UPDATE, FEBRUARY 14: In sad news, Sydney Mardi Gras and the City of Sydney have confirmed today that the upcoming Mardi Gras Fair Day event that was meant to take place on Sunday, February 18, will be cancelled. On Monday, February 12, following advice from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) about possible asbestos contamination in mulch, test results found bonded asbestos at Victoria Park, where 70,000 people were set to congregate for the annual event.
The City and Mardi Gras have been working together closely over the past two days to coordinate clean-up of the affected areas while bumping in Fair Day infrastructure in time to hold the event. Following a more detailed investigation into the safety concerns at Victoria Park, it has become clear that an event of the scale of Fair Day is unable to proceed this Sunday.
For the uninitiated, Fair Day is a free community event that usually leads the charge for the annual Sydney Mardi Gras Festival with a colourful kaleidoscope of activities for all ages. From the dynamic First Nations Circle and the beloved Doggywood pageant to the innovative Trans Camp, the lively Karaoke Cave, big main stage acts, and DJs bringing the vibes, there's always a bunch of market stalls, food trucks, and LGBTQIA+ community information booths.
The City and Sydney Mardi Gras said in a statement today that they will continue to work together to deliver other events over the 17 days of the festival.
“It breaks our heart to see this Sunday not go ahead, but given the safety concerns we must put our communities’ wellbeing first,” said Mardi Gras CEO Gil Beckwith. “Our festival is still bursting with events ready to welcome and celebrate with our community. Oxtravaganza on 24 February is a free community event that shines a spotlight on our local Gaybourhood businesses, many of which were set to participate in Fair Day; and festival highlights, including Bondi Beach Party, Parade and Mardi Gras Party, remain unaffected.”
“This cancellation is a setback, however it presents us with an opportunity to unite and support one another more strongly. The rest of our festival continues unchanged, offering many chances over the 17 days for our communities to come together in celebration and solidarity.”