BALLART\u2019S celebration of all things LGBTIQ, Frolic Festival, has received a significant funding increase thanks to State government grants.<\/p>\n
Totalling nearly $20,000, the money will go towards doubling the events at this year\u2019s Festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Festival is so fun and friendly and it\u2019s such an important thing to be out and proud in the Ballarat Community,\u201d said Jay Morrison, Frolic spokesperson.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the past that hasn\u2019t necessarily been the case but with the Festival on we\u2019re out, we\u2019re proud, we\u2019re having fun and people see that\u2026 it just drives a better public acceptance.\u201d<\/p>\n
With $10,000 coming from the State government\u2019s Pride Events and Festivals Fund and a further $9200 out of the LGBTIQ Community Grants program, Member for Wendouree Julianna Addison said the money underscored a commitment to diversity within the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Andrews Labor Government has a clear view that equality is non-negotiable,\u201d she said. \u201cIn Victoria we celebrate our diversity and we celebrate our equality.\u201d<\/p>\n
While the cash will help with running Frolic Festival, Mr Morrison said that money was also recognition of the importance of the region\u2019s LGBTIQ community.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think it shows a dedication to the equality is not negotiable agenda,\u201d he said. \u201cTheir support means that we can be out and proud and that we can celebrate our arts and culture in the community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Member for Buninyong, Michaela Settle, encouraged people to check out the range of things of offer during Frolic Festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s just an amazing amount of events on,\u201d she said. \u201cThere\u2019s something for everyone from the Rainbow Stories at the library through to the Queer History Walk.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Festival will also feature a carnival day, community garden tours, a bush dance, karaoke night, and a drag night.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s Frolic Festival runs from 7 to 13 November.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BALLART\u2019S celebration of all things LGBTIQ, Frolic Festival, has received a significant funding increase thanks to State government grants. Totalling nearly $20,000, the money will go towards doubling the events at this year\u2019s Festival. \u201cThe Festival is so fun and friendly and it\u2019s such an important thing to be out and proud in the Ballarat […]<\/p>\n