To mark its 20th anniversary, Pride WA has chosen the theme of ‘Homecoming‘ for the 2009 festival in September and October.
‘It was an idea by one of the committee members and the intention is to get people who have moved away from Perth to come back for the 20th annual festival. That’s also why we have started early promotion,’ said Male Co-President Andrew Baietta.
After facing a $36000+ debt in 2007, Pride has turned itself around in 2008 with a steady line up of profitable community events, which Baietta says will help fund a large 20th celebration.
‘Everything is going really well. We have made a decent profit this year and we have cash in the bank… Financially, the organisation is looking forward to putting on a great festival,’ Baietta continued, saying that Strategic Planner Trudy Turner, who Connections Nightclub sponsors on behalf of Pride WA, would ensure that upcoming arts grant applications and other financial opportunities were taken advantage of.
In addition to moving the organization from red to black in 2008, this year’s Pride committee expanded its community offerings to include a more diverse line-up events, such as the first ever Family Fun Day on December 14 at Beattie Park. Baietta said the offering was an effort to reach out to a larger segment of the community who have children and provide an event for them.
Despite a sweltering 40? day, the Pride committee were pleased with the way the event turned out. ‘Although the attendance wasn’t great the atmosphere was really good, really relaxed. It was a great chance for the committee members to integrate and socialise with the people who were there. Even though it was low-key, the event itself was really successful,’ said Baietta.
Pride’s next major event will be a Quiz Night on February 27th. The 2009 Pride AGM has been scheduled for Wednesday, March 4. For more information on Pride events, visit their website www.pridewa.asn.au.
Megan Smith
CORRECTION: In the print version of this story, OUTinPerth incorrectly stated the AGM would be held on March 3rd. Please note the AGM will be held on Wednesday, March 4th. We regret the error.
