A new supreme has risen as Billy is sashed Mr VicBear 2025

A new bear supreme has risen as Billy wins Mr VicBear 2025, wrapping up a huge week of furry celebration.

Part of VicBears annual summer festival Bearfest, the Mr VicBear Competition saw two individuals shine, showing what community is all about.

From bear wear and bear minimum to bear talent, local bears Billy and Brendan brilliantly vied for the title of Mr VicBear.

Both contestants did an amazing job, sharing how the Bear community had given them a space they never had to be their authentic selves.

Having fun all night, Brendan platformed greater visibility, intersectionality and respect for trans, gender diverse and queer bears.

While Billy shared how he is more than just his size, something the community is known for.

While only one of them could take the title, it was great to see Billy and Brendan shine, making a harder job for the judges.

Something Brisbears President, Mr Australasia Bear 2023 and Mr Bear QLD 2022 Graeme Kerr shared.

“It was an absolute honour to be on the judging panel for such an incredible competition,” he said,

“Both Billy and Brendan stepped out with their A-Game and made the judge’s decision quite difficult.

“I want to commend both competitors for baring their souls on stage and showing how truly beautiful the bear community is.

“It takes a lot of guts to put your hand up to represent your tribe and they both should be so proud of what they brought to the comp.”

Congratulations Billy

Billy won the title, becoming the next Mr VicBear for the year.

Through tears, he thanked the community and Brendan for putting on a great show and sharing this experience.

Speaking to QNews a few days after his win, Billy shared that he didn’t expect as much community support as he got.

“It’s been really humbling how many people have reached out to give their support. It’s been a little overwhelming.”

“I had my core friends standing in the front cheering me on.

“On the night I was introducing myself to people between rounds, and it was so strange to have them say they already knew me.

“Ahead of competing I have been trying to put myself out there over the last four or five months at VicBears events.

“More important than being seen is to make sure you say talk to people, but I didn’t realise how much of an impact it would have.”

Throughout his year with the title he wants to make sure the community sees past the size of a bear to the person.

“There’s a trend with bears, even in the bear community to sort of push big guys aside.

“A lot of focus is put on people who are thick or a bit chunky or with a dad bod.

“The really big boys either get fetishized or left alone. There’s no in-between.

“We aren’t seen as people. And that’s really what I want to remind people of.

“In the bear community size is a thing for sure, but don’t forget that I’m a person as well.”

This Sunday, Billy with march with VicBears at the Midsumma Pride March.

Later in the year at Southern Hibernation, he will join titleholders from around Australia and New Zealand to compete for Mr Australasia Bear.

You reminded me of what this community truly stands for

Outgoing titleholder Joenas held back tears during his final speech.

“As I stand before you tonight, I am filled with gratitude and pride.”

“Not just for the Mr VicBear title, but the incredible journey it has been and the milestones we’ve achieved together.

“I carried the honour of being the first Bear of colour to hold this title.

“I knew then that this was more than a sash, it was an opportunity to represent,

“To inspire, and create meaningful change within our community.

“When I first stepped into this space, I didn’t know if there was space for someone like me in this community.

“I never imagined that one day, I’d be standing here in front of you representing.” he said.

Joenas announced his fundraising efforts and raised a total of $8420.00 for his chosen charity.

“The funds we raised for Pride Foundation Australia will make a tangible difference to LGBTQIA+ refugees and asylum seekers.

“This cause is close to my heart as someone who immigrated to this beautiful country.”

Joenas announced that he will be competing for the title of Mr Bear International in Thailand in April.

“Our story here is so beautiful and inspiring, and deserves to be known.”

“What we’ve built together, the inclusivity, empowerment and celebration of diversity is extraordinary.

“It’s a story that can inspire others worldwide,

“I’m honoured to carry it forward on an international stage.

“Thank you for believing in me, even in the moments when I doubted myself.

“For reminding me that I was never alone in this journey.

“You stood beside me, and reminded me of what this community truly stands for.”

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