Pinkboard: Mardi Gras 99 Festival Graffiti Wall 1

Gay and lesbian original musicians.........Gloss................ ....Hopetoun Hotel Surry Hills 11th and 25th February.......... Thursday night...only $5...with over 6 great queer acts performing. This is a 100% queer community event. Sun Jan 17 11:56:01 1999

i hear that this years fair day is shaping up. 2 bars and over 100 stalls so far. there is even going to be gay cloging on the new bridge! Sun Jan 17 17:18:52 1999

Does anyone know the reason for why the festival is only three weeks long this year instead of the usual four? One might have thought that a week less of festival events might save Mardi Gras some money and therefore keep down the price of party tickets, but apparantly not. Nat - Mon Jan 18 17:44:15 1999

la di da a celebration of queer sound festival club feb 14 - seymour centre LIVE BooBoo & Mace Thami Pavo Christatus Kiva dj Gemma & Seymour Butz Tix @ Mardi Gras Mon Jan 18 18:14:50 1999

So what's this special event in the last week of MG reported in the gossip column of SSO Pr... teasers - Mon Jan 18 20:19:16 1999

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is seeking Gay and Lesbian couples to take part in a commitment ceremony to be held on the main stage at Fair Day (Valentines Day) 1999. It will be our way of making a statement in support of legal recognition of same sex couples. It will be fun, colourful, surprising and most of all serious. Written submissions can be made by sending 100 words or less to: "Say I do comp" Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. PO Box 557, Newtown, 2042, or for more information call Mardi Gras on 9557 4332. (by email) - Mon Jan 18 20:42:27 1999

I can't wait!!!!! Mon Jan 18 21:11:06 1999

So does this mean that people at Mardi Gras really do read these boards? Technowarrior - Tue Jan 19 0:04:27 1999

Why would anyone bother responding to that post from Mardi Gras re the Commitment Ceremony. We all know that Mardi Gras office never ever replies to emails/phone messages/faxes etc. Given up - Tue Jan 19 2:33:48 1999

do we still have to drink that cat-wee beer called ICE? its cr@p lager and we shouldn't create a monopoly for em... heres to decent beer a mardi blah - Tue Jan 19 4:38:21 1999

Gloss Original Gay and Lesbian Musicians 11th and 25th Hopetoun Hotel Surry Hills Thursday night 8.30 pm 18th Imperial Hotel Newtown only $5 plwha in for free Tue Jan 19 7:33:00 1999

I hate to criticise, although both the Festival details on the SGLMG web site as well as the festival program leaflet distributed everywhere ....fails to actually mention the offical festival opening at the Opera House. Is it at the Opera House (again) this year ? Had such a great time there last year - well actually it was after the ceremony and the Drag Queens had left that the opening was truely a special moment for me - We managed to create a congo line and proceeeded up and down the stairs of the Opera House, in full glory celebrating the opening...it was fab....where else in the world can that happen. I think SGLMG are great - they are truely attempting to make things work --it's big job co-ordinating both festival Party March - I simply go to these festivities with an open mind and enjoy it all - i think we shall leave the judgement to the not so accepting parties (Fred Nile - we love you)...enjoy it and indulge. tutu - Tue Jan 19 8:12:36 1999

This years festival theme "Equality In Diversity" has really upset me, how can Mardi Gras be so hypocritical. After attaching 2 pages of Bi, Queer and GLBT Activism and Community Work with my application form I was rejected because I ticked the Bisexual box. Mardi Gras what sort of Diversity are you referring to??? And who decided who is Equal? After years of community service I'm still a second class queer citizen!!! CyberQueerBi Boy - Tue Jan 19 18:09:43 1999

The concept of 'queer' has to be addressed now. Pride have said they will incorporate it (we'll see), the Mardi Gras process said it would look at it (we'll see), even Lesbian Space has embraced Trannies. A Bi-Boy being rejected for membership at MG - ridiculous, at least he was honest unlike the many hundreds who say they are gay, but are really DCM gym bunnies. Why not interview prospective members, like all organisations should, and then make up your minds please. Tue Jan 19 18:55:15 1999

Lesbian Space did not "embrace" trannies, it was more like having to kiss your great aunt who is incontinent, and if you didn't your mother would clip your ear! ear ear - Tue Jan 19 21:16:09 1999

Can't you see that all this "inclusion" is what has stuffed up oxford Street and Mardi gras ?? Include Bi's and then include their het partners, and then include their het partners friends, and then include the entire patronage of the Parramatta Leagues Club and then we have a B & S ball. listen up - Wed Jan 20 9:03:24 1999

That's right, only let wealthy heterosexual performers (Kylie, Danny, Madonna{via satalite}) into the party so they can make a buck out of us. And keep those Bis who have spent years fighting for our rights well and truely out. If someone is to blame for making the parties straight, it is gay boys and their fag hag girlfiends, which then causes the straight boys to come to the party in droves, like flys to shit. Ann - Wed Jan 20 11:12:49 1999

Why exclude Bis when straights who don't even have a single poofter or dyke as a friend make up about one third of the membership just so they can go to the party and screw on the dancefloor? Wake the f**k up! Wed Jan 20 20:15:01 1999

Well drama and whinging on the board again :-( I'd just like to say I am looking forward to some events, parade, and party, and recovery(ies) ... and i am not too particularly concern how many bi's, straights (although i hate the girlies with the flicky hair), dykes, trannies, queers, or _whatever_ ... hey guys just enjoy the best party on the planet, get high, get off, and have fun. synner - Thu Jan 21 15:56:42 1999

All this glorification of the use of recreational drugs. Thu Jan 21 17:16:57 1999

Back on topic please. This is the Festival wall. Panther - Thu Jan 21 20:42:03 1999

But the festival hasn't started yet Panther. There's nothing to talk about yet. Technowarrior - Thu Jan 21 22:39:46 1999

LOL. You know TW, I like you more every day. Everlasting Cynic - Fri Jan 22 1:48:28 1999

Is discussing the Festival theme and what it means, relavent to the topic? If so, what does "Equality in Diversity" mean in relation to the Mardi Gras Festival? CyberQueerBiBoy (glenv@queer.org.au) - Fri Jan 22 2:08:09 1999

Well it means that all the celebrities and supermodels that board members feel would look good standing next to them in the photoes in the Terrorgraph will have equal amounts of invites to the V I P parade viewing room and backstage V V V V V V V I P cocktail area. Fri Jan 22 9:18:13 1999

Perhaps people who work hard to create something as incredible as the Mardi Gras Festival deserve some rewards, meeting Dannii doesn't seem like a very rewarding thing to me, but it takes all types. But on the other hand, working hard to suppress certain members (Bisexuals) of our wonderfully diverse Queer community does seem an injustice that needs to be rectified. CyberQueerBiBoy - Fri Jan 22 13:05:56 1999

Conference, 26th February 1999, Glebe (Sydney, Australia) This Conference is about exploring the boundaries of our professional lives and our personal passions. Those who attend might variously describe themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual and queer. They might also describe themselves as psychologists, social workers, counsellors, therapists, researchers, academics or health educators. The theme of the conference, "The Psychology of Mardi Gras: Identity, Relationship, Community" will enable us to focus on the ways Mardi Gras highlights defining aspects of our common-ness. The conference will provide a unique opportunity to engage in lively debate with others who, like you, care about the growth and well-being of lesbians, gays and queers For further information, go to our web page!! http://www.personal.usyd.edu.au/~btoelle/Conference.htm Gay & Lesbian Psychology Interest Group - Fri Jan 22 18:14:37 1999

So let's have some comments about the committment ceremony on stage at Fair Day (Valentines Day). Sat Jan 23 13:56:01 1999

The committment ceremony... It's rushed and has no personal attachment. It could easily back fire like a wedding chapel quickie in Las Vegas or worse "where are they now" episode. If we are serious about the importance of this act then it would probably be better to have a indepth public discussion before we look at the potential Honeymooners skipping down the aisle.(sorry to be a wet rag) I love my boyfriend with all my heart and there is little that I would not do for him. But I certainly would draw the line at a month long engagement before the big Q*U*E*E*R media event. The people that *win* this event will be setting an example and forging a frontier for all of us. Why rush in without proper and concise consideration for all aspects of such an event. perhaps it could be a discussion point for many couples in the lead up to the 2000 party. "Fools rush in where ..." - Sun Jan 24 5:36:08 1999

I would think the commitment ceremony would be for couples who have already made a long term private commitment to each other and now want to participate in a public ceremony. I don't see any harm in that. John from Chicago - Sun Jan 24 15:30:09 1999

Mardi Gras has become dull and commercialised - personally I am glad that there is an alternative Queer festival this year - Queer As F**k presents Squirtz. About time!!! Mardi Gras has become so dull and bland it's amazing that it hasn't changed it's name to McMardi Gras. I found the Squirtz homepage by looking up Squirtz 99, if anyone else is like me and is sick of having McMardi Gras have a monopoly (or should I say monotony) over how we celebrate ourselves.. John - Tue Jan 26 11:06:52 1999

Mardi Gras has become dull and commercialised - personally I am glad that there is an alternative Queer festival this year - Queer As F**k presents Squirtz. About time!!! Mardi Gras has become so dull and bland it's amazing that it hasn't changed it's name to McMardi Gras. I found the Squirtz homepage by looking up Squirtz 99, if anyone else is like me and is sick of having McMardi Gras have a monopoly (or should I say monotony) over how we celebrate ourselves.. John - Tue Jan 26 11:07:05 1999

I'm Dannii's personal friend and i think she deserves all the free publicity she gets...she's so brave...and sincere !!! Shauna the 'orrible - Tue Jan 26 12:23:46 1999

Is the rumour true that New Weekly are getting admitance to the V.I.P. Lounge while no gay mags or papers are getting in? Will we then be seeing an exclusive coverage by New Weekly? As for sexuality and diversity....get real. If that's what you are aiming for why don't we see any overweight or hairy guys in any Mardi Gras advertising? If you ain't young, tanned and musclebound Mardi Gras don't want to acknowledge your presence. They will be happy to take your money though. And why are bi sexuals being excluded from coming. There are any number of obviously straight people at Mardi Gras who lie about their sexuality to get in but it would seem an honest bi sexual doesn't get a chance. Equality and diversity? Pigs arse. Phil - Tue Jan 26 13:26:16 1999

The rumour would be true. New Weekly have been given any number of exclusives to thank them for ther endless promotion of the parties as events for straight girls in bikinis and their himbo boyfriends a few years back. Remember their What to Wear To Mardi Gras cover special? A classic. And their shots of the lovely couples leaving Sleaze. Ah. And of course their exclusive photos of Kylie in 1994 and both Minogues last year. Of course the official story to the minions who don't need to know these things is that New Weekly snuck in with their camera. To the VIP cocktail area backstage. With all the security and every queer photographer hounded endlessly by them. Ask yourself who makes these deals. Two guesses. Tue Jan 26 15:39:09 1999

Lets face it - McMardi Gras sucks. The people who started it all up would be turning in their graves....wonder how long it will be before this lot will find a reason to drop the 'Gay & Lesbian' from the title and just call it Sydney Mardi Gras? So much better for The Sydney Morning Herald readers....why not cancel Mardi Gras next year unless we are given equal legal rights as straights? Threaten the removal of all those tourist dollars, and make Mardi Gras be what it once was - a political force - for us. Not to mention a whole years break from the hype and crap that now fronts as mardi gras - nowadays has all the excitement and sexuality of a mining company report. Tue Jan 26 23:43:50 1999

Lets face it - McMardi Gras sucks. The people who started it all up would be turning in their graves....wonder how long it will be before this lot will find a reason to drop the 'Gay & Lesbian' from the title and just call it Sydney Mardi Gras? So much better for The Sydney Morning Herald readers....why not cancel Mardi Gras next year unless we are given equal legal rights as straights? Threaten the removal of all those tourist dollars, and make Mardi Gras be what it once was - a political force - for us. Not to mention a whole years break from the hype and crap that now fronts as mardi gras - nowadays has all the excitement and sexuality of a mining company report. Tue Jan 26 23:44:02 1999

It is truly disappointing that this Festival Wall has degenerated into such second rate gossip and sniping...and no Festival chat? New Weekly and like publications are always officially refused access to the parties...which only goes to increase the value of photographs for an individual gay & lesbian photographers from designated G & L media with legal access to the party to be tempted to sell to these rags. I would love to enjoy the queer as F**k festival...but why don't we have it at another time of year...with MG's 125 events in three weeks and no one will even blink at QasF! Raise the level of debate - Tue Jan 26 23:59:39 1999

To technowarrior and others. Yes: we at Mardi Gras do read the various message boards and we do respond to your emails....we're still waiting for responses for the commitment ceremony at Fair Day...are their no true romantics out there...email to: fairday@mardigras.com.au And if you feel like directing your questions and feedback to Mardi Gras for an informed response go to the contact page on the MG website: www.mardigras.com.au Mardi Gras official message board coming soon... - Wed Jan 27 0:14:26 1999

ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha. Sorry Raise the level. That was for you. ;-) Wed Jan 27 3:56:40 1999

Mardi gras official message board !!! Don't post your message there, I bet they will have some whizz bang thingy to find out your email address, and then all offending messages will be traced back to you, and then there is no way that you're going to get anywhere with them warning warning!!!! - Wed Jan 27 16:07:02 1999

Richard Cobden told me that Dannii is a closet lesbian..and he should know Wed Jan 27 16:08:03 1999

I like the fact that Queer As F**k is on at the same time as Mardi gras - it means there actually is a festival that has gay events for gays - at long last! Mardi gras festival has degenerated over the last 5 years to a boring and safe snooze fest. Thanks John for pointing me to the QAF Fest 'Squirtz' festival page... here is the address should anyone want to check them out: http://www.geocities.com/WestHollywood/Castro/6267/ Long Live Squirtz and QAF Fest! - Thu Jan 28 9:57:41 1999

Great idea...I'll support it. Thu Jan 28 13:16:17 1999

Should the committment ceremony have two couples (gay & lesbian) on stage at the same time making their vows? Would it work? Or will this just make it a politically correct stunt? Two is nice, A Mixed Foursome - wel.... - Thu Jan 28 19:23:12 1999

I think it would be more appropriate to use a celebrity heterosexual couple in order to more aptly reflect the current focus of the Sydney Former Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Thu Jan 28 22:43:41 1999

Yes I agree...then Sunday Telegraph and the SMH, not to mention New Weekly will be right behind it !! Dannii could remarry Julian McMahon, and we could exhume the dead guy from INSX for Kylie. Very smelly, but highly appropriate considering Mardi Gras current direction. Fri Jan 29 8:07:19 1999

Given the bulk of these comments, this graffiti wall is a waste of time Panther. Fri Jan 29 18:42:45 1999

Then I'm sure you won't waste your time here anymore, will you? Technowarrior - Fri Jan 29 23:04:47 1999

I don't think it's a waste of time at all - it's obvious that most people at a ground roots level think mardi gras has had it's best days well behind it. The fact that an honest bisexual is refused a membership - thats almost laughable! Obviously everyone is just waiting for a real festival for us - not for the straights - to happen again. Danni Minogue - Fri Jan 29 23:06:26 1999

I don't think Mardi Gras has had it's best day, the members of the current board have though. They are so out of touch with what the community wants and what the community is! Mardi Gras can be turned back into the political force it once was with a representative leadership. Go to the AGM vote for those that will help change things for the better. Mardi Gras isn't (shouldn't be) owned by anyone except the community. CyberQueerBiBoy - Sat Jan 30 1:54:40 1999

Dannii, Dannii, Dannii...two ii's dear...now take your medication and lay down ! David - Sat Jan 30 8:48:24 1999

Hold on a minute!! You mean there are two Minouge sisters? Damn and here I was thinking that Dannii was just a Kylie wannabe!! Kylie! Kylie! Kylie! Oi Oi Oi!!! KylieLuvinDykeBitch - Sat Jan 30 18:13:24 1999

I've read all the suggestions about Jimmy Barnes "entertaining us" during Mardi Gras. I think they're probably true. After all, his love child son David Campbell built his entire showbiz career by prick teasing us poofters. Why can't the old block learn a thing or two from his young chip? I was screwed up by les's boy - Sat Jan 30 18:22:47 1999

Please more...screwed up, you mean David is also posing as a gay to gain publicity ? Let's just call it the Jimmy and Dannii (& their bastard children) Mardi Gras or the P Flag mardi gras..only for parents and friend of gays and lesbians...not the actual gays and lesbians..Let's have a "Clayton's Mardi Gras" the mardi gras you have to have cause there's no spirit left gulp - Sun Jan 31 8:29:07 1999

Yeah kylieluvindykebitch, it's hard for Dannii to live down being the "dumb Minogue" the fact that she had to totally reconstruct her face gives us a good idea that she is desperately insecure about her talent, and subsequent lack of it. If you have a great voice who cares about the face ? (ask Aretha) Dannii is a celebrity/chanteuse, she is not a singer, songwriter or musician..she is too short to be a model..so she becomes a "gay icon" and then she has credibility ? Everlasting night everlasting night and it feels so right...quite an achievment in contemporary lyrics don't you think ? Do you know that dannii actually 1/5 the wrote this song ? yeah she contributed all the "it's, a's and the's"...brilliance does not run in the Minogue family...please give her a part in an Australian soap serial..or send her back to London to the the neighbours "pantomime circuit"...just get her out of our mardi gras and our faces..Mardi gras will never live this down..and yes it will be an everlasting nightmare for them as they have lost face (and Dannii has stuck it on hers) give us a break - Sun Jan 31 8:41:15 1999

To gulp - no, let's not have a Clayton's mardi gras. She controlled the lobby for four years and virtually choked it to death - and achieved nothing - no relationship recognition, no equal age of consent, nothing. Don't let her get near mardi gras! Sun Jan 31 10:08:51 1999

I will miss MG this year (living in the UK). I have been involved in the previous six. Each year I saw how it was becoming more commercial and more straight. But at the heart of the festival, parade and party were always my queer friends, my queer community and my queer self. Each year I have celebrated my sexuality at MG and got a buzz from the feelings I have from being with my friends and with being in a party that is still for us. But it remains for us only as long as we are keen to put in the effort to celebrate our sexuality. Yes we must critise the blandness of the festival, but we also have to stop being negative all the time, and avoid having a month where we can walk around with a chip on our shoulders. My memories of MG are of my friends, my partners and of all those familiar faces that I see in the community, enjoying themselves and partying as part of that group. Partying with pride in being queer. Paul Donnelly - Sun Jan 31 12:26:51 1999

The Queer As F*ck Fest program is now available from the Bookshop Darlinghurst and Signal. Bookings are now open. This year is just a start. Any community wankers who want to get involved contact the convenor for next year's fest which will include art/sculpture/photographer/theatre/community events and even flicks. Yep, an alternative to wankie QueerScreen pap so that we might get some real tough movies - gaypunk and dykepunk. This is a fest to support. It is the only alternative (so far) to MG. 19 new plays ranging from the sort of wanky bullshit that MG does so badly to queer stuff for the masses - I like the sound of Young, Dumb and Full of Cum as well as The Fridge of Jeffrey Dahmer. Only $7 a ticket. I'm gonna get me along and support something that the powers that be at MG are praying will just go away. www.geocities.com/WestHollywood/Castro/6267 Kweerpunk - Sun Jan 31 12:44:07 1999

I hardly think the effort Stevie Clayton has put into fighting for queer rights deserves that sort of crap whoever you are. She does not control the Government in case you didn't realise, but she has spent many hours beating her head against brick walls in Ministerial offices for the likes of you buster. Mon Feb 1 2:24:07 1999

To Have and To Hold A rehearsed reading of a roamntic comedy by Paul Harris featuring Peter McGill and David Jobling Two guys with HIV meet on the internet. It's as simple as that... and yet it's never as simple as that (is it?) Sundey February 7, 8:30pm The Lookout Theatre, 116a Queen St Woollahra Admission:$7 Bookings/infoline: 02 93103536 Mon Feb 1 2:49:51 1999

*** boo boo & mace + kiva + pavo cristatus + thami *** live, local & queer. Seymour Centre feb14. these acts are creative and kinda unique...maybe give it a go if it appeals and you into enjoying yourslf. no time to be nasty now, its meant to be a party, innit? - Mon Feb 1 4:31:22 1999

So that's the problem. All those hours Stevie spent bashing her head against brick walls has damaged her brain! Buster - Mon Feb 1 6:32:36 1999

I meant "claytons" as in the non-alcoholic drink...dar..no spirit ...the drink you're having when your not having a drink..the Mardi gras you're having that's not really queer gulp - Mon Feb 1 8:40:40 1999

I've got a grsat idea. Why not a Mardi Gras Festival production of Brigadoon, so we can all toast the great lesbian hero with the song "Heather on the Hill". In gulp's favourite drink of course. Mon Feb 1 19:07:29 1999

Apologies to anyone who has sent an emial to the Queer As F*ck Fest via the website - we had trouble with hotmail. Everything in now going to my personal email barrylowe@wr.com.au So if ya sent something please please please send it again. I promise to reply. And in case there are any budding writers/thespians/directors out there - looks as if we've cemented a deal for a min-QAF Fest during October if anyone has something they'd like to submit. Barry Lowe - Mon Feb 1 19:40:10 1999

Wot's an emial? is that like an emena? or enema? Mon Feb 1 22:33:10 1999

Gosh, how ignorant can you be? You've never heard of the Emial Awards wot the Americans give out for TV excellence? Barry Lowe - Tue Feb 2 0:09:26 1999

Go, go, go, Mr Lowe. Tue Feb 2 1:22:34 1999

Although, knowing our Barry, it may well be something like an enema ;-) Tue Feb 2 3:11:36 1999

We love you Bazza - ensure you catch the coverage via internet - there's a whole lotta' lovin' going on ...... Bazza supporter in sydney - Tue Feb 2 7:44:14 1999

Settle Pettles, your all acting like bitter Queens, Mardigras is meant to be a celebration, not one to gripe about everything you don't like. If you have a problem with the way things are being run at mardigras, why not try to get yourself elected, or take a more active role in your community. Looking forward to a fun and festive mardigras... Daze - Tue Feb 2 11:16:43 1999

The Chinese New Year was advertised in the Mardi Gras Festival Guide as offering a Mardi Gras member discount. Went to get my ticket and was informed that in fact there is no such discount - despite the advertising. Why was I not surprised? Can't wait though - luv ya Happy - Tue Feb 2 14:55:15 1999

Yes, try and get elected "Daze". Put your comments into electroral reality, please. The system doesn't allow for an equitable representation of the community. Tue Feb 2 18:13:34 1999

Hey Daze, Some of us (Bisexuals) can't even become members, let alone run for elections! As for community work, I've probably put in more hours then most of the board members. However I do agree with you about Mardi Gras being a celebration, it is just unfortunate that my sexuality is not approved by the current board. This is despite our community involvement and dispite us being there in 78. CyberQueerBiBoy - Tue Feb 2 18:18:48 1999

I wasn't saying that the system doesnt need work, what one doesnt. We are meant to be a diverse culture, and of course in this diversity, you can't please all of the people, all of the time. However, if you feel strongly enough, get out there, complain, bitch, whinge, gripe etc. until your voice is heard.. If you dont, certain elements of the establishment become stagnant, and in such a diverse culture, can't be allowed to happen. So get out there, look to the future, decide what you want to happen in the new millenia and then do something about it.....oh for those of you unsure of how to bitch and whinge i suggest looking at the party graffiti wall :) Tue Feb 2 21:44:28 1999

oh yeah :) i forgot to sign that its was from daze again :) luv daze - Tue Feb 2 21:45:59 1999

I love going to the theatre but the only thing Mardi Gras has for me is Making Porn so i'm gonna check out these Queer as F**k readings at the Lookout. Bioplays on Tom of Finland, Mapplethorpe, Streisand, Frances Farmer, a Steven Dawson comedy, and an Alex Harding musical .... geez what a bounty! All by local writers as well. Ahem, who wrote Making Porn, Jonathon? Dramaqueen - Wed Feb 3 8:54:12 1999

Can someone please define the word "queer" for me ? I thought it was inclusive of gays, lesbians, bi's and tranny's ? Can heterosexuals be "queer", cause some people claiming things are "queer" are actually full of quite ordinary straight people. This word is being used to mask the fact that some so called "queer" things are actually 30% gay and lesbian and 70% hetero. curiousqueer - Wed Feb 3 9:04:03 1999

I think that queer is defined by attitude rather than sexuality. Str8's with the right attitude can therefore be queer. I know some fantastic queer str8s - including str8 guys who think nothing of kissing me hello when they see me. Queer is the future. And re the discount for Chinese New Year Party. If MG advertise it, then surely they must provide it by law, otherwise it is false adveritsing. When buying tix, I suggest you insist on that basis. Nat - Wed Feb 3 13:37:49 1999

I'd like to say my bit on the proposal to conduct a commitment ceremony at Fair Day. I'm in a great relationship, & we're going to have a ceremony next month, involving friends & family. Even though I'll be at Fair Day, I don't feel the need to get up in front of a whole bunch of people I don't know and make such a commitment. To me it's a personal, not a public thing. It's also not a political or media opportunity either (even though I love those flashbulbs). Tony - Wed Feb 3 13:56:29 1999

Curiousqueer, I believe Queer is a word that refused to be defined. If can mean Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT), which is its most common use especially in the USA. It can also mean a certain way or attitude that one lives by, so in this way bent heterosexual people would be included. Then there is the Mardi Gras definition, which means wealthly Gay and Lesbians and their equally wealthy straight heterosexual friends...after all, is it not in our best interest to be percieved as wealthly, body beautiful, vanilla consumers?!? Yes Queer is the Future! Queerious - Wed Feb 3 14:32:33 1999

I'm in agreement with Nat on the matter of Queer. Queer does not include Jimmy Barnes, Danniiiiiiiiii, Rupert Murdoch, Kerry Packer or New Weekly however. Wed Feb 3 15:16:33 1999

Curiousqueer - try Taboo Parlour and Fruitloops if you want some good Aussie stuff. Wed Feb 3 21:04:55 1999

I think it is dangerous to include heterosexuals in the definition of "queer". it totally dilutes everything down, it will open the doors for more str8's at Parties and involvement in the festival. There are more hets than us, so by nature if only 10 % call themselves "queer", the will outnumber gays, lesbians bi's and trannies. So what we will have are festival events by heterosexuals "reflecting" what they think it is like to be a gay or lesbian...and the parties..well don't complain when you see a cute guy who is "queer" who has absolutely no interest in you as a gay man, but more in his "queer" girlfriend. Can a white Australian call themselves an "Aboriginal", because they have been to Alice Springs, and sympathise with their circumstance ? This would be unacceptable as the white person has no idea what it is like to be wrapped in black skin. Same goes for hets with the "queer" label..sure they can have glbt friends, but they don't have to suffer the discrimination that confronts glbt everyday outside of our ghettos. I think when you stay focused you get a better result, a more quintessential product that is from a solid experience, not a trendy alliance. purist - Thu Feb 4 7:29:50 1999

Yeah, and how can you gauge whether a heterosexual is "queer" or not is there a meter ? Are they queer if they look like Mazz Images ? or are they queer if they had a fleeting affair with another girl/boy at school ? Are they queer if they like Kylie Minogue..are straight married transvestites queer ? Are they queer if they are members of mardi gras ? Are nurses who care for plwha's queer? Is Bette Middler or Cher queer? How is it defined and when does the door shut on queer..without boundaries Pauline Hanson can possibly be queer ? Or is queer defined as a leftist leaning person ? Are union members queer ? Best just to keep it within the broad boundaries we have established as gay men..lesbian women..bisexuals and transexuals, or else we'll be inviting a lot of insincere people along for the ride, who in the end will take refuge in their heterosexuality. cautiousqueer - Thu Feb 4 7:39:33 1999

Dear Nat..well i suppose it is "nice" that your het friends think nothing of giving you as "kiss on the cheek" to say hello, how humane of them..the problems arise when you want to them to kiss between the other cheeks, that's when they reel back in horror at the very thought of such a disgusting act ! Lip service is one thing Nat, practice is another...just keep kissing your het friends on the cheeks darls, you sound like your on the turn anyway. nuffsed - Thu Feb 4 8:33:55 1999

Purist, what about heterosexuals who practice BDSM and are out and proud about it, they receive just as much if not more prejudice then we do, are their sexual practices queer? Oh yes it might surprise you to know that not every cute guy you see is going to be interested in you. I do agree with your point on being focused, which is why I think we should stick to glbt as a political tool to represent us, and leave queer as a cultural evolution that slowly corrupts mainstream society. Nuffsed, I don't see much logic in your argument, how would you feel if you had to kiss a pussy, I'm sure I've heard enough boys scream 'Oh yuck fish' at the very thought, I know I have. People, are we not fighting for a world that accepts us for who ever we are, or are we just wanting to become as elitist and discriminating as the straight world has been to us? Or have I got it all wrong? Perhaps it is all about having a really cool party, that everyone wants to go to, but we will not let them because they are not like us. Can't you see were this attitude ends up??? Don't you think it's time to get over the school yard beatings and work towards a world that doesn't treat people different because of their sexuality, race, or whatever. Queer is about us celebrating our difference not creating clones of our selves. difference is beautiful - Thu Feb 4 10:34:03 1999

Difference..being a lesbian to me is more than just a sexual practice...it's a lifestyle..and yes political. Straight people into BDSM might be ruthless businessmen/women by day, and by night play games...this does not make them "queer" or part of my stuggle, it just means they do kinky bedroom things...If this is the definition of "queer", then I am not. Including everybody in the queer, is actually excluding a lot of gays and lesbians, who may be conservative..remember, not all gays and lesbians are druggies, dance party animal, thin, beautiful, weird, original or creative..some of us, like me are just garden variety solictors, real estate agents, bankers, receptionists etc..If this "queer" tag takes on, you will find you will alienate a lot of us, and then what is the point ? there are plenty of open minded mixed gay/straight organisations out there to cater for the "creative, cutting egde, we'll change the world (again) types...but only one gay and lesbian mardi gras...let's just keep some things sacred. Ms. ordinary - Thu Feb 4 12:35:11 1999

I agree, many gay and lesbian people are not queer, just as many heterosexual people are queer. Many gay and lesbian people are happy to discriminate against others because of their sexuality, just as many heterosexual people do not. This is why I'm always confused when Mardi Gras uses the word queer. Mardi Gras only represents gay and lesbian people, it does not even represent bisexuals and trannies (although it should). difference is beautiful - Thu Feb 4 13:15:12 1999

What a precious queen you are nuffsed. FYI my str8 male friends usually kiss me on the lips. Re the other cheeks, of course they don't, because they are str8. It has nothing to do with them being anti gay you dumb arse. It's just like I wouldn't stick any part of my person near the mid section of a woman. Does that mean I am anti lesbian or anti woman? Of course it doesn't. Like I said, I don't think queer is about sexuality, but rather attitude. OK, that said, maybe we should call it the Gay, Leasbian and Queer Mardi Gras. The reason I love parties like Ffierce! so much is because they are for gays and lesbians and queers. Its not only the music, but the people who go. I'd rather dance in a room full of queers than a room full of insecure biggotted queens like you nuffsed. Nat - Thu Feb 4 14:11:12 1999

Was at the Opera House tonight for something unrelated and on the way home they were starting to erect the stage. See you all at the launch tomorrow!!!!!!! Panther - Thu Feb 4 23:49:55 1999

Hi Panther, I'm really looking forward to being there. Will be great to show those Opera House Homophobes what Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender strength and celibration is all about, especially after what happened to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. CyberQueerBiBoy - Fri Feb 5 0:56:11 1999

CyberQueerBiBoy - Uh Uh. You betta drop the Bisexual. They're not welcome to become members of Mardi Gras. Why should they be welcome at any MG function? Fri Feb 5 8:10:14 1999

Gloss - Gay and lesbian original musicians...yes real poofs and dykes playing musical instruments live !!!!!!!!!!!! Hopetoun Hotel Surry Hills Thursday 11th and 25th Feb 8 pm..six of the best national gay and lesbian original music acts..including solos, duos and bands all for $5....plwha in for free....plus...........Imperial Hotel Backroom 18th Feb 8 pm seven piece 100% gay and lesbian funky original band..with a few covers thrown in...plus special guests .....only $5...plwha in for free....All welcome....... gloss - Fri Feb 5 8:28:20 1999

And Cher, Dannii or Jimmy will definately not be performing at this one 4 sure. Fri Feb 5 8:35:56 1999

CyberQueerBiBoy - I think it is more that the premier is running scared for the next election. According to SSO him and the church placed pressure on the Opera House to stop the tours. See you tonight. I'll be taking photos for Pinkboard. P.S. OUT-FM said Dannii the Face (of MG) could be doing a guest spot. Panther - Fri Feb 5 9:05:07 1999

Er, isn't that Dannii the Farce of Mardi Gras? Fri Feb 5 9:26:20 1999

Yes, Bisexuals are unable to obtain membership to Mardi Gras. This I feel has been decided by a Biphobic few, and I have confidence in the community working towards rectifying this exclusion. See you all tonight. CyberQueerBiBoy - Fri Feb 5 10:02:37 1999

Don't worry cyberbi...soon it will mandatory to tick "heterosexual" to become a member of Mardi Gras, then all you have to do is lie...sad i know, but the gay and lesbian is fading fast from the title and intent of margi grave. sym - Sat Feb 6 11:20:01 1999

Last nite it was Mardi Gras - The Spoilt Brat. A deal fell fell thru with the Opera House so let's go and shit on their carpet. And these are the guys that want to be taken seriously as a political voice. Grow up first. Embarassed to be there - Sat Feb 6 15:49:42 1999

Why is Jimmy Barnes hanging around?? Wondering? - Sat Feb 6 17:02:11 1999

Jimmy Barnes and Danni welcomed with open arms and cheque book, while a grass roots bisexual activist cannot become a member of Mardi Gras. Something is seriously wrong! Sat Feb 6 18:33:10 1999

Many say that Mardi Gras is increasingly about money. More and more it is seen as having economic importance for the Sydney and Australian economy as a whole rather than just for Oxford Street businesses. At the same time it remains the most important fundraising opportunity for many of our community organisations. The economic benefits that flow to businesses within and outside our community are likely to continue to grow. Some see this as Mardi Gras’ greatest challenge: to remain true to its community and political purpose in the face of its increasing attraction to commercial interests. Others see this as the ultimate path to real change and real acceptance in a city where money talks and opens doors and can ultimately deliver real social and political change. - David McLachlan Murdoch (SSO) Sat Feb 6 19:03:21 1999

I was really impressed with Kerryn Phelps speech last night....what a woman of strength....an inspiration to all those still in the closet...and those who have just popped out. Hmmmm wonder where she has her practice..I can feel a pap smear coming on. "Open wide and Say Ahhhhhhhhh" - Sat Feb 6 17:43:40 1999

Mardi Gras Launch Gallery now open! Panther - Sat Feb 6 20:44:32 1999

Saw She's No Angel! A Mae West Vaudeville last night at the Lookout. It's great fun and George Hoad as Mae West is a hoot. The costumes are eye popping, the choreography is clever, and there's plenty of boyflesh for those who like that sort of thing. Congrats to Barry Lowe for his fascinating text. Hope it sells out for ya, Lolita. dramaqueen - Sun Feb 7 7:18:22 1999

Hey dontcha know the real reason they rejected the bisexual activist. It wasn't because he was bisexual. It was because he was an activist!. Those men in suits cuddling up to Murdoch don't want activists. Might spoil their cosy deals. Reclaim mardi gras for the community! - Sun Feb 7 9:28:43 1999

Tina C - female or tranny ????????? Sun Feb 7 10:13:27 1999

Let's shamelessly rip off the SMH and get everyone to answer these 3 questions: I can't get through Mardi Gras without my ... What does Mardi Gras mean to you? What is your must-see festival event? Panther - Sun Feb 7 11:02:33 1999

1. ITS(teo) 2. Missing my friends as I can't be there for this one. 3. Pinkboard's Graffiti wall(yes it's an event)and Pinkboard's photo galleries. CR (aka 2) (aka ITS-tgo) - Sun Feb 7 12:01:52 1999

1. Rectinol 2. Dannii Minogue 3. The Queer As F**k Festival Sun Feb 7 17:04:52 1999

1.Air sick Bag 2.Struggle 3. Anything alternative sans the word mardi gras Sun Feb 7 19:59:55 1999

1. Pasted on goatee. 2. Less and less as more and more of it gets sold off. 3. The puppet master starring in a new Barrie Kosky production of the great russian drama, "he who gets slapped." Sun Feb 7 23:45:22 1999

Dear 78 er, mmm yes i was there too, in them olden days. i remember that we used to hang out with all types of people..I think the scene was more "leftist". Politics was the glue that held it together..all of our functions included gays, bi's lesbo's straight lefty/greeny trannies...do you remember Mary ? Couldn't find a nicer group of people, we had a connection via wanting change...we never imagined the mardi gras would ever be so glamourous and commercial and ultimately lose it's direction..we were fighting against the capitalist system..and now mardi gras is well and truly part of that system and that is why it is like it is..funny in 78 if we new this we would have organised a protest march !!!!! you're in my parade mate - Mon Feb 8 9:13:21 1999

10 points to both Pam Ann and Paul Capsis for publicly stating their annoyance re Dannii Minogue thing at Stars on Saturday. But let's just say the song becomes a number 1 world wide hit and sells millions of copies. How much will MG make out of it? I'll expect a free party next year. But also what's the down side for MG if it's a fizzer? Will they be handing out free copies of the single to all members who attend the MG AGM this year? No gay icon - Mon Feb 8 11:02:54 1999

You know, I find it even more interesting that my statement of last night is now missing from this board. I wonder why that is. A 78er - Mon Feb 8 11:18:46 1999

Petal, I think it's on the SGLMG wall. You poor senile old 78er. Mon Feb 8 11:37:11 1999

Did anyone go to any Fstival events over the weekend? How about some comments! The Stars Come Out, the Sports Carnival, Wet Girls Beach Picnic, QAF? Panther - Mon Feb 8 20:45:49 1999

Stars Come Out was a pretty mixed bag I thought. Second half was definitely better than the first, though I thought all the comperes did an excellent job - too bad about the microphones, hey. Pam An and Verushka were especially witty and urbane. Really impressed by Tina C, Paul Capsis, Portia Turbo and the queer riverdancers, the two Tony(i)s, the gaol production number, maggie kirkpatrick outing herself (sortof), paul flyn (mmmmmmmm), the three melbourne dykes, combo fiasco....there were tons of great acts (and some less so)- it was a great night...tho a tad warm. keanu - Mon Feb 8 22:41:18 1999

A Star was born tonite at Hypothetical - Virginia Bell. And I think Happy Ho won a few fans as well. Bell to compere next year ???? Sorry David - Mon Feb 8 23:05:22 1999

Guess you were off topic for this wall 78er. That often happens, don't feel slighted. On the other hand whoever wrote the post underneath, if I could somehow stop you ever getting a Mardi Gras ticket to anything I'd gladly do it. You don't deserve Mardi Gras. Tue Feb 9 2:43:05 1999

Wow. Saw Blonde Fury reading at the Squirtz Festival. It was a scorching expose of the horrors that Frances Farmer endured and brilliantly acted. Congrats writer Peter Shelley. dramaqueen - Tue Feb 9 8:36:33 1999

78er was right on topic you idiot..and i was the one who posted the reply worm...if not for 78er and I you wouldn't even have a mardi gras retard. Tue Feb 9 12:00:13 1999

Can someone tell me what the "three dykes from melbourne combo fiaso" is all about ? I guess you mean Bluehouse...no sound good or what ...? tell all - Tue Feb 9 12:13:38 1999

sorry yeah Bluehouse was their name. I had forgotten their name, didn't mean to give offence. They were great!!! (I would type 'great' in capitals but this would be considered shouting). keanu - Tue Feb 9 13:13:00 1999

"You poor senile old 78er." — perhaps the irony was laid on a bit thick then dear. Try a less heavy handed approach — and don't make assumptions about M Y age or involvement with Mardi Gras or the community. Retarded Idiot Worm - Tue Feb 9 20:36:52 1999

I have a Party Ticket but cant go ! none of my friends need it, so it's for sale! email- *******@hotmail.com .best offer taken. yes, I'm genuine *******@hotmail.com - Wed Feb 10 1:15:00 1999

Get yer rip off Mordi Graw ticke's 'ere guv. Genuiwine I am. Only double the proice guv. Wed Feb 10 3:22:38 1999

Can any one tell me what to expect at the pool party on Saturday. I know it starts at 8 but what time does it finish? Is there a bar? Do people take anything? What else do I need to know? Speedo Boy - Wed Feb 10 10:15:48 1999

If any women read this wall what do you think about a lesbian festival for 2000 ? Please no smart ass comments from men....seriously.....we cannot have a repeat of the the dannii debarcle...straight women telling us who we are and what we should look like ....LesFest2000 can include all the dyke energy events currently on this year (most not sanctioned mardi gras events)... and more..well planned and spaced so they don't overlap eachother....appealing to different age groups/interests..lesfest2000@hotmail.com lesfest2000@hotmail.com - Wed Feb 10 10:58:20 1999

In 1978 we marched for attention, recognition and inclusion. I was concerned a few years later when I was seeing a possibility of a schizm between gay men and lesbians. However, I have seen events catered for the gloss and glitz and very little grass-roots issues for lesbians in the last few years. I applaude the idea of lesbians taking control of their own events in Mardi Gras. For that matter perhaps making the lesbianfest2000 an integral part of Mardi Gras, whilst administered by a seperate lesbian group, would ensure that lesbians were represented by those whom deserve to represent them. a mardi gras member - Wed Feb 10 22:00:39 1999

if a man said he wanted a male fest you'd call him a misogynist. What a load of hypocrisy. Thu Feb 11 9:31:44 1999

Excuse me, mardi gras is one big malefest everyday mate. Why get so defensive ? . Men still turn our agendas around to suit themselves..once we tried to get a lesbian space and what happened..bloody tranny men who think they are women butted in and turned the whole thing into a tabloid nightmare, and where are they now ? They where so insistant on being included - one wonders if it was all a storm they created in their own teacups for bloody attention...thanks guys.. diehardyke - Thu Feb 11 9:50:40 1999

who's getting defensive diehard? Thu Feb 11 12:30:27 1999

Has anyone seen, Making Porn, ? is it worth $40 Thu Feb 11 12:58:48 1999

Speedo Boy - Last year it finished about midnight. It is alcohol free. Shows. Playing in the pool. Lots of inflatible toys. Very social. Also the dance floor had great music. Tis year, though, I'll be at Chinese New Year. Panther - Thu Feb 11 21:46:53 1999

Diehardyke you are quite right. And I don't know any dykes who complain about men only events at all anonymous. If dykes want to put on a festiavl that trly represents their diversity they are free to do it and should do it. Stuff the DanniiMinogui Gras. Thu Feb 11 22:00:32 1999

I think that segragation is very sad. Surely by now poofs and dykes could have learned to live, party and celebrate together. Maybe I'll just stick to those events that advertise themselves for both gays and dykes. A friend of mine here from Europe was surprised by the fairly even ratio of gays and dykes at the Ffierce! party a few weeks ago, and by the way in which they all partied together and mixed so well. He has never been to anywhere in Europe that has such a mixed club night and he loved it. Technowarrior - Thu Feb 11 22:24:33 1999

Let us all pray for a beautiful sunny day for Sunday!!! Fri Feb 12 8:49:58 1999

yeah ok technow..mixing is great, but sometimes girls want to be with girls, and boys want to be with boys..it's only natural.The important thing is that there are opportunities for socalising on all levels, and that we respect eachother's right to have these spaces. I'm all for coalitionism, and i'm all for exclusive women events that may not interest boys, and visa versa. there is plenty of room for everything if we'd just stop bitching about it. I respect the Shift as a male space and have no desire to enter..I think boys need their space too, and I think most will agree with this. Don't get defensive about it, enjoy and respect all events. big picture - Fri Feb 12 10:13:53 1999

to diehard dyke. when was the last time you went to a mardi gras event, 1978? listened to outfm lately? been to the mg workshop in the last 5 years? 80% lesbian staff & creative content.Check out all the diverse dyke events in the festival. The festival parade & party is for gays & lesbians who want to participate! Not for separatists of any gender! To blame trannies for the collapse of the space project is simplistic & reactionary. are you sugesting some hidden "male" agenda to destroy such a wonderful & necessary space?...too many X files episodes??? you are the sort of person I hope I never meet! so sure of your self,yet very ready to blame anyone but your self when something dosen't suit. Ever doubted or changed your sexuality?? get real. 78er & out there - Sat Feb 13 0:49:40 1999

Just a quick note - I've just seen "The Language of One" at Newtown Theatre. Main Mardi Gras production of the Australian Theatre of the Deaf. Great production (they talk too!) really worth a look Mark - Sat Feb 13 17:23:17 1999

Well , I was looking forward to something this year.. Seems to have passed me by again.. Fair day was fairly shit. It lacked the vibe it had last year.. Either that or I'm bitter and twisted. Anyways, lets hope the rest of the month is more fun.. Oh hang on.. I've figured it out.. There is nothing to do in this festival unless you are a stereotypical queen with bulging biceps and cock up your arse 24hr's a day. I forgot there are us quiet types that don't like drugs and alcohol etc.. darn eh.. I guess I have to turn in my Fag-badge and be str8. ticked off with people who love themselves... - Sun Feb 14 13:57:34 1999

Well I had the best time at fair day. forgot how great live music can be. The Mavis' were brilliant. There were so many people there. It felt good to be amongst so many Gays & Lesbians. I guess it's not about waiting for someone else to create your good time, but going with a positive attitude and making it happen. After all it is just a day in the park and they can be fun with only a few people. Sun Feb 14 18:01:55 1999

If I had a dollar for every time someone stared at Panthers but I would be a millionare. Sun Feb 14 18:03:19 1999

Pam Ann's dog show was a scream! What about that drag queen (forgot her name) with that beautiful dog and her puppies. If only I didn't live in an apartment!!!!! Sun Feb 14 18:05:30 1999

Chelsea Buns!!!!! New I'd remeber as soon as I hit the submit button! Sun Feb 14 18:07:08 1999

Can we have a picture of your butt please Panther? Sun Feb 14 19:32:34 1999

Have to agree with "Ticked Off" a bit re Fair Day. What on earth happened to the Dog Show this year. Seven dogs in all in the finals (not counting the puppies), one of which was a chicken, which somehow managed to win the Owner & Dog Lookalike????? What happened to all the great owners & their dogs that we saw all over the park? Did they not make it through the heats or was the afternoon just too hot? The Dog Show was very flat this year, & had none of the fun or vibe of previous years. Many people watching walked off before the winners were anounced, & the commentary was lifeless, humourless, & amateurish. Maybe MG should consider booking Julie McCrossin for next year, as she was just great last year. Even Miss. Fair Day seemed to lack a certain something. BTW, saw Tina C last night after Making Porn, & she was faaaabulous!! Very funny indeed. Party Girl - Sun Feb 14 19:58:15 1999

At fair day it felt good to be among so many gays, lesbians, queers, bi's, transgenders, str8's and kids. For me, the crowd and the way in which everyone mixed so well together represented what I hope our future will become. Technowarrior - Sun Feb 14 23:14:09 1999

Well said Technowarrior. I love seeing the diversity of people at Fair Day. As for the comments about a seperate Lesbian Festival. I'm a dyke and after living in three different capital cities in this country, Sydney is my home because of coalitionism. We learn from each other and have a lot the give to each other. Yes, boy and girl only spaces when appropriate but our strength is greater together. steelhip - Mon Feb 15 1:52:21 1999

I heard a rumour that Julie Mc fled to country to avoid being asked to become MC for everything. Mon Feb 15 8:37:05 1999

Fair day was a sham ! i preferred when the main stage had seating all around it at Glebe..noone was down the front, the bands had no one to vibe off...didn't anyone think of some shade down the front. The Mavis's sounded bloody awful too loud, and their music is basically heavy rock..it din't sound better down the back with all the straight couples either. Who on earth had the bright idea to get the Mavis's what have they got to do with gays and lesbians ? the Lake stage was much better..better sound more shade Little Queer Band sounded excellent, which just goes to show bigger is not bettter! Oh yeah and where was the nice food..I was hanging for some asian food, but all we found was hotdogs etc.. yukk Mon Feb 15 8:51:23 1999

The nice food was over on the City road side, not the Parramatta rd side. Vegetarian, Asian, organic, all sorts of interesting and healthy stuff. Why they split up the two sections I will never know. G - Mon Feb 15 9:02:41 1999

Fair day was fab, can anyone comment whether this event makes any money? or does it cost ? I think there is room for this event at least one more time in the year. Too much of Gay & Lesbian life occurs once the sun goes down, Mon Feb 15 10:19:35 1999

I went to Fair Day this year. I was hoping for a return to the ambience of Jubilee Park (Glebe). However, I was a little disappointed. I'm beginning to think that the only good thing about Victoria Park is that there is a pool there. However, even that is filled with homophobic children. I would suggest that someone brief the pool-lifeguards/supervisors on potential discrimination issues, as I saw a number of discrimination toward members of the community at the pool. A nice touch having free entry, but to be allowed to go (freely) into a space where ignorantorant children laugh at people because of their dress-sense, manners and customs - along with openly ogling lesbians who prefer to swim topless (as is their right) is somewhat pathetic. Power to the 2 plain-clothes security guards at the pool who took matters to the appropriate authorities and educated the lifeguards. They were great - and apparently not even on duty. It would have been good to have a security presence in the pool. There was, also, the apalling issue of having the BGF being asked (by Mardi Gras) *not* to collect money at the Mardi Gras Fair Day. This was confirmed by a member of BGF and several collectors on the day. I believe the BGF's response was: "It's a public park and we are a charity". It bothers me that Fair Day can be marred by such a stupid stupid move on Mardi Gras' part. Why did this happen? I really hope that Mardi Gras have a *good* (and not just a clever) explanation. I heard that Mardi Gras tried to stop a bisexual man from handing out educational pamphlets on anti-biphobia. Why? Isn't anti-phobia one of the things we all want to educate the public about? There were maps, I believe at the information stand and I was actually heartened to hear the dulcett tones of Robyn Lavarack on the PA. It made it sound like the sort of Fair Day we used to have. I know that someone asked at the information tent about a Bi-Pride stand and was told: "No, there is no bisexual stand, but there is someone surruptitiously handing out leaflets." Sounds very ugly, I think. All in all, Fair Day was OK, but the drinks were way over-priced (Coke $2.50 as opposed to 85c at Franklins and $1.20 at most stores) Who sets the pricing policy? As a *personal* observation, I thought that The Mavis's were a great choice for a band for the afternoon. It actually showed that Mardi Gras was going after the youth vote. However, even though *I* like the Mavis's, there was something that didn't seem right. Firstly, I think it would have been a better time slot for even later in the afternoon. The Mavis's do so well in dusk or at night. Even so, they were great. After thinking about it for a while, a few friends of mine (who are MG members by the way) stated it well for me: "This isn't Big Day Out". I agreed and then thought about it. GLBT people like the Mavis's, why can't they be there? My answer was - are they indicative of the GLBT culture? My reluctant answer was: "I don't think so." A 78er - Mon Feb 15 12:35:52 1999

Hey! Whatever happened to the Mardi Gras Rangers? Weren't they the security we used to have at our Fair Day? We now have Australian Concert Security - well seeing as we had a concert there I guess it makes sense. Even though they were, as gossip has it, rejected from doing these jobs in the past. I guess Mardi Gras just can't keep good help. Pity. They were friendly and were part of the community. curious - Mon Feb 15 12:59:48 1999

dear 78er , unfortunately this is 99...the homosexual counter culture you fought hard to establish is now a ''shopping counter'' culture. The mavis' are openly pro-gay yet not totally up front with their sexuality (another story) There presence at fairday was Mcmardis efforts in trying to source some fresh talent (10 years too late anyway) But thanks for the effort. If we were going to have a true fair day of glbt culture we'd have soap-star PAs, free drugs, bitching halls, low self esteem female impersonators and lycra parades - but we gotta appease those angry minorities i hate ice beer do you? - Mon Feb 15 14:08:09 1999

To 'ticked off' - from the time of your posting on the wall, you weren't at Fair Day a very long time. Shame you didn't last the distance and feel the 'vibe'. Mon Feb 15 14:31:45 1999

OK the Mavis's are pro gay ? when and where did this occur ? Iv'e never heard them say anything...the problem was it was way too loud the PA was cracking up and all you could hear was a shocking noise from all positions. Personally I would rather have seen a latin band with heaps of percussion doing salsa and bossa beats...it would fit in more with the heat of the day, and be kinder to our ears. Mon Feb 15 14:58:29 1999

dear ice beer, thanks for filling me in about the Mavis's. That explains why they were there. The story about their sexuality would be interesting, especially if a few are gay/lesbian or bi. Fresh talent at Fair Day is a great idea, although the Whitlams may have been a better (unclosetted) choice. Fair day of GLBT culture is an interesting thought. I saw some GLBT businesses, but I fear that it's becoming a little like the Easter Show. Some prices were almost worthwhile, but others were hideously inflated for the day (e.g drinks) Soapie Stars, do we really care about them - rather them about us? Drugs? I saw legal herbal speed on sale at a booth or two (high $$, too), bitching halls? we have Drag Queens; female impersonators...well I saw a plethora of glamourous ones; lycra parades? I saw that aplenty in the park - must have been the weather. However, the idea of showcasing GLBT culture is very real. I think more consideration needs to be given to community groups, especially people like BGF (for obvious reasons). By the way, this does not detract from the effort that the Fair Day Committee put in. Rather just some *very important* things for them to start looking at. A 78er - Mon Feb 15 15:10:53 1999

No one has mentioned the 'Say I Do' ceremony. Perhaps Noon was to early for people to see something so emotional and significant. Thank you to the Committee, with the Board's approval, to take such a prominent step of promoting the same-sex cause. For those that wish to criticise - the nature of each ceremony was the choice of the couple themselves (I asked them), the political speech was an accepted part of the 'big picture' (I asked Bruno) and the emotion felt by many just showed, to me, that underneath the 'hard arse' surfaces, we really do care about our right for equality and freedom. Maybe David and the Board gets to have a foot removed for this postive step. Ta muchness - I cried - Mon Feb 15 15:21:22 1999

The Whitlam's ? Whose gay in the Whitlam's ???? cuiousqueer - Mon Feb 15 15:21:26 1999

You got a point. The Mardi Gras Board can have a huge kudos point for the commitment ceremony. It was moving and heartfelt. That leaves only 4,000 anti-kudos points to go. Isn't one of the voices of the Whitlams bisexual? Maybe -that's- why they wouldn't have been asked. Proud of the ceremony & Sick of the hypocisy - Mon Feb 15 15:30:39 1999

You got a point. The Mardi Gras Board can have a huge kudos point for the commitment ceremony. It was moving and heartfelt. That leaves only 4,000 anti-kudos points to go. Isn't one of the voices of the Whitlams bisexual? Maybe -that's- why they wouldn't have been asked. Proud of the ceremony & Sick of the hypocisy - Mon Feb 15 15:30:39 1999

I also found the commitment ceromony a highlight, however why not make more of a statement. I know of many, many couples in long term relationships, why not organise a mass ceromony where, say 1,000 couples make this commitment, surely this would gain media attention and put more pressure on the government to give us equal rights, Say 1,000 couples, bringing along ten friends/ family members each....... were talking 20,000 people we're talking political pressure, Mon Feb 15 16:19:05 1999

What's happening to Miss Fair Day. Dollie was gorgeous but certainly not as glamorous as Conchita Miranda and Miranda fair.Maybe the idea of big hair and a free mardi gras hair commercial was the reason this years miss fair day was picked. What happened to audience participation in the picking of miss fair day.I also support BGF being in the park.. shame,shame, shame ecto - Mon Feb 15 21:45:02 1999

Fair day was so fab, great all round, good drag, bad drag, fat little queens and huge muscle mary's, and every thing in between, just as it should be, a great cross section of all that our community is. The two boys in cowboy hats and white jeans made my day, nearly wet myself when they let a friend take my pic with them. Thanks boys. dale - Mon Feb 15 22:36:51 1999

I for one would like to know if all this is true about Mardi Gras, the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation and Luncheon Club. Are they so stupid with trying to ruin a perfectly good Fair Day? Congratulations to the Fair Day Committee, unless they had a hand in the Bobby Goldsmith Foundatiuon stupidity. As for Luncheon Club grow a brain Festival/Party organisers, be part of the community, not part of the problem for once. I don't understand - Tue Feb 16 0:50:27 1999

Pavo Christatus I love you!!!!! Tue Feb 16 9:07:44 1999

The decision to stop BGF collecting came from the Fair Day Committee Director backed up by the President in a very public abuse session. Tue Feb 16 10:32:53 1999

So, the decision to attempt to stop BGF was one made by the Fair Day Committee Director and backed by the Mardi Gras President? I hope this is verifiable. People need to know who to blame. Where did this information stem from? Tue Feb 16 10:57:18 1999

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras organisation has a huge responsibility to members and the general public in the organisation and presentation of this festival. In the past it has been run by well meaning amateurs but due to the nature of the event has grown to the point where a more professional approach is now being witnessed. Mardi Gras legally takes on all the public liability and applys for all the necissary permits to hold the events. They do and should be in control of any event using the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras title or symbols. If this means that they don't wish to permit BGF collectors access to an event then this is unfortunate but still their right. If BGF or the luncheon club or any other charity wish to fundraise then they are free to negotiate with Mardi Gras or organise their own events but not to cry foul if Mardi Gras doesn't let them have a free for all at Mardi Gras expence. Mardi Gras have copped a lot of flak for outsourcing ticketing but I have found that getting tickets (as a member with all the appropriate paperwork) the best it has ever been. There is far too much complaining by people who aren't prepared to get involved in progressive change. If you don't like an event join the comittee that organises it and contribute. If you don't like how Mardi Gras is run become a member and vote at the AGM. (If you are bisexual then admit that you often have homosexual sex, tick that box on the form, become a member and lobby for change from within). This is a world class event and deserves that image, if we use straight people or bands to further the cause then so be it. Being a world class event we deserve international preformers and DJ's at the party. Local talent is as good and as important and I think the two are appropriatly mixed. I am only a member of mardi gras and am no way involved with its organisation but feel that my best interests as a member are currently being represented (if I diddn't then I would do somthing about it). Keep up the good work Mardi Gras and all those who care enough to contribute in a positive way. BND - Tue Feb 16 11:14:18 1999

Wow are you naieve BND! A number of years ago a festival committee was busy placing acts for the upcoming festival. Cobden and Harben (pressie at the time) decided they wanted another act to be included. The act were personal friends of Cobden-Leeson-Harben (which in itself is not a crime). The committee decided unanimously that there were no funds available and that the act was not in keeping with the year's festival directive and that the application, having been made after festival closing dates was too late. The entire committee was sacked and re-appointed with people that would agree with any of Richard and co.s decisions. How easy to say if "you don't like an event join the comittee that organises it and contribute" but the contribution needs to be acknowledged. GG - Tue Feb 16 12:54:05 1999

Mardi Gras sent a standard letter to all community stall-holders in January regarding no cash collection outside of the immediate stall area at Fair Day. BGF responded, in wirting, late January, to the General Manager of Mardi Gras pointing out its charitable status and requesting the same conditions, restrictions etc. as the 1998 Fair Day (which allowed for controlled collection). No written reply was ever received from MG. Please don't kick the Fair Day Committee too hard over this (they did an enormous job), it's the same old problem of internal communication and arrogance once again. When are MG going to deal with the Directors constantly having to cover for the senior staff's inadequacies. It is totally unfair that Fair Day Director, Ilana Kaplin, has to take the blame solely on this one. Good one MG of MG - Tue Feb 16 12:58:33 1999

BND, there are many people who care enough to want to help effect positive change in Mardi Gras and the Festival. These people are ostensibly represented by the organisation, yet at many times are denied entry to the same organisation. Mardi Gras has welcomed community groups collecting (especially BGF) in the past, yet now decide to try to stop them. I agree that they have the right to stop them at closed functions on private or corporate property, this does not make their decision right, it merely makes it their decision. (If a giant hamburger chain decided to deforest a rainforsted area to graze cattle for their hamburger chain, and they owned the area, it would be their right to do so. It would also not necessarily be the morally right thing to do.) The Mardi Gras Festival *is* a world-class event and is recognised as such. For this reason (if not any other) does the organisation need to show that it is both a leader of the community and a representative force of the community. The Festival, whilst showcasing some excellent talent and events, I feel is beginning to suffer from Sydney-festival-itis. Many costly events for those who can afford them. I feel that, in a way, areas of the community are disenfranchised by this. Members who pay for membership are given discounts to Festival Events, true, but are they enough? (open question). Do the 'poorer' members of our community get represented? If the treatment of BGF and Luncheon Club are indicative of how Mardi Gras is 'leading' our community and sdtaging our Festival, then a long hard look needs to be taken at their operation and their decision making process. I can guarenteee that a call for explanation of these decisions *will* be tabled at the AGM (or EGM if called). To ask bisexuals to lie on the form is also toe-ing the Mardi Gras 'company line'. There are no checks and balances in place, and so if one *does* lie, you only have the word of other members (who may themselves be in the 'banned' sub-groups) that they are who they say they are. This is incitement to do what many of the community are afraid of. No. I believe that the bisexuals who wish to join MG deserve the right to openly state their sexuality and to answer any further questiuons regarding any application for membership. My personal concern is that 3 Festival Events have been marred by unfortunately narrow and knee-jerking reactions/decisions. These Festival Events could have been much much more if such shallow points of view had been either well-thought beforehand or dealt with in a more community-minded approach and spirit. I am now concerned as to how many more Festival Events will be marred by what is seen to be (by many) to be a merely enclaving, pocket-lining exercises. The use of straight bands and artists is always a contentious one. Do you use a straight band because of their open pro-gay stance, or do you use a lesser known - perhaps lesser talented - (with lesser profile) band to keep the integrity of the event? (The answer to that I don't know). I believe that Mardi Gras of today (and in effect the Festival) seriously needs to look back to 1978, for the spirit of the founding of the organisation; the support, the cameraderie, the acceptance, and the umbrella nature so that they can then look at themselves and ask if they are performing those tasks, still. A 78er - Tue Feb 16 13:01:03 1999

Hey! Good one MG! You know, I don't think anyone here is saying that Fair Day was bad. There are issues which need to be addressed, yes, but overall it was good. However, the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation issue is an issue pertaining to -allegedly- 2 people; The Fair Day Director and the Mardi Gras President. Regarding the written nature of the communication between The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation and Mardi Gras, no there was -allegedly- no written reply received by the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation regarding their request for continuing the 1998 status of cash-collectors. However, there were telephone conversations between the two organisations after the Stall-notices had gone out. This is what inflamed the issue. The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation were -allegedly- specifically told that they would not be allowed to do their normal cash-collection at Fair Day, in these discussions. The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation -allegedly- responded that it is a public park and that they are a registered charity, with X-years connection to the community, etc... (I would assume that they also asked why they would not be allowed as well). You know, in a way it may have been better had the cash-collectors not been allowed in the park, but been kept outside on the footpaths. That way, it would have made a better photo-opportunity for the media to illustrate how Mardi Gras -apparently- treats it's charitable community organisations. Tue Feb 16 14:01:07 1999

The President has been heard on Out-FM defending his staff members' neglect again - I defer all to last year's mishaps. Oh dear, are all directors expendable due to the way the office runs (or doesn't, as the case may be). These directors are our representatives (and accountable to us), the staff are their servants on behalf of us - it's about time the organisation ran this way. At $70k, MG can expect a better standard of performance by its GM who must have known the letter from BGF needed 'special' attention. Here we go again - damn, I thought it was all over - silly me - - Tue Feb 16 14:55:56 1999

Can someone post a condensed version of the Mardi Gras' President's excuses (as on OUT.FM) to this wall, for those of us who could not get to hear them? Tue Feb 16 15:08:40 1999

Bitch bitch bitch bitch, get of your fat bums, amd do something of shut up Tue Feb 16 17:13:15 1999

Yeah do it baby.. poofs and dykes funk out...live original music @ the Imperial Hotel (backroom) from 8.00 pm the Thursday. Get some Pink Noize in yer ears. live out & loud - Tue Feb 16 18:12:21 1999

I seem to remember a few years back they had an international queer comedy fest during Gras. Quite a few overseas acts and all that. Will that ever happen again? God(dess) knows after reading some of the venom on this board I need a chuckle. phunny phaggot - Tue Feb 16 21:56:58 1999

I've seen quite a few films at the film festival over the last few days and think it has been fabulous. So many guys sitting in a theatre enjoying themselves. Queerscreen is one which knows how to run a big event professionally unlike some of the other events going one. It's so rare to see the selection of films they have brought out. Also the Free FM ad is hilarious. Congrats to all involved. Tue Feb 16 23:30:49 1999

Chinese New Year party was great. Watch my diary for a report. Panther - Wed Feb 17 9:09:43 1999

Has anyone heard anything about frocks on the rocks this year? BND - Wed Feb 17 9:23:20 1999

I am a Queerscreen member and a professional Events Manager. I think that the way the Film Festival is run, is comparable in professionalism to the Sydney Film Festival. Well done, well put together, a good mix, and a nice venue. The Pink Pass is a little overpriced, though (cheaper to see 20 films and a special night) and there is a dearth of repeats, which means that many sessions can only be seen by those who can take time off work. These things are my *only* criticisms of the Film Festival. Well done. A 78er - Wed Feb 17 9:41:04 1999

I've looked all through the MardiGras website and see no reference to Frocks On The Rocks at all, this year. Also, I just called MardiGras HQ to ask if that event was even scheduled for this year. At 10:30am, there was no answer at Reception. Wed Feb 17 10:38:40 1999

You called MG and expected a reply? Are you mad? Wed Feb 17 11:36:04 1999

I tried to call Mardi Gras. I was hoping the comments about them were wrong. If this one is right, maybe all the rest are too. Disillusioned - Wed Feb 17 12:44:46 1999

Winners of "My Queer Career" short film competition at the Queerscreen Mardi Gras Film Festival last night: Audience Choice: Two Girls and a Baby The Audrey Day Award: Escape From Hell Stephen Cummings Grand Prize: Cousin Film Junkie - Wed Feb 17 14:04:10 1999

Winners of "My Queer Career" short film competition at the Queerscreen Mardi Gras Film Festival last night: Audience Choice: Two Girls and a Baby; The Audrey Day Award: Escape From Hell; Stephen Cummings Grand Prize: Cousin Film Junkie - Wed Feb 17 14:05:31 1999

Who's going shopping at Mark Foys (Level 4) tomorrow? It promises to be the best Mardi Gras Umbrella event in years. I'm wearing my best frock - Wed Feb 17 17:00:30 1999

I have had reason to call Mardi Gras a number of times in the last week. All but one of my calls was answered or returned. Wed Feb 17 22:35:54 1999

I have found this years Mardi Gras dull and insipid. Much better has been the Queer as F**k Festival - Congratulations!! Particularly liked the painting exhibition at Signal... Thu Feb 18 11:12:03 1999

Now I know this is going to be taken the wrong way. I went to the Chinese New Year on Tuesday night. I'm a gay white male. What surprised me about the evening was the number of lesbians there. I don't know whether this was because of the Ho factor or the cultural nature of the evening. I just didn't expect it. Made for not only a wonderful multicultural but also coalitionist evening. And there were lots of cute Asian boys too !!!!! - Thu Feb 18 15:09:11 1999

internet cafe anyone??? i know some stoires about why not oes anyone else know why Apple computers have a conference style display of non functioning computers in the Seymour Centre??? Is this a metaphor for mardi gras superficialis(nice packaging what about the functionality) or a major suck to get some free office equipment??? want to get sponsorship???ask me how - Thu Feb 18 16:45:55 1999

how??? Thu Feb 18 17:06:42 1999

I saw She's No Angel for the second time. Anyone else seen it and liked it as much?? dramaqueen - Fri Feb 19 9:43:59 1999

Saw Samanatha Leith's show last night (opening night). This woman has an amazing voice. It should be seen just for the songs alone, but the comedy is fantastic as well. Fri Feb 19 15:55:31 1999

I didn't attend this, but were there any Asian DJ's playing at the Chinese New Year party? I know there is at least one or two Asian gay/lesbian DJ's out there. (No offense to Sveta... I think her music's fantastic). Fri Feb 19 16:03:58 1999

Heard a rumour that one of the 'stars' of Razor Baby had a fall during rehearsals and broke her wrist or wrists. Is there any truth to this? Fri Feb 19 16:07:08 1999

Re Razor Baby, it's true. She broke both wrists. On OUT FM yesterday they were uncertain about when the show would now start. Re the Queer as F**k Festival - I have tried a number of times to get a program. I have tried so often I have now given up. To the organiser I suggest you get more programs out. If you have any empty seats at the moment I think the reason is obvious - people can't get any info re what's on. Technowarrior - Fri Feb 19 17:15:36 1999

Yes it's true Fri Feb 19 17:16:09 1999

Saw Vanessa's show History of Dance - Mmmmm. I missed the history lesson. The show didn't really go anywhere. Costumes great, lighting good, music good, couple of brilliant pieces of choreography, but no linking of a good idea. Is the reason lack of funding or time (or both)? I think it is incredibly important that we expect, and have delivered, a better class of final presentation. It's about setting a standard and making sure it is met. If we are going to allow the Festival to be called first class, let's ensure that we deliver this. If this means greater funding for what will be (by all predictions) popular shows, then this needs to be achieved. I just hope Jill Sykes wasn't there - the review would have been less than kind. Fri Feb 19 18:57:30 1999

Vanessa's History of Dance was a lot of fun - I saw it Wednesday night and, yes, we were the first in the world to see it (the preview). There were a couple of rough moments (but then Vanessa herself ain't seamless) but the full house loved this twisted burlesque piss-take of the world of dance. I just hope the "evil empire" isn't out to get her after those quotes in the Star. And, yeah, a few extra bucks could have gone a long way. Sat Feb 20 1:10:10 1999

Was Sam leith singing her own songs ? Sat Feb 20 7:53:58 1999

Saw Razor Baby last night. It is a bit rough around the edges, & doesn't really flow that well, but has potential. Presumably one of the main performers was out due the earlier accident. It seemed to me a bit too busy on stage to really focus on what was happening, & the music was a bit too load & tended to overwhelm the stage acts. But for $20.00, worth seeing. Also saw A Family Outing on Thursday. Really enjoyed it. Funny, cutting edge, a definately worth seeing. Party Girl - Sat Feb 20 8:43:16 1999

It's difficult to get excited about paying $20 or $25 for Razor Baby when you can pay $35 to see Saltimbanco. A case of unfortunate timing. Technowarrior - Sat Feb 20 9:02:20 1999

Sveta was the only DJ for the Chinese New Year. She played exactly the right music though. I have heard DJ Massa around and he is good too. Sat Feb 20 14:44:48 1999

Advance word on Her Name is Barbra, the reading on Sunday night as part of Squirtz Queer as F*** Festival, is Gina Zoia is sensational as Streisand of 18. She sings and acts just like the real thing. The Lookout 8.30pm. I'll be there. dramaqueen - Sat Feb 20 21:36:58 1999

True Technowarrior (but I had to pay $70.00 for Saltimbanco). Razor Baby certainly does not stack up in any comparisons with Saltimbanco, which was the only event from "That Other Festival" that I went to. Party Girl - Sun Feb 21 10:23:59 1999

Saw Clover Moore collecting for BGF on Saturday. The new hair style looks fabulous. Love that lady - Mon Feb 22 11:31:40 1999

See Pam Ann if you can. Hilarious. Mon Feb 22 19:23:10 1999

Dannii's doing a show at the Party! Dannii's doing a show at the party! Dannii's doing a show at the party! Look at the party graffitti wall!! Exstatic!! - Mon Feb 22 21:39:54 1999

Queering the mix was good on Saturday night, but poorly attended. Maybe the next time they can have a few more gay and lesbian musicians playing twang - Mon Feb 22 23:09:16 1999

Samantha Leith sang mostly covers. The only one of 'her' songs is the latest one she recorded... I think it's called 'Don't Go' but it's a cover as well. Tue Feb 23 10:00:58 1999

The physique show last night at Newtown was an improvement on last years as far as organisation goes. The night however is now almost entirely straight - not once are the words Gay & Lesbian used on the nights programme - not even included with the words Mardi Gras ! Of the 11 male competitors, my guess would be that 3 were gay. When one of the competitors thanked his boyfriend, there was an audible groan from the back of the room. To all those who will claim that I am heterophobic, I hand this event over to you. ( The way it is going, gays and lesbians will be banned from this event soon anyway ! ) Ric - Tue Feb 23 11:01:11 1999

Congratulations queer screen, I watched 6 films and thoroughly enjoyed each one. I would like to comment however on the doco "God, Guns & Gays" very important film, very moving, very necessary. It was very disappointing however, to see the cinema only 1/3 full, considering that every other film i went to was sold out. It is a sad story when our community flock to see a film based solely on whether or not a bare butt or erotic scene is included. Tue Feb 23 11:27:08 1999

I was one of the few people who saw this Documentary, it brought a tear to my eye during Our own Private Idaho, when the Proposition One was defeated, makes you realise how lucky we are to live in Sydney. I think there is a tendency amongst the Gay & Lesbian Community to get caught up in the scene where we are all accepted and ignore or forget the fact that in numerous cities around the world we would be killed (justifiably) for being who we are. Lest we forget - Tue Feb 23 11:51:27 1999

Taboo Parlour's Blood Red night was fantastic. If I could afford to go to all of them, I would! Congrats to the organisers for not being afraid to experiment with performances like this. And the cushions were cool too. :) Tue Feb 23 13:25:20 1999

Happy Mardi Gras to one and all. Tue Feb 23 21:56:15 1999

Did anyone see the real Ellen screening last Tuesday? I thought Anne Heche was really cute and the doco about the coming out episode fascinating. It was great to see so many beautiful women at the night;) tubbie - Wed Feb 24 1:50:29 1999

It was interesting to see so many men there too. Wed Feb 24 9:54:39 1999

Who saw Fruit Loops on Wednesday night? The verdict? velvet - Thu Feb 25 2:10:15 1999

same old same old Thu Feb 25 8:12:30 1999

I think I saw a movie in the film festival on SBS last night, how can this be ??? Hmmm well i saved money...thanks SBS..you are more cutting edge than the film festival and cheaper square iii's - Thu Feb 25 10:04:01 1999

To square iii's: sometimes film makers don't release their films to our festival because they are afraid to "pigeonhole" their film. This means that we have to wait until the film maker has had a few takers, and we get it later. Then someone like SBS buys it 'cos it will go well in the Mardi season ! ... it's not that our film fest isn't cutting edge, it's that some film makers aren't cutting edge enough. Lesbia - Thu Feb 25 23:34:27 1999

What? I thought Queer Screen's film festival this year was superb. I wish that I had the time to seee more than I did. Maybe they can do another one during the winter, when there is little else on and we've (mostly) paid off our Mardi Gras debts. Technowarrior - Fri Feb 26 9:15:10 1999

Last Night caught Vanessas show, Loved it very original, creative and entertaining. However have to say Pam Ann's Mile high Club was Hysterical, great entertainers as guests ( what was the name of the young guy who sung first?) Bob Downe was fab, and Cher even made an appearance, even if she did look remarkably like a Wax dummy. Am well and truly in the mood for the parade and party rain rain go away , come back another day - Fri Feb 26 11:38:21 1999