Mardi Gras organisers thrown a lifeline

The Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has secured a significant injection of funds from the State Government body, Events NSW.

The event overcame financial difficulties in 2002, when organisers were forced into voluntary administration. But this year the volunteer-based organisation posted a $483,695 profit.

The new and improved event will include more international and national floats in the Mardi Gras parade, plus domestic and international marketing support.

‘Events NSW have a real interest in ensuring this iconic event continues to thrive,’ Events NSW chief executive Geoff Parmenter said.

The Mardi Gras generates more than $30 million of direct economic benefit for New South Wales each year, and has become an international showcase of Sydney’s diversity.

‘In support of the agreement we will develop national and international marketing strategies in conjunction with Tourism New South Wales to ensure tourism visitation is maximised,’ Mr Parmenter said.

New Mardi Gras Chair David Imrie said the not for profit, volunteer-based organisation was excited about working with Events NSW.

‘Parade, Fair Day and an enhanced arts and cultural festival will be pillars of a new, self-sustaining, creative approach focused on improving participation, content and production values,’ Mr Imrie said.

New Mardi Gras Chief Executive Officer Anna McInerney said over the past 30 years, Mardi Gras had become one of Sydney’s hallmark events attracting both interstate and international visitors.

‘It’s time to drive even greater national and international recognition of Mardi Gras and its vibrant, energetic expression of our Aussie larrikin personality,’ Ms McInerney said.

Predictably, Reverend Fred Nile denounced the State Government’s funding announcement as irresponsible.

‘Here we are facing one of the most challenging financial crisis of our time, in a State that is in desperate need of repair and new infrastructure and our new government wants to donate millions dollars for a parade to celebrate homosexuality,’ Reverend Nile said.