GRAI – GLBT Rights in Aging Inc and Vic Park Pride are excited that one of Western Australia’s most exciting LGBTIQ+ events – Perth Barn Dance, will be back bigger and better thanks to a $7500 grant from the ANZ & Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants.
GRAI Deputy Chair and Perth Barn Dance organiser, Adrian Tilby said that the grant would ensure that plans were well underway for the 2021 intergenerational LGBTIQ+ hoedown at Perth City Farm.
“Like many community events we were worried if this year’s event could even be held, but thanks to Perth City Farm, the City of Perth and all our amazing volunteers from Vic Park Pride, not only did we hold a COVID safe event, but it was a sellout!”
“GRAI is thrilled to receive this significant grant and will use the funds to deliver an even bigger and better event in 2021.” Adrian said.
Perth Barn Dance was first held in 2019 to provide a celebration of WA’s LGBTIQ+ community and has resonated LGBTIQA+ people of all ages with over 1000 attending over the two past years.
Adrian explained “We’ve had lots of feedback that Perth Barn Dance is not just a chance to put on the boots and have a dance. People have told us how it’s given them a safe place to express themselves, building a sense of social connection and improve their wellbeing, confidence and resilience.”
“It couldn’t continue without the fabulous LGBTIQA+ community support and our amazing volunteers and all their hard work.”
Planning is now well underway for the August 2021 event with Sat 21st Aug set as the date and the Mucky Duck Bush Band booked. The ANZ Mardi Gras grant will also allow other new exciting initiatives yet to be announced.
“On behalf of GRAI and the wider WA LGBTIQA+ community we want to say thank you to ANZ and Mardi Gras for supporting us and this fabulous event.”
ENDS