The director of programming and operations at Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has resigned after four years at the organisation.
Peter John Gahan, known by colleagues as “PJ”, recently announced on LinkedIn that he would be exiting the organisation.
“After 4 seasons I have made the tough decision to leave my current employment and search for new opportunities across performing arts, events, risk and emergency management,” Gahan said on May 10.
“Please get in touch if you have any opportunities that may be suitable.”
His last day at Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will be June 30.
In a cryptic message posted on his LinkedIn on Tuesday, just before Gay Sydney News reached out to Gahan for comment about his resignation, he wrote:
“Contemplating the dynamics of team cohesion within a company, it’s imperative to acknowledge the disruptive influence of toxic elements. Just as a poison apple can taint the entire barrel, the presence of discord within an organisation can impede productivity and morale. Let’s cultivate a culture of mutual respect and open communication, empowering every team member to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our shared goals. #TeamDynamics #HealthyCulture#EventIndustry.”
Gahan’s post and his LinkedIn profile have since been deleted.
Contacted for comment about Tuesday’s post and why he was leaving Sydney Gay & Lesbain Mardi Gras, Gahan on Tuesday night referred Gay Sydney News to Mardi Gras.
But he clarified that the LinkedIn post about “team cohesion” had nothing to do with the Mardi Gras organisation but rather the industry more broadly.
In a statement, a Mardi Gras spokesperson said: “As with other festivals around Australia, our small team works incredibly hard, and their dedication makes our festival possible. After over 4 years with Mardi Gras, at the finalisation of his contract PJ informed us of his decision not to return for the 2025 season.
“PJ has made significant contributions during his time with us, and he will be greatly missed by the entire Mardi Gras team. PJ was instrumental in transferring our parade to the SCG [Sydney Cricket Ground] during the uncertainty of COVID, and in delivering the mammoth Sydney WorldPride celebrations.
“We are forever grateful to PJ for his important role with us and wish him nothing but the best for the future.”
Mardi Gras said it would be going through the process of hiring someone to replace Gahan “later in the year”.
“Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras looks forward to welcoming new talent to our team,” Mardi Gras said.
Editor’s note: Journalist Ben Grubb is a Mardi Gras member for discount purposes only.
Ben Grubb is the founder and editor of Gay Sydney News, an independent publication covering LGBTQIA+ news. A journalist with more than 15 years' experience, he has reported and edited for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, WAToday, Brisbane Times, The Australian Financial Review, News.com.au, ZDNet, TelecomTimes and iTnews, primarily on the topic of technology. He previously hosted The Informer, a queer current affairs program on Melbourne’s JOY 94.9 radio station, and contributes to LGBTQIA+ media including Stun Magazine. Ben has also appeared as a technology commentator on Channel Ten's The Project, ABC RN’s Download This Show and commercial radio stations 2UE, 2GB and 6PR. Contact Ben: ben.grubb@gaysydneynews.com.au
