Across the country, 2024 has been monumental for our LGBTQIA+ communities—so much happened, it was hard to keep up:
Not everything this year has been a cause for celebration. Closer to home, in October 2024, a motion was introduced to ban gender-affirming care in the Northern Territory. In response, we united a coalition of national and local peak bodies, along with medical professionals, to express our collective rejection of such a ban and to advocate fiercely for the rights of our communities. Additionally, we were proud to stand against discriminatory sponsors while providing direct support to NTAFL clubs, championing visibility, inclusivity, and respect for LGBTQIA+ communities.
We also mourned the loss of some beautiful souls from our community this year. Their contributions, love, and spirit will not be forgotten. In times of loss and tragedy, we’ve seen the incredible strength of our community as we come together to honour their lives and celebrate the lasting impact they’ve had on us all.
2024 was a big and busy year for Top End Pride, and one of many firsts:
And, of course, the heart of it all—the return of our largest Pride celebration yet, held between June 20th–23rd. This year’s festival featured over 15 events, with over 20 venues and community partners, and most importantly, over 60 Territory-based LGBTQIA+ collaborators. One of the highlights was the second Darwin Pride Music Festival, headlined by the incredible Ricki-Lee, which also celebrated the talent and creativity of our local LGBTQIA+ community.
2024 was also a year of transition and growth for Top End Pride as an organisation.
We welcomed a new Chair, Deputy Chair, Secretary, and five new General Members to our committee. We extend heartfelt gratitude to our previous committee members for their dedication and tireless efforts. Serving the wonderfully diverse LGBTQIA+ communities of the Top End isn’t always easy, but your contributions have been invaluable. Thank you for paving the way.
We introduced important constitutional changes that ensure our committee is truly representative of our community, including provisions for gender diversity and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation. These changes were formally approved and accepted by the Northern Territory Government and accepted by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission just last week. As suggested by our members during the 2024 AGM, we also invested in board governance training for our committee through the Institute of Community Directors Australia. Additionally, after a year-long effort and two rounds of changes to the constitution, we successfully submitted our Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) application to the ATO, meaning donations to the Top End Pride Gift Fund will be tax-deductible—a significant step that enhances our ability to fund vital community programs and initiatives.
This year, we launched a new membership platform to streamline applications and introduced a comprehensive governance system to better track minutes, actions, and risks. These new systems allow for a greater commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering for our community.
We are also thrilled to celebrate another milestone—our record-high membership numbers! With the highest number of members in the history of Top End Pride, our community has never been stronger. This incredible growth reflects the passion, resilience, and diversity of our LGBTQIA+ communities across the Top End.
Under our new leadership, we embraced a rebranding of Top End Pride—a response to community feedback that called for a fresh, forward-looking identity. Our new branding reflects our renewed commitment to inclusivity, advocacy, and visibility as we step boldly into the future.
While we acknowledge some risks with funding for Darwin Pride 2025, our financial position remains stable and sustainable, thanks to the huge success of Darwin Pride 2024. We are confident in our ability to navigate challenges and remain committed to investing in meaningful community events and programs throughout the year.
As we look to 2025, we see opportunities on the horizon. Together, let’s ensure the Top End remains a thriving, inclusive, and vibrant place for LGBTQIA+ communities.
From all of us at Top End Pride, we wish you and your families—chosen or otherwise—a joyous, fulfilling, and vibrant year ahead. Here’s to 2025!
With pride and gratitude,
Dr David Toro
Chairperson
On behalf of
The Top End Pride Committee
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
As another year comes to an end, all of us on the Top End Pride committee would like to wish all members a safe and happy festive season.
This time of the year can hold many different meanings for us all, all of which are valid and important to acknowledge. With that in mind remember to reach out and also to check in on those in our community who may find this a challenging time of the year.
If you or somebody you love needs support this season, you can reach out to:
And remember, in an emergency where there is a risk to life or personal safety, please call 000.
The committee wish you all the very best, and whatever 2024 has been to you, we hope that 2025 will be a positive and hopeful year.
Happy Queermas to you all (sorry couldn’t resist)
Kind regards,
Top End Pride Committee
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
Today, on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we gather in spirit and solidarity to honour the lives of our transgender siblings lost to violence and hate. This day is not just about remembering their struggles—it is about celebrating their lives, their courage, and the love they brought into the world.
Transgender Day of Remembrance is a powerful moment for reflection, for holding space to grieve, and for reaffirming our commitment to standing against hate and discrimination. We remember the names, faces, and stories of those taken far too soon and recognise the impact they had, and continue to have, on their loved ones and the broader community.
Join us this evening from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Darwin Esplanade (opposite The Hilton, Garden Inn) for a gathering of remembrance and reflection. Together, we will light candles, share stories, hear from Dr. Bell and stand in solidarity to honour these lives and the resilience of the transgender community. We have also organised some food and picnic rugs.
As we reflect, let this day be a reminder of the work we still have to do—to create a world where all transgender and gender-diverse people can live safely and authentically, free from fear and harm.
Your presence tonight is a statement of love, support, and commitment to a future built on respect, equality, and acceptance. Let’s come together to celebrate the lives of those we’ve lost and to reaffirm our dedication to protecting, uplifting, and loving one another.
Please feel free to bring along friends, family, and allies to join us in this moment of remembrance and reflection. Every voice and heart makes a difference.
A special mention to Northern Territory AIDS and Hepatitis Council (NTAHC) for partnering with us on today’s gathering. NTAHC's support for our transgender and gender-diverse community is deeply appreciated, and we value standing together to honour lives lost and work towards equality and safety.
With love and solidarity,
Dr David Toro
Chairperson
Top End Pride (NT) Inc
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
We’re thrilled to invite you to the Annual General Meeting (AGM) for Top End Pride (NT) Incorporated this Friday, 15 November, from 2 pm to 4 pm online. We have sent out calendar invitations today. Please reach out if you need assistance accessing the meeting. The joining details are below for your convenience.
Microsoft Teams Meeting (Click Here)
Meeting ID: 483 835 710 06
Passcode: bXrXjr
Our AGM is a wonderful chance to reflect on our past year, introduce our new committee, and dive into the exciting plans ahead for our organisation. We’re pleased to share that we received just the correct number of nominations to fill every committee position available. According to our Constitution, this means the nominees will be officially appointed at the AGM, and no ballot voting is required.
If you can’t attend on Friday, please nominate a proxy to vote on your behalf. You’re welcome to name the Chair as your proxy, and if you previously submitted a proxy for the postponed AGM on the 12th of October, that nomination remains valid. Just let us know if you wish to make any changes.
We’re delighted to introduce our full new committee members, and we can’t wait to start a year of amazing advocacy and Pride planning:
Please find below some important documents for your review before the AGM:
During the Microsoft Teams meeting, we will conduct an interactive poll to allow members to vote in favour or against the following ordinary resolution:
Ordinary Resolution 1: Approval of Amendments to the Constitution
That the Members of Top End Pride (NT) Incorporated approve the amendments to the Constitution as outlined in the provided document, with specific changes highlighted in yellow.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Top End Pride. Here’s to an incredible year ahead, full of connection, celebration, and unstoppable queer pride!
Please reach out if you have any questions at secretary@topendpride.com.au.
Kind regards,
Dr David Toro
Acting Chairperson
Top End Pride (NT) Inc
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
We’re thrilled to announce to our Members the launch of our new Top End Pride branding! Here, you’ll find our brand guidelines, showcasing a vibrant, fresh perspective that complements the Darwin Pride branding you know and love.
This rebranding is more than just a new look—it represents our renewed commitment to inclusivity, advocacy, and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Top End. With this modern and dynamic identity, we’re positioned to expand our advocacy reach, connect with more allies, and amplify the voice of our community like never before.
Over the coming months, you’ll start to see our new branding come to life across all our platforms. Our website, social media channels, event materials, and even print items like flyers and banners will adopt the fresh colours, logo, and typography from our new brand toolkit. Each update is part of our plan to ensure our visual identity is consistent, engaging, and proudly reflects the vibrant spirit of our community.
Our new brand is designed to capture the unique beauty and diversity of the Top End—its bold colours, striking sunsets, and the warmth of our community spirit. From the graphic elements to the colour palette, every detail has been carefully chosen to represent the inclusivity, unity, and resilience that are at the heart of our mission.
We’re so excited for you to experience the vibrant new energy that our refreshed brand brings! Plus, we can’t wait to see you repping the new Top End Pride merchandise—we’ll be getting it in stock soon, and we know just how much everyone loves TEP merch!
Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Kind regards,
Dr David Toro
Acting Chairperson
Top End Pride (NT) Inc
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
Sport plays a vital role in promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. True wellbeing isn’t simply the absence of illness—it’s about the presence of positive connections, inclusivity, and a support network that allows everyone to thrive. Every individual, including our LGBTQIA+ community, deserves safe, welcoming spaces where they can fully participate and feel valued.
The recent media coverage of sponsorship withdrawals has shown that there is still important work to be done in creating environments of unity and respect. It’s disappointing to see organisations pull back their support based on phobia or exclusion, as this undermines the core values of equality and belonging that sport should champion.
These events have only strengthened our resolve to work even harder in advocating for our community and fostering inclusivity within sport and beyond.
In alignment with our commitment to these values, we are proud to provide a cash donation to the Waratah, PINT, and Jabiru Bombers clubs for their remarkable efforts in supporting visibility and inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community. These clubs have set an example of what true allyship looks like, and by strengthening our partnerships, we aim to help create spaces where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—feels welcome, celebrated, and respected.
Moving forward, we are dedicated to expanding our advocacy efforts to address the remaining gaps and challenges.
Our organisation is committed to being your voice, working tirelessly to ensure that every Pride event, sporting match, and community gathering reinforces the values of acceptance and inclusivity. Together, we can create a future where sport serves as a powerful platform for positive change, championing acceptance and wellbeing for all.
Don’t miss out on the Pride round highlights!
The Pride round was an incredible celebration of our community, and the energy and joy were captured in some fantastic photos. We encourage you to check out the pics from the round here.
Thank you for your continued support, and let’s stand united as we work towards a future that truly represents the spirit of Pride.
With pride and solidarity,
Dr David Toro
Acting Chairperson
Top End Pride
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
Before we continue, we would like to acknowledge that the content of this email may be sensitive for some readers. It is intended to update you on our ongoing response to the Australian Christian Lobby's petition to ban gender-affirming care in the Northern Territory, which was recently tabled in Parliament.
Thursday, October 17: The petition was presented by Speaker Robyn Lambley on behalf of the ACL, garnering 450 signatures, including those from members of the CLP. This petition calls for the government to initiate an inquiry into gender-affirming care for children (with adults not mentioned) and to suspend such care until the inquiry's findings are released. The petition was subsequently referred to the Public Accounts Committee for further review and consideration of whether it merits parliamentary discussion.
Friday, October 18 - Saturday, October 19: In response, we swiftly mobilised support from local and national peak bodies, issuing a statement and press release that firmly expressed our opposition to the petition. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Equality Australia, Transcend, Northside Health, NTAHC, GLADD, AMSA, and AusPath for their invaluable support during this critical time. Our coalition has since expanded, with various members across the Territory uniting to counter this petition. Our strategy remains focused on providing the contextual evidence, scientific backing, and perspectives from healthcare practitioners that the petition fundamentally lacks. Moreover, we are centering the voices of those most directly affected: trans individuals and their families.
Monday, October 28: We convened with Equality Australia to develop a comprehensive action plan, leveraging their extensive experience in navigating this political landscape.
Tuesday, October 29: We held a meeting with the Leader of the Opposition, Selena Uibo, who reaffirmed the Labour Party's steadfast support against the petition, publicly voicing their commitment to this cause. We also count on the backing of several Independent and Green MLAs. We also met with individual MLAs from the PAC committee to provide information as to why the petition should not be discussed in parliament.
Wednesday, October 30: An information pack was distributed to all members of the Public Accounts Committee to counter the petition. The PAC convened but did not reach a consensus, instead requesting additional information on the matter.
We have been proactive in reaching out to the Minister for Health, both individually and collectively. Healthcare professionals, including the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Health Officer, have similarly provided briefings to the Minister.
We are currently awaiting an update from the Minister for Health’s office, which will inform us of the government’s forthcoming response.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to this important cause.
Sincerely,
Dr David Toro
Acting Chairperson
Top End Pride
Dr Danielle Stewart
Practice Manager
Northside Health
(On behalf of a group of community members, healthcare workers and organisations)
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
We came together this morning in the interests of the whole community to yarn and listen with each other about the best way forward for you, our members.
The AGM has been moved to November 15th 2024, but in the interest of making some progress over the next month, the committee and members in the room today supported several interim appointments to the Top End Pride committee as follows:
A Parkinson as Vice Chairperson
Nik Henley as Secretary
Rocket Bretherton as a General Committee Member
Andi Jones as a General Committee Member
Hannah Silberstein as a General Committee Member
These passionate community members have volunteered their time to help progress our beautiful Top End Pride community in a safe, ethical and considerate way. They are representatives of each of you but will still need to be approved at the AGM in a month’s time.
In the meantime, nominations for the committee are still open. You are also able to still join as a member until November 1st 2024.
The feeling in the room today was a balance of reflection and unity, one that wants to see all factions of our community come together to celebrate 40 years of pride in the Top End next June. The interim committee is committed to listening to each of you and creating a sense of unity across the entire community.
We can’t wait to see you all at our AGM. Until then, we welcome any feedback via our Better Pride Initiative portal: https://topendpride.com.au/better-pride-initiative
With love, pride and gratitude,
David Toro
Acting Chairperson
A Parkinson
Vice Chairperson
Contact:
Darcy Godden
Public Officer & Treasurer
Top End Pride
Copyright © 2023 Top End Pride - All Rights Reserved.
Pride acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet, work and live, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, and present. We would also like to acknowledge the elders, past present and emerging of the LGBTIQA+ community that have paved the way for us to celebrate and have festivals such as Darwin Pride.