A magical night celebrating drag and queer talent, Sydney’s DIVA Awards

Sydney’s 2026 Drag Industry Variety Awards (DIVA Awards) took place on Monday night, celebrating the city’s finest LGBTQIA+ entertainers and venues.

The night marked three and a half decades of crowning Sydney’s finest drag talent.

The DIVA Awards have celebrated drag performers of Sydney since 1990. This morning there are many a hungover queen still trying to gather their thoughts after a glamorous night.

Hosted at The Wintle Theatre, the evening was filled with sparkle and entertainment as Vanity entered the DIVA Hall of Fame alongside the late Maxi Shield.

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Drag King DIVA category is ‘a win for all Sydney kings’

Winner of Favourite Drag King, Sexy Galexy shared what winning the award meant to them.

“Drag has been my life for so long, and right now it feels better than it’s ever been,” Sexy said.

“Being appreciated by the Drag community is a wonderful gift, but having the Drag King category back at the DIVA Awards is a win for all Sydney kings.”

“I’m so proud to be part of this community. And who knew I’d still be winning awards in my 50s? What a joy.”

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The stage almost couldn’t fit all the performers and staff onstage when Palms on Oxford won Favourite Venue.

“I really sincerely love you all,” said Kevin Du-Val, accepting the award.

“Oxford Street really, really means the world to me and you guys. All the talent that’s here is just, just f**king amazing.”

DIVA Rising Star winner Charlamaine reflected on their past eleven years of drag, accepting their award.

“What I’ve come to realise is time doesn’t equal success,” they said. “You can succeed in your own time. And in the last, thank you so very much for all of you that have voted for me and believed in me and for seeing me, respecting me, and now celebrating me.”