By Jen Gourley
After some showers this morning, a host of rainbows appeared over Lions Park in Biloela – quite literally. Rainbow bunting, rainbow flags, rainbow balloons, rainbow badges, you name it… Why all the rainbows? Today was Biloela’s first ever Pride Picnic in the Park!
Hosted by Bilo Rainbow, a new organisation formed by LGBTQIA+ residents in BIloela, and Central Queensland Rural Health, the park was packed with music, markets, tasty food stalls, information booths and lots more.
Entertainment included dynamic drag performances by Wanda dParke and Felisha Copperload, both former residents of Biloela; singers from Studio 21; Compulsive Liars; Minus One; and Ruby Come Back.
Jodie van de Wetering was the emcee and kept the crowds informed and entertained with some great jokes.
Founder and President of Bilo Rainbow, Gen Dippel, said, “This is an important step for the LGBTQIA+ community in Biloela, who often report feeling isolated. We aim for this event to aid in deepening community connection, create a safe place for LGBTQIA+ people, especially the youth, and promote acceptance and understanding in our community.”
From babies and happy kids running around with balloons to families and those in their 70s, the park was packed with people clearly having a wonderful time.
It truly was a fun, joyful, inclusive event and Bilo Rainbow and Central Queensland Rural Health can take Pride in that.
