Libs throw support behind Mardi Gras

Last Wednesday Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell pledged his ongoing support for Mardi Gras in a letter handed to the organisers of New Mardi Gras (NMG) at a press conference held at the NMG Workshop in Redfern.

Under the watchful eyes of giant papier-mâché animals, the letter was delivered by NSW Opposition Whip Don Harwin and Liberal candidates for Sydney and Coogee, Adrian Bartels and Bruce Notley Smith, to NMG CEO and Co-Chairs, Michael Rolik, Stephanie Sands and Peter Urmson.

Should a Coalition Government win the March election they have promised to create Destination NSW- an independent authority to promote NSW through major events and marketing. It will replace the existing bodies of Tourism NSW and Events NSW and Mr O’Farrell has promised a $40 million boost over the current level of funding.

Mr O’Farrell guaranteed Mardi Gras’ future access to performance-based major events funding under the Destination NSW program.

He also pledged to maintain a close working relationship with NMG to promote the Mardi Gras’ many events with a focus on using the festivities to promote other regional events.

“Mardi Gras could play a role in promoting particular regional locations as holiday destinations coupled with Mardi Gras or a visit to Sydney for Mardi Gras,” Mr O’Farrell said.

NMG CEO Michael Rolik stressed the importance of the relationship between the State Government and NMG saying that Mardi Gras delivers 10,000 marchers, 300,000 spectators and almost $30 million in revenue to Sydney through international and interstate visitors.

Mr Rolik also explained where the money was being spent.

“Any funding we get from the Government is used to make our events better, our audiences more comfortable and tell the world what a wonderful thing it is to be in Sydney for Mardi Gras.”

Ms Sands reinforced Mardi Gras’ reliance on the NSW Government for help with funding.

“Mardi Gras is one of the shining lights of the Sydney events calendar and its growth can only be assured with the help of the NSW Government,” she said. “Today’s announcement assures that Mardi Gras has a strong future whoever forms Government after the State election.”

There seemed to be more than just a pinch of glitter in the air at the NMG workshop as Mr Notley-Smith introduced Mr Bartels as the “cutest Liberal candidate in the state election” before taking photo opportunities in front of a giant golden star.