Castlemaine takes Pride

The iconic Dog Show is always a highlight. Photo: Leonie Van Eyk

The much-loved Castlemaine Pride Picnic is on again this Saturday November 8 at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens.

A flagship event of Castlemaine Pride, a local volunteer-led community group, the Pride Picnic brings together the LGBTQIASB+ community and allies to celebrate the culture, history, creativity and resilience of the local community.

Throughout the year, Castlemaine Pride runs a variety of events that foster connection, inclusion and visibility across Mount Alexander Shire.

This year, Castlemaine Pride has partnered with Bi+ Pride Victoria to put on a free, family-friendly event packed with live music, entertainment, delicious food trucks and stalls from local services and businesses, and of course, the annual dog show!

This year’s program will feature performances by Wild Gloriosa, Sunset Jam, Shanti Steventon, Castlemaine Circus and a boot scootin’ class by Country Struts.

Castlemaine Pride committee member Cristina Pantazis said whether you were picnicking, strutting, singing or simply existing – community made you stronger.

“Whether you are ‘out’, questioning, an ally, or showing up with curiosity and an open heart – your presence is what makes this event shine,” Cristina said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their furry friends to take part in the iconic dog show, and to join in the Gender Affirming Catwalk, proudly sponsored by The Good Op shop.

The Pride Picnic is supported by Vic Government’s Pride Events and Festivals Fund and Mount Alexander Shire Council. Castlemaine Pride is a program of Castlemaine Community House.

For more information, follow Castlemaine Pride on social media or visit the website castlemainepride.org.au