Are you ready to get shiny with SLICK? Melbourne Rubber is hosting a series of events this week for latex enthusiasts, admirers and newbies to connect and find community.
When many people think about the fetish scene in our communities, their head usually goes straight to leather, cruising and Tom of Finland.
But rubber and latex continue to build in alternative and fetish scenes. Not only because it looks and feels great, but allows people to beautifully express their body positivity and not break the bank.
This week, SLICK, a celebration of the latex community, takes over Melbourne.
SLICK 2026 by Melbourne RubberPhoto by Matto Lucas
An evolution of the Melbourne Rubberman competition in 2016, SLICK has become an annual celebration bringing latex enthusiasts from around the country and the world to Melbourne to celebrate their shiny selves.
In 2024, the competition removed gender from the title to better reflect the community’s evolution and diversity. Melbourne’s Elliott Eve was the first person to win the genderless title, and then went on to win the MX International Rubber title last year.
Who will win the competition for 2026? SLICK is a great opportunity for newbies to find their feet or connect with like-minded people, and it all starts tonight.
Related content:
- Shining bright worldwide with Mx International Rubber Elliott Eve
- Kitty Obsidian wins Melbourne Rubber 2025
- Melbourne Rubber removes gender for 2024 title competition
Don’t know where to start with rubber? We’ve got you
It can be daunting stepping into a new environment, especially a fetish environment, but there’s nothing to be afraid of.
The team of Melbourne Rubber are kicking off SLICK with a Newbie Social on Tuesday night at Eagle Leather.
The Melbourne Rubber committee and some past titleholders and established members of the community will be there to welcome and guide you if you want.
If you are familiar with rubber, on Wednesday head to LCKR ROOM on Smith Street for Welcome Drinks.
This event will feature light nibbles, snacks and select beverages provided by Eagle Leather. Both events are free, but you must register a ticket via the Melbourne Rubber website.
SLICK 2026 by Melbourne RubberPhoto by Matto Lucas
Also on Wednesday night, The Laird will host the first of its three gender-inclusive events as a part of SLICK.
Trivial Hirsute, the venue’s weekly cheeky trivia, will get a shiny makeover where you can win silly prizes testing your pop culture and general knowledge skills.
From Maximum Gloss to the Melbourne Rubber Comp
Thursday night, The Laird’s weekly cruise and fetish night, Spit and Polish, gets a Melbourne Rubber takeover with Maximum Gloss.
This night is the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, meet fellow rubber enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond, and celebrate everything rubber in a relaxed social atmosphere.
It’s also your chance to meet this year’s Melbourne Rubber contestants before Friday night’s competition. Whether you’re suited up in full rubber or simply coming along to enjoy the community, Maximum Gloss is the perfect way to gear up for the weekend.
A complimentary cloak check will be available throughout the evening, and raffle tickets will be on sale with some fantastic prizes up for grabs.
Then on Friday at The Laird, we find out who will be the new Melbourne Rubber titleholder.
Melbourne Rubber 2026 ContestantsImages: Supplied
The competition showcases the passion, creativity, and diversity of Melbourne’s rubber community across three judged rounds.
A panel of judges scores the contestants as the community cheers them on. The competition is a highlight in the SLICK calendar and is always an amazing celebration of the community.
This year marks the debut of the annual SLICK Awards
Celebrating excellence in creativity, service, leadership, and community connection, the SLICK Awards will honour those whose contributions create welcoming spaces, foster belonging, and strengthen Melbourne’s rubber scene.
It’s an exciting new way the committee and community get to recognise those who celebrate and elevate the rubber world around them.
Source: FacebookIt all wraps up (pun intended) with a huge party on Saturday night with Late-XXX, presented by the team at Hanky.
Taking over The Third Day in North Melbourne, this immersive event brings together music, performance, and fetish culture for an unforgettable night of celebration.
Dance into the early hours with DJs soundtracking the night, explore a dedicated performance space featuring live BDSM demonstrations, and discover a curated dungeon area equipped with a range of bondage-friendly equipment.
Whether you’re there to dance, socialise or just soak up the atmosphere, Late-XXX offers something for everyone, just like the entire SLICK program.
SLICK 2026 by Melbourne RubberSource: Facebook
Take it from me, the committee and community are some of the loveliest people you will ever meet. They treat everyone like they treat their latex, with care and a smile.
Why not check out the events happening as a part of SLICK and try something new? You never know, you just might like it.
Find out more details and grab your tickets to SLICK events here.
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