BGF gives up Glamstand

The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation (BGF) and New Mardi Gras (NMG) announced yesterday that they will permanently move the management and production of the Glamstand reserved seating area at the Mardi Gras parade to New Mardi Gras.

BGF has produced the Glamstand reserved seating, Glamour Bar and Glamorama to view the Mardi Gras parade for over decade. In the last few years there has been a reduction of net income from the event due to rising costs and disappointing audience numbers.

“The purpose of producing this event is to raise money to fund programs for people living with HIV,” said BGF President Martin Walsh.

“As an organisation BGF is constantly reviewing how we can best undertake fundraising that delivers the best return to our clients.

“Event-based fundraising has become increasingly difficult across all parts of the charity sector and we have decided to move away from this type of activity.”

New Mardi Gras will take over management of the event from 2012 with BGF remaining as the charity beneficiary for 2012.

“With NMG managing and delivering the Mardi Gras parade, it’s a great opportunity to integrate Glamstand into the overall production, and take it to a new level,” NMG Chair Peter Urmson said.

“With a fantastic view of the parade and the addition of an amazing entertainment line-up for 2012, this year’s Glamstand promises to be an amazing experience.”

Members of both organisations will have the opportunity to access presale tickets from today, with general sale commencing on November 21.

The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation is Australia’s oldest HIV/AIDS charity. Established through community efforts in 1984, the organisation focuses its efforts on improving the quality of life for men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS.