The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most sought-after locations to live and visit, making it a popular choice for many members of the LGBTQIA+ community to call home or enjoy as a holiday destination.
The Sunshine Coast Pride Network was formed in 2008 and exists to foster connection, support, and solidarity within the local LGBTQIA+ community, promoting mutual celebration and recognition.
Our dedicated committee members organised the Sunshine Coast Pride Festival and other LGBTIQA+ events until 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic caused closure of many venues and re-directed funding streams. Since 2019, the Sunshine Coast Pride Network is also PROUD to be the Philanthropic Donor of the LGBTIQA+ Leadership Bursary at the University of the Sunshine Coast, which is valued at $1500 annually.
We are returning in 2025 with a revitalised website and new dates for the Sunshine Coast Pride Festival. The event aims to create a welcoming and enjoyable space for the LGBTQIA+ community, along with their families and friends, to come together and celebrate the diversity of our wonderful region. Stay tuned for more exciting developments!
ABOUT US
MEET THE TEAM
The Sunshine Coast Pride Festival is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ diversity, community and connection. Its mission is to foster a safe, inclusive and joyful space where LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families and allies can come together to honour and embrace the vibrant spectrum of identities and experiences that enrich our community.
The festival is proudly organised by the Sunshine Coast Pride Network, a dedicated group committed to advocating for LGBTQIA+ visibility, inclusion and equality in the region. Through collaboration with local organisations, businesses and volunteers, the Pride Network aims to uplift and empower the community through Pride Festival, while creating opportunities for engagement, education and celebration.
Marjorie Blowers
They / Them
Diversity & Inclusion Consultant
I’m a long standing advocate for the LGBTIQA Community and a Sunny Coaster all my life! I was one of the Founders of the Sunshine Coast Pride Network in 2008 and it’s been an honour to be of service to our community. I’m looking forward to working with a new amazing crew to bring community and connection back to the Sunshine Coast community.
Taz Calandruccio
He / Him
Social Media Manager
I have been living on the Sunshine Coast for 19 years with my husband Don and going strong. In 2021, we started up the LGBT+ community BBQ social group with one every two months, to bring our community together and create a safe space after COVID. It regularly attracts around 50 people, with over 100 attending the Christmas BBQ.
Marion Douglas
She / Her
Logistics Coordinator
I’ve been the coordinator for the LGBTQI+ Sunshine Coast Social Group since 2018 and have actively assisted other Sunshine Coast gay events over the years. Along with these three-monthly food and activity based catch-ups, I advocate for LGBTQIA+ people when they are in need (ie domestic violence or sexual identity issues).
Sophie deLightful
She / Her
Project Consultant
A performer, producer and grant-writer, I’m passionate and tenacious in my mission to deliver positive-impact arts experiences and increase visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community across the Sunshine Coast. I work full-time in the arts sector, managing a mobile circus business, cabaret production company and circus wellbeing not-for-profit, whilst also offering services as a curator, consultant and creative industry mentor.
MISSION STATEMENT
