98
Tue Feb 10 16:21:44 1998

Seems to me that the whole thing is now a party for anyone (who manages to stumble across a ticket) that 'generously' provides a space for dykes, toilets for poofs and a VIP room. Now theres something to celebrate.
Where theres hope, theres narcotics - Tue Feb 10 16:41:30 1998

Please don't picket the Hordern loos - some of us still want to get our rocks off (but aren't sure about whether we need Buck's tribal beats to do it)
Tue Feb 10 18:02:02 1998

I understand the straight-party-pack image people are playing with here, and they can be annoying I agree (I'm all for a men's space and do seriously wonder what purpose the Board has in alienating some many of its members), but "Dancing with a dunny brush" ought to avoid adding race to the cocktail ("muscly Lebanese boyfriends"). I'm a wog poof with a muscly wog boyf, so c'mon guys, try and avoid the slightly racist generalisations! Reminds me of that recent letter to the Sydney Star Observer bitching about the Mr Gay Sydney contest, complaining that all the contestants were boofy white Anglo cardboard cut-outs. The letter writer must have really felt a fool later when the SSO published a letter from one of the contestants explaining that some of the guys were from a non-Anglo background. Ouch! If you must be heterophobic (and it can be a little cathartic at times), then don't get xenophobic too.
Wog poof, not offended, but picky - Tue Feb 10 18:08:11 1998

Who the hell is Buck Naked anyway? I think it would be rather camp to have music playing whilst I get off in the Hordens toilets. To those of you who really believe that a DJ is going to be in the loos has obviously never been in the Horden Loo. There just isn't enough room for a DJ and the guys to get off.
Looking Forward To Mood Music - Tue Feb 10 21:53:55 1998

... continued on Mardi Gras 98 Graffiti Wall 2.

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