Sussan Ley (Farrer, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On 7 December last year, this parliament created history by passing new same-sex marriage laws. Forty years ago, Sydney created history with its first Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. It is my pleasure to inform the House that the community of Hay in western New South Wales begins its own history this weekend with the first Rainbow on the Plains Hay Mardi Gras Festival. Coinciding with Sydney's and 700 kilometres out west, we're expecting a bumper crowd of around 250.

As a tough town, more famous for being the heart and soul of the Riverina shearing industry, Hay is not known for its socially progressive attitudes. In the front bar of the Riv Hotel recently, I questioned the regulars. One said to me that they imagined a float in the parade, which would say: 'I voted No. But I'm ok with it now.' Organisers of this bush mardi gras want the event to be about inclusion and fundraising rather than pushing an agenda, with proceeds going to the Hay Can Assist—the town's local cancer support group. As one noted this week, 'We may be in the middle of "nowhere" but we are caring, loving, accepting and want to show everyone how welcoming we can be.' I hear that rainbows are decorating the main street, accommodation is booking out and country people are getting ready to do what they do best—put on a fabulous reception and party hard.