A new event is coming to Sydney in an effort to bring together the numerous LGBTQIA+ sporting leagues of the city.
The event, Rise + Shine Party, is the brainchild of Jeremy James, who said he wanted to bring together the various “micro-communities” created by Sydney’s sport clubs
“We have these incredible sports and social clubs that deliver so much to their communities,” he said. “They all have their own social calendars but nothing to bring them together.”
Usually, sports clubs gather together at the annual Mardi Gras Fair Day event. Following that event’s cancellation this year due to an asbestos scare, James said his event idea built up steam.
“There was a missed opportunity to strengthen bonds between people and communities – and it is desired, as within a matter of weeks over 14 teams had signed up to the event,” he said.
The concept behind the name is simple:
“Rise” is to celebrate the rise through sports teams of the community and inclusivity within sport and “Shine” is to recognise advocates and volunteers within the community, who often don’t get time in the limelight.
The event will be held at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, which also hosted a Rainbow Beaches breakfast during Mardi Gras with the support of North Bondi Surf Club and Lifesavers with Pride.
The event is not-for-profit with proceeds from the tickets used to cover event costs.
All remaining funds will be donated to either ACON, previously known as the AIDS Council of NSW, or to fund community-building workshops.
“Our ideal objective is to raise enough funds to help individuals build toolkits for LGBTQIA+ advocacy work,” said James.
Some of the teams involved include the gay rugby club Sydney Convicts, Emerald City Kickball, boxing club The Hookers, the wrestling club Silverbacks, and the Stingers water polo club.
“Rise + gives us an opportunity to get together and socialise, rather than be siloed as clubs,” said Sydney Silverbacks club president Andrew Farrell.
“I think we really need to stay connected with each other and learn a lot about improving ways of working with our community.”
Said Daniel Kirkwood from Sydney Stingers: “Like many other LGBTQIA+ sporting organisations, we’re proud to offer our members the opportunity to socialise, stay active and healthy, and challenge themselves in a diverse and supportive environment,”
The event at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club runs from 3pm – 9pm on Saturday, April 27, with a bar and DJs.
Gay Sydney News reporter