Go west

After a very successful picnic last year, the Parramatta Queer Forum is once again hosting the Parramatta Pride Picnic. The picnic is just around the corner on Sunday 21 September. I can’t begin to tell you how much fun last year’s picnic was, and with over 300 people there was a great mix -“ both young and the not so young.

If you were unable to make last year’s picnic, then write the date on your calendar now, as it’s sure to be the Western Sydney GLBT highlight for 2008.

This year’s picnic looks to be even bigger and better, with more community stalls and activities for everyone. Face painting, storytelling, volleyball, kite-making -¦ the list goes on.

The picnic is also a great opportunity to connect with local GLBT service providers, with information stalls from community groups such as PFLAG, Twenty 10, Lesbian and Gay Anti-Violence Project and MCC Good Shepherd and Cumberland Women’s Health Centre.

There’s nothing better than a bit of sunshine, being surrounded by good friends and family, great food and a wonderful atmosphere. So get some friends together, pack a picnic basket and check it out from 10am to 4pm in Parramatta Park (site 23, there are maps located throughout the park) and look for the big rainbow flag.

If packing a picnic basket is not your idea of fun, there will be a barbecue and for a gold coin donation you can get a sausage sandwich and support the Western Suburbs Haven.

Personally I’m hoping that the tug-of-war rope snaps again. There is nothing funnier than seeing five drag queens all fall on their butts.

If you want any information about groups, services, organisations or community events taking place in western Sydney, you can contact Matt Vaughan at ACON on 9206 2064 or [email protected].

Matt Vaughan is the Community Development and Liaison Officer for the ACON Western Sydney Community Development Team.