Victoria will become home to a two-month pride festival starting in December, calling for regional involvement in events spread across the state.
Goulburn Valley Pride Shepparton president Deb Chumbley has welcomed the announcement of Victoria’s Pride, saying it’s especially significant for those living regionally.
“It’s life-changing for LGBTQIA+ members to see people in their community out and proud,” she said.
“The toll of mental health in our community is quite high, so it’s important to have these events face-to-face and visible.”
In partnership with LGBTQIA+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma, grants of up to $15,000 are available for regional artists and groups wanting to create projects as part of the celebrations.
GV Pride has confirmed its application is on its way, though the finer details of what sort of celebration will occur are still to be decided.
A government investment of $6.8 million will see Victoria’s Pride run annually over the next four years.
It came as an expansion of Melbourne Pride, a statewide event held across the 2021-22 summer that marked more than 40 years since the decriminalisation of sex between men in Victoria.
Ms Chumbley said while the festival was an exciting opportunity and a step in the right direction, there was still room for growth.
“Hopefully one day we don’t need to be out and proud all of the time, that the visibility is just there,” she said.
“But until then it’s a great step.”
Applications close Monday, September 16.
For more information, visit www.midsumma.org.au/regional-activation