Wagga Pride

In this episode, we meet Holly Conroy, the founder of Wagga Mardi Gras. Holly shares her journey from growing up and transitioning in the rural town of Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia, to launching the first Pride Mardi Gras event in the area. Despite initial fears and challenges, especially in a traditional country setting, Holly received overwhelming community support which fueled her ambition to showcase that rural areas can positively embrace LGBTQ+ events. Documenting her experiences in the SBS series Untold Australia: Country Town Pride, Holly reveals the behind-the-scenes effort, community and family focus, and personal perseverance that turned Wagga Mardi Gras into a widely supported and successful annual event, even overcoming initial sponsorship hurdles and logistical challenges without a formal committee. As she looks toward the future, Holly and her dedicated committee aim to continue growing the event, maintaining its family-friendly atmosphere and community-driven spirit.

 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:26 Growing Up in Wagga and Transitioning

01:55 Inception of Wagga Mardi Gras

02:45 Documentary and Community Response

03:31 Organizing the First Mardi Gras

05:44 Challenges and Support

08:39 Success and Growth of the Event

18:28 Family-Friendly Focus

23:48 Future Plans and Sponsorship

28:43 Upcoming Event Details

31:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts