A fabulous and fun Celebration of Diversity & Inclusion
Published on 05 October 2023
A brilliant event celebrating diversity and inclusion the annual It’s OK on the Macleay celebration in Kempsey’s Riverside Park was a massive success, with hundreds turning out in attendance on a stunning spring day.
Advocating a strong message of everyone has the right to be who they truly are, living a life without fear of persecution as a valued member of their community. This event celebrates the L G B T I Q A + community within the Macleay Valley, but also more broadly all people from a diverse range of backgrounds and people with a disability.
Leading the entertainment lineup were live performances by Goon Gremlins, Georgia Rayner, Nova Gina, Burlesque Fit Academy, and Yatalie Dixon a young and proud Dunghutti singer.
The community was up and dancing with a huge Zumba session run by Zoe Powell from Burlesque Fit Academy, as well as in the silent disco, which included some amazing new vibrating vests for the hearing impaired, so they could physically feel the music and beats.
New this year was the Pooch Pawrade that was well received by community with approximately 20 dogs joining in the festivities, creating lots of smiles! Pooch Judges were Millie Laird from 4Paws Playschool & Greg Egan of Myth Haven Arabian Farm.
Many Council staff were actively involved in contributing to, as well as attending this event showing their support, including councillors Alexandra Wyatt, Kinne Ring and Arthur Bain. The Kempsey Library van was there with activities for the kids and colourful beanbags that added to the vibrancy of the day.
Congratulations to Councillor’s Ring and Wyatt, and their pooches Gus and Willow, who both won awards in the Pooch Pawrade.
Another highlight was the awesome interactive art activity created by the Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation and Learning in the Macleay who asked the community to co-create a canvas using coloured circles representing the diversity and support in our community.
Thank you to the event organisers for an incredible day at It’s OK on the Macleay 2023. This year the event was led by Kempsey Families with support of the It’s OK on the Macleay 2023 organising committee – comprised of the Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre, YP Space, Headspace – Kempsey, Re-Community - Mid North Coast Community College, Kinchela Boys Home AC, Kempsey High School, NSW Health Pathology, NEAMI, Blue Sky Community Services, Kempsey Shire Council, ACON and many dedicated and passionate community members.
For more info on the event and to stay up to date, please visit the It’s OK on the Macleay Facebook or Instagram pages online. Or contact Kempsey Families on 6563 1588 for further event information.