Pink makeover for Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains’ LGBTI residents will have plenty to celebrate over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend with pinkFEST, a full program of Pride activities.

PinkFEST will be launched at a fundraising performance by Blue Mountains Playback Theatre on Sunday, June 3. The theme for the performance, to be held at Wentworth Falls School of Arts, is ‘Swimming in the Alphabet Soup’. The performers will use personal stories from the audience to create the entertainment.

Other pinkFEST events include bentART, Australia’s largest LGBTI art exhibition, and a screening of the Maori coming-out film Kawa on Saturday, June 9.

On the same day, outdoor types can enjoy a six-kilometre walk of Wentworth Falls presented by Bush Lemons. That night, the Blackheath Community Hall will play host to the Queen’s Birthday Disco and Talent Quest, MCed by Beverly Buttercup and Sandy Bottom. A relaxed BYO event presented by the Three Sisters Social Group, the disco usually attracts crowds of hundreds.

On Sunday, June 10, the Three Sisters will present the key event of pinkFEST, the Winter Masquerade Queen’s Birthday Ball.

Held at Leura’s Fairmont Resort, tickets include a three-course dinner, champagne on arrival and wine.

Finishing the festival for another year on Monday, June 11, Sandy Bottom will host a BBQ brunch at Scenic World in Katoomba. After brunch, guests will take the plunge to the valley floor on the famous scenic railway for a guided tour by Sandy.

INFO: www.pinkmountains.com.au