Coogee Beach’s rainbow walkway was unveiled with colourful fanfare by Randwick Mayor Danny Said, Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger, Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox and drag artists on Saturday 20 February 2021 in support of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

The event was opened and closed with performances by Sydney drag royalty Charisma Belle, Carmen Geddit and Hannah Conda, and was MC’d by Julie McCrossin, a Mardi Gras 78er, who was one of the marchers in the original Sydney Mardi Gras.

The vibrant 47-metre long rainbow, which follows the curve of the Coogee steps, was painted during the week between downpours in support of diversity, inclusivity and equality with the local LGBTQI+ community.

“It was a unanimous decision at Randwick Council to step up our celebrations this year,” stated Mayor Said. “The rainbow painted on this walkway is a beacon of hope, support and encouragement for our wonderfully diverse community and a celebration of the pride and passion of Mardi Gras.

“This year’s Mardi Gras theme of ‘rise’ is a timely reminder for everyone who has suffered over the past year that when we come together as a unified community in support of each other, with respect and the desire to understand each other, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.

“Getting the rainbow walkway installed was a logistical challenge given the downpours we have experienced this past week, but the result is a perfect reminder that we will not let rain, nor a pandemic, dampen our enthusiasm for Mardi Gras, for tolerance or for unity.”

Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger welcomed the unveiling of the rainbow walkway and the message it sends. “Local councils play a big part in all our lives and they have great power in being able to shape the community so that they are more inclusive and diverse. The Coogee Beach rainbow walkway will fill the LGBTQI+ community with pride and show them that they are loved and that they are welcome,” said Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger.

Look for the hashtag #CoogeeRainbow on social media and tag @RandwickCouncil in your photos.

Where is the Coogee rainbow walkway?

The rainbow walkway can be found on the lower main steps of Coogee Beach near the corner of Arden Street and Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee.