Mandurah will fly the region’s rainbow flag in December when the third annual Pride in Peel toasts to the LGBTIQ community at a tropical themed party.
The first of its kind in the region, the colourful occasion has become a signature event to embrace all sexual preferences.
More than 400 people are anticipated to celebrate at Sunbreakers Restaurant along Mandurah Terrace on December 1.
Event organiser Stephen Carter said Pride in Peel’s profile was continuously building and tipped a large crowd to flow through the doors this year.
Last year, interest exceeded expectations, with the event selling out its 200 tickets weeks in advance.
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To cater for the increasing numbers, organisers will shut down the large car park at the front of Sunbreakers Restaurant to host the event.
Performances from Perth’s Best Drag Queens, sets from popular DJ’s, speeches by special guests and various activities will be on offer for attendees.
Mr Carter said there was plenty in store for everyone and was particularly excited by a pop-up tiki bar and a special “treasure island” area.
While holidaying in Bali earlier this year, Mr Carter said the idea for a tropical themed party sprung to mind.
“This year, we’re converting Sunbreakers into a tropical oasis,” he said.
“It’s going to be an event for our community not to be missed”
It’s about making sure everyone is included, making sure they can be here and be who they want to be while celebrating equality and diversity.
- Pride in Peel organiser Stephen Carter
Mr Carter said it was important that everyone had the opportunity to express themselves.
“It’s about making sure everyone is included, they can be here and be who they want to be while celebrating equality and diversity,” he said.
“This year thanks to event sponsors and funding we are able to reach as many regional areas as possible. We’ve also been able to reduce the ticket prices, so for $20 you can come in enjoy Drag Shows and all the entertainment the event has to offer.
“Part proceeds this year are going towards Freedom Centre, which supports LGBTIQ youth all around WA.
“They have numerous different channels they distribute the money through which is great.
“With proceeds also going towards an LGBTIQ youth event next year in Mandurah.”
As this year is a licensed event people ages under 18 won’t be able to attend, however, Mr Carter said the youth event would be inclusive to all.
“I keep getting asked ‘can I bring my kid, he’s just come out to us and our family’. I have to say ‘not yet’ but that’s our next growth phase of Pride in Peel,” Mr Carter said.
Mr Carter paid special thanks to Sunbreakers Restaurant owner Gayle Iannetta for her dedication, time and effort.
Gayle is an ongoing supporter of Pride in Peel and said she was proud to hold the event at her establishment for the third year in a row.
Mr Carter said organisers had received plenty of support from across the community.
“The gay community is getting on board and they’re all coming out,” he said.
“It’s a great example for the youth in our community. They can know that there’s a safe space out there that is accepts them.”
He urged the community to get on board as tickets have just become available.
“Gay or straight. Everyone can come and celebrate each other,” he said.
“It’s not just a big gay party for gay people. It’s coming together to say ‘this is ok and we love and support who you are.”
Mr Carter also thanked Mandurah Camera House and Fremantle Camera House for sponsoring the main stage, which will host drag queens Veronica Jean Jones, Ruby Jewelz and Fay Rocious with tunes by DJ Squinty, Tim James and Krafty Cue.
He highlighted the support of YOU DJ NOW for supplying a photo booth, sound and lighting equipment.
Accomodation is also available on site with exclusive room rates available for ticket holders.
Full details and tickets can be found at www.prideinpeel.com.au.
For more information visit the event’s Facebook page.
