Celebrating its silver anniversary this November, SpringOUT promises a month-long extravaganza of events, bringing together the queer community and allies in a joyous celebration of pride and inclusivity. We had the pleasure of chatting with Lynne O'Brien, the passionate president of SpringOUT, to learn more about this milestone year and what attendees can look forward to.
SpringOUT, a beloved event in Canberra, has adopted the theme "Celebrating 25 Years of PRIDE in the CAPITAL" for this year's 2024 festival. Lynne shared her excitement about marking this significant milestone with a brand-new, device-friendly website and a plethora of grassroots and mainstream events happening throughout November.
Reflecting on the festival's history, Lynne recounted its humble beginnings in 1999.
"What started as a small, intimate gathering has grown exponentially. Today, aside from the quieter COVID years of 2019 and 2020, SpringOUT regularly attracts over 15,000 to 20,000 attendees. This growth is a testament to the festival's commitment to community engagement and support for smaller groups and organisations."
With something for everyone, one of the standout aspects of SpringOUT 2024 is the diverse lineup of events.
The festival kicks off with a Fringe Theatre event from Everyman Theatre, featuring the Canberra premiere of "The Inheritance" by Matthew Lopez, showing at the ARTS HUB from Thursday, 12 October.
The opening SpringOUT event, 'Fair Day,' at Glebe Park, is set for Saturday, 2 November and promises to be a day of joy filled with entertainment, drag, music, food and a fabulously queer market, all culminating with a retro George Michael after-party starring Sexy Galexy and some hot local talent.
Photo: Canberra Qwire
The festival also includes literary and cinematic offerings, with Marion Writers presenting several ‘Queer Lit’ events and Screen Canberra showcasing ‘Queer Stories’ at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA).
Sports enthusiasts can look forward to events organised by ACT Veterans Rugby, including a Women’s Rugby Match, and an inclusive sports day curated by Reclink Australia at Duntroon Oval.
Plus Emerald City Kickball will also be showcasing a special exhibition game ahead of their big launch in Canberra!
Festival favourites like the Pink Tennis Bushdance, the Qwire Concert at Llewellyn Hall, and Elders Speak at CMAG are set to return. Questacon will open its doors to the community with SciNight: Refraction on Friday, 22 November, and the Canberra Theatre will host a season of performances of "Briefs" from 20–23 November culminating in a brunch performance on Saturday 23 November.
The month-long festivities will finish up with a big rainbow bang at the ‘Heaven Nightclub Reunion’ on Saturday 30 November, celebrating Canberra’s first out-and-proud gay and lesbian nightclub with DJs YA YA, Just Wayne, and a lineup of Heaven DJs and local queer performers blasting back from the past!
Then it's time to chill and relax at the famous FUSE Big Gay Breakfast, in our 16th year, which will be held at Tilley's in Lyneham on Sunday 1 December 9am - Noon.
Lynne expressed her pride in being part of such a vibrant community and noted the wonderful organic nature of SpringOUT’s collaborations with local businesses and organisations. She encouraged community members to contact her if they wish to be included in the festival calendar.
"Many connections are formed through community attendance and the sharing of ideas for new events. The festival continually seeks to offer a wide range of diverse and inclusive events."
As with so many community pride organisations, Volunteers also play a crucial role in keeping the cogs turning. Lynne told us that the festival committee is comprised of dedicated volunteers who give their time to support the community. If you would like to be involved, calls for volunteers for Fair Day and other SrpingOUT events will be going out soon. Those interested can register through the SpringOUT website.
When asked about her most cherished memories, Lynne fondly recalled the SpringOUT 20th Anniversary Ball, where the ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and his partner Anthony practised their vows onstage before their wedding later that year. The audience's emotional response to the bouquet toss remains a highlight for her. Other memorable moments include the community picnic in Glebe Park, where the Canberra Dykes on Bikes escorted two rainbow-clad drag queens to the stage, and the always delightful QWIRE concerts.
Looking ahead, she expressed her hopes for the future of SpringOUT and the queer community and envisions continued growth, joy, and acceptance, with LGBTIQ+ community members feeling safe and heard.
With a rich history and a vibrant future, SpringOUT is set to continue being a vibrant celebration of pride and community in Canberra.
The SpringOUT Festival in Canberra runs from 1-30 November 2024. Check out the full line up of festival events at springout.com.au
SPRINGOUT FESTIVAL 2024
1-30 November 2024
Canberra ACT
springout.com.au
FUSE Magazine is proud to be a SpringOUT Media Sponsor.
READ FUSE ONLINE
READ FUSE DIGITAL