We’ve had a wonderful response to last week’s Mardi Gras news.
As we revealed, we’ve been accepted to march in this year’s parade - and we’re looking for participants from the Sydney and Central Coast Gig Buddies’ projects to join us as we show support for the LGBTQI+ community and celebrate diversity.
For anyone who would like to be part of the parade, you have until this Thursday (27/1) to register your interest.
We have 40 places available and we’re on the search for dancers, placard and banner holders, a photographer / videographer and - for those who can’t make it on night but would like to help out - prop designers and make-up artists.
To see a complete list of roles, and to find out how you can join us, click here.
Please note, in the interest of fairness, this year we’re requesting buddies submit an ‘expression of interest’. We want to ensure as many people as possible have the chance to sample the amazing experience that comes with marching in the Mardi Gras; depending on the level of demand, we may hold a ballot to determine who attends.
Furthermore, in order to join us at this year's Mardi Gras you are required to be a fully signed up user of the Gig Buddies program.
Tell me more….
This year’s Mardi Gras takes place on Saturday 5 March at the world famous Sydney Cricket Ground.
As per Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade policies, we need to inform event organisers of who’ll be marching with us by the beginning of February. Therefore, we’re asking people to register before Thursday 27 January.
For those not in the know, we made our Mardi Gras debut last year. In what can only be described as a ‘truly remarkable experience’, we can’t wait to do it once again in 2022. To see what happened in 2021, click here to check out our photo and video gallery.
If you have any questions about involvement with Sydney Mardi Gras or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, get in touch on Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on either 0422 061 990 or 0412 145 819.
First for the year
We’d like to welcome our latest batch of trained volunteers - the first for 2022.
Thanks to Georgia (top), Tim (middle) and Lisa (bottom) for logging on last week. We’re looking forward to the next steps and then introducing you to your respective buddies.
It’s exciting to have prepped more volunteers, especially as we look to increase the number of paired-up buddies on the Central Coast.
This little buddy went to market
On the subject of firsts for the year, thank you to everyone who joined us on Sunday for our trip to Avoca.
It was a pleasure to see so many buddies at our first group event for 2022. To see more photos from Sunday’s visit to the Beachside Markets, click here.
Cancelled
Please note, we have decided to cancel this forthcoming Saturday’s planned outing at Woy Woy’s Link and Pin. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
In terms of group catch ups, we’ll share more about our plans for February next week.
Sing your hearts out
This week we invite buddies to join us online for a group karaoke session.
Taking place on Thursday (27/1), this is your chance to sing alongside your fellow buddies. We'll load up your song choices, ready for everyone to have a go.
In addition to Thursday’s group karaoke, we also invite buddies to connect with us at 4pm tomorrow (Tuesday 25/1) for our weekly chat. To attend get in touch via text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
And to find out more about this week’s online offering (and to sign up), load up the link below:
Thursday 27 January
All online games will take place via Zoom. For information on how to use Zoom, load up the following easy read guide written by Learning Disability Wales. Alternatively, click here to check out our 'how to use Zoom' video.
If you have any questions or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org or call/SMS us on 0402 708 814.
A word from the pros
In light of the ongoing rise in Covid numbers we’re going to continue pushing referral services for those who may be struggling.
Mental Health First Aid Australia have issued the following guidelines on assisting someone distressed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and they’re also providing mental health first aid in the time of ‘social distancing. Additionally, the team from ideas.org.au have shared their ‘look after your mental health in the COVID-19 crisis’ list of ideas.
reachout.com have also released their 10 ways to take care of yourself during coronavirus guide, while for those of you now working from home, Black Dog Institute have put together the following checklist to support your mental health.
We’re here to chat
From our perspective, while we’re not trained professionals, we are available for a chat.
For anyone experiencing increased social isolation, send a text or call us at 0402 708 814 (Gig Buddies Central Coast) or 0422 061 990 (Gig Buddies Sydney).
Alternatively, feel free to get in touch via Facebook Messenger or connect courtesy of email: info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org or info@gigbuddiessydney.org
Matthew Collins
Gig Buddies Central Coast coordinator
Would you like more information about Gig Buddies Central Coast? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
Fancy revelling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.
Gig Buddies Central Coast is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.
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