2DayFM signs on to be partner for Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras

Sydney’s 2DayFM is the new partner for Sydney’s iconic Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras.

The 12-month partnership includes initiatives and executions across the entire Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) Hit Network. This will include listener participation via the national Drive show Carrie & Tommy in designing floats and costumes for the parade, with help from 2DayFM’s new Breakfast show, The Morning Crew with Hughesy, Ed & Erin. 

The parade’s radio partnership was previously the domain of KIIS FM, and parent company Australian Radio Network (ARN) has been approached for comment.

Once a month across the 12-month partnership, the Hit Network’s Tom & Olly, on air from 10pm weekdays, will highlight a LGBTIQA+artist, comedian or actor and celebrate their achievements. Once a month, the Hit Network’s entertainment reporter Justin Hill will also interview a community ally to highlight who they are and what they have done to support the community on The Ally Podcast. 

2DayFM will also provide ongoing support for the community on key dates such as International Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31), International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17), National Coming Out Day (October 11), and World AIDS Day (December 1).

Head of the Hit Network, Gemma Fordham, said: “We are very excited about this returning relationship with Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras is Sydney on show to the world and we feel incredibly passionate at 2DayFM about putting what resources we can behind shining a light on important LGBTQIA+ issues and uniting all communities. Our on air and behind the scenes teams are synonymous with creating fun so I know we are going to have the best time bringing it all to life.”

Mardi Gras CEO, Albert Kruger, added: “With a rich history of supporting diverse organisations and delivering meaningful work, we are proud to announce our partnership with 2DayFM. Throughout the years, 2DayFM, together with the broader Hit Network, has played an active and visible role in supporting our community, amplifying messages of equality through action. It’s strong equality, diversity and inclusion policies mean that all employees are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. This national partnership will allow Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras the opportunity to uplift the voices of our communities, even those in the most regional parts of the country.”

The Mardi Gras festival runs from February 19 to March 7. The iconic parade will look significantly different this year due to COVID-19. Instead of the famous walk down Oxford Street, the event this year will be ticketed and take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground.