We’ve had a wonderful response to last week’s Mardi Gras news.
As we revealed, we’ve been accepted to march in this year’s parade - and we’re looking for participants from the Sydney and Central Coast Gig Buddies’ projects to join us as we show support for the LGBTQI+ community and celebrate diversity.
For anyone who would like to be part of the parade, you have until this Thursday (27/1) to register your interest.
We have 40 places available and we’re on the search for dancers, placard and banner holders, a photographer / videographer and - for those who can’t make it on night but would like to help out - prop designers and make-up artists.
To see a complete list of roles, and to find out how you can join us, click here.
Please note, in the interest of fairness, this year we’re requesting buddies submit an ‘expression of interest’. We want to ensure as many people as possible have the chance to sample the amazing experience that comes with marching in the Mardi Gras; depending on the level of demand, we may hold a ballot to determine who attends.
Furthermore, in order to join us at this year's Mardi Gras you are required to be a fully signed up user of the Gig Buddies program.
Tell me more….
This year’s Mardi Gras takes place on Saturday 5 March at the world famous Sydney Cricket Ground.
As per Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade policies, we need to inform event organisers of who’ll be marching with us by the beginning of February. Therefore, we’re asking people to register before Thursday 27 January.
For those not in the know, we made our Mardi Gras debut last year. In what can only be described as a ‘truly remarkable experience’, we can’t wait to do it once again in 2022. To see what happened in 2021, click here to check out our photo and video gallery.
If you have any questions about involvement with Sydney Mardi Gras or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, get in touch on Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on either 0422 061 990 or 0412 145 819.
Bridging Buddies
New for 2022, we’re excited to share news of our ‘bridging buddies’ concept.
For all fully signed up and NDIS paying buddies who are still waiting for a volunteer, we have come up with a solution.
To ensure buddies-in-waiting do not miss out on any of the fun, a Gig Buddies Sydney staff member will attend monthly catch-ups with you. Like any traditional pairing, all outings take place at a time and location that works for both of you.
The idea is to ensure more buddies benefit from being part of the program - and that no one misses out while we take care of the admin side of things.
If you would like to know more about our ‘bridging buddies’ concept, get in touch by sending us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, reach out courtesy of Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on either 0422 061 990 or 0412 145 819.
A slice of culture
We have a limited number of discounted tickets for sale to Doug Aitken's New Era exhibition, currently taking place at the MCA.
Earlier this month we spent an evening at the picturesque museum, sampling the event. We recommend it highly!
To book your ticket (and to find out more information about the event) load up the following link:
Sing your hearts out
This week we invite buddies to join us online for a group karaoke session.
Taking place on Thursday (27/1), this is your chance to sing alongside your fellow buddies. We'll load up your song choices, ready for everyone to have a go.
In addition to Thursday’s group karaoke, we also invite buddies to connect with us at 4pm tomorrow (Tuesday 25/1) for our weekly chat. To attend get in touch via text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
And to find out more about this week’s online offering (and to sign up), load up the link below:
Thursday 27 January
All online games will take place via Zoom. For information on how to use Zoom, load up the following easy read guide written by Learning Disability Wales. Alternatively, click here to check out our 'how to use Zoom' video.
If you have any questions or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org or call/SMS us on 0402 708 814.
Firsts for the year
We can happily reveal the first Sydney pairing for 2022.
Here’s us introducing Tracey and Keeley (above, L - R). We look forward to seeing you out and about and hearing about your forthcoming adventures.
A trio of newbies
And we’d also like to welcome our latest batch of trained volunteers - the first for 2022.
Thanks to Anuj (top), Alina (middle) and Olivia (bottom) for logging on last week. We’re looking forward to next steps and introducing you to your respective buddies.
A word from the pros
In light of the ongoing rise in Covid numbers we’re going to continue pushing referral services for those who may be struggling.
Mental Health First Aid Australia have issued the following guidelines on assisting someone distressed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and they’re also providing mental health first aid in the time of ‘social distancing. Additionally, the team from ideas.org.au have shared their ‘look after your mental health in the COVID-19 crisis’ list of ideas.
reachout.com have also released their 10 ways to take care of yourself during coronavirus guide, while for those of you now working from home, Black Dog Institute have put together the following checklist to support your mental health.
We’re here to chat
From our perspective, while we’re not trained professionals, we are available for a chat.
For anyone experiencing increased social isolation, send a text or call us at 0422 061 990 (Gig Buddies Sydney) or 0402 708 814 (Gig Buddies Central Coast).
Alternatively, feel free to get in touch via Facebook Messenger or connect courtesy of email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org
Matthew, Carol, Tony, Bec and Chelsea
Would you like more information about Gig BuddiesSydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
Fancy revelling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.
The Gig Buddies Sydney project is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.
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