“We have had a lot of interest from the community, a lot of people wanting to volunteer and just be involved,” Foreman told OUTinPerth.

“It’s great to have so much support, that way we know we are filling a need in the community. There are a couple of groups in our area that run events for LGBTQIA, OUTsouthwest (formerly True Colours), Spectrum, a couple of social groups and a night called Hoe Down which is just for lesbians. There is no ‘gay club’ and we were in a position to provide that so we started getting ideas together and here we are on the cusp of our first event.”

Foreman said Umbrella wants to provide a safe space for like-minded people in the area.

“There are two nightclubs in town and they cater to the same demographic and play the same music. We want to offer something different, something more like home.”

The gang are also keen to bring local entertainers and performers along for the ride.

“Our first event features two local DJs. Scissorfist is a pretty cool character, plays retro party beats and conducts herself with a lot of style and pizazz, and Mr. Alchemy is into deep house and produces a lot of his own music.”

Foreman says Umbrella are setting out to run the event once a month and build on the event as it draws more attention – hoping to eventuate in a weekly soiree. Umbrella will also be bringing the after party to Bunbury’s PrideFEST this year for the very first time.

“The Bunbury PrideFEST this year is at the Graham Bricknell Shell from 3 – 8pm, Saturday 4th November. We are only 500 meters from there so we will bring the party over!”

Umbrella Rainbow Party will be at The Indi Bar on Elliot St in Bunbury on Saturday August 26th from 9pm. For more information, or if you’re interested in providing entertainment at upcoming events, hit up Umbrella Nightlife on Facebook or shoot them an email at umbrellanightlife@gmail.com.

Leigh Andrew Hill