Pinkboard: Party Graffiti Wall 33

But it's spring (officially) in a matter of days, and there is even more on. Personally I'm looking forward to Club Arak

Party Graffiti Wall 32
Party Graffiti Wall 34

NEW WALL !!

ITS ALL ABOUT ME ME ME !!!!
me me me - Thu 26 Aug 2004 22:34:14

Well anyway all I said was that I hope you've all got your tix to RUBY and Above and Beyond next Friday as I'm sure it will be amazing and yeh! Looking forward to a night of good Trance.

(And also secretly trying to promote the night a bit more to make sure more gay guys go as I know there is going to be a large straighty contingent going to it as well, not that there's anything wrong with that).
TTTTRANCED - Thu 26 Aug 2004 23:02:48

Evil Twin - Fri 27 Aug 2004 01:11:27

Forget the Jimmy D controversy; good music wins out in the end.
- Fri 27 Aug 2004 09:51:04

Only a few tickets....be quick! **Nearly sold out**

Tickets available through Hum Records (Darlinghurst & Newtown) and www.inthemix.com.au.

www.candylips.com.au

See you there!

Janine x

PS - There's a wonderful rumour going around that it's sold out...it will be, so be quick!
- Fri 27 Aug 2004 10:21:47

77 william street. east sydney
dj seymour buttz and dj gemma
10pm till 4 am
$5.
- Fri 27 Aug 2004 10:44:28

RETRO

RETRO

SEXUAL !!!

TONIGHT !!!

ARQ !!!!

9pm - LATE

RETRO IS SO 2004 !!!
Retro lover - Fri 27 Aug 2004 16:45:19

It is fine that it's advertised everywhere though, i hope Ruby gets as many people coming to his parties as he deserves. Most people from the straight contingent know it's a gay orientated club and themed night, and Above and Beyond would attract people from all walks of life anyway. But yes I just hope though that there are no homophobes as that would suck.

Most straight ppl i have spoken to who are going just think the gay boys are going to try and have sex with them or something..and it's like 'ughhh stupid'.....but anyway....gay or straight or both...it's Above and Beyond..I guess it should'nt be an issue, i hope not.
.Music makes the people come together, apparently.
TTTTRANCED - Sat 28 Aug 2004 00:46:29

Unfortunately the crowd this time were a lot more aggressive and unfriendly than the first Retro Sexual night. I'm sure we both have quite a few bruises this morning from being elbowed in the back continiously and being pushed out of the way by what seem to be the regular punters. Also a tip to the fool on the podium, just because you can unbutton your pants and stamp your feet two or three times out of time to the music, does NOT make you a good dancer just an annoying pratt. I'm sure if you refunded everyone whose drinks you knocked over with your rediculous antics, you would be broke for a few weeks. Word of advice, get over yourself and stop ruining the night for all around you!

Having danced hard from early on and combined with the crowd situation, we ended up leaving early and didn't get a chance to even say hi to Justin let alone hear his set. I've heard from some mates of mine that he played a blinder as well and I just wish we had been there for it.

It was also great to catch up and finally say hi to Stephen.
Overall from the venue/ staff & music side of things, this was a brilliant night out and we'll definately be there for the next one. I just hope the crowd is a bit friendlier.
Shanobear - feeling very sore and sorry for himself this morning! - Sat 28 Aug 2004 12:00:14

2) Type in "weapons of mass destruction" (DON'T hit enter/return)

3) Hit the "I'm feeling lucky" button, NOT the "Google search"

4) Read the "error message" carefully.
bEATKID!! - Sat 28 Aug 2004 13:48:50

I thought it was even busier than last time, so hopefully that's indicative of its ongoing success.

Now for those who are interested, here's my playlist from Retro Sexual 2.

Into the groove - Madonna
You should hear how she talks about you - Melisa Manchester
Boogie wonderland - Earth, Wind & Fire
I can't help it - Bananarama
The only way is up - Yazz
This time I know it's for real - Donna Summer
9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
Never gonna give you up - Rick Astley
Happening all over again - Lonnie Gordon
Jump to the beat - Dannii Minogue
What have I done to deserve this - Pet Shop Boys/Dusty Springfeld
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Physical - Olivia Newton John
Touch me - Samantha Fox
Shocked - Kylie
Make it on my own - Alison Limerick
Angel - Madonna
Jump - Pointer Sisters
I drove all night - Cyndi Lauper
Summer rain - Belinda Carlisle
Just another dream - Cathy Dennis
Listen to the music - Doobie Brothers
You spin me round - Dead or Alive
How will I know - Whitney Houston
Our lips are sealed - The Go Gos
www.jakekilby.com - Sat 28 Aug 2004 16:06:22

the key to addictions is yes, they are transferred, not often quashed. if you are ever addicted to something negative, the answer is simple... transfer the addiction to something positive.
- Sat 28 Aug 2004 17:46:33

I had a great time at the first RTRSX. Unfortunately I couldn't go this time. I am sure it was a great night again...but looking at Jake's playlist, I wonder what happened to music like:

Heavy D & The Boyz "Now that we found love"
Double D "Found Love"
Rebell MC & Double Trouble "Street tuff"
808 State "Pacific state"
Guru Josh "Infinity"
Bomb The Bass "Beat dis"
Afrika Bambaataa "Just get up and dance"
Clubhouse "Deep in myheart"
Dj Pierre "Get on the floor"
Deee Lite "Good Beat"
Frank K "Everybody - let somebody love"
FPI Project "Rich in paradise / Risky"
Xpansions "Move your body"
49ers "Touch me"
Expose "Tell me why"
Lonie Gordon "Gonna catch you"
Chad Jackson "Hear the drummer"
Njoi "Anthem"
Nomad "Devotion"
Rob N Raze "Got to get"
Sueno Latino "Sueno latino"
D Mob "C'mon and get my love"
Jane Child "Don't wanna fall in love"
Marky Mark & Funky Bunch "Good vibrations"
Lisa Lisa & The Cult Jam "Let the beat hit 'em"
Cartouche "Feel the groove"
La Tour "People are still having sex"
Shamen "Move any mountain / Ebeneeezeer good / Boss drum"
KLF "Last train to transcentral"
Monie Love "It's a shame"
We Papa Girl Rapers "We rule"
Coldcut "Doctorin the house"
Mantronix "Got to have your love"
T Empo "Saturday night sunday morning"
De La Soul "A roller skating jam names saturday"
Bass O Matic "Fascinating rhythm"
Blue Pearl "Passion"
Bizzare Inc "Playing with knives"

and i could go on and on...
Someone may have played one of the song, I dont know but
reading Jake's playilist - i am not sure.
I am pleasantly surprised by Cathy Dennis & Alison Limerick thou.
All the DJs playing retrosexual - you are doing a fantastic job. Could you try to fit in together with all the Kylies, Whitneys, Stock Aitken Waterman songs something a little bit different as well. There was such a good music around 89/90/91...

Thank you and looking forward to The 3rd Retrosexual !o)
- Sat 28 Aug 2004 18:24:05

Nice to meet you Shanobear, you did a great job getting the dance floor started up so early. love ya work.

I look forward to Arq running RetroSexual on a regular basis from now on, maybe once every 6-8 weeks ??

For those that might be interested heres what I played. And I'll have no grief from you Golightly about Kim !!

RetroSexual Set 9pm - Midnight

"It only takes a minute" - Take That (1992)
"Looks like I'm in love again" - Key West (1993)
"I Will be released" - Up Ya Ronson (1997)
"Everything she wants" '97 remix - Wham (1997)
"The love I lost" - Sybil (1992)
"Caught in the middle" - Juliet Roberts (1993)
"Finally" - Ce Ce Peniston (1991)
"Free" - Ultra Nate (1997)
"True" - Spandau Ballet (1983)
"If I can't have you" - Kim Wilde (1993)
"Passion" - Gat Decor (1992)
"Is this love" - Bass X (1993)
"U Sure Do" - Strike (1994)
"Automatic" - Pointer Sisters (1983)
"Where the streets have no name" - Pet Shop Boys (1991)
"Bridge over troubled water" - Hannah Jones (1998)
"Another Night" - Real McCoy (1994)
"Respectable" - Mel & Kim (1987)
"Wrap Me Up" - Alex Party (1995)
"Rocking For Myself" Original '92 mix - Motiv 8 (1992)
"If I could turn back time" - Cher (1988)
"What do I have to do" - Kylie Minogue (1990)
"So many men, So little time" - Miquel Brown (1984)
"Freeway of love" - Aretha Franklin (1986)
"Perfect Day" - Indigo (1997)
"Dreamer" - Living Joy (1994)
"Addicted To Love" - Robert Palmer (1993)
"Cocopabana" '92 Remix - Barry Manilow (1992)
"Are you ready to fly" - Rozalla (1992)
Stephen Blomfield - Sat 28 Aug 2004 18:52:35

Unfortunately it was a combination of very sore bear legs and the crowd that forced an early night for us but we're already looking forward to the next one. I'm really sorry we left when we did judging by the play list!

I had forgotten your Melissa Manchester song! I was going off like a frog in a sock to that one. Talk about bringing back some memories.
Shanobear - feeling slightly better after more sleep and a massage. - Sat 28 Aug 2004 19:04:57

From memory, we hit the floor around the 3rd song and I only took a quick break after that during Respectable. So many great songs one after the other!

thanks again for a great night mate.
Shanobear - Sat 28 Aug 2004 21:07:09

In terms of production quality, it was truly the best event/show that I have ever seen staged by the gay community. From the moment I walked in I was in awe. I absolutely loved the opening video - it was beyond broadcast standard. The filming, the editing, the music. I can't imagine the work that must have gone into it but let me just say you need to re-use the team that worked on it next year. I would love to get a copy of it somehow.

Then the countless shows started. Each one was better than the last. One moment I was laughing like crazy and then the next minute I was sitting back mesmerised by the lighting and effects. The choreography was excellent and looked as if the entire cast had spent months working on it, it was just so effortless (again, I would recommend retaining this years choreographer and show producer).

Someone mentioned on these boards that they couldn't hear much. The sound was perfect from where I was sitting. Any louder and it would have been painful.

I could go on but this post is already long and gushy enough. Thanks again for a great and memorable night. See you next year
Steve - DIVA fan - Sun 29 Aug 2004 01:34:22

Thank you for raising this question and a damn fine one it is too.

You are quite correct stating that many tracks (particularly in the era 1987 - 1993) were actually fairly down tempo to todays current music. Without getting too technical, during the above mentioned time frame dance music was relatively energetic in its production but was actually compared to these days fairly mild in the actual beats per minute of most of the tracks.

To illustrate this let us consider this - These days most clubs on big dance floors are playing music in the bpm rance of 128 to 140 (and sometimes a bit more for hard house and banging trance stuff). Most club music in the late 80's and up to about 1994 was generally in the bpm range of 115 to 125. Indeed I can remember for many years not ever owing one single record in my DJ carry box with a bpm of over 126-127. Now whilst these tracks didnt have todays required bpm tempo they certainly made up for it in energy. As an example the group Black Box who were one of the biggest groups of that era having a string of club hits from 1988 to 1994 were real examples of NRG tracks that had against todays standards bpm's of no more than 123bpm ! "Ride on time" (their biggest hit clocked in at 119bpm)

Getting back on track, I think you will find that Jake , Justin and I have actually been doing some tweaking to alot of tracks to get them into a bpm range that is more appropriate for a packed dance floor. Speaking for myself many of those pre 1994 tracks with only mid range bpm's I have run through a very effective computer programme that will time stretch the track from its original bpm to a faster bpm without affecting the actual pitch of the tune. By doing this it will not cause the vocals to sound like chipmunks but at the same time give the track the bpm boost it needs to fit into a energy set of music that is so important on a packed floor.

On the subject of original mixes - My attitude is that the original mix of a track is of course a first priority however sometimes you do get situations where the original mix just isnt playable due to it being too slow to time stretch it. An example from my set on Friday was when i played "True" by Spandau Ballet from 1983. This track back then was a love ballet and just couldnt get played in that format. Then along came a beefed up dance mix in the early 90's. PERFECT !! This is a common occurance where songs years after their initial release get re-release with new up to date remixes. In these cases I am happy to play the updated remix. Where I draw the line is that in "most" cases I would never consider playing a version of a song that has been covered by a different artist. With Retro (in my opinion) youve got to play the original artists vocal whether it be the original release or a updated dance version released a number of years later.

I hope these comments have helped you out in answering your question and I apologise to everyone else for the length of the responce but I felt it deserved a detailed answer because it was a very valid question.
.
Stephen Blomfield - Sun 29 Aug 2004 11:05:39

Yet again another brilliant party. Sure there were straights there but if you looked hard enough it wasnt hard to find alot of areas on the dancefloor where there were significant groups of gay boys. And werent there some stunningly beautiful guys there might I say.

On the the music. Stephen Blomfield once again delivered a blinder with a great mix of early to mid 90's stuff for the younger ones as well as some hugely popular gems from the early to mid 80's for us older queens. Oh My I had so forgotten about Miquel Brown's classic 'So many men so little time' (rather apt title to described the night), and Freeway of Love by Aretha brought the house down. At to top it off he played Cocacopana by the one and only Barry Manilow. Ive never seen so many normally straight acting sorts of people completely camp it up during the number. I couldnt see a single person not singing along. Well done Mr B, if you keep that standard up then your set at Sleaze ball will be one to look forward to.

Onto the ever popular Mr Kilby who did his normal brilliant job. Highlights were definitely the bundle of old Stock Aitken Waterman tracks (Bananarama, Donna Summer , Kylie , Rick Astley and of course Lonnie Gordon). And of course a Kilby set just wouldnt be complete without at least one or two madonna tracks which he definitely delivered to great effect. Great job JK. You'll be certainly missed at Sleaze this year. NMG have a lot to answer for the way they have treated you on this issue.

Onto Mr Scott who I was very pleased to see get a time spot that wasnt opening. He deserved it. Highlights were definitely Patrick Hernandez "Born to be alive" , Donna Summer "I Feel Love" and Starlights "Numero Uno" brought back may great memories of those halycon days in 1988-89 when there seemed to be a Hordern dance party on just about every second week. Finally, I really could have done without the Spice Girls track darl, but thats just a personal thing.

Well done to the staff and management at Arq. You're on to a real winner here and the 3 boys who played for you on Friday are without a shadow of a doubt exceptional at what they do. God only knows how much preperation work they must have to do leading up to the event to keep each retro set from one party to the next fresh.

Keep those Retro Sexual parties going. I'm busting for the next one. Thank God I've got Blomfield at Sleaze Ball to keep my regular retro needs topped up.
Retro Retro Retro - Sun 29 Aug 2004 15:44:06

Shanobear - Sun 29 Aug 2004 17:32:27

My highlight of the night....Mmmm , definitely really late about 5am when Juzzy played Mouse T "Horny". It prompted so many people on the dance floor to get filthy if you know what I mean

Cant wait for Retro Sexual 3. Can Michael Slavin give as a clue how long we have to wait please ?
Aiden - Mon 30 Aug 2004 02:29:11

After a BIG August Hellfire (thanks to all who came & made it so much fun!) we have an even BIGGER announcement to make:

Drum roll, please …

The Hellfire Club is MOVING!

Yes folks, some of the rumours are true – the Icebox is undergoing major renovations that’ll put it out of action for the next 3-4 months or so.

So we’re folding the frame, packing the whips and marching down the hill to our new home – Club 77.

Don’t fret, it’s not far away … in fact it’s only six blocks from Icebox on the southern side of William Street (between Crown & Riley Streets).

For those that haven’t seen it, Club 77 has a fair bit more elbow room than Icebox, which will help avoid those nights when it did get a bit TOO squishy! It also has a low stage area – which our performers will more than welcome – a pool table and a dark, underground vibe. Best of all, the management are happy to welcome our extended freaky family, as they are already home to fellow subculturists Club Kooky every Sunday night.

Though the venue will be different, all the key features of Hellfire will remain the same:

+ still third Friday of every month from 9pm, which makes the next one FRIDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER
+ still with resident DJs MANDY ROLLINS, LANNY K & MISS YETTI from midnight (with occasional special guests)
still with low-volume loungey tunes & cheap cocktails for cruisy schmoozing from 9pm-midnight
+ still only $20 entry with discounts for fetish dress
+ still with the best in perverted performance every month. September will feature a full-on shoe fetish show from THE BUTCHERED BABES, ULTRA & HER ALL-GRRL SPANKETTES and more to be announced in the next week or so

In September we’ll also have some cool Hellfire memorabilia prizes for best-dressed people – some limited edition laminated Hellfire posters signed by our deviant DJs!

So I hope you can join us in a big, trashy housewarming for our new home!

Cheers

Master Tom
The Hellfire Club
http://www.hellfiresydney.com
- Mon 30 Aug 2004 11:54:20

Will the next Retrosexual be paying a tribute to Ms Branigan?
- Mon 30 Aug 2004 11:57:17

THanks to Kelly Lynch for one of the most memorable nights the Lordy has produced, last nite. She pulled out every trick (even using her vocal chords!) to get every ass shaking, even the tired ones like me.

DEFINITELY one of my "moments" of the year.
- Mon 30 Aug 2004 14:53:46

Just wanting to know, if their a big gay following to hellfire? I would be interested in going in their were some sexy gay leather guys to teach me some things...

Can anyone confirm if bears or leather men attend?
Stoogie!! - Mon 30 Aug 2004 15:21:42

I agree with you - it's a shame anyone dies that young, but for god's sake, once the appalling Alan Jones hijacked her only big hit as the music for his radio "show", she died right then as far as I was concerned.
- Mon 30 Aug 2004 16:25:26

Stephen Blomfield was absolutely on fire, Jake Kilby was burning the dancefloor up (what else would you expect) and Justin Scott took it home like a real pro, thanks guys.

And where's your playlist Justin ?

The crowd was really into it. The Arena was probably about 90% full which is just about right and it was in my opinion even better than the first Retro party. I can now see this event going from strength to strength.

The shows on the other hand were a disgrace.Drag queens who crap on and on revelling in the spotlight of hearing their own voice for up to 10 minutes while people are all wanting to get back to the music should not have been allowed. If I was Jake Kilby at the time I would have pulled the plug on the bitch and started the music again. And believe you me its been done before. Just ask a drag queen called Simone Troy and a DJ called Paul Goodyear.

My summary - Excellent night, Great Music, Friendly people, and Eye Candy for days ! Oh why cant it be on more often
.
Oh what a night !!! - Mon 30 Aug 2004 17:10:32

ps - soooo many hot girls
sarahQ - Mon 30 Aug 2004 23:35:54

Yes, quite a few hot leather men go to Hellfire
you would also enjoy SLPA's Carnal Party on Saturday 18 September
www.sydneyleatherpride.org
- Tue 31 Aug 2004 00:03:54

But of course you'd be at Beyond.
- Tue 31 Aug 2004 09:17:34

They do, but not in huge numbers, as the male leather scene is already so well catered for in Sydney ... but there have been more and more leather men who like dancing/playing in a mixed crowd attending, which we think is great!

Hellfire's crowd is mostly bisexual and lesbian, whith a fair-sized "straight but not narrow" component as well, making it a place where no-one fits in - so everyone fits in!!

Hope you can make it sometime ...
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - Tue 31 Aug 2004 09:42:08

Can you confirm are their any hairy guys, leather etc who attend Kens into Cigar fetish?
StogiiE - Tue 31 Aug 2004 16:27:02

As most of us have heard today on the news Cher will be finishing her final world tour in Australia next Feb. AS channel 7 news just stated, in time for Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras... could Mardi Gras be Cher's last ever performance..? Can Mardi Gras get it together to make it happen....? If so... WOW...WOW.... WOW
Brad W - showing my true gayness - Tue 31 Aug 2004 19:13:37

On her last tour down this way, she had a draq queen impersonating here in part of the show. The performance was so convincing that even with binoculars, I couldn't tell the difference until the real Cher came onstage halfway thru the song. So even if they did manage to book her, would we be seeing the real article? lol
shanobear - Tue 31 Aug 2004 19:28:04

My tip, Expect the ticket price to be about $130.00 !!
Adam - Tue 31 Aug 2004 19:42:17

are you shouting everyone's plane ticket and hotel room?
- Wed 1 Sep 2004 01:15:01

Looks like I'm going to make a trip to Ken's for a recovery session...

Sounds inviting...

StogiiE - Wed 1 Sep 2004 08:07:06

Cher's first concert in Sydney is on the 3rd of March, right before the Mardi Gras party.

Hehehe.....

I'm certainly coming up for the party again next year!!!
Fingers & Toes - Wed 1 Sep 2004 09:23:38

Ryan Murphy - Wed 1 Sep 2004 09:35:11

QSW, a night where we hear from FTM, butch and femme-identified sex workers; work ranging from modelling, full service, pro dom to acting. They will share their experiences through their art. This is an intimate event for the non-judgemental queer community.

Join Scarlett Crevasse, Susie Q and FTM porn star Buck Angel, along with other artists in a night which boasts music mixed by Sveta, spoken word and film.

Sunday, 12 September, 2004

The Imperial, 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville

Doors open @ 6pm; Performances start @ 8pm

$12 full / $10 conc.

QSW is identity-inclusive and non-clique. Please check your phobias and suspicions at the door. Bring your open mind, submissives, curiosity and respect. This is a butch, femme, transman, FTM, transgender, intersex, hermaphradyke, genderfuck, transensual femme, SOFFA, ethnodiversified, D/s respected, accessible space.

www.transensualevents.com
Daddy's Little Girl presents.... - Wed 1 Sep 2004 09:35:14

Not shameless at all mate - you didn't hand out flyers...

Bugger, thought it could be a quiet weekend coming up!
- Wed 1 Sep 2004 14:06:18

Re the Transensual Event, is Buck Angel actually coming out here? Ooo er!
Evil Twin - Wed 1 Sep 2004 16:49:18

No, he has sent a most interesting film. Trust me when I say you won't want to miss it ; )
Daddy's Little Girl presents.... - Thu 2 Sep 2004 09:50:49

Fag Tag - Chinese Laundry - Sun Oct 3 with Annabelle Gaspar, Mike Kelly, Steve Sonius, Garry Tee, Junior B, DAMN, blah blah, - it's all at www.fagtag.com.au

Yay! Something different to do after sleaze this year, cant wait
- Thu 2 Sep 2004 12:20:42

* a TIP *Get to the Annandale early for BugGirl. This band rocked it at Club Kooky and at Scooter a few weeks ago. Really cute & cool. They will be huge.
bEATKID!! - another pinkboard tip! just watch! - Thu 2 Sep 2004 12:25:19

Agree, looks like a v good line-up of DJs, and I went to a big corporate thing at the Chinese Laundry last year - admittedly a very straight event that time but I loved the venue, and full of poofs and dykes it would go off.
- Thu 2 Sep 2004 13:31:35

Great idea!! But I have a feeling this will ab another Sydney Party that tries to overkill the scene.

It's only fairly new and already it's holding a major Party!!

I think people will be using the same phrase as refered to QN's soon 'been 2 too many, it's all the same'

I hope it goes well, but by the look it's going to be quite a regular gig!

Why not try something really different, go out for dinner Friday night, and enjoy a nice night at home Saturday! You're bank account will love you, but then again it's just very 'Gay' of you then!!
Good Luck!! Enjoy it while it lasts!! - Thu 2 Sep 2004 14:18:43

The Slip Inn is pretty spooky on saturdays, the last fag tag was full of gawking heteros. Good one to take your straight mates. There is a full page add in this weeks straight rock mag Brag.
forewarned is forarmed! - Thu 2 Sep 2004 15:30:26

Fag Tag is on once a month - and at a different venue each time. If there's one way to avoid the whole "been 2 too many, it's all the same", that's it!

It's being advertised as a gay party so i can't imagine many straights going - it's in SX this week as well.

Good luck to them, throwing a major party with a new line up is ballsy and me any my friends are definitely gonna go.
- Thu 2 Sep 2004 15:58:48

good luck to the crew because it is nice to see people who are brave enough to step off oxford st every now and again
- Thu 2 Sep 2004 22:00:55

RUBY AND ABOVE AND BEYOND @ ARQ THIS FRIDAY...

It promises to be HUGE for for all you TRANCE fans out there...
TTTTRANCED - Thu 2 Sep 2004 22:47:33

ryan murphy - Fri 3 Sep 2004 12:45:18

The Slip Inn makes Aussie Princesses, Home makes... well.. money.
- Fri 3 Sep 2004 14:50:57

"Tonight we visit UK pop star Kim Wilde's garden"

Oh JK , Oh Golightly. I hope the VCR's were pre set to record this historical moment
- Fri 3 Sep 2004 19:09:15

www.lukeleal.com - Sat 4 Sep 2004 00:20:12

True, so true. My friends and I did the calculations the other day and reckon that by charging $45 a ticket, Home makes around $60,000 profit from every single queer nation. That's ridiculous! Even Ruby at Arq next Friday night is $45 a ticket. Stop ripping us off! Why can't all our parties be $20 like Fag Tag.
- Sat 4 Sep 2004 17:11:33
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

Somebody seems to have woken up !!

Home nightclub have been ripping off the G&L Community for a long long time. Welcome to reality
- Sat 4 Sep 2004 17:40:56
This is the opinion of the poster.

They may make $60,000 income (1300 people at $45), but they would have quite a few expenses. DJs, advertising, extra lighting, security, ambulance on standby, entertainment. Costs mount very quickly. I'm sure the rent on the place is an arm and a leg too.
- Sat 4 Sep 2004 18:17:09

Thats because nothing goes into the making of Fag Tag. It is just a normal venue that is it. These other parties actually re-organise the club, re light, re sound etc....

Not hard to work out why it costs more!!
Think About It!! - Sat 4 Sep 2004 18:19:29

can't believe how much QN is charging but sure they will do well as they have their fans - personally it hasn't grown and so i feel like i've done it... next
- Sat 4 Sep 2004 19:44:03

hahahaha!
this has to be one of the most absurd statements I've seen on here for a long time! are you calculating that based on tickets sold x ticket price?! oh dear.

All parties would hope to turn a profit. Why would they bother putting one on otherwise? Just because a promoter or venue is making money from parties put on for the GLBT community, that doesn't make them evil or greedy.

The promoters mentioned happen to put on quality parties for our enjoyment, employing a lot of great G+L talent. I for one am happy to pay those prices and believe it's great value. I feel that I am not alone, given they regularly sell out!
chris - Sat 4 Sep 2004 20:31:20

Don't forget ICONS at Arq this Friday for one night only. Dan Murphy, myself and Alex Taylor will be playing a night full of non-stop gay icons - Madonna, Kylie, Cher, Whitney etc...

Tribute shows by Minnie Cooper, Tess Tickle, Vanity Faire and Kitty Glitter. $10 on the door.
www.jakekilby.com - Sun 5 Sep 2004 14:01:20

We'll be at Gurlesque recovery after Sleaze. By crikey we will! As ghu is my witness, we'll be at GURLESQUE!!!
Evil Twin - Sun 5 Sep 2004 14:41:22

What complete and utter rubbish. Learn the difference between sales revenue and profit.
- Sun 5 Sep 2004 17:19:21

jeffgg - Sun 5 Sep 2004 21:51:38

The Ruby crew was meant to install new sound and lasers in the vortex for this night - did you make it down there to check it out, and if so, how was it?
- Sun 5 Sep 2004 22:10:32

We did go down for a look, out of curiosity. But, everyone was crowded into the Arena (which was packed), with only a handful of people downstairs.
A video camera upstairs was beaming A&B's performance onto a large screen set up on the stage in the Vortex. 2 lasers had also been installed down there.
I'm not sure what the sound in the Vortex is usually like (I've never been down there before!) but it sounded quite OK on Friday night.
jeffgg - Mon 6 Sep 2004 07:08:51

A nice place to chill out and prepare for the week ahead. Warm and cosy, not at all hard work. Good line up of guest DJs, and a queer crowd.
Evil Twin - Mon 6 Sep 2004 08:50:37

Thats sounds inviting Evil Twin!! We used to go a while a back to LR, but it never seemed to take off. Hopefully now it seems may be the time to venture back.

What time is the from?
Love the Lord Roberts - Mon 6 Sep 2004 11:06:12

And the cost of public liability insurance - that has gone through the roof for event promoters.
- Mon 6 Sep 2004 11:14:50

I asked Renae when Smooch was starting up again, and she hadn't heard. In the mean time, it's nice to have some free beats to kick back to.
Evil Twin - Mon 6 Sep 2004 11:24:41

Due to unforeseen circumstances, this Sunday's event at The Imperial has been cancelled.

QSW: Queer Sex Workers will be rescheduled at a later date.
Daddy's Little Girl - Mon 6 Sep 2004 19:45:13

Come up for a breath of fresh air!
- Tue 7 Sep 2004 10:28:31

Similar to my posting on the Sleaze board, no one if forcing you to go see anyone. IF you don't like the Dj's for any reason, you have the power within you to NOT go to the club where they are playing. There is no gun pointed at your head forcing you to attend!

It's a complete joke to catagorise DJ's according to their sexual preferences. What happens when a new DJ starts at a club you frequent? Do you go ask them thier sexual preference before you go to the dancefloor? What sort of proof do you require from them?

As for the term "batty", this would have to be the most obscure use of the word ever. I've not heard of it being used in the context you mention. I could be wrong but it's certainly not a widely used phrase.
Shanobear - Tue 7 Sep 2004 10:50:12

Shanobear - Tue 7 Sep 2004 10:51:58

Does this include Deborah Cox, Christina, Britney, Janet etc etc. I am sure a few more can be thought off other than the run of the mill ones, in the promo material.

Any additional hints Mr DJ?
IKONZ lover - Tue 7 Sep 2004 12:01:55

Hey Shanobear,

I actually go out with a lot of my straight friends, and this term is commonly used. Although at the same token it's just a comical pun. It's the same as 'no bloody trance', 'beats to make ya move' etc.

I think it is just in fun, no serious undertones what so ever... After all it's the club industry, isn't mean;t to be fun! - tongue in cheek!!
Smile who gives a F@#% what they think!!! - Tue 7 Sep 2004 12:21:29

Shanobear, I'd hate to burst your bubble, but the term "batty" is used in rastafarian slang to refer to a homosexual and it is usually done in a derogatroy way. Now as you have pointed out there are mean meanings for this word and we can only hope that these guys didn't mean it as an offence to the GLBTQ community.
- Tue 7 Sep 2004 12:42:09

Dan Murphy 9pm - 12am
Jake Kilby 12am - 3am
Alex Taylor 3am - 6am

IKONZ lover, since ICONS is a 9 hour party, I think we will be playing a large variety of icons, from the run of the mill ones mentioned in the artwork, to the less commercially recognisable. I assume they had limited room on the poster and decided to stick with mentioning the main ones.
www.jakekilby.com - Tue 7 Sep 2004 12:48:47

Any additional hints Mr DJ?
IKONZ lover - Tue 7 Sep 2004 12:01:55 "

Yes, yes and yes - all of the above. The whole night is supposed to revolve around music from those artists we consider "gay icons" and that includes a broad spectrum of performers - everyone from Elton John to Madonna and from Britney to Donna Summer......the list goes on......

The reason we only mentioned four of the obvious ones in promotional material is because there really is no debate about their status as gay icons -
and the shows in particular are connected with those four....
Michael Slavin - Promotions and Marketing Manager ARQ SYDNEY - Tue 7 Sep 2004 13:06:30

Just goes to show you can learn something new everyday.

also thanks JK. We're thinking of venturing out for the first time since retrosexual 2 so might drop in for a few hours.
Shanobear - Tue 7 Sep 2004 14:53:33

Same here, sounds like a fab night
the gf (and a big Dan fan) - Tue 7 Sep 2004 16:23:45

Tue 7 Sep 2004 13:06:07
I found the "no batty" reference in Brag... its on an add for some of the BragTag straight dj's regular night. Guess they didnt expect that to be found by queens.. Silly boys. Time to grow up. Undergrad homophobia still ain't funny.
- Tue 7 Sep 2004 19:00:37

Cant wait to see what they do to arq on the night
and to have newcomer stepehen simpson who played a great set at above and beyond then ruby then ric dreske who also rocked on friday i hope he plays similar to his toybox set which was just amazing

10 DAYS TO RUBY!!
trance-a-holic - Tue 7 Sep 2004 22:35:31

Couldn’t agree more! The Stephen Simpson/Ruby/Ric Dreske combination has got me so excited, I’ve already got butterflies!!
So looking forward to hearing the new sound, and checking out the legendary Ruby lighting. I’m sure they’ll both live up to, and exceed, expectations.
And I wouldn’t mind some of those straight boys from Above and Beyond coming along too - not only were they easy on the eye, but they know how to have a good time, and can really party with the best of us! God, they were even friendly!! : )
jeffgg - Tue 7 Sep 2004 23:08:25

I think it’ll be like RetroSexual where if the first one’s a hit it’ll run again. I guess we’ll have to wait and see!
Dan Murphy - (Spinning more divas than you can poke a tiara at!) - Wed 8 Sep 2004 16:06:13

Launch this Saturday 11 September

@ Bat & Ball Hotel, cnr Cleveland & Sth Dowling Sts

8pm onwards / $3 drinks / free entry

Retrohiphophousenmore
Bringer of good news for the laydeez - Wed 8 Sep 2004 16:44:11

- Ooooh - Wed 8 Sep 2004 16:47:34

Oh Bugger! Mum's cooking a lamb roast that night
Our Miss Cruise - Wed 8 Sep 2004 18:45:07

yeah "should"
- Wed 8 Sep 2004 19:57:11

Thank you for SHOUTING so loudly
Shout Shout let it all out - Wed 8 Sep 2004 20:59:15

I can't believe jeffgg had never been downstairs at arq until last weekend!! where have you been?!!
- Wed 8 Sep 2004 21:12:54

That's a brilliant idea!
- Wed 8 Sep 2004 21:30:36

Actually, there HAVE been a few times when the Arena has closed on a Sunday night, and we’ve been herded out of the place via the Vortex. But we’ve always kept walking and headed straight for the exit.
Which raises the question - when the Arena is closed and the lights come on, why can’t those who wish just leave from there? What’s the deal with having to go downstairs to get out?
I don’t have anything against the Vortex, but it just hasn’t seemed like a place for dancing and romancing - so I’ve never really felt any need to go down there.
Have we missed something? : )
jeffgg - Can I have a key to that door please? : ) - Wed 8 Sep 2004 22:33:16

anyway, hair, breath, back-hair removal, nails, t-shirts and tans in seconds - I'm excited
big kev's thinner sister - Wed 8 Sep 2004 23:39:34

all silliness aside, i have often wondered when waiting to get thru security why the vortex ceiling is so frikken low when there appears to be this enormous distance between the two levels .. enough height to install a decent lighting rig infact
- Wed 8 Sep 2004 23:53:40

jeffgg - I too cannot believe you have never been to the Vortex. Especially since your posts indicate that you spend a fair amount of time at Arq. You replied that you had walked through it on your way out, but that doesn't constitute "going to the Vortex".

I'm not having a go at you - everyone is entitled to like what they like, but there is more to life than the Arena and trance. You should put a night aside one weekend and plan to spend it in the Vortex. It isn't always as busy as the Arena, but it has been known to be busier than the Arena on occasion, and it has some great DJ's (including Luke Leal, whom you have stated in the past that you enjoy) working some great nights down there. When the Vortex goes off, it does so with a bang. You might find you have a great time!
JPK - Thu 9 Sep 2004 08:58:30

Hey there chest hair fans, joining me on the airwaves tonight is non other than the big lug himself; NEAL CRAWFORD!

We'll be discussing all the big issues like his upcoming RHI debut at Sleaze, his new night at The Colombian and where he gets all those stylin' clothes. All while spinning the trance fantastic.

And you don't even have to stop reading fact based gossip and turn on your radio to tune in. That's right, 87.6 is now streaming on the web. Click on the "live streaming" link at www.beatfm.com.au for glorious stereophonic sound! (out of your tinny little computer speakers hehe)

'Lost In Trance-Lation' 10-Midnight on 87.6 Beat FM.
www.lukeleal.com - Thu 9 Sep 2004 10:40:48

www.lukeleal.com - Thu 9 Sep 2004 10:45:29

DJ's

Rumpus Room
Neal Crawford
Ruby

Games Room
Paul Goodyear
Kate Monroe

Can't wait!
TJ - Thu 9 Sep 2004 10:58:28

Does anyone know what the DIVA website is? I did a google search and nothing comes up. Anyone know?\

Thanks,
Diva Fever - Thu 9 Sep 2004 13:04:29

Back in the days when Arq's website had more than just a homepage, they had the floorplans for the 3 levels on there. They are plan view, but no elevation view tho - so no hint as to the true height from the vortex floor to underneath the arena. Those floorplans look like whatever was originally there must have been knocked down, as the new building takes up every square inch of space of the site, including the clever use of an old shop to form the entry/storage area. There was also some blurb about how the new building sits on shock absorbers to prevent the low frequency noise getting out of the building and all this guff about pillarless space - actually there are at least 9 pillars on the arena level -they hold up the mezzanine level. The vortex has these 9 plus that pesky pillar right in the middle. The website of the architects that designed Arq reckoned it cost over $4 million to build - i would guess you would want more than just a renovated carpark/garage for that amount of money.

This must be a really slow news week to be speculating on what's in the vortex void, but Michael Slavin must love this publicity .. hehe
What is the max headroom of the vortex? - Thu 9 Sep 2004 14:37:05

jtcw arq nightclub

An old car park is now Sydney's most popular club by night and a multi purpose venue by day. Costing over $4m, the venue has two high-tech dance floors and mezzanine, including bars, restaurant and lounge areas, for up to 900 patrons.

Cutting-edge light and sound engineering are used to create atmospheric and exciting events. A 7.5 tonne sculptural ceiling rig can be raised or lowered, with 15 computerised telescopic lightpoles which pulsate with the music.

The tight site constraints presented considerable internal planning and building code hurdles. Clever design and technology contain the noise including the demanding low frequency beat popular in clubs like this. The upper floor is column free, with rubber bearing pads preventing external noise transmission.
What is the max headroom of the vortex? - Thu 9 Sep 2004 14:44:18

and luke, neal STILL does not have any chest hair. i guess the good thing about radio is, we can pretend
chip fan - Thu 9 Sep 2004 18:16:34

gasp!
hehe - Thu 9 Sep 2004 21:21:55

The peel does have its drawbacks, in that the music can be a bit average (agree with shanobear) and the sound system seems a bit tired, but none of that really mattered because of the foam. (yes it's all about the foam)

The main dancefloor was covered in foam at least 5-6ft deep (made it interesting for me at a towering 5'9), and they had put down anti-slip flooring everywhere.

Now I know this is probably a public liability nightmare, but if one of the popular Melbourne clubs can do it why not Sydney? Sure most of the sydney clubs wouldn't allow foam to be put through their premises but I'm sure there are other venues (perhaps not purpose built for dancing) that could be used for a foam party.

The reason I bring this up is because we all had so much fun, and from a promoters point of view, I reckon the he/she that puts a night like this on in Sydnye could charge close to whatever they would like, and the punters tired with the same old same old will pay it.

The peel charged $25 entry for the foam party, and if you have been to the peel you will agree with me that's alot to get into a venue like that. Neverthelesss- the place was totally packed to the rafters from around 7pm-6am.

Has anyone else ever been to a foam party? thoughts?
- Fri 10 Sep 2004 07:37:43

About, gee, 10 years ago? DCM held a series of foam parties. It was back in the day when DCM was fairly gay/mixed and my friends and I were regulars there. I think we went to all of them, there may have been 2 or 3.

I had a blast at all of them - it was something different. My only gripe is that I was stupid enough to wear a brand new pair of suade trainers to the first one (because it was a new concept, I didn't realise it was going to be WET foam!), and at each of them, people were losing their amyl in the foam which subsequently meant that everybody's skin was peeling the following week after spending hours in an amyl bubble bath.

I think they could work in this day and age in sydney. It would be interesting to see it happen.
JPK - Fri 10 Sep 2004 08:38:44

I like the idea of doing something different, but can it at least be something new, that would actually be different.

Maybe we could do a stewed prune and custard party with 2ci chasers. Or a pyjama party where all the tina addicts actually sleep for an hour to see what its like ..ok sure Im kidding but Im sure if 25 idiotic NEW ideas get posted one will spark the attention of the community and or a promoter and who knows we may start a new craze that they can try at the Peel in 2014.
- yay for being different - Fri 10 Sep 2004 10:45:37

www.lukeleal.com - Fri 10 Sep 2004 12:27:51

DJ'S

Ric Dreske

Ruby

Stephen Simpson

Trust me, with what the team have planned, arq is going to look totally different.

I would suggest getting your tickets before it sells out,

i think you can get them from one stop dee jay shop.
or the website www.rubydance.com.au
- Fri 10 Sep 2004 12:59:39

Lighting maybe but the sound?
- Fri 10 Sep 2004 13:13:40

i like seeing crusty-burgers in my imagery too, but i think your analysis of the poster is a little defensive if you ask me. are you feeling old and fat?
- Fri 10 Sep 2004 17:21:01

u.w. - VOTE...for our sake!! - Fri 10 Sep 2004 18:26:20

www.lukeleal.com - Sat 11 Sep 2004 00:12:28

i think you're spot on. the music you have suggested reminds me that retro does not only mean cheese (yes i love cheese btw)

good luck retro sexual - hope you can pull out some of these gems

would also love to hear
primal scream - 'movin on up' or 'loaded'
or anything by the cure (remixed or not)
- Sat 11 Sep 2004 04:48:00

The crowd this time were so friendly and fun to be with. Smiles all round and dancing with straight girls and various friends we bumped into throughout the evening.

Then to the night itself. We arrived late (sorry Dan), and entered to the sounds of my favourite Donna Summer track so it was straight to the dancefloor for us! That was about 10:30ish and we left the dancelfoor only once until we left at 4:30!!

Dan Murphy played a fantastic set. This is the first time I've heard Dan play and I'll be looking for his name around the traps again that's for certain.

But not only is he a great DJ but really nice guy!. It was a pleasure to meet you Dan and hope to see you around soon. After all that we didn't even get to talk Idol! lol

Then came Jakes set. As I said Jake, it was relentless, but in a great way! We were going ballistic almost the entire time. Even had a phsycic moment when I mentioned to my partner that I hadn't heard any Christina songs about 10 seconds before you played one LOL

Alex was the final set and this was great as well. My partner really cut loose to Whitney when he got some room and was dancing up a storm.

Unfortunately my legs were so sore by 4:30, we had to hobble out to a cab. Tired but happy.

Finally the shows. Brilliant performances and they were short and to the point but highly entertaining.

Overall a great night and I can't wait for the next one (but wearing more appropriate shoes next time).
Shanobear - Sat 11 Sep 2004 05:15:16

Unofficial Sleazeball Recovery

Sunday 3rd October 10am - 10pm

MIDDLE BAR - Kinselas

DJs:

Chip

Mandy Rollins

Mike Kelly

Scott Pullen

Sista P

+ Specail Guest TBA

Free Entry

Happy Hour priced drinks from 10am - 10pm

$8 Sydney Slings

$10 Cocktails

Win a VIP double pass to Queer Nation

******SLEAZEBAG******
- Sat 11 Sep 2004 10:56:39

|retro

|electro

|funk

|fusion

..POPSICLE seeks to showcase the talent of local musicians and the visual arts community..
..Pump along to POPSICLE to hear original and remixed tracks from the early 90s..
..as well as contemporary music which in every respect pays respect to the..
..banality and excess this era is emblematic of..

DJs: mukole, mime, stb, nickipee
venue: Slyfox hotel, 199 enmore rd, Enmore
8pm till late
free entry.
nickipee - see this weeks THEBRAG for more info - Sat 11 Sep 2004 17:33:15

You’ve seen the drag show now see the real thing – the movie. On Saturday 25th September at 7.00pm the Sydney PRIDE Centre will be screening the original movie “Priscilla Queen of the Desert” at the Sydney PRIDE Centre, Erskineville Town Hall. Come and re-live our very own part of movie history ten years on, right here in Erskineville - The home of “Priscilla”.

PRIDE's very own Portia Turbo will be the hostess of the movie night and will provide insights to the making of the movie.

Tickets are $15 and include a light supper before the movie. Wines from Tempus Two and beer from Carlton Draught will be on sale through out the movie. All proceeds from the night go to support the Sydney Pride Centre.

And if that’s not enough the official after party is to be held across the road at the Imperial Hotel. Yes and you guessed it Priscilla Queen of the Imperial is showing, starring Mitzi Macintosh, Farren Heit and Wyness Mongrel Bitch. To receive free entry into the show, enter before 10.30pm and show your movie ticket stub at the door.

Movie: “Priscillia Queen of the Desert”
Tickets: $15 on the door, includes a light supper before the movie
Venue: The Sydney PRIDE Centre, 104 Erskineville Rd Erskineville
Date: Saturday 25th September 04
Time: 7.00pm – 10.00pm
Official After Party: Imperial Hotel from 10.00pm, enter before 10.30pm and receive free entry to the Priscilla Queen of the Imperial show.

ALL Proceed goes to support the Sydney Pride Centre
- Sat 11 Sep 2004 18:20:51

After a long break during winter Odyssey House returns to 191 Oxford St. All the regular crew are back Kate Monroe behind the dex and Rob Morrish on bongo's. Plus check out the new deck bar!

Odyssey House
==============
Opening Sunday 26th September

DJ Kate Monroe + guests

5pm till Midnight

$5 cover charge
Kate & Jude - Sat 11 Sep 2004 18:39:02

but will head to arq tonite to rectify that situation
dirtyfilthy - Sat 11 Sep 2004 19:13:17

Apparently the best price seats are $495 each , the second string seats are $295 each , then theres a third price which I cant remember and the worst seats are $95

These prices (after exchange rates) are more double the equivalent prices of the concerts that were recently held in the USA and Europe.

Sure theres additional costs to come all the way out here but double the price of northern hemisphere concerts is just sheer greed on behalf of the concert promoter and Cher management.

I hope the big colourful poster in SSO this week advertising the concert doesnt suck in too many people and I also hope it doesnt stop people from having to decide between the concert and the Mardi Gras party.

Lets face it, it pretty obvious to everyone that we will all be able to catch her in the RHI on Mardi Gras night for a lot less anyway.
White Dove - Sat 11 Sep 2004 21:54:12

a security & logistical nightmare more like it.
black raven - Sat 11 Sep 2004 23:26:48

Evil Twin - Sun 12 Sep 2004 15:37:15

The fact that she is coming out for an official tour means that all the travelling expenses will be funded by the paid concerts.

This gives her the chance to do Mardi Gras for a nominal cost that gives her the chance to fulfil her dream without breaking the bank at New Mardi Gras.

Its a win - win.

However I do agree that "IF" she performs that it will not be a very comfortable experience waiting for her to go on stage in the RHI. It will indeed be a security nightmare.
White Dove - Sun 12 Sep 2004 22:45:18

Don't you think that the promoter that pays the exhorbitant fee to get her here in the first place doesn't have iron clad contracts in place controlling where/when/how she appears?
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 00:11:42

And dont you think that once her contractual arrangements are completed on the Thursday night before mardi gras that she is free to do whatever she wants whenever she wants ?

Of course she is.
boi - Mon 13 Sep 2004 00:49:57

She doesn't like dirty house music...
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 11:37:02

This Friday sees the hotter-than-housewarming party for the Hellfire Club as we move into our new home - Club 77 on William Street.

With shows from outgoing SLPA President Greg Bloye, The Butchered Babes and Ultra & her all-grrl- spankettes, DJ's Mandy Rollins, Lanny K and Miss Yetti and heaps of other surprises - it'll go off!

PLUS we're pleased to announce that the CSN Volunterrs will be taking over our Cloak Room from now on, raising hundreds of dollars every month for these wonderful unsung community workers!!
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - http://www.hellfiresydney.com - Mon 13 Sep 2004 11:56:14

Of course she is.
boi - Mon 13 Sep 2004 00:49:57"

Wrong, so wrong. Unless it's written in now, it will not happen. Simple. People like Cher are totally and carefully controlled and managed.
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 12:16:05

Thanks my lovely! Glad you boys enjoyed ICONS, it was great to meet you both and put a face to the name. No doubt we’ll see you out and about again very soon
Dan Murphy - Mon 13 Sep 2004 12:18:14

Those ticket prices are correct Platinum $495, Gold $295, Silver $195 and Bronze $95.

It's is absolutely pathetic! Unless you are in either Plat/Gold at the Ent centre don't bother going... These prices are way to expensive, it will still sell out, but I think a lot of true fans will be really pssed off...

After some other big name bands to come here, have had probably just as good concerts for half the price! ie U2, robbie Williams etc...

Looks like Mardi Gras only for me!
disappointed! - Mon 13 Sep 2004 12:38:37

I don't think Cher would be too happy to hear that - Cher totally and carefully controls and manages everything she does in her career - including, of course, those outfits

If she wants to appear at MG, she will. If she doesn't, she won't. Simple.
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 14:40:24

If she wants to appear at MG, she will. If she doesn't, she won't. Simple.
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 14:40:24

The commercial reality is that when these big ticket performers sign a contract to perform/appear in Australia they are controlled/managed completely by the promoter who forks out the millions to bring them here. How would you feel if you paid hundreds of dollars to see her in concert to find out that she then appeared a few nights later at a dance party that only cost $100? Granted, any hypothetical appearance at a gay dance party would only be a few songs and not have the lavish production. All her appearances would be carefully managed and promoted in order to achieve one objective, to maximise sales of tickets to the concerts -- this is the only way that the promoter recoops his/her massive outlay in getting this product here.

If however, she was due to appear at Sleaze, then it would be already in the contract she has with this promoter -- just as bands such as the Rolling Stones will perform in a very small venue as a "warm up", however there are never any tickets for sale for such appearances.
- Mon 13 Sep 2004 15:17:24

laugh of the day - maybe we should ask Sveta if there is any Cher in her record box

...had a great time at Bad Dog, Lord Bob was a bit subdued y'day evening, now set for Hellfire and Carnal this weekend.
the girlfriend - Mon 13 Sep 2004 14:54:01

oh my - this sounds just like my weekends ... it is!
who is this and why are you stalking me?
I would have said we were a bit quiet at the LRH, not the pub itself, it was a very busy weekend with QueerDoc and all. Yes, onwards to the Hellfire/Carnal double header this weekend. I know a lot of grrls are coming from interstate to be there - what are the boys doing?
Lil - luscious in leather - The real Girlfriend, you can't compare - Mon 13 Sep 2004 22:48:17

Interestingly, a few leather boys I know are not heading South for the Beyond party but staying here to support Carnal.
Who am I? I'll say hi over the weekend if you are who I think you are. For clarification were you at Tropical Fruits New year in Lismore last year, have you attended Beyond in Melbourne from time to time?
the girlfriend - Tue 14 Sep 2004 08:13:41

madame lash's kirk cathedral
surry hills
featuring Live CODA (club arak)
dj gemma
seymour butz (sauna sessions)
meem (clan analogue)

**** plus a plethora of queer underground performers doing installations all night *****
early night 9 - 12. byo booze even! perfect hellfire primer!
love you sydney - Tue 14 Sep 2004 10:21:59

The licencing laws in Victoria are no different - Beyond just has a delightfully skanky venue. Believe me there's not too many other venues like that around in Victoria. However, I think that this topic was done to death on this board about 18 months ago, so I won't pass further comment.
li - Tue 14 Sep 2004 11:08:09

Carnal is an opportunity to support SLPA.

Licensing laws are essentially the same in Vic and NSW, the application of them is different. The police continue to turn a blind eye in Victoria as they did in NSW before the infamous Black party in 2002.

I would prefer to wait for the smaller November or January Beyond parties. This one will be packed to the rafters in a very small,uncomfortable place. i understand that the Cage had been condemned at one stage last year before some minimal repairs were completed.
the girlfriend - Tue 14 Sep 2004 11:21:56

Actually I like my Hellfire just fine the way it is thank you. Packed nights every month for the last two years, great music (thanks Mandy) and sexy shows. Bring on Friday night!
- Tue 14 Sep 2004 14:49:57

Cage was never condemned, there were plans to turn it into a 24 hour arcade game centre (would've complemented the karioke downstairs!). Didn't happen in the end. There were some roof repairs - which were about repairing the roof, at no stage were there plans to condemn it.
- Tue 14 Sep 2004 15:54:47

SLPA's Carnal party is an occasional social fundraiser
Hellfire is a regular club night
a bit similar in theme, a bit different in style and application - both sets of organisers are friends and understand their audiences. Small events with individual styles make nightlife all the more interesting ... don't make everything all the one flavour else we would be bored!
Bgrrl - Tue 14 Sep 2004 22:05:18

Yep, Hellfire are mates with the good people at SLPA who put on Carnal, and if we're not too tragic after the HELLFIRE HOUSEWARMING party this Friday at Club 77, we'll try and scrape up the energy to go along ourselves.

We've even got the SLPA standing El Presidente (Greg Bloye) doing his last ever show as SLPA President as our midnight show! He'll be tackling some tackle in a boy-on-boy sexplosive show! There'll be nudity and screaming - of that I am sure! And then he'll be off to Beyond, so it's all one big happy fetish community 'round here with us all supporting each other's events!

Speaking of male fetish pleasures, the first two pinkboard readers to come up to me at Hellfire (ask at the door who I am) and say they're here for Greg's boy-on-boy show will receive a free DVD of WHITE ROPE (giveaways kindly provided by the folks at www.kaosshop.com.au). This is a great gay male bondage title, and will give you some great visuals for your 'after-Hellfire' fun.

For the girls, at 1am we have The Butchered Babes doing a corsetted shoe fetish extravaganza, plus those sexy Spankettes being whacked at random intervals throughout the night.

Our coat check now is totally donated to charity - CSN and PLWHA - so come along and support all sorts of communities by attending Hellfire!

Musically, Mandy Rollins is on at midnight, Lanny K and Miss Yetti take us through to 6am.

See you on Friday at Club 77 for your monthly fix!
Ultra (Hellfire) - Tue 14 Sep 2004 22:52:17

Well the outgoing SLPA president is off to Beyond rather than supporting SLPA's very own Carnal!! Doesn't that support comments made by myself and others a month ago about the conflict of dates being to Carnals detriment?? I mean if those within SLPA are not going to support Carnal, who is?
madonna Minogue - Wed 15 Sep 2004 08:44:00

Evil Twin - Wed 15 Sep 2004 11:06:20

performers: trash, niki pears, leon foxx, imogen kelly, marty j, hornblower, glitta supernova, terezina, shoe box plus many other animals
plus interactive video diabolico peep treat!

music: coda (live) seymour butz (sauna sessions)
gemma (club arak) meem (clan analogue)

only $10 and you can bring your own!

oh yeah free goat rides all night!!!!!!
- perfect sexual primer to hellfire - just up the road - Wed 15 Sep 2004 11:41:07

Glad to be corrected Evil Twin but this was not my gossip, just sourced from the previous posting from Ultra about Greg heading down to Beyond. Apologies to Greg and SLPA
(Mr) Madonna Minogue - Wed 15 Sep 2004 11:58:30

ooh there's a lot of potential for fun there...give me some muscle marys on venice beach any day (or night)!
- Wed 15 Sep 2004 17:33:01

I've been practicing my vows all week ... "I do ... you ... and you ... do me!"

Woo hoo!!
GD - Wed 15 Sep 2004 20:11:37

The team from Smooch are holding a recovery party on Sunday 3rd October at Middle Bar (Kinselas)

The good news is it's FREE ENTRY & they have an awesome DJ line-up with Mike Kelly, Mandy Rollins, Scott Pullen, Chip, Sista P & a DJ from San Francisco.

I believe Smooch will be returning soon.
- Thu 16 Sep 2004 14:07:37

Sadly no all us Sydney Leather girls are staying here to support SLPA and Carnal
the girlfriend. - Thu 16 Sep 2004 16:11:25

Great news. Thanks.
i want to smooch - Thu 16 Sep 2004 21:28:00

Woohoo!
RV - Thu 16 Sep 2004 23:27:08

hey MM if you are so interested in what happens with SLPA make yourself known to the committee at the Carnal party and have a chat about your concerns.
or volunteer at one of the next events to help make it happen info on the website re: volunteering and joining
www.sydneyleatherpride.org
SLPA Volunteer Co-ordinator - Fri 17 Sep 2004 00:09:41

Thank god for open minded Melbourne promoters & crowds!"
www.lukeleal.com - Tue 14 Sep 2004 19:25:19

First, I have not promoted a party in Sydney and also do not believe DJs should be given strict playlists. However I believe relatively strong direction in terms of style and selected tracks is warranted. After all, party promoters invest an awful lot of time, effort, money and energy in their events. Much more than a DJ who might spend just a few hours planning and playing there and GET PAID for it. Promoters, who often take big risks and run events at a loss, have a right to expect that an event they have carefully crafted to meet the needs of their target audience is delivered as they intend.

BTW I have heard the above unconstructive DJ complaint directed at promoters all around Australia (including Melbourne). Such comments are certainly not endearing to non-Melbourne (as Luke Leal is based in Sydney, presumably Sydney) promoters who have facilitated and demonstrated great creativity by tirelessly organising a range of events for our community.
Alex - Fri 17 Sep 2004 10:41:20

less a case of being so interested in what happens at SLPA but would have appreciated the opportunity to go to two good parties in different cities on different dates and i know many ohers going to Beyond in the same situation and from that perspective I still find the timing of Carnal very curious. This has been my only comment on SLPA matters. I have been an SLPA volunteer in the not too distant past and probably will do so again a some point.

Anyway, hope both parties are a huge success
MM - Fri 17 Sep 2004 11:01:18

Can...open...worms...everywhere! Geez Alex, I didn't realise I only had to spend a few hours planning for a gig! Wow, have I been overcommitting.

All the DJs I know have invested their entire lives into music and their careers. We live it 24/7, scanning new releases info on the internet, sourcing music, pounding the pavement from store to store trying to separate the wheat from the chaff for hours on end, not to mention all the effort self promotion entails (and the disappointments)... When a DJ turns up for a gig you get the sum total of their whole experience as a DJ - not just a few hours of planning.

Strong direction in musical style is essential for a good party - giving a DJ a playlist is not. Otherwise they’re nothing but a jukebox, interchangeable from any other DJ.
www.lukeleal.com - Fri 17 Sep 2004 12:01:16

Well said Luke. It's a little known fact that the infamous "9 to 5" episode at Inquisition several years ago was Kate Monroe's protest at having been more or less instructed by the organisers as to what her set would be.
- Fri 17 Sep 2004 12:12:56
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

Promoters have every right to express the musical direction they desire for the party that they are putting on. However, if you are after a certain style or direction, you would employ your DJ's accordingly. For example, you wouldn't hire DJ Josh to play at a funky house party.

In my experience, promoters have faith in the ability and musical taste of the Dj's they hire for their events. I haven't had any promoters over step the line in trying to enforce any kind of direction or "play list" onto me. I have, however, heard of this occuring on a number of occasions. It is unfortunate, and more than a little insulting to the DJ.

We do spend many hours in preparation for an event, not to mention all the time we spend scouring for music (and the money we outlay for it). Luke isn't being precious about this, he has a vested interest in events he plays at, just as much as the promoter. It's called his reputation. His career.

If a promoter wants a DJ to play something that means the DJ isn't being true to himself, then the promoter shouldn't be hiring that DJ.

On another topic, I have to congratulate PRIDE. I recently received an email in regards to submitting for NYE. Although I am unable to, as I am already committed to play in Melbourne, their insight and initiative in regards to the DJ selection process is refreshing.

Instead of calling for demo CD's, they have asked for written submissions. A committee will then go out to clubs and bars and hear the applying DJ's spin in a "real" environment. They have even included measures that ensure that up and coming DJ's who may not have regular gigs can be considered.

Congratulations to PRIDE. I hope that the direction you are taking is successful for you and that this is the way of the future for all submission processes. It is fair and transparent, based on a DJ's proven ability, not how good a CD demo can be produced (that may be mixed live, or created using an editing program).
JPK - Fri 17 Sep 2004 12:35:39

How about Sleaze? It is on the evening before Queer Nation and it will be huge.
Arti - Fri 17 Sep 2004 18:23:11

Next Retro Sexual wont be until the Sleaze ball season is well and truly over. I hear late October / early November being spoken about.
Retro Retro Retro - Fri 17 Sep 2004 19:07:15

when i see broken glass -
I;'m sorry - but i'm just compelled
to get off my arse
- Harry the IV'th - Sat 18 Sep 2004 10:35:59

Chapel of Love -- what an awesome party! From the moment you stepped into the door you know you're in for a very special night. No expense spared (or so it seems to me)-- wonderfully conceived and great execution to the finest details (colourful confettis everywhere!). Great music (happy that Ruby mixed it up a bit --my old ticker can't keep up otherwise, Rubs!), lasers not seen at Arq, give-away minties that looked liked e's in a cute red heart-shaped plastic pendant. The friendliest party I've been to by far. Congratulations to Ruby and Team. What a memorable night!
rex - Sat 18 Sep 2004 13:51:30

{dammit-this pc isn't even mine BUT at least the posting is}

Surely somewhere caters for losers? [and don't tell me to stay at home just becaue of the gr*eat company there]]]]
- ca$hle$$ - Sun 19 Sep 2004 09:59:28

BI:FUSION
Presented by the Bi Performance Collective

AN EVENING OF QUEER PERFORMANCE
Diverse cabaret / Spectacular spoken words / Freaky films / Mellifluous music

Wed, 22nd Sept.
Imperial Hotel, Cabaret Room
Doors open 7.30pm - Showtime 8pm

$10 Bi-NSW Members / $12 Conc. / $15 General

Party from midnight with DJ Blair
Bring your Bi-resolutions for International Celebrate Bisexuality Day

Breathe easy : this is a non-smoking event ‘til midnight
Supported by Sydney Pride Centre, The Froot Store, and The Imperial Hotel
http://sbn.bi.org/bifusion.html or http://bi.org.au
part-time femme - Sun 19 Sep 2004 22:11:30

Lucky you! I'm up here in Sydney on business and went to the Carnal party on Saturday night. I got there at about midnite and thought I'd got to a CWA fancy dress night at the local church hall. I stayed till about 2.30 thinking it just had to get better but nothing happened. No people, no atmosphere, no energy and I guess no profit. Apparently, most of the Sydney leather boys had headed south for the weekend. I see this subject has already been discussed on this board but what the organisers thinking of, don't they check these things? And they say melbourne is bleak city!
Melb boy in Sydney - Mon 20 Sep 2004 12:19:54

Mike Kelly in the RAW!!!
- Mon 20 Sep 2004 13:21:28

This is a bit of an unusual statement. Sydney is a city of house. If you venture into the straight scene, you will not find a 'retro' night at all. In fact the idea would be quite foreign. While tramce is popular in the straight scene, it isn't what you would know it as. Most of it is played 140bpm +
In the gay scene, trance has been very much moved to the side. Trance and retro have a starring role at Sleaze. However, if you look closer, there is only ARQ who cater for this market on an occassional basis. Manacle, Stonewall, Colombian, Shift, Phoenix, Club 77 and the like are all 95% house venues as are all the occassional gay venues like Odyssey, Hugos, Smooch etc.
If you are still thinking that trance and retro are in anyway a stranglehold, ask how many DJs are making a living purely playing trance or retro.
justin thought - Mon 20 Sep 2004 13:34:17

David Twyman (Creative Designer) had totally transformed the room by careful draping and covered upright trusses into, for all those over 30, the old Dome in its heyday. Sheer brilliance and not unnoticed by the crowd.

The music was great with Ric, Ruby and Stephen giving us the classic Ruby feel with a few interesting new tunes thrown in.

The lighting and lasers were, to say the least, awesome with something like an extra 6 lasers installed for the night.

The Deltamax sound system did its job well, especially in the middle of the "Dome" due to some carefully flown boxes each side of the room.

The crowd was the usual wonderfully friendly culprits and I had a great night catching up with so many people I haven't seen for a while (plus our usual creatures of the night into day into night).

Thanks Gordon. It was so nice to go to a really good party, not work, and have a ball.
Noisy Gypsy - Mon 20 Sep 2004 14:32:36

Thanks Gordon. It was so nice to go to a really good party, not work, and have a ball.
Noisy Gypsy - Mon 20 Sep 2004 14:32:36

I couldn't make it to RP11, but I'm quite interested to hear how the "custom" sound system compared to the house system in The Arena (which I love when it's 'running/tuned' properly) -- especially from someone who knows their sound. Would you mind elaborating Noise Gypsy?
- Mon 20 Sep 2004 15:46:12

Whatever they did at rp11 worked very well, arq should be encouraged to go spend some money on sound (so should the shift).

Anyone who heard the hired system in the vortex at above and beyond at arq would realise how ordinary our clubs sound and how dramaticly better things could sound.

And yes Rp11 was an awesome party
A Happy Ruby Punter - Mon 20 Sep 2004 17:00:07

See previous comments on Carnal from Melb boy in Sydney - Mon 20 Sep 2004 12:19:54

I have to say I went to the party too and it was a shadow of the same party held in the same venue in March.
- Tue 21 Sep 2004 10:51:32

Simply, you either like the JBL sound or you don't. I personally don't, prefering Funktion One or EAW, even Turbosound with regards to dance music. Horses for courses. It's also been there for many years now and a new system wouldn't be out of order.
Noisy Gypsy - Tue 21 Sep 2004 12:26:47

To whowever put 'Carnal'(Sydney) on the same night-
"What were you thinking!!"
cantdancetotrance - Tue 21 Sep 2004 16:37:47

Nice of you to apologise love but if you had been really offensive, people like myself and many others would have had a go at you - Manacle is a men's bar with a friendly open disposition during day clubs so the respect to be shown is pretty simple. I was there with bells on after RP11 on Saturday morning and didn't notice... so can't of been that bad. And yes, between Paul and Craig 'on duty' down there, any really bad behaviour would have been quashed officially.
Noisy Gypsy - Tue 21 Sep 2004 16:41:28

I don't think anyone reacted to your post the first time because nobody cares sweetie. Let it go.
- Tue 21 Sep 2004 17:42:35

Why was it in that night? Well a few things
- it was time to put on a social event for SLPA (none since Leather Pride Week and flagged a while ago); better to have a party before Sleaze than after (people partied out); in Sydney it is nearly impossible to book a one-off or occassional night. Most venues want a regular repeating booking - once a week, once a month, that kind of thing and finding a space that is the right size, has a vibe, is not too 'stark' is not the easiest list to check off.

Interestingly the southerners compare and complain constantly about what is on offer in Sydney but don't tell that much about what makes their party nights good or memorable. How was Melbourne Leather festival? Did any of you go or were you recovering from Redemption in time to go to Beyond? ... that sounds a bit like the activity during the warmer months in SinCity. Compare or Contrast?

I hear that SLPA is hoping to secure a venue for all social events for 2005 so watch the website for news www.sydneyleatherpride.org/calendar.htm

btw: I didn't meet the other girlfriend on Sat - where you there? Why didn't you come over? Why donchacall?
Lil - luscious in leather - enjoyed a warm up to youknowwhat - Wed 22 Sep 2004 00:04:07

There is a Kooky sleaze recovery on the Sunday?
Yay!
Those Kooky Kids are my faves! Any details please? What about the new Kooky cd Im hearing about? Spill the beans!
I love you too Sydney - - and Im from Mellbourne! - Wed 22 Sep 2004 08:15:21

i guess it was always on the cards. Just in case anyone felt guilty about wanting to party too much
- of subcultural significance - Wed 22 Sep 2004 08:40:13

I hear that SLPA is hoping to secure a venue for all social events for 2005 so watch the website for news www.sydneyleatherpride.org/calendar.htm

btw: I didn't meet the other girlfriend on Sat - where you there? Why didn't you come over? Why donchacall?
Lil - luscious in leather

Interested that you don't get much feed back from Melbourne - but how do you ask for it? You're not going to get it on this board because it has limited relevance to Melbourne. It's an interesting comment that Melbourner's complain that there is nothing in Sydney that would bring them up here - leatherwise, and its true. There is nothing that compares to Redemption or Beyond, although I would argue that Redemption has ceased to be a leather event and is now a solid party. I think there is a fundamental difference in approach to how events are put on between the two cities. My observation from the outside is that SLPA appears to be a very political organisation (I could be wrong). Both Redemption and Beyond are produced by individual promotors - not organisations and that's what makes the party. Both are driven by the vision of their promotors - not driven by a committee, which necessarily involves compromise.

But would an individual promotor run a leather themed event in Sydney? (And no the Shift is not an "individual promotor" - Indulgence doesn't cut it). Why would you do it? Why would you endure the pain and the agony and the bickering which that would be likely to involve? Sydney is a hard town to do these things in. Melbourne is an easier town to do these things in.
- Wed 22 Sep 2004 10:40:07

This Friday night Double Happiness returns to The Studio at Sydney Opera House after selling out in 2003, with another club night that dives deep into the Asian underground.

This party takes all the elements of your typical 8 hour event and compresses them into an action-packed 4 hours from 9pm-1am - it's like a dance party for people with short attention spans!

Double Happiness 2 includes:

DJ sets - from The 2 Dogs (Resin Dogs DJs), DJ Sheerien (SBS Alchemy Radio) and DJ Lux (2SER Masala Mix)

Live Sets - from Hermitude, Caitlin Yeo and The Bird with Tabla Master Bobby Singh (in a unique live collaborative set specially created for the night).

With visuals designed by Leon Lei Zhong, a bar built into the venue and crystal-clear sound, see The Studio at Sydney Opera House transformed into the coolest little club on the harbour.

Reserve your place under the mirrorball by calling the Box Office on (02) 9250 7777 or online at http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/thestudio ... but be quick, there are only 350 tickets available and last year's event sold out!

What: Double Happiness 2
Where: The Studio at Sydney Opera House
When: This Friday September 24th 9pm sharp - 1am
Cost: $20 (booking fee may apply)
Craig D. from The Studio - Wed 22 Sep 2004 11:47:06

Speaking as an individual promoter who staged Leather and Fetish parties in Sydney for some 15 years I can only agree. A lot of it simply boils down to the lack of venue availability. As then President of SLPA I staged the 1st Carnal Party at the Rooftop Kings X years back as a fundraiser and packed em in at around 600 people. People we're literally hanging from the rafters in all sorts of delicious ways. I was also fortunate to direct Inquisition V and VI at the dome which with all humility where bloody brilliant parties. The fact is venues like the Dome, Rooftop, Palladium etc kept closing, councils changed, clubs made you talk to the hand. All those warehouses become condo's, public liability reared it's ugly head, and venues that would allow drinking, smoking, dancing and slap n tickle ceased to exist. For all the trying you still can't get the punters to go west and frankly most promoters when they find an opening to stage a fetish event are burnt by costs.

I personally left SLPA because I could no longer bear the nastiness and bickering. Maybe things have changed. I moved on to privately stage the Uniformity and Black Parties which were a big success for a few years, alas the name was ripped off by the Gay Games which again is common. Many a promoter spends years establishing a theme only to have it snapped up by the big boys n girls.

The Shift allowed Black to move in to get people in the doors when it reopened but after a few parties they saw the potential and needless to say stopped returning my calls. Love the guys, but really....the rest is history.

It IS easier in Melbourne. In fact it's easier in any other city as I've discovered. Oh dear, I've written way too much, sorry gang, but thought it may as well come from the horses mouth, or is it pony? I dream for a return to the Sydney that was, a lot of us do, but do people actually see it happening?
Craig Ingrey - Promoter. - Wed 22 Sep 2004 12:05:25

Some people think Crystal use causes unsafe sex. Some don’t.
Some people think it’s having a harmful impact on our community. Some don’t.
Some people experience problems with crystal use. Some don’t.

To help make the picture crystal clear ACON is hosting an open community forum on Crystal use in our communities.

The forum will give you the opportunity to hear what social researchers and HIV epidemiologists have to say about Crystal use in our community. Speakers incl;ude
Heather Worth - National Centre HIV Social Research
Garrett Prestage: National Centre HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research
Sean Slavin: Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society
Louisa Degenhardt: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre

You'll also have time to talk about your own thoughts, ideas and experiences.

Information from the forum will help to influence ACON’s future Crystal campaigns.

The forum is being Chaired by David Buchanan.

The Details:
6:00 – 7:30pm
Wednesday 29th September
ACON Building – 9 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills
RSVP Sharon 9206 2052
- Wed 22 Sep 2004 12:17:30

Pride has named a stellar DJ lineup for this year's Pride Party, sKINtite, which will be staged immediately following the 15th Annual Pride Parade on Saturday 23 October.

sKINtite, which will be hosted by the fabulous Vanessa Wagner, will feature three rooms at two different venues, making it Pride's first ever multi-venue party.

The main room will be located at Gilkison's Dance Complex, 45 Murray Street Perth, and will see two of Perth's finest DJs, Kinky and Dirty Den, join forces with two of Sydney's best, Ruby and Alex Taylor, to deliver a mix rich in classics, anthems and trance.

The second and third rooms will be located a short walk down the road at Ambar Nightclub, 104 Murray Street. The underground car park behind Ambar will feature a strong tribal-house sound, mixed up by Curlee v Judith, D-BOYZ, Sydney's Mandy Rollins and LEWiSjAMES. Ambar itself will be a dedicated R&B and funk room, with a DJ lineup yet to finalised.

Shows will be staged at Gilkison's at midnight, 2am and 4am and at Ambar at 1am and 3am.

Pride Party Coordinator Joshua O'Keefe said Pride has listened to feedback from party-goers and had raised the price of tickets so more could be invested in delivering a stronger entertainment lineup.

"Pride party-goers have been telling us for ages that they want bigger and better dance parties and we are aiming to deliver that at sKINtite," he said.

"We made the decision to raise ticket prices so that we could afford to attract DJs from interstate and pump more money into a larger number of shows.

"As a result, we will deliver a party with Perth's best DJ talent, three of Sydney's best DJs and five shows, spread across two venues. And we have been able to achieve this while keeping ticket prices well below those paid on the East Coast."

Tickets are onsale now through BOCS, Planet Video and Arcane Bookshop at a cost of $55 for members and $66 for non-members. Booking fees will apply. Tickets can also be purchased at Fairday with no booking fee. Tickets will cost $77 on the door.

Pride Co-President Daniel Smith said interstate and international visitors to Pride could register for a $22 VIP Visitor's Pack at www.pridewa.asn.au, which included a ticket to sKINtite.

"Pride is advertising both nationally and internationally to attract as many people to Perth as possible to help us celebrate the Parade's 15th birthday," he said.

"As these are people who otherwise would not have attended the party and people who will have to spend money on airfares and accommodation to get here, we thought it the least we could do to make a party ticket available to them at a discounted price.

"A number of people have already registered, so sKINtite promises to have a strong interstate and international contingent, which will help us celebrate the Parade's 15th birthday in style."
- Wed 22 Sep 2004 12:53:59

And it was a nice final function and farewell for SLPA's retiring President. Thanks for a great job Greg.
- Wed 22 Sep 2004 13:41:55

Craig, we never met but I went to just about all of the parties you were responsible for and I have to say all of them bring back very fond (and many particularly filthy!!) memories.

Though not a promoter myself, so I have no first hand experience of the difficulties that exist today, I do agree with you about the real lack of amazing venues in Sydney. The Rooftop will always remain my fave - somehow it always felt like the party just happened spontaneously, no matter how "planned" it was. Please be assured there are many people who both appreciate the really extraordinary work you produced, and who lament that, as you say, those times are probably gone for good - well, in Sydney that is.

I am in Sydney a lot, and the times I've been out in the past couple of years have been pretty lacklustre compared with the times you're talking about. But I actually now live in Cairns, and some of the private parties up here actually evoke those old times down south. People seem more willing to let their hair (and a lot more besides) down. Maybe you should come up and check it out! (although I would warn that the one downer about living in a tropical climate is that the leather scene is, well, mostly cotton....)

Best wishes
Mandy Vice-Rabies - the artist formerly known as - Wed 22 Sep 2004 18:48:37

To pinkboarders lamenting the 'scene o yesterday', it does still totally rock in this great city (check baddog, arak, club kooky, strudel, scooter, girlesque, hellfire, the studio and loads more) You just gotta get your self out-there more often! What's next... a retro hard house party circa 1999?
Our culture is about exploring, being innovative and challenging! It still is!
Gay it Forward - let's be genius, not sceneius - Thu 23 Sep 2004 09:16:07

you didn't think of the name BLACK... it is a name used all around the world to suit a subculture. you did CO-present these parties here as i recall.

but apart from that, yes, all else you have said is pretty right, and thanks for your contribution to sydney's leather events.

as another promoter, i feel your attitude is a little defeatist. have you been to the leather events in sydney lately? i have been to past and present and still really enjoy myself (cheeky smile)

good luck to current/future promoters. find a loop hole in life and legislation and get out there and do it.

ps - saying you have a sex space is not really very clever - just let life evolve in your events
SYDchaps - Thu 23 Sep 2004 13:08:03

*sniff*, thanks Ms V-R. Alas these days are spent more in cotton n thongs than cow hide n knee highs for me too. Rest assured if the right window opened I'll be staging another party back home, but where oh where? Once upon a time all you needed was $500 and a mirror ball. It was all about the crowd then. Next time I'm in Cairns I'll let ya know and we can paint the town whatever colour we choose. I took the Pet Shop Boys advice and got as far as Perth and let me tell you, as queer as it seems, the fetish, goth n punk scene here is flourishing. Some fantastic venues also and at wholesale prices! Pride Festival kicks off here Sunday and the Party next month is running between a massive victorian ballroom and a grungy underground car park. Go figure. The wonderful Alex Taylor, Ruby and Mandy Rollins are zipping over to add flavour to the mix and it's set to be a ripper. All I can say is stay dirty n proud and seeyaonthadancefloor soon.
Craig Ingrey - yours in leather... - Thu 23 Sep 2004 14:37:51

????????????
r.m.c. - Thu 23 Sep 2004 15:20:02

OK mate to set the record straight I co presented (two) 2 (being the 1st 2) of the 10 Black Parties staged amongst the 70 or so parties I've promoted since 1984. I ended the co presentation for many reasons, but lets not get liable. Black indeed is a universal title for a party, but remember I wasn't staging the parties at the same time as the original Blacks as Gay Games did within my seasons. To throw a contemporary comparison it would be like Mardi Gras today holding a Ruby Party without his involvement. Get my drift...And for the reocrd I have never once promoted a sex space in any promotional material whatsoever. They certainly existed, but never formentioned. My dear fellow promoter, whoever you may be, I can only say that while at present I may appear defeatist, I at least never appear anonymous, nor so bloomin' serious.
Craig Ingrey - Life and partying is flourishing thanks ever so... - Thu 23 Sep 2004 20:59:53

WE may need a pedestrian over-^-pass to further interconnect Taylor Sq.
- Fri 24 Sep 2004 06:54:09

dark, grainy, boring photo bad ad idea. Yawn. too bad, really. He's quite a good looking guy. I had to look through the magazine twice to even notice it.
- Fri 24 Sep 2004 09:38:18

He's also one of the best DJs I've heard in Sydney.
- Fri 24 Sep 2004 13:28:48

Hear Here!

Positiviy + Creativity = yay
- Fri 24 Sep 2004 14:32:58

Izora Rhodes Armstead, one-half of disco/pop acts the Weather Girls and Two Tons O' Fun, died Sept. 16 at San Leandro (Calif.) Hospital, near Oakland. The cause was heart failure. Her age is not known.

Armstead began her career as a back-up singer for disco artist Sylvester, along with her future music partner Martha Wash. They lent vocals to four Sylvester albums, including the 1978 Fantasy Records set "Step II," which spawned two No. 1 Billboard club hits: "Dance (Disco Heat)" and "(You Make Me Feel) Mighty Real." and The former was also a top-20 hit on the Hot 100, while the latter reached the top 40.

Ms. Armstead's funeral was held last week in the Bay Area.

So whos spinning it at sleazeball then?
muscle-lad - Tue 28 Sep 2004 16:35:20

You haven't specified what 'it' is nor why should anyone spin it.
- Tue 28 Sep 2004 20:24:30

In other news, we went to the Sly Fox last saturday night for their pseudo goth night thingy. The music was pretty good, mixed crowd, lots of locals. It was nice to pop in and have a bit of a dance, and see some new faces.
Evil Twin - Wed 29 Sep 2004 10:18:38

the track name is......"IT'S RAINING MEN!"
why should anyone play it in rthe retro hall at sleaze ball?........think about it baby!
muscle-lad - Wed 29 Sep 2004 15:28:27

i agree, would prefer to look at neal and listen to mike
- Wed 29 Sep 2004 18:35:07

muscle-lad - Tue 28 Sep 2004 16:35:20

More like she died of morbid obesity.
- Thu 30 Sep 2004 10:24:15
This message is unnecessarily nasty.

Izora Rhodes (Izora Rhodes-Armstead), singer and songwriter: born 1942; twice married (seven children); died Oakland, California 16 September 2004.

It took nearly two years for "It's Raining Men", by the Weather Girls, to cross over from the gay clubs of New York and San Francisco and eventually, in March 1984, to reach No 2 in the UK charts. But the song, with its dramatic intro, synthesized backing, frenetic tempo, ludicrous chorus and over-the-top vocal performances, went on to become a pop classic and the record that defined the Hi-NRG genre.

Lest we forget in the Retro tent this Sleaze...
- Thu 30 Sep 2004 15:31:57

A hallucinogen sold in pill form and mistakenly taken by party-goers as
ecstasy has caused a series of collapses and one near-fatality in inner
Sydney, causing alarm at St Vincent's Hospital's emergency department.

"It's a toxic, nasty drug," said Gordian Fulde, director of emergency medicine, describing para-methoxyamphetamine, or PMA.

Last Friday night, a man whose temperature had soared into the 40s - 41 degrees is considered serious hyperthermia - almost died as doctors fought to resuscitate him in the hospital's intensive care ward.

"We got him around but it was touch-and-go there for at least 24 hours,"Professor Fulde said.

As with a handful of other overdose victims treated over the past two weeks,he believes the man had taken the hallucinogenic stimulant, which increases
blood pressure, temperature and pulse rates.

"When it goes bad it acts very differently on the patient than any of the other [recreational] drugs. None of the other ones melt you down like that,"
Professor Fulde said. "Basically what happens is you just cook from inside.
The actual machinery inside each cell just melts down and bursts and that is the end of it."

**********************************************************
The victims told doctors they had taken red ecstasy-type pills, stamped withthe three-triangled Mitsubishi symbol.
**********************************************************

Websites around the world carry warnings stretching as far back as 2001 of red Mitsubishi pills causing PMA overdoses and in some cases death.

The AIDS Council of NSW yesterday issued a warning about the drug, fearingpeople attending this weekend's Sleaze Ball, and its associated recovery parties, may be at risk.

"
Because the onset of the psychoactive affect of PMA is slow compared with MDMA, or ecstasy, some users are taking second and third doses before their first even hits them.

Compounding the problem for emergency teams, one of most common drugs
used
in the resuscitation and intubation of overdose victims reacts with
PMA,
amplifying its effects.

Professor Fulde believes other victims with milder "It is not only alarming for the person who has overdosed, it is also alarming for the medical professional as well.

"You do not expect these kids to die, and they will, and there is nothing scarier than watching people's lives slip between your hands, it is absolutely traumatic for the medical people involved"
bEATKID!!! - please be careful out there! - Thu 30 Sep 2004 17:06:43

The figure 900 rings a bell with me.
bellringer - Fri 1 Oct 2004 10:37:15

from the architects' website:
jtcw arq nightclub

An old car park is now Sydney's most popular club by night and a multi purpose venue by day. Costing over $4m, the venue has two high-tech dance floors and mezzanine, including bars, restaurant and lounge areas, for up to 900 patrons.

Cutting-edge light and sound engineering are used to create atmospheric and exciting events. A 7.5 tonne sculptural ceiling rig can be raised or lowered, with 15 computerised telescopic lightpoles which pulsate with the music.

The tight site constraints presented considerable internal planning and building code hurdles. Clever design and technology contain the noise including the demanding low frequency beat popular in clubs like this. The upper floor is column free, with rubber bearing pads preventing external noise transmission.
What is the max headroom of the vortex? - Thu 9 Sep 2004 14:44:18
- Fri 1 Oct 2004 13:34:30

Correct - to be called Slide, opening next year
- Fri 1 Oct 2004 13:50:24

Thanks
Chris - Sun 3 Oct 2004 18:28:21

I had the opposite experience of Fagtag.
- Mon 4 Oct 2004 22:32:52

Hottest man crowd in this town every single time.

Music wasn't *quite* as pumping as the last couple though until about half an hour into Rob Davis' set.

Not that the crowd wasn't dancing but they weren't going at it as hard as I've seen it.

Great looking crowd, though. Rrrrrrrrr!
Trance Trance Trance - Mild mannered reporter by day, raging hormonal caped crusader by night. - Tue 5 Oct 2004 02:47:23

Ditto, I think it was the best gay/mixed party i have ever, ever been to. And I didn't even have any drugs that night. I have two new gods - Mike Kelly and Annabelle Gaspar, the music in each of the rooms kept me going to the very end and literally begging for more.
- Tue 5 Oct 2004 11:04:15

Same as every other queer nation - average and nothing special, although it did seem kinda empty compared to normal.
- Tue 5 Oct 2004 14:22:19

http://www.inthemix.com.au/photos8/041003-fagtag?page=1
Jonny - Tue 5 Oct 2004 21:26:32

Favourite moment was standing on the top floor and waving at trucks and joggers on the overpass.

Loved the music though.
H - still running up that hill - Wed 6 Oct 2004 03:06:56

You know what us boys want and like!!!!!!

Good on ya!
- Wed 6 Oct 2004 09:13:17

australias coolest electro/punk funk trio doing it live at seminal Klub Kooky. Signed to modular (avalanches/wolf mother ect) This band are as sexy as all get out.

*************************************
kooky * 77 william street east sydney
residents dj gemma & seymour butz ***
* only $5 * 10pm till late *
- www.modularpeople.com - Thu 7 Oct 2004 10:27:46

Thanks Adam, QN was loads of fun, here is what I played in the last hour or so :
Calabria - Rune
Feel The Vibe - Axwell
Dreams - Kings Of Tomorrow - Chus & Ceballos Club Mix
Lola's Theme - Shapeshifters - Original Mix
Runnin' - L.K (Lenny Kravitz)
I Am The One - Mr Timothy
Trick Me - Kelis
Put Em High - Stonebridge
I Just Wanna F***ken Dance - J.S.T.O - Sharp Boys Remix
Let The Sun Shine Thru - Richard F feat. Samantha Stock
Walk Into The Sun - Dirty Vegas - King Unique Sunstroke Vocal Mix
Give it Away - Deepest Blue
I'll Carry You - Hi Fi Mike - Alex Taylor Rocking Main Room Mix

Hope that's of some help,
Alex Taylor - www.alextaylor.com.au - Thu 7 Oct 2004 11:58:34

Having said that, I do want to thank Jake for playing 'Pat Hodges - Love Revolution', and Luke for playing 'Dallas Superstars - I Feel Love'. As for the Sharp Boys mix of JSTO's I Just Wanna Dance - I much prefer Wayne G's mix.

Question for Luke - what's the name of the mix or cover of Gonna Make You Sweat that you played? It rocks!
- Thu 7 Oct 2004 15:42:44

1
btw big thanx to MK you got us pumped & primed from the very start.crazy dancin boi - Thu 7 Oct 2004 21:28:30
-----------------------------------------------------------2
Hey MK
How the hell do you get to play 59 tracks in 180 mins ?
Thats an average of one song every 3.05 mins. I'd find all that chopping and changing to be quite disconcerting.
We're you only playing radio edits or what ??!!
confused - Thu 7 Oct 2004 21:29:51
-----------------------------------------------------------
3
Thanks Mike Kelly for your playlist. Reading through it brings back memories of the night. I was on the Hordern dance floor from about 10.30 and loved every minute of it for most of the night GT - Thu 7 Oct 2004 21:31:21
____________________________________________________

1 - thanks and glad you enjoyed it. i love playing first for this very reason, so glad you caught the thread and went with it

2 - no radio mixes, i just mix a lot there were 3 decks on hand and i like to layer the hell out of my tunes, and i don't think playing 11 minutes of a track that is super hot for 4 mins is really necessary - too much energy wasted and too many breakdowns for my liking. i like to create musical progressions rather than disjointed moments. big thanks to critics such as yourself for helping me to learn this over the past 10yrs.

3 - you're most welcome i was loving dancing to the girls too...
- Fri 8 Oct 2004 00:17:19

1. Does it really matter?
2. why are you asking that question at 5.30am in the morning?
- Fri 8 Oct 2004 12:45:28

HARD is a day party starting on November 14 at UN on Oxford. Kicking off from 2pm and going thru till midnight, full details are available on the website.

The DJ line up is;

Shanobear 2pm-4pm
Sveta 4pm-6pm
NRK 6pm-8pm
Babybear 8pm-10pm
Mickey D 10pm till midnight

I'm really excited about this gig!! I hope to have more details as we get closer to the date!
Shanobear - http://home.exetel.com.au/hard - Fri 8 Oct 2004 18:12:39

http://www.rawhide.com.au/index1.htm

Looking forward to seeing two of my favorites down in Melbourne!! I haven't seen Luke Leal and Neal Crawford together since that fantastic set at the Hordern @ BQN. Only thing missing will be Brad Ws lighting.
u.w. - pssst! Sleaze wall is closed till next year...pass it on! - Fri 8 Oct 2004 19:25:45

There's a great picture somewhere on this page (if you can find it):
http://www.rawhide.com.au/goodfriday/rawhide_gfpics.htm
that might give you a hint...

remember, not all who's gorgeous is Gay...I think..
u.w. - hey Mr. Crawford...are you going to put any CDs out? - Fri 8 Oct 2004 19:40:22

NMG gets a BIG thumbs up, thanks for all your efforts.
- Fri 8 Oct 2004 20:14:39

My experience is that the Saturday night after Sleaze or Mardi Gras is normally quite busy.

I think I might stick my head in upstairs at the shift and have a look around. I welcome everyone else to do the same
Leftovers boy - Fri 8 Oct 2004 23:22:44

www.lukeleal.com - Sat 9 Oct 2004 02:08:59

Hey Luke... I hear your frustrations, and totally understand.

You obviously know more about the sound issues they are having in the RHI than I do, but I was under the impression that we really should be blaming the residents for this. Apparently, as most of us know, it takes just one a**hole to lodge a noise complaint, which I've been told, is all it takes to decide on the future of our dance parties in that venue.

If that's the case, I guess we have to ask ourselves, is it really worth for Mardi Gras to use the RHI, and charge people over $100, knowing that people will just have put up with it? But then again, I feel for Mardi Gras as they're trying to do the right thing by the residents, yet ALSO trying to keep the punters happy by using the venue. I guess it's a catch 22 for Mardi Gras.

I wonder if they'll address this issue for next years MG Dance Party.
www.djjustinscott.com - Sat 9 Oct 2004 10:42:40

I can assure you this will be raised with NMG when planning starts for the MG party. Not sure if it will do any good but it wil be mentioned.

It seems the problems are more with Fox than anything else but where else could these parties be held?
- Sat 9 Oct 2004 11:11:26

HOMEBUSH!!!!!

alexandria and inner suburbs are no longer available - the higher density living has made it impossible. the code of practise for dance parties (since 96) has made life impossible for REAL party promoters who want to do it right.

the only option for NMG is homebush. I'm hearing queenie "Oh no I couldn't go there" reactions, and imagining pretentious eye rolls, but you know what, there is a train to the doorstep of the venue (a beautiful modern station which would be private for the event), and safety issues can be attended to, not to mention there is loads of parking there for those who can't do public transport (and fair enough)

try it once, and if it is a bust, say that loser on pinkboard was SOOOOO wrong, but until you do, YOU LOSE!!!

luke is spot on... the only real hall left at fox is the hordern. city live is not a hall, just a medium size club with no warmth and poor dancing conditions.

OR-----

let's do a reclaim the streets styled event and not accept no for an answer. isn't MG based on a protest? why the hell do we so happily accept the decrees of archaic decision makers as if they are ok

i could rant on this for days but i will stop myself now
furious - Sat 9 Oct 2004 15:17:02

what's wrong with some of the exhibition halls at darling harbour? get back to "warehouse" parties ... wouldn't iMax make an awesome chillout space with 3D laser shows? ... and it's a skip and jump to a recovery at Home
- Sat 9 Oct 2004 16:21:45

Why are we all whinging on here about it ??

Its time to take positive action and the only way to take positive action is to take the problem to people who can actually do something about it.

Today I have sent the following letter to Ms Clover Moore who is the member for Bligh in NSW and the member whose electroate falls smack bang in the middle of the area that Fox Studios has residency.

I implore all of you to take a leaf out of my book and contact Clover by email or mail and write similar letters to her. Feel free to even copy my letter and put your name to it as well.

If you want change you have to address the issue to people who are actually in a position to help out.

9 October 2004
Ms Clover Moore, MP.
NSW Member for Bligh
58 Oxford Street
Paddington NSW 2021

Also emailed - clover@clovermoore.com

Dear Ms Moore,

I am writing to you to seek your help on an issue that has been dragging on for years yet year after year nothing gets done to address the problem.

I recently attended Sleaze Ball which as you may or may not be aware is the half yearly Gay & Lesbian run dance party that helps fund the tourist attracting Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade & Festival which is held in March each year.

Each year the Sleaze Ball Dance Party as well as the Mardi Gras Dance Party are held in the Fox Studios complex with the main part of the party being in the two biggest pavilions in that area being the Hordern Pavilion and the Royal Hall of Industries (aka RHI Pavilion).

I have been attending these parties for many many years. However in recent times since Fox Studios have taken over the area we have all noticed a number of issues that are now going along way towards the general deterioration of these parties.

The main issue that I am writing to you about today is the lack of volume that is allowed in the RHI Pavilion during the main part of the night. In years past the volume levels allowed in this space have never been great but have always been acceptable. However in recent years the levels are being dragged down to totally ridiculous levels where you can talk at normal voice levels in the middle of the dance floor and be heard clearly.

This does not make for a good dance party and the poor sound levels in this hall (which is the biggest of the 2 halls at Fox) is slowly eroding away at the numbers of people that will now fork out the admission price to attend these vital events.

The big issue here is that the Hordern Pavilion has always been a sound proofed venue whereas the RHI has not. The volume levels in the Hordern are more than adequate whereas the RHI now has huge problems yet it is the RHI Pavilion that is vital for the existence of these parties because of the tradition of this space as being the main hall where the feature events occur.

I am asking that you intervene of behalf of the Gay & Lesbian community and seek funding from somewhere to enable the RHI Pavilion to be adequately sound proofed. My understanding is that this hall is heritage listed. I would have thought a building of this status would surely be looked after. Unfortunately at this point in time the building is falling to rack and ruin and is in need of an overhaul including its sound proofing so that it can be better utilized not just for Mardi Gras run events but for the whole and wider community.

Unless something is done about this problem in the short term I very much fear for the ongoing existence of Mardi Gras. And if Mardi Gras goes under for a second time that will be end of it as well as being the end of millions of tourists dollars during the Mardi Gras season. I am sure the Government cannot afford to lose this vital revenue that comes in naturally each and every February.

I am very hopeful that you can take this matter further for the Gay & Lesbian community and I look forward to your positive reply in the near future.

Regards,

Stephen Blomfield
Stephen Blomfield - Sat 9 Oct 2004 18:52:02

www.lukeleal.com - Sat 9 Oct 2004 20:14:13

I think we'll have to stick with the RHI for a while and keep hammering our politicians for the funding to improve these facilities.
- Sat 9 Oct 2004 21:05:00

That's not such a bad idea. We could reverse the MG parade route, march down Flinders and Oxford street to Darling Harbour and party there.

Sure Sleaze could be held out at homebush as it would seem to clash with the preparations for the Motor Show, but Mardi Gras needs to be in the city area somewhere. Fox is becomming increasingly problematic so maybe darling harbour is the next best bet.
shanobear - http://home.exetel.com.au/hard/index.html - Sun 10 Oct 2004 09:44:56

As for Darling Harbour - they held 1 ? or some parties back in the hey-day of parties either end of 80's early 90's. The sound and the huge space was fantastic but.......
it was all white and no way to hide it so the lighting was nearly useless and in the morning with the sun coming thru the lighting was useless. I also seem to remember that the Darling Harbour authority would not have any more parties there as the next morning there were all these drug
f...... people lolling around in outrageous outfits and the families were arriving on the Sunday morning. Anyone
else remember this ?
Maybe times have changed and Darling Harbour will gladly grab our $'s ?
T. - Sun 10 Oct 2004 11:54:30

GT - Sun 10 Oct 2004 13:07:23

Do you like ? or dislike ? the huge/long gaps ( or whatever word is appropriate ) in between some songs. Note I said huge/long gaps.
Someone posted about them in the RHI and someone else in the Hordern especially in Sveta's set. Dont get me wrong I have had some awesome dances to Sveta but as the poster pointed out the gap ie no beat was so long between the songs it actually put you off. For me personally when dancing I'm in my own little world but when the beat disappears for so long , you start to hear people talking, feet shuffling to no beat etc etc etc . I realise there has to be a break between certains sets but these long ones have annoyed me for ages but I never bothered posting.
My other pet hate is when virtually every song has a completely different beat and all those woops and screeches and tin cans banging and clanging just does not make me want to dance ? I'm not saying a whole DJ's set has to be the one beat but just when you're getting into it, the dance step you're using is no good for the next
track. Very off putting
Curious what others think ? - Sun 10 Oct 2004 14:11:22

Is it maybe time for some of this discontent to be discussed instead of just having another bitchfest in the weeks leading upto Mardi Gras in Feb/Mar?

How much of the party planning, production and operation is actually being outsourced and would it result in a better party if NMG got more of the community with the necessary skills and experience to take a more hands on role in producing and running the parties?

What's the point in declaring that a party is a massive financial success and secures the future of next year's festival if in the process half the punters are putoff on attending the next party?
constructive analysis - Sun 10 Oct 2004 14:48:06

Alexandria Basketball Stadium was the best but I "heard" they just got tired of having to replace the flooring more often than they should. Probably a couple of residential blocks down there by now.
T. O.O - Sun 10 Oct 2004 17:09:12

Does the contract for producer go out to tender? Do other companies or individuals apply? Could it be done in a collaborative effort by community members?
curious - Sun 10 Oct 2004 18:01:22

I don't enjoy the extremely long gaps. I enjoy a beat that builds up and continues with only short breaks (if any), or where the beat fades a little and then comes back so that the change in the music can be heard/felt clearly.
- Sun 10 Oct 2004 19:13:26

Last year there was a lot of talk on the Graffiti Walls about the production company. People were invited and advised to bring up the issue at the AGM. The manager of the company was at the meeting ready to answer questions.

No one bothered to ask any questions or even raise the issue.

If you have concerns please contact NMG directly.
Panther - Sun 10 Oct 2004 20:22:55

In relation to the venue issue, I know it's not big enough for MG or Sleaze but what are people's thoughts re Space on Liverpool St? My opinion is that its a great venue that got spoiled through a series of serious promoter miscalculations re timing and marketing. Of course the heat issue at Resolution which has since been resolved didn't help either. Are people ready to party there again given good promotion or will precious queens never return to a great venue that got a bad name from some past although entirely avoidable promoter mistakes?
Alex - shineparty@yahoo.com.au - Sun 10 Oct 2004 22:35:29

Noise complaints about Luna Park are worse than those about Fox. Luna Park was shut down originally because of noise complaints from the residents on the North Shore.
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 09:17:01

If you have been to Frisky, Ruby and Toybox then you know what a party should sound like. These parties have invested alot into sound. Norwest Productions has been the sound company behind these parties and with the skill of Damon (dance party sound guru, hehe) these parties have set benchmarks.

If we want the sound issues fixed, then we need to spend more $$$$$ and ensure we have a sound engineer who is experienced and understands our issues.
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 09:30:30

I wouldn't like to see Mardi Gras or Sleaze move from the Fox site. It is a convenient location for most of us, it has the size and provised large, safe indoor and outdoor spaces, plus is the traditional site for the parties. Of those who have been attending the parties for a few years, who doesn't have some amazing memories of that place? For me it helps to create the excitement in the lead up the party.

Does anybody have any approximate idea of how much it might cost for RHI to be adequately soundproofed?

I like the suggestions made by "Alex -Sun 10 Oct 2004 22:35:29" re; more speakers, and sound engineers. I am wondering whether NMG might already have employed a sound engineer for previous parties?
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 09:53:10

http://home.exetel.com.au/hard

Is a new dayparty with a harder house sound that has not been on our dance floors for sometime now.. We're not asking for an arm and a leg.. $22 for 10hrs of partying in an excellent venue...

Cheers
NRK - Mon 11 Oct 2004 12:30:44

I think you are referring to the "breakdowns" of the songs, rather than gaps between songs. A breakdown is a lull in a song which producers seem to be drawing out more and more these days, as a way to reinforce their massive build-ups. I agree these are boring most of the time, hence I mix beats over the top to make sure you haven't fallen asleep by the time the song's own beat kicks back in.

There would NEVER be gaps between songs (apart from for shows or changeovers of djs, otherwise the dj has clearly fallen asleep. djs' primary function is to mix from one song to another, to continue the flow. you will not find more than a handfull of club djs in sydney who do not mix... and they certainly wouldn't qualify for a gig at such an event

i hope that made sense (summed up, breakdown = boring, agree, djs need to keep working the other deck during this lull)

My 5 cents worth - Mon 11 Oct 2004 12:50:30

MSF refused to use the mixer we wanted for Sleaze. They did spend time discussing the other mixer with me, but would not consider changing to use a better model. Personally I found playing on their choice limiting. There was no room for subtle blending or manipulation.
To give you perspective, when i last hired a top of the range mixer from dmc, and other companies 2 years ago, the cost for hire was $50/day...

In their defense the output quality of the mixer was great, and the tech guys were knowledgable and helpful... Also, MSF were personable and professional....

No one is perfect - much as we posters on pinkboard pretend we are
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 13:17:59

which mixer did you want and what did you get?
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 13:37:16

In the case of the DJ who had to bring in a CD player himself at his own cost apparently the attitude of MSF was that all DJ Cd players work the same. Thats the most niave comment Ive ever heard. All brans of DJ CD players have a very different feel to them and if you've never used a particular brand of player it can can days or weeks to get the feel of that piece of machinery.

Can you imagine if Kylie Minogue was performing at mardi Gras and wanted to use a certain brand of microphone but was told she had to use something else and she had no say in the matter 1 Its exactly the same principle.
My 5 cents worth - Mon 11 Oct 2004 14:00:37
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

DearAlex - shineparty@yahoo.com.au - Sun 10 Oct 2004 22:35:29

And all others with an interest in the “sound” in the RHI

How are you love?

I agree with you theories however the problems with noise complaints during Sleaze emanating from the RHI are not as a result of incorrect equipment layout (Loudspeaker positioning or other). With out getting technical the problem is that lower frequencies are represented at a higher SPL several hundred meters away from the venue than other frequencies within the human spectrum. This is primarily owing to the physics of the sound waves at these specific frequencies. A EPA measurement of the spectrum is taken from 20Hz –20Khz. If frequencies around say 33.3Hz and 40Hz (RHI Specifics) are say 6dB higher than the permissible SPL at the measurement position the EPA will communicate to reduce the entire spectrum SPL by 6dB and not refer to any specifics. This is owing to the fact that they do not have the necessary equipment to determine what the specific offending frequencies are higher than others. It is however possible to determine this using a real-time audio spectrum analyser. These can be hired from most audio production companies. When used in conjunction with an dB Meter and Graphic Equaliser the problems can be managed effectively. I have communicated this in depth to both NMG and MSF after the event.

Other factors attributing to the carriage of soundwaves include the weather

Dear My 5 cents worth - Mon 11 Oct 2004 12:50:30

I am not sure of the nature of your rant however I can comment first hand as a DJ that played in the RHI and was contracted by MSF to do so that:-

No DJ’s were forced to use any mixer or equipment by MSF. And furthermore when we communicated to the production manager what our preferences were; we were accommodated, The equipment that we used in the RHI was EXACTLY what we asked for.
Ryan Murphy - Mon 11 Oct 2004 15:29:26

I could hear the new soundsystem on my way down William Street!. What a revelataion the Presets were. I really wish we could get such hot acts playing on the strip! Oh maybe thats what makes it special.... Totally thrilled about Captain Comatose!!!!!!!!!! They just soundtracked the new Bruce La Bruce feature movie!!

Hott goss.... which local dj is off to spin for Kylie in Paris and London....
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 15:55:22

Who is it?
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 16:36:11

We got a gold vestax (i have blotted the model number out of my memory to avoid scarring LOL) monster 4ch mixer. I remember seeing them on sale for about $2500 a year or two back - ie they're not a cheap n nasty mixer. To many they're great, but we ALL disliked it. The problem for me was that the pre-volume cueing was really unhelpful, and the EQ dials were stiff as .... well something very stiff

Apart from the sound quality there was no benefit to this mixer whatsoever - though that should not be played down when i consider the other options...

Most of us are much more familiar with an allen&heath or pioneer (yes pioneer is not such a good option as they can get really muddy in such an environment), but the a&h would've been perfect, as it seems to work really well on big systems.

To be honest, it matters not, because you cope with what you got, and a good dj can do this. it was just a little limiting as a mixing experience.

PS - it is always great when our requests are taken seriously, as i have experienced with my fave tech man Damon from Norwest. If they're not, it is nice to have the merits of other equipment fully explained.

PPS - we're djs - the kylie comparison is not so useful... but if she can't sing well on a dodgy mic by now, she may as well mime all her shows
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 16:58:42

In the show department: midnight will see Hellfire virgins Mistress Mina and submissive Lita from The Kastle in a corporal punishment ballet extravaganza – then following hard on her spiked heels we welcome back the lovely Mistress Felina after a very long break from performing at Hellfire … she’ll be roping up 'Petite 'n' Sweet' for an exotic layered suspension adventure – complete with an original soundtrack created by the Mistress herself!

Ultra & her All-Grrl Spankettes will also be in attendance to keep the pain quotient pumping … but after seeing the amount of spontaneous play that erupted last month, they may be struggling to find a space!

Our cloakroom is now fully operated by the Community Service Network (CSN) volunteers, with all proceeds going directly to them – so now you can feel good while you’re being bad!

Don't forget, The Hellfire Club has MOVED to Club 77 - 77 William Street East Sydney (also the home of the most excellent Club Kooky!), still on the 3rd Friday of every month from 930pm to very late.

Don’t hesitate to visit our website anytime where you can find out heaps more about the club and the people that bring it to life.
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - http://www.hellfiresydney.com - Mon 11 Oct 2004 17:06:23

Oh Puhleeeeze. We've been through this before in the community. There is *no way* the community, en masse, would support a major event like MG or Sleaze way out west at Homebush. Part of the aura that these events have is their connectedness to "our" spaces around 2010. Another is the very fact of their visibility within the main city entertainment precinct. Claiming our place in the life of the city is incredibly empowering and a statement of our rights in action. I, for one, don't want to have to scurry off to hide away in big soulless Homebush with no Queer history to speak of, no capacity to do the walk of fame in the morning back to Oxford St and no real "connectedness" with the Oxford St precinct.

Yucky!

Yes lets make the RHI better and keep the parties where they belong and no more stupid talk of moving.

Don't wanna have to go through the hoo-ha we did before last year's sleaze ever ever ever again. Too many of our community's cherished souls are still happily dancing round the RHI for us to run off and abandon them. This is an issue I feel *very* strongly and emotional about. Don't know about others but I, for one, would fight tooth and nail if it was ever seriously proposed we move the parties.
Trance Trance Trance - Harrrumph! - Mon 11 Oct 2004 17:17:51

I have just had this wall brought to my attention.

I, as many know, work for one of the 2 big audio companies in Australia and it is totally inappropriate for me to comment publicly on others' work. I have commented to those that asked, that I found the quality of the sound in the RHI very good and the level unfortunately, once again, affected by the EPA regulations, despite White Noise being utilised.

I do, however, very much believe that the processes that would make New Mardi Gras, of which I am a founding member, transparent, suffered dreadfully during the plans for this party.

A public meeting of all those who feel there are issues to be raised should be called and the Board and Working Group invited to attend to listen to such grievances (i.e. not organised and structured by NMG). The grievances are many and plentiful out there at the moment and debriefs within the organisation do not solve the strong feeling of discontent that NMG has gained recently.

We must make NMG something to want to be a part of, something to be proud of getting involved in and most importantly, something where individuals do not destroy the enthusiasm of many young primarily volunteer community members who want to give.

Whilst the party was a financial success, there were issues brought to my attention that grated to the bone.

I hope, by collective discussion, and less slanging off secretly here, we can assist NMG to bring our parties back to a former standard.
Noisy Gypsy - Mon 11 Oct 2004 17:42:53

It's alright to say that you got what you wanted on the night re equipement. Did you however forget that the RHI wasn't the only space open on that night ?
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 19:18:36

so you'd rather party in a dud venue and be handed headphone sets to hear the music?

if u think going to a superior venue and having a quality production standard throughout the whole event is not a good idea.... hmmm to that.

i agree fox would be ideal if it worked

i disagree that a relocation is a 'scurry'. sounds more like a show of solidarity and a widening of the geographic boundaries of queer acceptability
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 19:34:25

review of FAGTAG
- Mon 11 Oct 2004 23:14:01

There was a process available to all DJ's to rectify any equipment that they did not find suitable handed to them on the equipment Rider some three weeks before the event. So if your a DJ (notes that you wont sign your name) then you would be aware of the process.
Ryan Murphy - Tue 12 Oct 2004 09:05:59

I read in the Sun Herald its that kooky kid Seymour Butts!
- couldnt believe it! - Tue 12 Oct 2004 09:33:57

What were the speakers that Faithless used this weekend just gone at the Hordern. They were two flowin stacks that couldn't have been more than 2ft wide and about 2.5-3ft in depth. They had a gunmetal grey (kind of metal lookin) surface. They were a concaved arrangement of about 8 2ft x 2ft with 4 bass bins on the floor either side of the stage..

These speakers were amazing, they effortlessly filled the whole room with a sound that i would say was nothing short of incredible.

We must get a hold of these for future events, if two stacks can produce that quality of sound in that whole room, i'd love to hear what four or more would do.

Did anybody get to see Faithless? Definately a class act, the whole of the Hordern were jumping up and down in complete unison screaming and singing alone..Was quite a sight.
www.nealcrawford.com - i have faith we can get it right - Tue 12 Oct 2004 12:23:46

Was possibly the BEST sound system I have ever heard. The Hordern was pumping! Highlight of my night (as I get goose bumps remembering this) was "we come 1" the entire place was jumping as Neal said in complete unison screaming "we come 1"... WOW!!

Whilst I was in the Hordern at Faithless I was thinking about noise restrictions at Sleaze - how is it that Sleaze Ball has then yet less than a week later at Faithless there were no tell tale signs what so ever of any noise restrictions?

Anyway, the PA rocked and I know that we are looking into it for Mobile Home this year and Biq QN next year.
Brad W - Tue 12 Oct 2004 13:22:47

Brad W - Tue 12 Oct 2004 13:22:47

Perhaps the Faithless show finished before midnight Brad?
- stadium at homebush is the go. not all of us live in 2010 - Tue 12 Oct 2004 14:02:13

Final comment on Sleaze. Whilst I note the detailed, and extremely accurate audio analysis by the likes of Ryan Murphy and others, one has to ask why the DJs have to take on the responsibility to 'educate' the Production Team (and others) about sound at Fox Studios. If these people were volunteers, I'd understand it, but they're not - they are well paid professionals.

Are we, as New Mardi Gras members, or as punters at the parties, getting value for money? These are more issues that need to be asked of the Board and the Working Group.

Disclaimer: This comment is as member #71 of New Mardi Gras, concerned about 'our community events, certainly not as an audio professional.
Noisy Gypsy - Tue 12 Oct 2004 14:14:31

They would have been a line array rig. They could have been any number of boxes (Meyer M3D's, JBL Vertec Array, EAW KF760's or L-Acoustics V-DOSC)- one thing to keep in mind with these loudspeakers is that its a case of what you dont see.... The subs would have been producing all the grunt down low. ( probably 24KW of subs @ peak)

All the big sound companies have them and you hire them but its a bit more expensive than the normal rigs.

They even make smaller cut down versions for clubs.
Ryan Murphy - Tue 12 Oct 2004 14:45:17

Simple. The Hordern is soundproofed (has been for many years). The RHI is not and leaks sound like there's no tomorrow.

Question for all - Did any of you actually follow Stephens lead and write to Clover Moore on the RHI volume issue as per his posting on this wall dated Sat 9 Oct 2004 18:52:02

If you haven't then you should. If you don't then you're either butt lazy or couldn't care less. GET INVOLVED PEOPLE. We need to act en mass on this issue. My letter to Clover was posted this morning.
Luke B - Tue 12 Oct 2004 15:27:03

I think a campaign to spend money on bycycle tracks and lanes would be a better spend of councils money! The RHI soundproofing for two parties a year, is a bit of a white elephant franlky my dear!. Homebush is the future my friends! I think Ill write a letter about that.
fit-bear x - homobush, homobush, homobush!!!!!!!!! - Tue 12 Oct 2004 15:51:49

Basically, Brad, let us know what it was when/if Home finds out..love "we come 1"..favorite trance track of all time'hiver & hammer mix' 1st heard Greg Boladian play it at Arq on a Sunday about 4yrs ago..Fell in love..

Hey Ryan..How's the herpes?...(kidding)lol
There were 4 bass bins either side of the stage, even though they were low the whole system delvered a loud but not over bearing, rich, warm punchy sound...blah, blah

NG..cheers 4 the imput and look forward to workin with u at Toybox on the 24th..

better work this time!!
www.nealcrawford.com - Tue 12 Oct 2004 16:37:57

As NG said - horses for courses indeed - NG - give me your Funktion 1 or EAW system any day with you guys in charge and I will be a happy man.!
Brad W - Tue 12 Oct 2004 19:27:24

One Stop Dee Jay Shop, next door to Duffy Brothers..
- Tue 12 Oct 2004 20:38:55

it's me! have you been, or do you go, to the Bad Dog parties. A guy i met at sleaze want to be his consort for the next one and i'd love your feedback (or any other p'boarders) on what they are like.

ta ta
Ms Golightly - Tue 12 Oct 2004 21:26:05

hmmmm....so how would they sound in a 4m x 6m bedroom? Frankly, my neighbours are annoying me and i want to blast all f*ck out of them!
Ms Golightly - Tue 12 Oct 2004 21:31:19

To sound proof this venue would open it up to the wider community for any number of reasons all year round.

It's shameful to let a heritage listed building fall away like the RHI has been doing in recent years.

The NSW government funds hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars every year towards the upkeep of heritage buildings. It's time Clover Moore who "allegedy" takes up issues on behalf of the G&L Community gets into the Governments ear and obtains funding to fix up this icon building before Mardi Gras parties become a thing of the past
Luke B - Tue 12 Oct 2004 21:48:57

Lil - luscious in leather - enjoy - Tue 12 Oct 2004 23:40:28

We bought tickets to a very early Bad Dog at the Grotto (along from Ken's), but slept through (with a good excuse!). Glad to have contributed to the party though as these guys have kicked on to run a bunch of successful events. They always tend to be scheduled the day or day after a big date night. Anyway, our mates had been hassling us to go so...

We went to the last one in September at Marrickille Bowlo and had much fun. The DJ's kept the dance floor full, the decor worked and made it a bit special, and the punters grooved and cruised. You'll recognise a heap of people that get along to them, and we spent happy time doing catch ups and chatting ups. Not sure that you'd call the music retro, but it's an eclectic music policy that had me going "Ah yeah! I know this one!" and wandering back for more dancing. Someone else should pop up here and be more detailed re:music, but Ben Drayton is a sweety and that counts with me. It was nice to party off the main drag for a change, and to park alongside the club, no probs. A queer and queer friendly crowd and a casual atmosphere.

It wasn't a "hard" party, in that it felt comfy and no bad attitude; like a party the moment you walked in. Lots of regular bad doggies happy to see new ones. Not sure when the next one is, or where, but it's pencilled in for us.

Here's the website http://users.bigpond.net.au/baddog_grrr/

For us, it's Hellfire this friday. We'll see if Club77 gets as packed as last time. Good use of the pool table though
Evil Twin - Wed 13 Oct 2004 00:33:06

Some of my friends who were smart Italian dress shoes also have the same problem. Can we please have a room for fashion conscious people at Mardi Gras 05?

Or, is it possible to rope off a small area for stylish people such as myself? I think this space should also serve cocktails.
Bratney Hugston - Wed 13 Oct 2004 00:56:47

It would be great if we could get it sound-proofed as there really is no other venue for this type of event near the inner city. Does anyone have an idea of how much it costs? Can we get airconditioning at the same time?
Arti - Wed 13 Oct 2004 08:54:40

I also think restricting ticket sales to only gay et al or gay friendly venues/institutions is also a way to stop the increasing number of tourists at the parties. These tourists are an increasing drain on the parties. Selling via ticketek is part of this problem.

(For those people interstate or overseas they could get them from NMG direct perhaps).
Any Tom but not enough Dick can come with Ticketek - Wed 13 Oct 2004 09:25:51

mass exodus from Sydney, all temporarily relocated to Lismore and Tropical Fruits for a few days!
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 11:48:58

Apparently the clock will strike midnight and it will be 2005.
lovin' it - Wed 13 Oct 2004 11:50:43

It’s about time someone said what we were all thinking – and Bratney, I thank you for being the one to do so. I spend a lot of time organising, designing and decorating my hair for these parties, and if the music’s too furious I just can’t keep up for fear of ruining my delicate coiffure.

May I suggest we cordon off an area like the Hordern and/or the RHI specifically for the chic crew. Music should specifically suit dancing with an oversized cocktail in one hand and plenty of room for fancy arm movement with the other.

There should also be a special section for individuals wearing tailored hats.
Dan Murphy - Wed 13 Oct 2004 11:53:41

Oh I so agree, I wanted to wear my Armani suit to Sleaze, but it was much too hot and sweaty! And those awful blue denims and singlets?! I was force, yes, forced to wear a pair of cargo pants and a front open shirt. And some people don’t know the meaning of the words personal space! These topless sweaty people just kept on coming up to me and hugging me!? The music, far too laud to socialize! The lighting was absolutely dismal! I had no choice, no choice at all but to close my eyes, and throw my hands in the air to avoid touching any of those sweaty bodies. The next thing I knew, I was floating…yes floating! Someone called Neal Crawford was behind the turn table, his music was doing things to only my partner has managed. My shirt came off, (accidentally!)…and I was surrounded by beautiful people with smiling faces. I absolutely refused to let this pass, so I hugged one, and another…they loved it…I loved it…but I still regret it, because the next thing I knew, it was morning…I wanted it to last for just a few minutes more…but it couldn’t, that wondrous night was over.
My first Sleaze…and THE most “stylish” people I’ve ever seen!
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 12:02:18

Coming to Sydney to celebrate the first anniversary of my first real dance party (Pride NYE @ City Live). I’ll be where Luke Leal and Neal Crawford’s music will be.
Where that is, is yet to annouced.
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 12:10:15

I won't be in Sydney NYE. I'm pretty sure Neal won't be either. Back for New Years night though.

NYE falls on a Friday night this year so don't know what that means for the rest of the weekend! Could be the longest party weekend ever. eeek.
www.lukeleal.com - Wed 13 Oct 2004 15:32:43

Once or twice I have turned up to find others dressed similarly and I had to race home to Vaucluse in the limo to change. Perhaps Vanity Faire and co could operate the space commercially, and donate some of the profits to benefit those who cannot afford or select fashionable garments/accessories.

Another brainwave - the catwalk could be adjoining this space. If the whole concept was adhered to, you could be made to look stunning, walk the walk, then proceed to drink the drink, and keep those clothes rinkydink!
Bratney Hugston - Stylistnician - Wed 13 Oct 2004 15:46:17

It's an old topic, but in regards to DJ equipment at parties, we had major issues getting the equipment we asked for in Stage 11 at this year's Mardi Gras. Now I know it isn't a main room, but hell, it was important to Justin, Stephen and myself, and I also assume that our performance was important to the punters who packed the venue out the whole night.

After much deliberation, and great support from NMG itself, MFS we eventually got the equipment we asked for, but it was a very hard process indeed. I found it a little insulting that they thought they knew what equipment would be better for us and our performance, even after we had explained the reasons as to why we disagreed. It boils down to the fact that the people who are performing on the night are the DJ's, and provided their equipment requests are not ridiculous, they should be accommodated.

As for an alternate venue for Sleaze and Mardi Gras, I think it is high time to move on to brighter pastures. I have heard a rumour as to a possible alternative venue. If it comes to fruition, our parties could reach new heights not seen before! I can't tell you what this alternate venue is, as it is just a rumour, but it is so perfect that I can't believe we haven't booted Fox Studios years ago and been having our parties there for years already.
www.jakekilby.com - Wed 13 Oct 2004 16:41:12

Why do you insist on using these alias names girl.

Dan ( Danquisha Mooisha Click'CLick) Can't you fix your weave girlfriend with some liquid nails? The girls down at the Weavery have some two-pak polysilicone hair enammel. Jesus! I know Laquisha Leleua uses it girl.

Regards Bonquisha She'nee'nee
Ryan Murphy - Wed 13 Oct 2004 17:08:46

Welcome Back Sister
Ryan Murphy - Wed 13 Oct 2004 17:10:42

Are we moving the parties to the Docklands in Melbourne?
Matt - Wed 13 Oct 2004 17:18:14

Have the DJ setup like in Tiesto's Traffic video ... and man, what a light show in that concert
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 17:49:46

Forgot to answer this question in the post-long weekend blur.

Considering it uses the original vocal from the C+C Music Factory version (which if memory serves me was Martha Wash and not the svelte chick from the video clip) it's surprising that it's being released as a cover and not a remix. Anyway it's the second track on my QN playlist which you can find under 'Playlists' on my website or just cut & paste this link for instant access. (wink-wink, nudge-nudge)

(And I'm confident the link works this time!)

http://users.tpg.com.au/adslko0l/queer_nation_sleaze_2004_recovery.htm
www.lukeleal.com - Wed 13 Oct 2004 18:28:19

Shhhhh.... Baddog like Club Kooky, is one of the few a crystal-trance & retro free zones. Some of the only. Plaese keep it only to friends. Word of Mouth. The bad-dog promoters have stayed away from this site for a reason.
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 19:04:25

NYE - in one of the papers recently Pride were calling for DJ submissions for Dome/City Live/Tent - sounds good.

But............what is this about Home at NYE in Hordern ?
straight or gay ? for me Hordern is it for a dance space.
T. - Wed 13 Oct 2004 20:29:11

Will you be performing somewhere or takin' it eazy on the NYE?
- Wed 13 Oct 2004 20:33:22

www.lukeleal.com - Wed 13 Oct 2004 20:56:41

Whether you enjoy Heaven and/or DTPM depends on what sort of music/crowd you like. Heaven is a fairly big club and has three rooms open on a Saturday night - handbag house (with Wayne G) in the main room, and RNB and indie in the smaller rooms. I guess every gay guy who goes to London can't come back without saying they've been to Heaven, but in my opinion it's nothing special. However, if you like Wayne G and his special brand of handbag house, then I'm sure you'll love it....

As for DTPM, it's a gay night which is on every Sunday night in a straight club called Fabric. There are also three rooms - funky/deep house in the main room, and tribal and RNB in the smaller rooms. The club is world class (bigger and slicker than Arq), and the music is pretty high quality. Lots of beautiful/cute guys. Unfortunately, the night tends to finish up rather early (ie. 5am) depending on how busy the bar is, so be warned!

Unfortunately, I don't think there's any good regular gay night catering for trance fans in London - not that I've found anyhow. There are a few cracking trance nights in the straight clubs (eg. Turnmills on a Friday night, Knowwhere at The Fridge), where they get the likes of Armin van Buuren spinning on a regular basis. Most of these clubs are pretty gay-friendly, so if trance is your thing, then I'd make sure you get to one of those nights while you're over there!

Hope this helps!
Matt - Thu 14 Oct 2004 10:38:45

DTPM is fabulous - amazing music and groovy crowd - a little mixed, but really friendly.
- Thu 14 Oct 2004 10:54:26

Probably same crownd as mobile home last year - was mixed
- Thu 14 Oct 2004 15:47:05

Hi Richard, you will have a ball over there, all the pubs close at midnight and some of the clubs at 3am or 4 and then there are some groovy day clubs. When you get there go to the closest porn store, around Soho and get the local gay paper and it is all in there. It evens says what type of crowd they cater for,

I really Loved Heaven and GAY at Astoria,

Have fun very very Jealous, I am sure if you direct your questions to Dan Murphy who used to work there he would be happy to help out

Good luck
Sammy D - Thu 14 Oct 2004 16:12:20

I guess my priorities would be good tunes and boys, in that order. I understand that the two don't always go hand in hand in Sydney, but hoping that in London I can find that gay nightclubbing holy grail!
Richard - Thu 14 Oct 2004 17:17:48

Doesn't look like it, tickets are still available for the website.
- Fri 15 Oct 2004 09:29:59

Yes it was during the first half of decade called the 90s (pre Anna Wood and public liability insurance 'ye good ol' days!)
- homobush, homobush, homobush! - Fri 15 Oct 2004 09:57:43

London has a much lower standard of living, is dirty, overcrowded and the weather is more often than not miserable. No wonder they have such a vibrant & colourful culture, it's a natural reaction to their surroundings. Try living in London in Winter, I’m sure the clublife would better than here but I would need a little more motivation than that to get out of bed each morning.

Sydney is regularly declared to be one of the most beautiful and liveable cities in the world, you just need to look out your window this week to see why. Our biggest problem is finding a parking space at the beach. If that's the trade off for a less happening club life, well I know which I'd prefer.
KidRocket - Fri 15 Oct 2004 11:15:26

Agree so much but I think the principle goes deeper and wider, there is an indefinable energy about London that really makes you feel that you are at the pulse of the world regardless of the quality of life trade off.
Samantha K Hole - Fri 15 Oct 2004 14:17:15

Excelent news, is this confirmed? Off there tonight for Moist so will try and find out.
Evil twin 2 - Fri 15 Oct 2004 14:18:40

My suggestions would be as follows:

1.Have the party during the day make it more party fairday event and hold it in Centennial Park. Summerdaze was held there recently attracting some 25,000 people and let me tell you if your worried about the sound issue, it was fucking pumping I don’t like your chances of doing it at night but.

2.Have the party at Olympic Park – and combine it with fairday. They have the space you will get great economies of scale, you could even have a pool party during the day too! If it’s a nice night you could hold the dance party in the stadium or utilise the facilities of the showgrounds with their 40,000 capacity hall set.

3.Forget The Entertainment Centre. One Room Dance floor holds about 4,500 tops and we all know that wouldn’t work. (Nice idea for a small party) Dancing on seats is not fun. I think their Plack of Public Entertainment and Liquor licence does not extend past midnight either.

4.Put up with what we have and work towards making it better. All the complaints about this years party were rectifiable.
Ryan Murphy - Fri 15 Oct 2004 14:36:45

Ryan your completely correct, I have done a few straight parties and corporate events out there now - its great! No sound restictions, actually I dont think I have had any restrictions what so ever slapped on me out there..

My favourite or should I say most interesting venue out there is the wood chop arena where I did a day time/early evening party a few years ago - was very surreal, Sasha was DJ'ing and a few thousand people were going nuts - what a fab party!
Brad W - Fri 15 Oct 2004 17:35:01

I know this idea might be fraught with conflict of interest issues, but it would be good if there was an industry review panel that reviewed all submissions for dj's, audio and lighting for the parties. Is it naive to think that the people who work in the "gay" entertainment industry would have a good idea of what level of production is expected from the party goers? It just seems to me that the likes of Frisky, Toybox, Ruby, QN, BQN etc can deliver what is required for half the price that NMG does. If anything I would think that economies of scale should allow NMG to deliver more for the partying dollar than the 'private' party organisers.
constructive analysis - Fri 15 Oct 2004 19:55:59

Any word on the DJ's yet ??

With three weeks to go that will give me a great rest after a couple of rather huge weekends the last few weeks. So its into hibernation till November 5 then fun fun fun !!
Retro Retro Retro - Fri 15 Oct 2004 21:20:05

countdownboy - just in case you forgot - Sat 16 Oct 2004 09:07:31

I was on the first NMG party working group. It did present a conflict of interest as I also wanted to design the party and the party working group generally used to make these decisions. I think now though that MSF make most of these important decisions, I may be wrong and apologise if I am.

In a perfect world I would like to see the working group made up of people like Damon from Norwest, myself, Alan Parkinson, Tim Gruchy, James Klein and Mark Fordham from MSF, all working in a collaborative manner, however, in our own time. We all run successful businesses or work for large companies who have been involved with the gay community for years. We are all experts in our chosen fields and im sure could put together a fab party.
Brad W - Sat 16 Oct 2004 20:02:07

Hey Brad... There is nothing wrong with your idea of a perfect world, and I couldn't agree with you more. I too, believe a working group of Audio, Sound, Lighting & Design professionals such as you, would benefit these events.

As a DJ, during sound checks for major dance events, I found myself liaising with Sound Engineers/Technicians that had no idea of good sound quality. Many times, they have admitted that their expertise was limited to bands, and not DJ's. There have also been times when I've seen fellow DJ's literally take over the amplifiers and EQ systems, and even move speakers around, just to ensure a great sound for the night.

Then there was a time when the lighting guys forgot to light up the area we worked in. I was working in pitch black conditions. I was beginning to wish my CD's and the equipment I was working with could be read in brail.

Having worked with Damon at Inquisition was a blessing to say the least. The sound and set-up of the DJ consoles and booth was the best I ever had to work with.

But getting back to working groups consisting of professionals such as yourself, I urge you to get together with your colleagues and put together submissions as a group, regardless whether MSF invited expressions of interest or not for individuals rather than groups.

Prior to this years Mardi Gras dance party, Jake, Stephen and myself had put in expressions of interest as DJ's wanting to perform at a venue dedicated purely to Retro Club classics, even though Mardi Gras did not invite DJ's to submit for themes. Needles to say, they took the gamble, and it paid off. Mardi Gras could see that the three of us were willingly going to great lengths to make it it work, and we could all work together.

I think I can safely say that this can also be applied to other professionals in the industry, once again, such as yourself. Ofcourse the main hurdle being is trying to convince party organisers to stand up and listen and convince them that you can make a success of it.

However Brad, I would be interested to know what your opinion is on my theory.
www.djjustinscott.com - Sun 17 Oct 2004 09:34:43

MAynard maynard maynard
Steven Allkins
Dave Hiscock

The real retro superstars!!
Come on Arq!
lets hear it done properly!
- Sun 17 Oct 2004 13:33:10

Pffft... You've got to be kidding

Maynard is a sad joke
Alkins doesn't play commercial music
Hiscock ... Meh , He'd be OK to start the night.

Arq are on a winning formular with the retro DJ's they've been using for Retrosexual. It ain't broken so why fix it ?
Retro Retro Retro - Sun 17 Oct 2004 13:59:09
This message is unnecessarily nasty.

I agree let's get it done properly. Have the 4 guys who have worked so hard this year to make retro shows so successful playing together.

Justin Scott
Stephen Blomfield
Jake Kilby
Jimmy Dee

These guys have done all the retro shows this year and should be together on the one bill for an end-of-year retro extravaganza!

Roll on November 5. Already got a party of people lined up ready to go.
- Sun 17 Oct 2004 14:12:07

The big news however is that its going to be the 10th but sadly last ever G.A.Y party.

Certainly a night not to be missed
gayboi - Sun 17 Oct 2004 22:57:02

try Lord Roberts as well. some of the smooch crew are there (ie DJ Renae etc) and we've been a few times and liked it
sarah - Mon 18 Oct 2004 03:29:46

good luck, anything is worth a go.
Trevour S - Mon 18 Oct 2004 09:09:59

www.djjustinscott.com - Sun 17 Oct 2004 09:34:43

Now's the time that you go out and get yourself a little torch for occaisions like these. A small investment that can go a long way towards avoiding the hassles of searching in the dark for that CD stuck at the back of a pile.
- Mon 18 Oct 2004 12:49:56

You're right... The next day I went out and got myself a torch. Great investment it was too! I just need to remember to keep it fully charged at all times
www.djjustinscott.com - Mon 18 Oct 2004 19:53:14

I don't intend on submitting for MG 2005, so I have considered getting involved and joining the party working group (I have been on the marketing working group before), but I have other committments that are taking up loads of my time at the moment, and it just isn't possible at the moment.

It's a shame that DJ's are caught between a rock and a hard place. With our industry experience, we could probably contribute a lot to the production side of a party, but the thought of all the talk that would ensue if a DJ on the party working group was selected to DJ at the party... We've all seen the talk on here about Shigeki and Jock, Sioux Spears and Pride. Who wants to subject themselves to that?
www.jakekilby.com - Mon 18 Oct 2004 22:15:01

Stephen Blomfield (9pm - 12am)
Jake Kilby (12am - 3am)
Jimmy Dee (3am - Close)
www.jakekilby.com - Mon 18 Oct 2004 22:17:09

One of my favourite people is having her birthday that night and she's bringing her entire party to the retro night after dinner. Also a lot of the bears have been asking me when the next one is, so they'll be out in force that night too

If the rumour mill is accurate, this could be the last friday night I'm going to have to go out and party in the forseeable future, so the partner and I will be having a huge one! Already got the retro themed shirts ready to go here and we'll be there when it opens again as usual.

Any word on Icons2?
shanobear - Tue 19 Oct 2004 07:30:28

featuring super special guest from the UK
BROOKS

"'Exotic english electronic pop'
An east midlands house producer drawn to electronic avant garde. A gay clubber who loves manchesters basement soul and berlins bohemian underground. A man who talks of assuming a tranvestite persona; that of an imaginary female tape-op working for 1970s Brian Eno. Andy Brooks, 22 years old, is all of these. Baroque, horny and beautiful, it is the complex record Soft Cell or Roxy Music may have made if they had listened to Outkast or DJ Hell" review: 9/10
New Musical Express, September 2004

This kid is super hot! Get on to him now!
kookykids - Tue 19 Oct 2004 11:26:01

So far I've heard: Alan Thompson (a bit boring in my opinion), Pete Fam playing anthems (always with style!), Sista P and Renae Stanton in the outdoor area (THIS is the funky shit).
Naughty - Tue 19 Oct 2004 11:34:51

Advice followed to a certain extent. Pix on their way...
- Tue 19 Oct 2004 13:21:06

If it is true, and Alan Thompson also, then it is the best Pride lineup I've heard for years. For some of these DJs it is their first major event and they will bring an amazing energy, vibe, and following with them.

Congrats to Pride for nailing it
- Tue 19 Oct 2004 14:34:47

excellent
mk - Tue 19 Oct 2004 19:15:03

It has been announced for NYE but in what capacity no-one will say. 400 people? 600 people? Will not be more than that, that's for certain.

NMG will not be using the Dome unless unless it can be used as it was in the past. That's also certain.

Inquisition - after this year's...no idea.

The Dome is dead boys. It's time to move on.
RIP Dome - Wed 20 Oct 2004 08:59:53

I might have something to do pre Field Day now
Mr Panties - Wed 20 Oct 2004 12:54:40

Absolutely! The Gwen Stefani of the Sydney DJ scene.
- Wed 20 Oct 2004 14:54:52

seems like we wont be first ..I hope they clean it well before its our turn
- Wed 20 Oct 2004 15:32:23

On the DJ line up I also believe Kate Monroe & Alex Taylor are playing this year. Pride you have nailed it if this true!
- Wed 20 Oct 2004 17:25:19

The next Toybox is on this Sunday. The next Ruby party is on Friday 17 December @ Arq. Enjoy!
GD - Wed 20 Oct 2004 22:31:12

I thought I read here a few days back that it's at the Hordern? Right next to Pride at City Live.

D'oh!, if so.
Trance Trance Trance - Wed 20 Oct 2004 23:13:00

That has got to be the most ridiculous comparison I've ever heard!
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 09:25:03

Sleaze pics are on at www.grunt.com.au, www.ktraphic.com or www.petezimagez.com

Enjoy!
Pics Boy - Thu 21 Oct 2004 09:37:08

Brooks (UK) playing Kooky this week - and on Friday November 19th - Frank Bennett sings live at The Hellfire Club!

Multi-ARIA nominee Frank Bennett has sold over 40,000 albums and has performed for four Australian Prime Ministers, the mayors of Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, eminent leaders of business and industry, numerous charities and wowed audiences from Mandurah to The Whitsundays, Broome to Bondi, Adelaide to Auckland.

In 2003 Frank was invited to open the Sydney Opera Houses' 30th birthday with a big band rendition of the Australian national anthem. Cool!

Frank performs Sinatra-esque covers of popular classics like Radiohead's 'Creep' ... it's great fun and the latest development in Hellfire's pre-midnight 'lounge sessions'.

Check out his stuff at http://www.frankbennett.com/index.htm

Frank will be followed by Mandy Rollins at midnight, pumping up the volume and grinding out the beats in preparation for Lanny K and Miss Yetti who'll take us through to morning.

There'll be cheap cocktails before midnight, lotsa perverted performances and all cloakroom money goes direct to the Community Service Network Volunteers - feel good while you're being bad!

And the best part is ... you get all this and more for only $20 (even less if you are fetish dressed!) - so see you Friday 19th November.

Cheers
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - http://www.hellfiresydney.com - Thu 21 Oct 2004 10:52:01

Thanx for that!!! Can't get www.ktraphic.com to load but the others are great.
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 12:36:02

Last Hellfire Mandy Rollins rocked. Didn't leave the dance floor and still can't feel my feet.

Thanks Hellfire crew for a great night.
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 13:41:32

Oops...forgot the 'g'...should be 'ktgraphic'. Try this link:
http://www.ktgraphic.com/photography/nmg/2004/sleaze04/index.html
Pics Boy - Thu 21 Oct 2004 14:40:06

Absolutely! The Gwen Stefani of the Sydney DJ scene.
- Wed 20 Oct 2004 14:54:52

That has got to be the most ridiculous comparison I've ever heard!
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 09:25:03

i think they mean when she gets dressed up there is a remarkable resemblance.....
i love irene - Thu 21 Oct 2004 14:52:08

Velocity is again diversifying it's events and is now hosting a DJ competition for GLBTQI youth and their friends - the DJ Beat Off. The competition will provide a rare opportunity for aspiring young DJs to get their foot into the industry and show off their skills. The winners will be selected by audience voting, and there will also be a number of well established DJs to provide valuable comments and advice to the entrants.

"It's one of Velocity's goals to identify and promote the talents of GLBTQI youth and their friends," says Velocity President, Murray Hood, "We achieve this goal very successfully by giving exposure to young performers at all of our dance parties, and young artists at the evolve art exhibitions. Now we want to give a golden opportunity to aspiring young DJs to show off their skills to the community in a real club environment."

The Beat Off will be held at Stonewall Hotel on the third level, with the competition starting on Sunday 14th November from 6pm until 11pm. Attending the event will be a broad range of dance party and club promoters scouting for new talent to offer bookings. One primary example of this is the Sydney PRIDE Centre, who will be selecting a DJ to play at the pre-party Cocktail Party at PRIDE NYE.

"PRIDE is thrilled to be a support of the DJ Beat Off and we are in full support of Velocity's efforts" says Sydney PRIDE Centre Co-President, Lou-Anne Lind, "Each year, PRIDE offers an up and coming DJ their first chance to play at a dance party. This year, PRIDE will do this in partnership with Velocity and we will be offering the winner a set at this year's NYE party."

"We are really excited about this event and urge everyone from the community to come and support these young DJs," says Event Producer, Nick Kelleher, "It's important that we support the talents of our youth and encourage them. We should expect a great mix of music styles - everything from house and funky, trance and hardhouse, to RnB and breaks."

If you would like to play at the Beat Off, then submit your demo disc with a short biography to:
Velocity Inc
DJ Beat Off
PO Box 434
Concord West NSW 2138

Entries close on Sunday 7 November, and the first heat will held on Sunday 14th November at Stonewall Hotel on the third level from 6pm until 11pm. For more details, please send an email to beatoff@velocity.org.au.

Conditions of Entry
* Entrants may submit no more than two (2) demo discs of different styles
* All entrants will be notified within a week before the event as to when they will be playing their first heat
* All entrants and patrons MUST be eighteen (18) years or older - ID will be checked
* Stonewall Hotel reserves the right to refuse entry
* While Velocity will not actively aim to refuse any entrant the opportunity to play, we may need to limit the number of entrants due to entrants per heat and other constraints. This is to ensure the competition is as fair as possible
Murray H - beatoff@velocity.org.au - Thu 21 Oct 2004 15:07:40

http://music.ninemsn.com.au/artistfeature/default.aspx?aid=56
www.lukeleal.com - Thu 21 Oct 2004 15:36:36

London is indeed a very expensive, dirty, unfriendly and overcrowded city,with warm beer, endless cloudy/wet days in Summer and freezing Winter days, but on the other hand, has great culture, fashions, dining out and clubbing, which I must admit exceeds far more than Sydney's own. I love Sydney because of its beautiful harbour and the sunny days (hasn't been the case this week though)especially in Winter and the people are much happier and friendlier. I too love London for its clubs/culture/fashion/dining and the feeling that I am indeed in a world-class city with things happening 24 hours day/night. I will never leave Sydney though,will always live here for the rest of my life, Im happy to go to London 3 times a year for 4 to 8 weeks holidays, a lot of people in London have told me they would dearly love to move to live in Sydney one day.
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 16:50:49

This is STILL the most ridiculous comparison I've ever heard. Gwen is a supermodel, Irene looks nothing like her!
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 16:55:33

its been splashed all over the web for days & blaring out through dozens of inner city ipods as we speak
is not a bad effort though would have expected a little more from scissor sisters - thought their album was the best of 04
crazy dancin boy - Thu 21 Oct 2004 16:58:18

Shanobear...how's the party preperations going? I got a really cool pink "blondie" t-shirt in melbourne i was thinking of wearing to retro-sexual only it was too big...so i put it in the dryer for 3 hours and now it is too small...i'm thinking of lending it to my ex to stretch!
Ms Golightly - Thu 21 Oct 2004 19:30:17

Brad W - Thu 21 Oct 2004 21:04:47

Kylies latest album stiffed - but her latest concerts are the fastest selling conerts ever. Shes totally on it! Just give Seymour back some time Kyles!
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 21:58:19

Got it sorted now, thank you
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 23:20:21

*******************************

"Call On Me" was originaly done by DJ Falcon back in march - april. He played it here in sydney earlier this year at Art House.
"Call On Me" is a follow up to "So Much Love To Give"

The original Dj Falcon mix never got huge despite some of the DJs are still playing his version.
The song has been commercially released after Eric Prydz's remix.

It is a great track and I hope we will hear it in the clubs for a loooooong time......together with So Much Love To Give. (instead of the boring girlie V Calderone, Hex Hector, P Rauhoffer, etc mixes)
grrrr - Fri 22 Oct 2004 02:06:59

Suzie Q's is where tantra used to be - just next to stoners...
cdb - t'box sunday - YAY - Fri 22 Oct 2004 08:22:35

The mixes of Call On Me on the single release are very disspointing. The Rud Kult dub mix in particular is realy bad compared with other mixes from Red Kult that I've heard.

The day party set is coming along nicely thanks Ms Golightly, got a number of tracks that I'm looking forward to playing. It's a big departure from my normal style of music but I'm really looking forward to it and to working with the other DJ's.

Retrosexual 3 is going to be a huge night of fun and we will make sure we save a dance for you
Shanobear - Fri 22 Oct 2004 09:36:31

Stick with www.grunt.com.au & www.petezimagez.com.au these are definately worth a look.

No offence to ktgraphics, but this is my opinion. Compared to grunt and petez, it's like chalk and cheese.

Sorry!
Party pics need to be noice! - Fri 22 Oct 2004 10:28:54

I have to agree with you. I had wondered whether the ktgraphics.com.au photo's had been taken on a phone camera, even though i know that these were not allowed in the party. The photo's were odd, generally out of focus, and had very little colour. I thought that in oder to take photo's at the party one had to be approved by NMG? Is this not the case?

Did Jamie Dunbar take photos at Sleaze this year?
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 11:41:42

Saturday 13 November
10:00pm
Suzie Q's (old Tantra next to Stonewall) ***New Venue***
169 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst

Kate Monroe ~ Renae Stanton ~ Beatrix

Female Erotic Dancers
Lady K live! (Ministry of Sound, Sweatfest + her sexy dancers)
Surprise performances (learn some new moves?)
The Candy Box Love Police
Complimentary cocktail before 11pm
MC – Miss Sarah Shannon (BeatFM)

Win tickets for PRIDE NYE – wanna dance under the stars?

Tickets $25 (+bf) / $30 (at door)
Thru Hum Records (Newtown & Darlinghurst) & www.pridecentre.com.au

Get your ticket early, as sell out! Win tickets at the Bank Hotel (Newtown) the 3rd and 10th of November with "The Love Police".

Bigger, brighter and sexier every time!

Janine x
Miss Candy Lips
www.candylips.com.au - Can't wait to see you shaking your booty! - Fri 22 Oct 2004 12:54:17

What I think would be a great party would be something like the Ice or Frisky parties on at the Metro and a G.A.Y at the SPACE venue on Liverpool street with the option to buy single or combined tickets so you could wander back and forth. Also there a few dirty little back rooms in the precinct to get some sex action happening - Museum Station dunnies could prove useful.

If only I had the money and expertise to put it on.
On the look out for more - Fri 22 Oct 2004 13:48:02

thanks' *kiss*
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 13:49:17

- Fri 22 Oct 2004 11:41:42

So because you don't like the photos it's NMG fault? I seriously wonder why the people at NMG bother considering you're a fickle lot!
Pics Boy - Give service and be damned - Fri 22 Oct 2004 14:10:17

listen to the desyn masiello bedrock cd
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 15:10:41

Mardi Gras is only as strong as its members, the community, us. A bitchy anonymous swipe on here does nothing by stab ourselves. Time to face some reality!
Alternative sex parties are long gone baby in the 90s. This Police state just won't let them happen in large numbers. Family Fox Studios aint going to let ANY hanky panky go down on site EVER again.
So where to? Abandon everything and head into the crappy clubs this city has to offer? I dont think so. We need to stand tall as a community. Go for solutions rather than the problem please.
I.E.
(1) how about bad dog and club arak halls at our party? or even fair day?
(2) how about a live music venue at the party?
(3) how about rides & sideshow alley at the party?
(4) how about homebush?
- start a mardi gras wish list - instead of a bitchlist. - Fri 22 Oct 2004 15:44:20

-indulgence/phoenix/hellfire room

-clubarak/kooky/baddog room

-toybox/ruby room

-G.A.Y./retrosexual room

-smooch/oydssey/lordroberts room
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 18:42:00

Not a private party at all but a new day party called Hard.
More details are at http://home.exetel.com.au/hard/index.html

The DJ lineup is;
Shanobear 2pm-4pm
Sveta 4pm-6pm
NRK 6pm-8pm
Babybear 8pm-10pm
Mickey D 10pm-midnight

Tickets are available at Reefer Records or Toolshed (Oxford St & Newtown) for $22, with discounts for members of Bi-NSW, Harbour City Bears & Hellfire.

Everyone is welcome and it should be a lot of fun. As I mentioned, all the details are on the website.
shanobear - Fri 22 Oct 2004 19:52:24

I'm afraid you're wasting your time here, but isn't it lovely - the double pack vinyl is even tastier.

2) What is all this rot about NMG? OK Sleaze was average, but MG this year was wonderful. One bad party doesn't ruin a reputation.
lovin' it - Fri 22 Oct 2004 21:40:42

So because you don't like the photos it's NMG fault? I seriously wonder why the people at NMG bother considering you're a fickle lot!
Pics Boy - Give service and be damned - Fri 22 Oct 2004 14:10:17

It was just a question, no offence to anyone intended. The photos on both of the other sites are great. Those at ktgraphics were just really odd. There wasn't any criticism of NMG. It just didn't seem that the photo's ktgraphics were professional shots. They look very bizarre. Both www.grunt.com.au & www.petezimagez.com.au provide some very nice shots, and all in focus and in colour too.
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 23:12:42

PS - if one person heard desyn masiello's cd it wasn't a waste of time. still can't get over this mix cd. i keep playing the last track over and over as well. stunning!
- Sat 23 Oct 2004 01:31:18

Hope Toybox is a great party and huge success. Can't wait for the next one. Sorry I can't be there. Play safe and I'll be back in November for Toilet Girl's 50th birthday party.
Noisy Gypsy - Sat 23 Oct 2004 04:52:28

-clubarak/kooky/baddog room

-toybox/ruby room

-G.A.Y./retrosexual room

-smooch/oydssey/lordroberts room
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 18:42:00
GENIUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - hand over the keys to the mardi gras party now! - Sat 23 Oct 2004 08:35:01

m u s t h a v e a g o o d t i m e.
where?er - fun wanted - Sat 23 Oct 2004 10:58:54

Needless to say, I am totally jealous of Noisy Gypsy on his cruise. Grr.

We saw live music on thursday. In a pub. I liked the audience/performer interaction, and seeing the band working hard for us. I am even more convinced now that DJs need to be where people can see them, and they can see you and feel how it's going. The mood and feeling of the crowd should be important, and if it's not, go back to playing in your garage.
Evil Twin - Sat 23 Oct 2004 11:25:03

Sorry!
Party pics need to be noice! - Fri 22 Oct 2004 10:28:54

What a complete contradiction, "don't bother going to ktgraphics" and "no offence to ktgraphics"..
If i was from ktgraphics i would be offended having someone telling us not to go and at least form their own opinion..

I had a look and found it to be quite creative and a little different, there were def some pics that were very clear group shots that someone here might be in..Why be so nasty and say "don't bother"? This person has taken time to create something for us all to try and apprieciate. And well it might not be your thing, someone else like myself thought they were very creative, without you telling me not to bother. Sorry, but i found your opinion to be quite narrow minded and offensive.
anonymous - through fear of getting backwash as a high profile dj (i'm learning how this wall works) - Sat 23 Oct 2004 11:36:26

Very true about the pics and your signature.

The pics were very different but some of the other sites featured pics of the same people as they do every party. One photographer whom I see at all the events, always takes a pic of the same couple who wear the same outfits everytime. Apparently she was getting annoyed at me during Sleaze when she was snaping the same couple, and I was dancing away totally oblivious to her behind me!

Secondly your signature. I've found that it's not just this wall that has that problem. It seems we DJ's are here to take critisisms but not make any. Personally I've received abusive emails and gaydar messages, as well as face-to-face abuse for stating my opinions both here and elsewhere. Funny thing is I try to keep my postings as positive as I can MOST of the time, but the moment I post anything even slightly negative, it gets jumped on from all angles. Not complaining, just stating a fact.
shanobear - Sat 23 Oct 2004 16:17:32

Oh Cool!!!! I'm looking forward to meeting you at long last, and at least I'll be easy to find this time (just look for the fat guy in the DJ booth) LOL
shanobear - Sat 23 Oct 2004 16:18:55

Ohh Ohh sooo famous!! oh er your a DJ!! Please that may work on the young teenie boopers, but if you have an opinion don't tag it high profile dj!!

Do you just want everyone to go, wow he must be right he's a DJ. I'm sorry but I really appreciated your comment, until I read your name.

The statement lost all credability once I read that. I will probably get earbashed myself for saying this, but hey thats democracy!
Hey Mr DJ.... play another song..lol! - Sat 23 Oct 2004 17:52:32

I guess this was the type of reply to be expected from you!!
Mr DJ - Sat 23 Oct 2004 18:59:20

psssst Lovin It, a dosier will arrive shortly
Mr Panties - Sat 23 Oct 2004 22:23:14

Anyhow, i had an unexpectedly "retro" moment of my own today. I was at my older brothers for lunch, and he had "infected" by The The which has just been re-released on CD. That was my favourite cassette of 1986. i played it so many times it self destructed. Remeber them? Anyhow, like all good younger brothers, i stole it (hee hee).
Ms Golightly - Sat 23 Oct 2004 22:56:26

Slow Train To Dawn is one of the best songs ever!!
- Sat 23 Oct 2004 23:58:18

my fave The The is "sweet bird of truth"

Kim Wil......arrrrgggghhhhh.....i can't even repeat that sacrilege. That was profane Mr Blomfield!
Ms Golightly - Sun 24 Oct 2004 00:56:14

Here's the playlist Check from 2am.
http://www.abc.net.au/rage/playlist/archive/2004/20041023.htm
Evil Twin - Sun 24 Oct 2004 16:24:39

i was flicking between RAGE and the australian karaoke championships last night but ended up going to bed before that great line up. Of more interest, why would Evil Twin not be able to sleep? i shudder to think, but suspect it was all good!

be great to see you and the gf at retro, but i have a nagging suspicion that the first friday of the month sees you otherwise occupied.

Shanobear...was looking out for you tonight. Met 2 rather grrrrrrish bears downstairs at the Shift tonight.....rodney dean was totally up for requests...i got martika "feel the earth move" and stevie nicks "i can't wait" played. bring on the duffy sister moves i say!
Ms Golightly - Sun 24 Oct 2004 22:31:19

-toybox/ruby room

-G.A.Y./retrosexual room

-smooch/oydssey/lordroberts room
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 18:42:00
GENIUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - hand over the keys to the mardi gras party now! - Sat 23 Oct 2004 08:35:01

1) If you did that there would have been no Lisa German at NMG. And why only Sydney parties? Why Indulgence in particular - a boring old night at the Shift. Open it up to Interstate or even Overseas clubs.

2) Mr Panties - maybe it is backwash, looks like that maybe DJ is at sea (oops I couldn't resist the pun).
lovin' it - Mon 25 Oct 2004 13:04:43

Thanks Hellfire crew for a great night.
- Thu 21 Oct 2004 13:41:32

She did play extraordinarily well, we loved it too, and we'll pass on your comments too, thanks!

PS: The legendary crooner FRANK BENNETT will be spicing up our cocktail hour next month on Friday 19th November, 2004, with a few songs including "CREEP". Hope you can make it!
Ultra (Hellfire) - The Hellfire Club - Mon 25 Oct 2004 14:44:26

-G.A.Y./retrosexual room

-smooch/oydssey/lordroberts room
- Fri 22 Oct 2004 18:42:00
GENIUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - hand over the keys to the mardi gras party now! - Sat 23 Oct 2004 08:35:01

Agreed... still leaves room for international guests. The tribes of Sydney being brought together! iNAGINE A KOOKY/BAD DOG ROOM AT mARDI gRAS... wow! Sorry "lovin it" but Indulgence is packed every party... Can I taste sour grapes?
lets do it!! - Mon 25 Oct 2004 14:52:51

AND *THAT* IS WHAT A DANCE PARTY IS ABOUT!

Holy cow, the official Mardi Gras recovery at LUNA PARK? That's going to blow everyone's freaking head off!

Neal, I bow down to you. That set was abso-fucking-lutely flawless. WELL DONE! Ruby, you rocked the joint... yet again... and I'll be first in line when the tickets go on sale for your next party.

WELL DONE TO THE CREW OF TOYBOX! You've just reinstilled my faith in gay dance parties.
- Mon 25 Oct 2004 16:24:21

what's this about the official mardi gras recovery at luna park? tell me more?
- Mon 25 Oct 2004 18:20:29

...and a decent sized crowd willing to follow you from venue to venue. Is it so hard being anything like realistic in this place?

a) Mardi Gras is not just about the party. It's a culmination of three or four weeks of building excitement. It's a payoff on a physical, financial and emotional investment spread over films, galleries, theatres, parks, shopping strips, coffee shops, restaurants etc. Much of the entertainment low-rent and cheezy I admit but some of it unexpectedly brilliant and fun. All of it enhanced by the company and shared experience of friends old and new. And perfect perv opportunities too.

b) after all that do you think any significant number of people are going to go out on the big night after the big parade (whether they went to that or not) and hide themselves away in some little club somewhere (or flit between two clubs via the street) when they have an amazing opportunity just to get out in a venue with 15,000 like-minded friendly queer brothers and sisters?

It's an event that's way bigger than just the music, the dj lineup, the venue, the volume, whatever.

Even if the party is less loud/lurid/wild than you would like it to be (and as far as I can tell the last two are in your power to fix) then I would still go to the big party no matter what the options were. No contest. I can do little parties on Oxford street any old time. I can't do a party with 10,000 fags and dykes in one room anywhere else but the RHI in Feb and October.

Sorry bzzzt next!

The alternative parties only ever really worked when MG was also seen as the best night in town but was just too crowded for some people to fit in (ie party sold out) or to feel comfortable (people who hate huge crowds).

So the moral of the story is: join the Mardi Gras committees, working groups and board and help make their parties so fantastic that there will be a surplus of people dying to party that just can't fit in. THEN you can organise a great alternative party and have some chance of getting a decent turn-up!

Peace, love and hair grease!
Trance Trance Trance - low profile bedroom DJ - Mon 25 Oct 2004 21:24:19

Girls are not made very welcome at Indulgence - some go even tho it's not so friendly, some of us have been and won't bother anymore.
- Mon 25 Oct 2004 22:06:22

GUARANTEED the volume levels will be brought down so quiet you can hear your dead granny talking from her grave. And there is NO way the government will be allowed by these people who have power to let this area be "infested" (well thats what they'll say) with a few thousand gays off their faces on chemicals. I think there will be police everywhere.

Nice idea Toybox but your dealing with the big end of town here and these people whilst not necessarily in Goverment wield enormous power and bring pressure on the Government to do things "their" way
- Tue 26 Oct 2004 03:09:33

Agreed.

Also dont forget a certain building called Kirribilli House (Sydney residence of one Mr J W Howard PM) who is within earshot of Luna Park.

Given this little ignorant mans attitude to Mardi Gras in recent years does anyone honestly think if he gets wind of a Post Mardi Gras "recovery" around the corner from his home that he wont do everything in his power to make things difficult ??

Think about it.
White Dove - Tue 26 Oct 2004 08:04:18

That sounds awesome! Is it going to be a day party like usual?
- Tue 26 Oct 2004 09:22:08

LIVING IN THE 80s will feature a trifecta of the Best of British was well as some of Australia's biggest bands from the 80's all performing their biggest hits live for one night only.

The line up is: TONY HADLEY (ex SPANDAU BALLET), GO WEST, ABC, WA WA NEE, 1927'S ERIC WIEDEMAN, REAL LIFE. Between them these bands have achieved a staggering 37 top 40 hits!!

Tickets through Ticketek
Go the 80's! - Tue 26 Oct 2004 09:33:59

Remember the Big Top was purpose-built as an entertainment venue with the fussy residents in mind, and is licenced for just under 3,000 people.
http://www.lunaparksydney.com.au/promoters_events/venues.html#bigtop
CeeJay - Tue 26 Oct 2004 09:40:18

No amplified sound is to be used in the outdoor areas of the Park. Any amplified sound must not exceed 60dba at the nearest residence. The Principal reserves the right to lower this limit should it receive complaints which might affect its ability to hold events in the future.

http://www.lunaparksydney.com/functions_weddings/venue_guidelines.html
Evil Twin - Tue 26 Oct 2004 10:25:55

He¹s sold 40,000 CDs ...

He¹s performed for 4 Australian Prime Ministers ...

He sang the national anthem for the Opera House's 30th Birthday ...

And now he¹s appearing at The Hellfire Club?

Yes, folks ­ the one and only king of croon, the sultan of smooth, the truly fabulous FRANK BENNETT will be making a special guest appearance on Friday November 19th. Frank's Sinatra-esque covers of popular classics have made
him legendary, and I¹m very excited that he¹s promised to include his show-stopping cover of Radiohead's "Creep" for his Hellfire set... yay!

Check out his website at http://www.frankbennett.com to tease yourself with anticipation. It has loads of info and pics as well as audio and video to download. As you'd imagine, we're pretty stoked that a performer of his
calibre chooses to grace our strange little club with a short, sexy set ... so we'd love to see you there for this once-in-a-lifetime Hellfire Loungecore experience.

Frank hits the stage around 11.30pm following our usual low-volume loungey tunes & cheap cocktails, before MANDY ROLLINS, LANNY K & MISS YETTI take over dancefloor discipline duties at midnight. Perverted performances will follow, of course, including another Hellfire virgin ­ TONBI - tying up our delectable photographer EMMY in a Japanese-inspired tie (with a twist!).

The Hellfire Club meets 3rd Friday of every month
@ Club 77, ­ 77 William Street Kings Cross
Social Club: 9.30pm-midnight
Cheap cocktails & chilled tunes
Night Club: midnight ­ late
Loud, dirty dancefloor & shows
$20 with discounts for fetish dress
$3 cloakroom: all proceeds to CSN Volunteers
For all your Hellfire info & pic needs go to
http://www.hellfiresydney.com
Ultra (Hellfire) - Tue 26 Oct 2004 11:02:27

**** gREAT sPOoKY oOKY kOoKy hAlloweiNer partY ********
********************************************************

the champions of kooky, spook, freak and more celebrate the scary sunday 31st on a halloweeiner bender!

Super Live performance by DSICO!
plus residents
dj Gemma (club arak) Dj Seymour Butz (sauna sessions)

Farewell to lil Seymour as he trips out to spread the musical sauna sounds of sydney to the globe.

Dress up for random prizes or hugs

(comming soon to kook;
the vegetable exhibition : bug girl : captain comatose : wolfmother )
- have some spooky fun now! - Tue 26 Oct 2004 11:38:02

Another thing to keep in check is the Big Top at Luna Park was DESIGNED for freaking ROCK BANDS!
- Tue 26 Oct 2004 13:16:50
Pinkboard is unable to verify this statement.

The quote was from the luna park website. That doesn't mean the party won't be a success, because - as has also been pointed out - the big top is soundproofed. Metro Edgely are performing a balancing act with the local residents over noise though, hence they are reserving the right to lower levels to appease them.
CeeJay - Tue 26 Oct 2004 14:54:34

this posting was a bit harsh
Miss 3D - Tue 26 Oct 2004 15:41:24

Yay! Except the date's wrong ... if you mean 2005. It's either Friday 4th March or Sunday 6th March. My money's on Sunday.
- Tue 26 Oct 2004 17:28:55

A couple of things though. The venue is non smoking, so coming in and out the airlock doors for a ciggie could lead to incidental noise. I guess that's something security could keep an eye on. The foyer area is glass fronted and I wouldn't think that would be soundproofed(?) to the same extent. Make a nice chill out area though.

Unlike a rock concert where you're in for two hours and then out again, your average dance party goes a bit longer, with a bit more wandering traffic. There's a dance party there on the 13th November, but it starts early and goes through till 1am. Should be a good test of the site. We were thinking of getting along to that (can't now, other commitments), as I am quite fond of day parties after that Toybox before last.

So before you jump all over me next time, remember that I don't post nasty critical stuff here. I'd much rather say if I enjoyed something and why.
Evil Twin - Tue 26 Oct 2004 17:48:26

Um, I went and thought it wasnt that great. Sorry, but the music was waaaay to girly. One for the aerobic classes. And there was too much crystal takingok day party, what did I expect?Think it would work better with a dirtier music sounding room. BadDog it aint!
- this is just one blokes opinion - Tue 26 Oct 2004 18:40:54

... how was Sleaze?
deep recovering - [i have missed this pink madness] - Tue 26 Oct 2004 18:42:09

do you think you could put ABC on by themselves? I mean, Wa Wa Nee....ain't i good enough...ahem, NO!

Evil Twin...if not before, i've booked you in for a beer at Manacle on the morning after MG.
Ms Golightly - Tue 26 Oct 2004 20:49:02

9pm free. $10 after 10pm

DJs Luke Leal and Neal Crawford (b2b cross over set) Arena

DJs Kate Monroe, Mike Kelly and Rado Vortex with percussionist Orville Dave and saxophonist Ross Tenor
M x - trance and a fusion of house and live musicians - Wed 27 Oct 2004 09:11:24

Brad W - Wed 27 Oct 2004 14:02:53

I could well be wrong but I don't think that noise complaints are restricted to certain hours. Remember Harbour Party a few years back with a southerly blowing? As the sound was carrying across the harbour they were forced to turn it down. Mind you, the Luna Park Big Top is of course sound proofed so it shouldn't be an issue, but I would be interested to hear an informed voice on this one.
chris - Wed 27 Oct 2004 14:25:54

Um, for your information At We Love....there are gay dj's playing... its being promoted locally by some gay people, and its got some of the best music at a party all year. Its a a venue that Id like to try out before March... Im gay and my mates are gay and were going... We Love in Ibiza was packed full of queens!
We talk about straight owned Arq, Paul Goodyear, Peter Fam and Neil Crawford on here... So stop being heterosexist! Without heterosexuals none of us would be here! Peace!
gay prince charming - its all about the music baby.... - Wed 27 Oct 2004 15:24:32

$#%^ i'm a tad bored. m u s t g o o u t
Teflon Don - thoughts that's don't stick - Wed 27 Oct 2004 17:03:11

This post was discussing the low volume levels in the RHI for our major parties.

In this post I showed you all a letter I wrote the Clover Moore (Member for Bligh)

Today I received a letter in the mail that Clover Moore has written to Playbill Venue Management (the administrators of the RHI Pavilion)

Here is the letter that Clover wrote.......

26 October 2004

Andrew McCarney
General Manager
Playbill Venue Management
FSA 264
Lang Road
Moore Park NSW 1363

Dear Mr McCarney

Sound Insulation – Royal Hall of Industries Building

I write on behalf of my constituents Stephen Blomfield of Redfern and Luke Leal of Darlinghurst, who are both concerned about noise insulation for the RHI Building.

My constituents tell me that the Hordern Pavilion is soundproofed, and this allows music to be played at a volume they say is suitable for the dance parties they attend. They say that the lack of soundproofing in the RHI Building results in low music volume where people can talk over the music. They say that this leads to lower attendance, and threatens the viability of the parties that they attend.

My constituents are concerned that the limits on music volume will cause the loss of the regular gay and lesbian community dance parties that have been held in this venue.

Local residents have raised concerns about the noise impact of loud music, and have requested protection from noise, particularly during the night when dance parties are held. I share residents’ concerns about the need to prevent noise impacts from events held in these venues.

Could you please provide adequate soundproofing for the RHI Building in order to prevent noise impacts while allowing adequate music for dance parties, and inform me what action you have taken?

Yours sincerely

Clover Moore
Member for Bligh

As a side note I find it very disappointing that only Luke and I got off our butts and wrote to Clover. You people on here are always keen to complain about issues but never seem to be prepared to take that extra step and complain to people that might be able to fix the problems. I'm not sure whats going to transpire from this letter that Clover has written but finally we have someone who can actually make things happen working for us on this issue.
Stephen Blomfield - Wed 27 Oct 2004 21:02:00

Stephen has the best interests of the community at heart here and you're carrying on like well, silly !!!

BTW in case you hadn't noticed, this is the party wall and Stephen is discussing an issue directly related to partying. Your post on the other hand is off topic

This is NOT the Human Rights wall or the wall to discuss politics. You'll find those topics more appropriately discussed elsewhere.

Well done Stephen, I hope Clover's intervention is the starting point towards the overall improvement in conditions in our Number 1 dance party space.
My 5 cents worth - Thu 28 Oct 2004 09:06:09

Luke and Stephen for the Nobel Peace Prize!!
- Thu 28 Oct 2004 10:35:05

Keep fighting the good fight, Stephen, but please don't dilute the effectiveness of your argument by denigrating those who for whatever reason choose not to join you.
GJ - Thu 28 Oct 2004 10:59:38

I'm just disappointed i didnt read pinklbaord at the time this issue was raised by Luke and Stephen because i definitely would have written to Clover Moore as well.

In fact, I just might write a letter now. Better late than never. At least I'm doing my bit.
Adam - Thu 28 Oct 2004 11:06:08

I'm with GJ - in the grand scheme of things, who really cares. Let's spend hundreds and thousands of dollars so a few poofs and dykes can get off their heads twice a year. Oh, oops they do that every weekend anyway, just down the road!
Party where it's built to party - Thu 28 Oct 2004 13:28:08

I was wondering when the buzz for retrosexual 3 was going to start! The partner and I are very excited already and have aone of our friends from the Taxi Club bringing her birthday party along. In fact she is supposed to be dressing to match our retro themed shirts... we'll see if that happens on the night.

Also a group of bears have been waiting for this to happen so they will be there as well. Should be another huge night.
shanobear - Thu 28 Oct 2004 13:52:21

LOL! Funniest post ever!
- Thu 28 Oct 2004 14:17:27

Details to follow soon...

Watch this space!
www.djjustinscott.com - Thu 28 Oct 2004 15:32:15

Nice to see there will be a more braoded crowd. I will enjoy retro dance with them grr grr bears...

Hope to see you there Shanobear.... Such a shame you're attached
Bear boy retro toy boy! - Thu 28 Oct 2004 15:41:18

Hi there,
Too many people have been asking what's happening New Years Eve ... how there's nowhere smaller to go that twisted types can really dress up at, or be around other freaks and fetishistas.

So we give in.

INSTEAD of our usual December Club night (which would've fallen on the 17th) we've decided to put on a New Years Eve for us all to escape from the world's hideous compulsory fun expectations.

The most excellent DJ lineup is:
9pm-11pm - Feisty
11pm-2am - Mandy Rollins
2am- close - Lanny K & Miss Yetti

This DJ lineup is exclusive to Hellfire NYE, so our DJs can be partying with us when they're not playing.

The roster of perverted performances will be announced in a few weeks time.

There will be presale tickets released in two stages:

1 - Gold discount tickets available in person only from The Hellfire Club Friday November 19th for only $35.00 each

2 - Silver discount tickets available from selected fetish shops from Monday November 22nd for only $45.00 each.

It is hoped that there will be tickets left over for door sales, but we can't promise, as Club 77 is such an intimate venue.

There'll be lots more to tell you about, with announcements about shows coming soon, so keep tuning into Pinkboard to stay up to date with all the info.

Cheers
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - http://www.hellfiresydney.com - Thu 28 Oct 2004 16:09:20

77 william street, east sydney
10pm till way late
broadcastiing nationally on sbs radio 11pm - midnight
still at 1995 door charge - a woppin' big $5!
*********************************************************
- captain comatose is comming!!!! - Thu 28 Oct 2004 17:00:37

It was supposed to me, but Dan & I did a swap.
Therefore, Dan Murphy (Arq) 10 to 5

Enjoy, and please say hi to him from me.
www.djjustinscott.com - Thu 28 Oct 2004 19:09:21

A weekly retro gig is overkill.

The magic in retro events at Arq and the major dance parties is the fact that it isnt something you can go to every single weekend and its something you can look forward to over a period of time. A weekly event is simply going to make retro just another average night out.

Sorry Justin, I like you as a DJ but a weekly retro gig is a bad bad move.
Retro lover - but not all the time - Thu 28 Oct 2004 20:59:03
This is the opinion of the poster.

Looking forward to partying with all the Melbourne boys
Craigy - Thu 28 Oct 2004 21:20:16

I once heard a director of Luna Park/Metro joking that the roof of the Big Top is lined with money to keep it sound proofed. That tells me they spared no expense when it comes to sound in that venue. Apparantley it's state of the art. And yes, the Foyer areas (there are 2, one up and one downstairs) will make great chill out spaces
Luna Boi - Thu 28 Oct 2004 21:52:22

Yes it was my opinion I just dont know why everyone wouldn't just presume that in the first place.
Retro lover - stating the obvious - Fri 29 Oct 2004 08:48:08

Arena dance floor
11:00 till 12:30 Scott Richardson
12:30 till 2:00 Mark Dynamix
2:00 till 3:30 Joshua van Aalst
3:30 till 5:00 Diggs n Morro
5:00 till close Stama

Vortex dance floor
10:00 till 11:30 Muli
11:30 till 12:30 Karvan and Condivi (LIVE)
12:30 till 2:00 Cameron O'Shea
2:00 till 3:30 Brad Revell (Queensland)
3:30 till 5:00 Jayde vs Luke Sykes
- FiremanSam - Fri 29 Oct 2004 18:38:26

I added the qualifier because your post read as if you were stating facts. Nowhere in your post did you say "in my opinion" or "I believe". People can't read your mind, only your words. In some cases I have to make sure those words say what they mean.
Panther - Fri 29 Oct 2004 19:20:34

I'm with GJ - in the grand scheme of things, who really cares. Let's spend hundreds and thousands of dollars so a few poofs and dykes can get off their heads twice a year. Oh, oops they do that every weekend anyway, just down the road!
Party where it's built to party - Thu 28 Oct 2004 13:28:08

I think it would be worthwhile remembering that our dance parties, particularly Mardi Gras and Sleaze, are strongly rooted in protest and the fight for our rights.

Party and protest are inextricably linked and an important form of activism - it doesn't make sense to argue that we should spend more energy on one or the other. If our parties are strong our community is strong and our rights protected. Our community and rights are threatened now so it is more important than ever that we rally together to rebuild our parties and win our rights.
Alex - shineparty@yahoo.com.au - Fri 29 Oct 2004 20:40:22

I sent this via email today. Feel free to edit, adulterate or embellish (and correct spelling errors and apostrophe mis-use.)...but please send it

Clover Moore
Lord Mayor of Sydney
Member for Bligh

Dear Ms Moore

I would like to follow up on correspondence you have received from Messers Luke Leal and Stephen Blomfield regarding the lack of adequate sound proofing at the Royal Hall of Industries at Fox Studios.

I would urge you not to view their correspondence in isolation. Stephen and Luke are two members of the diverse Sydney gay, lesbian, transgender and queer community who are held in very high esteem. For many years they have devoted themselves to our community, our parties and have quite simply enriched our lifestyles. They do indeed speak for a silent majority.

Mardi Gras is a Sydney institution. It is a world class event that defines Sydney as an international, vibrant and tolerant city. Mardi Gras, as a festival, a party, and a celebration of the basic human right to choose one’s partner, is currently under threat from what would seem a minor issue, but it is indeed a very real concern.

Our party is the culmination of a festival that defines our contribution, not only to the city, but to the wider community. The noise restrictions inherent due to the lack of soundproofing in the Royal Hall of Industries (RHI) at Fox threaten the viability of that party.

As a community, we come together at Mardi Gras and at Sleaze to celebrate our community. For many, these two events are a remarkable liberation - an opportunity to express themselves freely, to be themselves, and to celebrate their sexuality with their friends, loved ones and partners.

As it stands, the RHI no longer allows this to occur. For many years, our community has chosen to celebrate via dance parties, and the lack of sound proofing in the RHI compromises this celebration. A dance party cannot occur where the level of sound is simply sub-optimal as it has been at recent parties due to complaints over noise.

The Horden and other venues at Fox cannot cope with the sheer volume of our community who want to celebrate at these parties. Indeed, many would argue that the RHI is central to that celebration as the venue that attracts the most patrons.

As the City of Sydney has a strong, vibrant gay community, I would ask you to give the requests of Messers Blomfield and Leal the most serious consideration. I have posted this letter on a community forum so that others who share the views of these two community leaders can also express it to you.

The lack of adequate soundproofing at the RHI threatens the viability of a major celebration of gay pride and an event that defines Sydney for the wonderful city it is. It is that simple. And I ask you to act upon it.

yours sincerely
Ms Golightly - Sat 30 Oct 2004 03:02:31

30 October 2004
Ms Clover Moore, MP.
NSW Member for Bligh

(via email) - clover@clovermoore.com

Dear Clover,

I would like this opportunity to come out in support of Messer’s Leal & Blomfield who recently wrote to you re the sound proofing issue in the RHI Pavilion within the Fox Studios complex.

These two gentlemen are held in high esteem by the Gay & Lesbian Community being two of our more popular and well known long term Disc Jockeys on the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Club and Dance Party Circuit. Therefore they certainly know what they are talking about when they raise concerns about these sorts of issues.

I recently read your reply letter to Playbill Venue Management on behalf of Leal & Blomfield and thank you sincerely for your intervention on this issue, however I feel I need to make a few comments.

I think we are all in agreement that the RHI Pavilion is pivotal in the ongoing success of the so called Gay & Lesbian Community Dance Party. Also not in dispute is the ongoing deterioration of the sound levels in this space in recent years. This in my opinion (besides the soundproofing issue) can also be attributed in the main to a certain group of nearby residents who are holding a vendetta against New Mardi Gras Ltd and filing complaints with the Police at every opportunity even though the sound levels carrying to those persons properties can sometimes be well under acceptable levels. I know this to be fact as I have a friend who lives a few doors up from one of these more well known “complainers” and at the Mardi Gras dance party in March this so called “complainer” was boasting to neighbours about his vendetta. Needless to say this allegation would be near impossible to prove however it goes to show that without sound proofing being added to the RHI in the near future that things are going to get more and more difficult.

Whilst your letter to Playbill asking them to install sound proofing is a first positive step towards resolving this issue I fear for the worst in the reply that might be forthcoming to you. The cost to soundproof this hall is probably going to be outside of any cost effective budget for this company given that the space is primarily used only two times a year for dance parties. I do however believe that sound proofing the venue could make it a viable space for other events to start using it.

Ultimately my concern is that Playbill will turn down your request. If this happens what do you propose to be your next course of action ?

My understanding is that the RHI is a Heritage listed building. If this is the case then surely you could pressure on the Government to fund this exercise. I hope you will consider this option if the reply from Playbill is in the negative. I welcome your feedback on this possibility.

Thank you again for your support of Gay & Lesbian issues in your electorate (and beyond). It’s comforting to know that we have someone in Parliament on “our” side who actually seems to care.

Regards
.
My 5 cents worth - (real name supplied in the email to Clover) - Sat 30 Oct 2004 08:18:50

I can see your point GJ but do we for-go on minor issues
( as you think this is ) and just fight for the major issues ? or fight them all ?
T. - Sat 30 Oct 2004 11:21:49

In the past few weeks you have received letters/emails asking for sound proofing the RHI Hall at Fox Studios.

I fully support this request.

Whilst some would not think much of this request, please remember that this Hall holds approximately 8,000 party attendees. At around $100 per ticket that is $800,000 per party that could be lost should New Mardi Gras and any other Promoter not be able to use this Hall. This adds up to a approximately $1.6m per year in possible lost revenue as any replacement Hall could not possibly hold this amount of people. This possible loss of income then means New Mardi Gras may not have sufficient funds to be viable nor funds to hand over to the various charities it supports. Which then becomes a major issue for these Charities.

Yours faithfully,
T - Sat 30 Oct 2004 11:31:17

I can't understand why they would put so much effort into what will probably be a great event, and then hold it as a recovery event the day after the biggest party of the year!? IMO, it deserves to be held on a weekend on its own. I absolutely ADORE toybox, it is the best party around. I am very disappointed that it is being run as a recovery and there will be no toybox parties over the entire summer party season.

I know some people like recovery parties... but personally, I can't think of anything worse than going out all night and getting totally trashed and sore all over only to go out and do it all again 2 hours after the first party finishes. It's not only dangerous and stupid as a concept, but it also just doesn't feel good. We already push our bodies to go out all night at Mardi Gras.

Anyway, keep up the great work toybox people, and I will be there at the next one, which won't involve writing myself off for a few weeks afterwards!
HJ - Sat 30 Oct 2004 15:52:42

G'Day All...... HARD is on at T2 from 1600 - 0200 on the 14/11/04... We will feature Hard House and slower tunes earlier on to get you in the mood.... Come and support us if you get into Hard House... The sucess of this first event will ensure future event and also ones possibly on a Sat night / more appropriate time for everyone to party....

hard.r8.org has all the info...

Cheers

NRK
NRK - Sat 30 Oct 2004 16:43:08

Cruise went very well, then 2 days to recover in LA before up here for 5 nights, including my first US Halloween.

Love to all - back next week...
Noisy Gypsy - Sun 31 Oct 2004 06:21:43

Noisy Gypsy - Sun 31 Oct 2004 06:25:44

Have fun.
T. - Sun 31 Oct 2004 12:05:36

Rocks? Not really, more like "houses"
:O)
- Sun 31 Oct 2004 13:11:57

This is very common in alot of places, even here in Sydney. There HAS to be a law against this.
www.djjustinscott.com - Sun 31 Oct 2004 13:41:03

would much rather toybox QN and the like hold their parties the following weekend

that way i can recover better and have something to look forward too as well

thats what i call pacing myself
one ata time - Sun 31 Oct 2004 19:53:40

Here's my effort for what its worth

Ms Clover Moore, MP.
NSW Member for Bligh
58 Oxford Street
Paddington NSW 2021

Dear Clover,

I write to you today in support of a number of people I know who have been in touch with you seeking your assistance and intervention for the installation of soundproofing in the RHI pavilion at Fox Studios.

Having been a supporter and attendee of the Gay and Lesbian run community dance parties at Moore Park for nearly 20 years I cannot stress highly enough how important this venue is to the community as a whole.

In this day and age it seems tragic that a huge event like Mardi Gras has to use a space that in any mans language is inadequate.

In years gone by our community didn’t have an issue with the RHI pavilion as to most the volume levels weren’t too bad. It appears however in recent years that the volume is getting lower and lower and I question why this is happening as do many people in the community.

Unfortunately we are now at a crossroad where many people who would never not consider going to a Mardi Gras party are now looking elsewhere because the $100+ price for entrance is now not giving value for money because of inadequate sound levels in the major hall at these events.

It worries me greatly that if this trend continues that the event will dwindle to a shell of its former self. Indeed I believe unless this problem is addressed urgently then the events viability could seriously be in jeopardy.

The Gay and Lesbian community needs a strong and vibrant dance party scene for it to put on the wonderful Festival it does during the month of February each year. This festival brings in millions of dollars in revenue into the state of NSW. If the party at Fox Studios was to be cancelled then the state of NSW will lose all that tourist revenue.

I implore you to follow up on your request to Playbill Management on the soundproofing issue. I would also ask you to lobby the Government to consider funding the soundproofing of this venue in the event of Playbill refusing your request. The RHI is apparently a heritage listed building, the Government should take care of these buildings rather than allowing them to become run down and unusable.

The RHI might only be used by Mardi Gras for dance parties twice a year however if it was soundproofed I feel sure it would get much more usage not just from my community but from the wider community as a whole.

I welcome you intervention and look forward to your reply.
James W - Sun 31 Oct 2004 22:07:18

After the crock of shit that passed for Sleaze Ball this year, what is there to choose?, for many the party weekend begins at Luna Park!!
Sam K Hole - Mon 1 Nov 2004 12:51:34

Any parties people know of that they would recommend?
Countdown for NYE has begun.. Scary!! - Mon 1 Nov 2004 13:42:33

Ordinary... I think Sleaze was a Hollywood masterpeice compared to it!

Waste of money, really ripped of us punters!

I think it's time promoters are some what held accountable for shoddy productions, we pay quite high costs but they don't seem to deliver.

It is really annoying going to enjoy something and leaving quite dissappointed!
A dinner party at home would have been 10x better. - Mon 1 Nov 2004 14:54:32

I honestly hope as many people as possible get behind the promoter for this party and come along. This is the first time this promoter has staged a party and as a member of the Sydney GBLT community, it would be good to see him get the support of the community.

The DJ line up has changed and is now;

4pm-6pm Shanobear
6pm-8pm Sveta
8pm-9pm NRK
9pm-11pm Mickey D
11pm-1am Doug James (TBC)
1am-close NRK returns

5 DJ's for only $22 or members of Bi-NSW, Harbour City Bears or Hellfire can get discounted tickets (see website for details)

As NRK said in a previous post, the success of this party will enure others in the future.

As for the style of music, for me it's a big change from my Taxi Club nights and the bears Stimul8te Underwear party at the Shift earlier this year. I was asked to provide a commercial set but with an edge. I'm loving the chance to explore a different sound and I have a few really interesting tracks up my sleeve so far.

Hope to see as many people as possible there.
shanobear - http://www.hard.r8.org/ - Mon 1 Nov 2004 17:18:35

DJs Luke Leal and Neal Crawford (b2b cross over set) Arena

DJs Kate Monroe, Mike Kelly and Rado Vortex with percussionist Orville Dave and saxophonist Ross Tenor
M x - Mon 1 Nov 2004 18:16:51

What party are you talkin about?

apart from the heat prolems i thought Rawhide was an awsome party and the the music was spot on..Sure they could put some of that cash into some extra production but i think it would be first best spent on air conditioning.
- Mon 1 Nov 2004 20:52:46

Did we all go to church ?
- Mon 1 Nov 2004 21:28:19

Hellfire is shifting its December night to New Years Eve, with DJs Mandy Rollins, Feisty, Lanny K and Miss Yetti ... so if you like your New years to be a little more evil than eve, Club 77 is the place to be!
Cheers
Master Tom - The Hellfire Club - http://www.hellfiresydney.com - Tue 2 Nov 2004 10:53:09

How about Pride? Look back through the posts for the rumoured DJ lineup, it's going to be awesome.
- Tue 2 Nov 2004 14:00:18

Tropical Fruits is fab - it's kinda like city meets country and I've often met people who travel from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, etc.

It's really relaxed and pretty friendly too.
Pornstar Girl - Tue 2 Nov 2004 14:37:29

Home have just released the press release for their NYE party. Its at the Hordern Pavilion and Armin Van Burren (no 3 DJ in the world) is DJ'ing alongside sydney locals.

http://www.clubsublime.com.au/index2.html

Also, home have Ferry Corsten (no 5 in the world) booked to play on Friday 26th November.

And before people ask, yes both events are "straight" events however home always manage to attract people from both sides of the fence

Lastly.... below is the link to the 2004 Top 100 DJ's always makes for some interesting reading, enjoy.

http://www.djmag.com/top100chart.asp
Brad W - Tue 2 Nov 2004 17:31:26

Raids net deadly Mitsubishi drug
By Gemma Jones
November 1, 2004

In the highly-visible operation, officers carrying seized syringes and bags of powder emerged from Arq nightclub just after 1am.

They moved down Oxford St, searching patrons in clubs including Kinselas at 1.30am and the Colombian Hotel just before 2am.

The 17 police involved in the operation recorded 94g of drugs, which were discarded on nightclub floors as police entered.

http://www.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,4057,11249780%255E421,00.html
- Tue 2 Nov 2004 20:33:41

Alas, im not working with Ferry this time, my young apprentice will be lighting and lasering. Never fear though as he rocks just as much! Meanwhile im looking forward to having the night off and spending it on the dance floor at home (a rare thing!), then heading to Parklife on Saturday day.
Brad W - Tue 2 Nov 2004 20:55:59

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