PETS returns for Mardi Gras Parade

As part of a bigger and bolder Mardi Gras season, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) has brought back the Parade Entrants Ticketing Scheme (PETS) and has reintroduced its Community Grants Scheme for entries in the Parade.

Continuing the success of PETS in 2011, Parade entries from individuals through to community groups and non-profit organisations will be able to provide supporters with a unique five-letter code which will allow them to allocate $10 of the cost of their Mardi Gras Party ticket to the entrant to pay for costs associated with their entry in the Parade.

Through the Community Grants Scheme, individuals, community groups and non-profit organisations with entries in the Parade will be able to apply for grants of up to $1000 towards their float from funds raised during October’s Big Gay Weekend event.

SGLMG CEO Michael Rolik said the two fundraising opportunities provided Parade entrants with the opportunity to throw some extra spirit fingers and jazz hands into their Parade offering.

“We’re excited about bringing back PETS this year,” Rolik said.

“PETS worked well because it helped Parade entrants raise money for their own floats, while supporting our organisation. Community grants will further support Parade entrants to make their floats even more fabulous. We hope to see more Parade entrants take part in both schemes this year.”

SGLMG chair Peter Urmson agreed with Rolik.

“We encourage Parade entrants to dream big this year and share with us how a grant like this can help create an electrifying experience,” Urmson said.

“We’re excited about making the 2012 Parade our most creative and colourful yet. Thank you to the donors, promoters and venues that helped raise funds over the Big Gay Weekend to provide the pool of funds for the Community Grant Scheme.”

Harbour City Bears president Jonny Bastin said his organisation hopes to utilise PETS to support their Parade entry.

“The PETS scheme was a great way for our group to improve our float and share our hairy, beary love with the world,” Bastin said. “We will be using the PETS scheme again this year to make our float even better.”

In December SGLMG announced it had doubled the funds available for its in-house floats in 2012.

Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhana