Rainbow Revolution Takes Over Northbridge
The streets of Northbridge were awash with vibrant colour and celebration as Western Australia's largest LGBTQI+ event, PrideFest 2025, kicked off with an spectacular parade on November 29. The atmosphere was electric as thousands gathered to witness what many describe as Perth's most fabulous celebration, marked by lights, rainbows, and incredible community spirit.
Dykes on Bikes Lead Historic Parade
Leading the procession were the iconic Dykes on Bikes, with WA president Nomes participating in her 32nd pride parade after decades in the Sydney event. This year marked a significant milestone for the group. "For the first time ever, we've got boys on bikes and we have pops on bikes," Nomes explained. "It's a really big thing for us. It hasn't happened before and shows that we're quite united and we support everybody and anybody at the end of the day."
The group, sponsored by Perth and Rockingham Harley Davidson, ensures visiting participants from Sydney, New Zealand, and beyond always have bikes available. Nomes described the collective as "the most laid back, simple, easy going people" who support anyone regardless of identity.
Spectacular Floats and Growing Community Support
The parade featured numerous highlights that captivated the massive Northbridge crowds. Revelers enjoyed WA gay club The Courts' massive float featuring champagne showers and a giant bubble bath trailing bubbles across the route. Club Fiesta's choreographed dance troupe delivered a energetic performance, while Rainbow Family's WA presented a Wicked-themed crossover with multiple Elphabas and Glindas.
Rams development coach David Weir, marching in his fourth Pride Parade, expressed excitement about the event's continuous growth. "It's pretty amazing to see all the different groups, all the different representations," Weir said. "We're a sports club, but then obviously there's community groups, and it's wonderful to see the reach and it's gotten bigger and more exciting."
He noted that the crowds in Northbridge were particularly huge this year, with people filling bars and restaurants in anticipation of the parade.
Visibility Through Inclusive Sports
The Perth Rams, an inclusive Rugby Union club with predominantly LGBTQIA+ membership, highlighted the importance of visibility in sports. David Weir emphasized how crucial this representation is for players who might not feel comfortable sharing their sexuality in other sporting environments. "Visibility is the big thing," he stated. "I played since I was a kid, but lots of the guys on our team never felt comfortable, and so the Perth Rams and all the other sports groups are there as a bit of a beacon for these people who see the opportunity and can come and have a go."
The Fremantle Dockers also made a strong showing with their float, featuring new recruit Mason Cox, demonstrating broad support across different sectors of the Western Australian community.
As the celebration continues, PrideFest 2025 stands as a powerful testament to Western Australia's growing commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the right for everyone to celebrate their authentic selves in a spectacular, colourful, and united community event.
