Southern NSW Local Health District celebrated Pride Week in February with vibrant events, including a Mini Mardi Gras Float Competition, reinforcing our commitment to LGBTIQ+ inclusion.
The week featured activities designed to educate, connect, and inspire staff and allies while promoting awareness of LGBTIQ+ history and health, supporting our Pride in Southern initiative.
"Pride in Southern is about breaking down barriers and ensuring that our healthcare system is inclusive for everyone," said Lee Caldwell, Pride in Southern Project Officer.
"We want to create lasting, positive cultural change so all staff and consumers feel safe and valued."
Central to the week was a Mini Mardi Gras Float Competition. Teams transformed toy trucks into fabulous floats featuring banners and messages of LGBTIQ+ inclusion.
"The creativity was incredible," Lee said. "Our virtual parade showcased the pride and talent of our community."
Mini Mardi Gras Float Parade - Pride Week 2025
After much deliberation, the Virtually enhanced Community Care (VeCC) team emerged as the winner, claiming bragging rights and a Pride hamper filled with sweet treats and rainbow merch. Honorable mentions went to Braidwood Multi-Purpose Service for their sequin-covered Ally-ship and the Bega Community Alcohol and Other Drugs team for their inventive mini-parade within a mini-parade.
"This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to make Pride Week an annual tradition," added Lee.