Singer-songwriter Greg Gould reflects on the evolution of LGBTQ+ visibility in regional spaces ahead of performing at Newcastle Pride Fair Day this Saturday.
“I used to catch a train in Newcastle every day,” Greg Gould said.
“And back then, I couldn’t imagine a pride celebration like this happening here.”
Growing up on the Central Coast, Greg Gould changed schools and went to Newcastle when he was young after being bullied for being gay.
It means a lot to him to return to Newcastle Pride Fair Day for a second year to be a part of the pride-filled day of community and connection.
“The community spirit was really high last year. I can’t wait to see it grow this weekend.” Gould said.
“There is nothing else quite like pride in a regional space.”
“There’s a different spirit in the air, almost new and fresh.”
Source: newcastlepride.com.auGet ready to lip synch for your life
Now in its sixth year, Newcastle Pride Festival continues a month of celebration under the theme ‘Our Pride! Our Truth!’, and Fair Day is the jewel in the crown.
The free, family-friendly event is a vibrant celebration of community, diversity, equality, and authenticity.
“With more mainstream Pride Festivals in major cities, everyone expects things to be a certain way,” Gould said.
“But for a regional pride festival like Newcastle Pride, that builds on new and exciting elements each year, they get the chance to grow.”
This year, Gould will be hosting the main stage with Freddie Merkin as well as singing up a storm.
“Last year I stayed onstage with Freddie after my set and we were just having a great time,” he said.
“So I guess they loved that so much they decided to make it official and booked us together, which I love.”
Throughout the afternoon, the pir will be hosting the Lip Synch Battle, which Gould says was a personal highlight last year.
“It was so much fun,” Gould shared.
“And as someone who sings live and doesn’t lip synch, it’s great seeing everyone give it their all.”
View this post on Instagram
‘Growing up, I didn’t think something like this could exist’
“Pride events in these regions didn’t exist when I was a child,” Gould said.
“It means a lot to me to come and perform at them.”
“I hope to be able to support them for as many years as I can, because these spaces just didn’t exist when I was young, and they deserve to thrive.
“It’s so special to see rainbow families growing up in regional areas and sharing their pride.
“To have a space to come and feel supported and loved and part of something.
“I am also excited to catch up with Courtney Act and Jimmi the Kween, who are headlining.
“Not only will they bring the energy and fun for the locals, but also make an opportunity for their fans all over to come and be a part of the day.
“Having artists on that level is always a great way to bring the wider community to see what it’s all about.”
One of the highlights last year for Greg was not just performing for the crowd, but seeing Drag Race Down Under’s Molly Poppins dressed as Chappell Roan.
“Seeing the young kids getting involved with Molly was amazing and so special,” he said, That’s what it is all about.”
“They were singing along to Pink Pony club, having a great time without a care in the world.”
“And it wasn’t just the kids, it was the adults too.”
“This year, Molly is back doing their Taylor Swift show, so I just know it will go off again.”
Head to Gregson Park this Saturday and bring your full, fabulous self to Newcastle.
Find out more about Newcastle Pride Fair Day here.
View this post on Instagram
For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
