The concept was previously floated after Hay’s successful celebration of the LGBTQI community in March this year.

Patrick Lawson – one of the city’s leading mental health advocates – told The Daily Advertiser there was “more than enough” scope for Wagga to host a festival too. 

Organiser Holly Conroy last week confirmed it was definitely happening. 

As one of Wagga’s most open transgender women, Miss Conroy has long advocated for acceptance in the face of homophobia and transphobia. 

The local sportswoman could barely contain her excitement as she revealed details of what she believed would be a wonderful, family-friendly event. 

“I’m keen as mustard,” Miss Conroy said. “I can’t wait.” 

The plans come after same-sex marriage was officially legalised across Australia late last year, with Riverina residents emphatically voting "yes" to the historic social change.

The following Mardi Gras in Sydney was the biggest yet, with an estimated 300,000 spectators and more than 12,000 participants lining the streets. 

Miss Conroy said a similar gay-and-lesbian street parade and party in Wagga would help to carry on the celebration of equality, further raising awareness and generating acceptance across the city.  

She said the event was still in its planning stage, with official the formalities still underway. 

Outside the paperwork, Miss Conroy said she was certain the dream would become a reality, with strong support from Wagga councillors and the Mayor. 

“It’s been a learning curve, planning an event of this scale,” she said. “But it’s totally worth it … it means so much to so many people.”

Painting a picture of her plans, she said a grand parade, featuring decorated floats and tastefully dressed residents, would begin at the top end of Baylis Street on March 9, bringing colour, light, music and glitter to the city. 

The parade is set to continue through to Victory Memorial Gardens, were a celebration will be held, featuring food, drinks, tunes, stalls and entertainment from 5pm until 9pm. 

Miss Conroy said an official after-party would be held at the Union Hotel from 9.30pm until late. She said details would be finalised in a website, she hoped to launch in September. 

“A lot of people are already thinking about costumes and floats though,” Miss Conroy said. 

“I just want to stress that floats must be legal to drive. 

“We also want to keep it as G-rated as possible, because it will be a family event.” 

Read more: