Melbourne Groups Score Mardi Gras Awards

Local News, By Travis de Jonk, 7th May, 2009

Australia United, a Melbourne initiated Mardi Gras parade group took out the top Judges Choice award at the Mardi Gras Parade Awards in Sydney.

Put together in the eleventh hour, the parade group was created in honour of the Australian spirit in the face of disaster and adversity. The entry, with it’s participants all dressed in black with yellow ribbons, led a contingent of Australia’s emergency services, and was without doubt a bold statement in this year’s parade.

“Australians suffered terrible disasters this year. From floods to record bushfires. Lives were lost, property was lost… but everyone came together and did what they could to make things better. What came through was the strength of the Australian spirit, and that’s what the Australia United float was really about.” Explains Australia United organizer Felicity Brinschwitz.

“It was also to honour all those people… gay, lesbian, queer and other who were affected by the fires and floods, and to honour those who risk their lives to save the lives of others, not just at times of disaster, but everyday. Likewise, that is what happened with the group. People came together, to make a difference and to make things better. Differences were put aside in a bold display of solidarity.”

When asked about how she and the group felt about their win, Brinschwitz said “I’m still in the process of letting people know about the win. It’s such a thrill to be awarded the [Judges Choice] award. When I first got the notion to organize the group, I didn’t know how it would all come together. But people really came together, and with the help of LOTL magazine, we were able to make it into something strong and meaningful statement we intended.”

Australia United was not the only Melbourne group to take out a top gong. Melbourne Mardi Gras Group (MMGG), who this year marched in Mardi Gras for the last time, was awarded the title of Best Costume Design at the Mardi Gras Parade Awards in Sydney.

Titled Our Final Voyage the MMGG 2009 march saw participants dress up in a Pirates Of the Caribbean theme, and marching along to Dutch club hit Destination Unknown. After five years of being one of the freshest, fleshiest and sexiest entries in the annual Australian Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, the group announced that this year would be it’s final after it’s key organizer Danni Crowe announced she was leaving the group to persue new life challenges. The group’s win hasn’t changed the groups decision to disband.

“Organising groups like MMGG take up a lot of personal energy… in fact much more than most people realize”, Ms Crowe explained to Same Same back in 2008, “I love this group with all my heart, and all that we have achieved. I’ve had some changes recently within my work and family life. But with life and family, you only really get one shot. I just want to make sure I don’t miss what is important and deserves my attention”

Crowe has taken up a position as personal assistant to gay Big Brother contestant and celebrity Sheep Farmer David Graham. She has also been doing the occasional DJing gig. How does Crowe feel about the win?

“This year’s march was the most emotional experience for me, as you know, from rehearsals to the march to our Fabulosity after party. I love the people in the group more than I can express, and I’m so proud that we went out with a bang, and got an award for it too. Life goes on. I saw firsthand how much participating in MMGG inspired people. I’m sure an exciting new era awaits Melbourne’s marching groups…”