Rainbow Ball
Published on 01 June 2023
Rural City of Wangaratta has made the difficult decision to delay the Rainbow Ball.
This decision has been made for the safety of event participants due to the event being targeted by groups with radical views.
“Rural City of Wangaratta strongly supports our LGBTIQA+ community,” said Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees.
“There has been some confronting commentary around the Rainbow Ball circulated on social media, and because of this, we have chosen to prioritise the safety of all attendees and staff and delay the event.”
“We are extremely disappointed that there has been some hateful narrative around this event, we do not accept this but we cannot risk an event that is about fun and celebration posing a risk to anyone attending.”
“Prioritising the safety of our community, especially our youth, is not negotiable but we will aim to reschedule this event to enable all LGBTQIA+ young people, allies, and friends across the greater north east region of Victoria to celebrate together.”
“Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people. We have a diverse and vibrant community and all members of our community have the right to feel safe and be themselves here.”
Rural City of Wangaratta is working with partner organisations and the community of the north east to support people affected by these circumstances.
If this information causes any distress or you would like support at this time please reach out:
- Q Life 1800 184 527 between 3pm – 12am
- Rainbow Door on phone 1800 729 367 or text 0480 017 246 between 10am – 5pm
- Lifeline on 13 11 14