Pride March planning on track says President

Organisers of Victoria’s 18th annual Pride March are gearing up for a big turnout at this years event, following the inclement weather that plagued the march in 2012 and cost the organisation over $20,000.

It’s believed over 80 groups have already registered from across Melbourne and greater regional Victoria to participate on Sunday, February 3.

Along with members of the GLBTI community, footballer Jason Ball will help lead the crowd from the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

Following the march’s official formalities, celebrations will continue Pride’s ‘Party in the park’ at Catani Gardens, followed by the after party, ‘Party with Pride’, at the GH.

Pride March Victoria, President Shane Marquis, said preparations for the event are coming along well.

“Our entertainment line up is headed by the one and only Joel Creasy and is looking bigger than ever before,” he said.

Unlike the wild weather that devastated last year’s Pride March, which cost the organisation $23,019 in losses, Marquis said Pride 2013 is looking to be more favourable.

“Our finances are still precarious, although greatly improved,” he said.
 
“This year we may again be reporting a deficit but it will be small.”

“The bar in Catani Gardens is our biggest revenue source and we encourage every one to support us and come after the march to have a drink and enjoy the sunshine and the entertainment.”

At the time of print, the Bureau of Meteorology had not yet released forecasts for February 3.

The 18th annual Pride March will be held on Sunday, February 3, with assembly at the corner of Lakeside Drive and Fitzroy Streets, St Kilda at 12 noon. Speeches will begin at 1:30pm, with the march starting at 2pm. After march celebrations will be held at Catani Gardens. See midsumma.org.au or pridemarch.com.au  

Image: (Shane Marquis, President, Pride March Victoria.)