The powerful roar of the Dykes on Bikes’ engines signal the start of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade every year, but during the event’s history there’s been a vast array of lesbian marching groups too – and we’ve planned to recreate some of the crowd favourites for 2018 as we look across forty years of magical Mardi Gras Parade moments.

Whether it’s the iconic Lemonettes, the choreographed Cowgirls, the legion of Xena Warrior Princesses, the Boogie Woogie Bugle Girls or the Navratolvas, we’ve had decades of amazing all-women groups in the Parade, and it’s high time some of them reappeared!

Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhanna

Among Mardi Gras’ special floats for the 40th Anniversary Parade on Saturday 3 March will be a special one honouring the Parade’s lesbian history – and we’re seeking volunteers to be part of it. Choreographer Virginia Ferris, renowned for choreographing the Marching Girls throughout the 1990’s, says she’s looking for women of all ages to register their interest to be a part of the 2018 Lesbian Marching Girls float produced by Mardi Gras.

“I am so proud that we are celebrating Lesbian involvement over 40 years in Mardi Gras Parades,” says Mardi Gras CEO Terese Casu.

“These iconic moments in history are well remembered and gave such strength and passage to our lesbian community. I can’t wait to present this wonderful float and honour the women who marched in our Parades over so many years.”

UPDATE: The 2018 Lesbian Marching Girls Float is now full. Those who have applied will be contacted shortly.