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YOUR 2025 NOMINEES WERE

A joyous homage to resilience, fabulousness, and the enduring power of music. Winner of Best Music at Adelaide Fringe earlier this year, this 70 minute cabaret was a nostalgic journey through the rich history of queer music; honouring the hit-makers who sparked historic change with their unforgettable anthems. Featuring timeless hits from Madonna, Garland, Elton, Dolly, Gaga, Cole, Diana, Benatar, Freddie, and many more!
With a stellar 4-piece backing, this showcase of songs and stories premiered at the Adelaide Fringe this year, blending soul-stirring vocals with heartfelt storytelling in a vibrant tribute to the LGBTQIA+ visibility, acceptance, and pride. From the secret language of polari through the golden age of music, to the disco revolution of the 70's, and songs of liberation and coming out.
Written, produced and performed by queer Adelaide creatives, this was a proud showcase of local talent and spirit.
Event of the Year
A Friend of Dorothy: Anthems of Pride

Adam-Troy Francis is a remarkable and multifaceted artist who proudly embodies his Kaurna, Ngarrindjeri and Wirangu heritage as a Two-Spirit man. Hailing from Adelaide, South Australia, he has made a significant impact on the country's performing arts landscape.
Driven by a deep passion for his community, Adam-Troy is a powerful public speaker and spokesperson for First Nations people in Australia.
First Nations Person of the Year
Adam-Troy Francis

Adelaide Frontrunners is a non-competitive, inclusive running and walking group established in 2021 to support the LGBTQ+ community and allies in South Australia.
Affiliated with the International Front Runners'a global network of LGBTQ+ running clubs, the group welcomes individuals of all ages, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
Sport, Health and Wellbeing Award
Adelaide Frontrunners

The Adelaide University Sharks, established in 2019, is South Australia’s first and only International Gay Rugby (IGR) associated team.
We provide a safe and inclusive space for members of the LGBTQI+ community to either return to rugby, or try it for the first time. With a strong base of playing members and a strong core of supporters, we are well established in the Rugby community and continue grow year on year.
The Sharks compete in the Purchas Cup (Australia & NZ) and have players travelling internationally to play in the Bingham Cup, where, in 2024, over 80 IGR teams convened in Rome! In 2025 the sharks will travel to Auckland for the next Purchas Cup
Closer to home we play as the 3rd grade team for the Adelaide University Rugby club (South Australia’s oldest rugby club).
Sport, Health and Wellbeing Award
Adelaide University Sharks Rugby

Adelaide University Sport & Fitness (AUSF) plays a vital role in the lives of students at the University of Adelaide. With a history spanning over 125 years, AUSF offers a diverse range of opportunities through 40 sports clubs and three on-campus gyms. AUSF promotes balance, community, and excellence - supporting everyone from elite athletes to social sport participants.
In June 2024, AUSF launched the inaugural Play with Pride Brunch - a bold and meaningful step in its diversity and inclusion strategy. The event celebrated LGBTQIA+ visibility in sport and brought together athletes, allies, and advocates in a powerful show of unity.
More than a celebration, it amplified underrepresented voices, inspired authentic dialogue, and built momentum for lasting cultural change. Its warmth, impact, and intent left a lasting impression on Adelaide's sporting community.
Event of the Year
Adelaide University Sport and Fitness

Affirm and Thrive is a neurodivergent queer-led well-being hub helping LGBTQIA+ people feel at home in their bodies, voices, and communities. We specialise in gender affirming voice training, supporting trans and non-binary people to discover a voice that aligns with their identity.
Rooted in care, inclusivity, and liberation, we create trauma-informed spaces where people are not just affirmed, but celebrated. Our work is guided by six core values: Diversity, Inclusiveness, Growth, Collaboration, Openness, and Contribution.
Through voice work, community events and workshops, we offer spaces for meaningful connection, self-expression and a deeper sense of self. Affirm and Thrive is a place where LGBTQIA+ people are fully seen, heard, and supported - exactly as they are.
Sport, Health and Wellbeing Award
Affirm and Thrive

I have volunteered with United Way SA for 29 years in May 2025. It is a wonderful company to work with. I have given which I believe to be my all during my time volunteering. I love working with all the staff and volunteers over the years. I believe I have done my best to my ability and hope everyone has appreciated what I have done.
Volunteer of the Year
Angela Busuttil

We are a regional LGBTQIA+ group supporting those in regional South Australia by providing a safe space to discuss and connect with like-minded people
Event of the Year
Barossa Valley LGBTQIA+ Social group

Bear men of Adelaide has been providing the LGBTIQ+ community a safe place to meet and socialise for 20+ years.
Providing a space for Bigger Gay men, the Bear Men of Adelaide welcome all to their Pub and Den nights at the Duke of Brunswick on Gilbert St Adelaide.
They plan, organise and produce events like, Brunches, Dance parties, Life Drawing, Country Drives and many more events throughout the year.
Community Group of the Year
Bear Men of Adelaide

Benjamin Maio Mackay is an award winning queer creative, who has performed globally, including New York where they made their Off-Broadway debut headlining 54 Below.
Career highlights including hosting ABC radio programs, directing & staring in musicals such as RENT and tick, tick, BOOM!, touring plays like Great Detectives! & spending 20 years performing, producing & directing productions for Festivals. Other notable projects include working with Matthew Reilly on Ice Station Live & directing The Phoenix Files Series starring BAFTA nominee Paul McGann (Dr Who).
Benjamin is the artistic director of Preachrs Productions, which for two years running was the largest South Australian production company in the Adelaide Fringe. Benjamin has directed and produced hundreds of shows, programmed venues and managed thousands of performances.
Their creative drive & passion is unmatched & their desire to foster a thriving arts scene in Adelaide, year round, continues to drive their day-day efforts.
Performer of the Year
Benjamin Maio Mackay

Bloomin’ Fabulous! was a vibrant fashion runway event presented by SAMESH in collaboration with the Botanic Gardens during Feast Festival 2024. This unique show explored the intersection of queer identity and botany through wearable art created by 19 queer and allied makers. Makers and models represented a wide cross-section of the community — from People Living with HIV to trans, gender diverse, and cis allies, with ages spanning from children to over 80.
The project included a series of community workshops held throughout the year, fostering connection, creativity, and confidence among participants. Each fashion piece was accompanied by a personal artist statement, with designs ranging from gowns celebrating U=U and marriage equality to ensembles inspired by queer icons and HIV history. Bloomin’ Fabulous! sold out, with free tickets offered to People Living with HIV, and received overwhelming praise for its inclusivity, creativity, and community spirit.
Event of the Year
Bloomin’ Fabulous! – SAMESH

Established in 2024 Midnorthburlesque brings Cabaret to Regional towns and communities normally not seen outside of Fringe. Combining Drag, LGBTQiA+, allies, Burlesque and Circus.
Our aim is to unite local communities through large and micro productions, with a mission to raise awareness around social inclusion, gender diversity and body positvity by encouraging positive conversations and community connections around social inclusion through theatre, tolerance and acceptance.
Event of the Year
Cabaret Capers

Charlotte is a proud Adnyamathanha, Barngarla and Yankunytjatjara Trans Sistagurl of South Australia.
A country girl at heart, who grew up in and around radio all her life, she found her voice to speak up about First Nations and LGBTIQA+ issues and was on the airwaves both locally and nationally with the First Nations radio show as Radio Personality.
Charlotte is proud LGBTIQA+ advocate and the First recipients of the NAIDOCSA LGBTIQ Person of the Year in 2019 and Feast Festival Ambassador for 2021. She is currently a board member of Feast Festival and our current NAIDOC SA Chairperson.
First Nations Person of the Year
Charlotte Coulthard-Dare

Coles Group is one of Australia's largest retail employers with over 115,000 team members across every state and territory.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels respected, celebrated and supported to thrive. LGBTQ+ inclusion is at the heart of our culture, and we strive to lead by example, supporting our team members and communities with visible actions, meaningful partnerships and a commitment to continuous progress.
At Coles Group, inclusion is an essential part of who we are as a business, where everyone is welcome at our table, connecting with the diverse customers and communities we serve.
Employer of the Year
Coles Group Pty Ltd

Crimsin is one of Adelaide's local performers who always packs a punch! Known for her silly hosting, camp mixes, and gorgeous makeup, Crimsin always gives you a show, no matter what!
Crimsin has been around the local drag scene since June 2022 when she debuted at The Queen's Gala, and finally at the end of 2022 she made her performance debut at Mary's Poppin's Pink Light Disco!
Since then she's been a finalist in TWO Drag Star competitions, ran a Drag Lunch event, a Drag Trivia along side Minty Hydrangea, her own Drag Smackdown competition and even started her own regular shows and club nights with Miss Gloss Events, giving more local talent the opportunity to thrive and build on their already flourishing talent.
She's not only Adelaide's plus size Bratz doll you've always wanted to play with, but she has a heart. With a passion for giving local performers a platform and creating safe queer spaces, Crimsin truly is the people's princess.
Performer of the Year
Crimsin

Hi I'm Lush ,I am a dj providing entertainment and amazing music for the community. I'm pretty out there loud and colourful bringing the happy vibes
I have already won my trophy in my eyes as performing to the community and seeing everyone having a good time dancing and smiling I feel like that's the best award anyone could ever want, just doing what I do and feeling all that love bounce back. Extremely surprised by this nomination again
Performer of the Year
DJ Lush

Whether you're queer or straight, performer or patron, employee or owner the most common thing we hear is "Coming to Diverse-City is like Coming Home! All we ask is that everyone treat others with Respect in our Venue and from this, amazing acts of kindness, acceptance and generosity of spirit flow.
Employer of the Year
Diverse-City

Donatella Valentino is a dynamic force in the performance scene, captivating audiences with charisma, creativity, and undeniable star power.
Hailing from Brazil and now lighting up stages in Australia, Donatella delivers show-stopping performances that blend high-energy dance, sharp wit, and stunning visuals.
Whether commanding the spotlight at festivals and night clubs or creating polished high-quality digital content, they bring an unique blend of glamour and storytelling to every act pushing artistic boundaries and delivering top-tier entertainment.
Performer of the Year
Donatella Valentino

Dorian Courtisan has been described as a rising star in the Adelaide cabaret scene. Originally from regional SA, they have become well known in Adelaide's performing arts community.
Over the past (almost) 3 years, Dorian has blended drag and burlesque to create "draglesque," a unique performance style that expands the boundaries of gender expression and performance art. They're a state title winner for The Apprentease burlesque competition in 2023. This win was important for queer performers in the SA burlesque industry, as it showed you can deviate from the expected "norm" and win with explicitly queer art that is true to yourself.
In their short career they've performed in several renowned productions including Shake It!, Singin' in the Pain, the SA Burlesque Community Awards and the Mx Burlesque SA competition. They've also represented SA performing interstate, including at the Australian Burlesque Festival, Perth International Burlesque Festival and Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Performer of the Year
Dorian Courtisan

If you love emotional lyrics, powerhouse vocals, and songs that hit you right in the feels, Emerauld is your next obsession.
Hailing from regional SA, the 19-year-old singer-songwriter has been making waves since she dropped original music at 14, earning Triple J Unearthed praise and a spot in the Unearthed High Yearbook in 2022. Her sound blends raw emotion with indie-rock and pop punk energy, packed with angst, heart, and belters that stay with you.
She's played stages like Semaphore Music Festival, New Found Sound, the Gov Main Stage, and WOMAD 2025, and yes, she also snagged a golden ticket on Australian Idol. With her 2025 releases, including In The First Place and its 'Stripped Back' version, Emerauld is only just getting started. Keep watching.
Performer of the Year
Emerauld

Eve Elle, affectionately known as The Cameron Diaz of Adelaide Drag, is a 16 year veteran of the Australian Drag Scene. She's a stylish and campy supermodel, your drunk aunt, mother-figure and big sister all at the same time.
Having dazzled audiences of thousands around the country, and appeared in corporate and television campaigns, Eve has developed a reputation as a professional sweetheart and one of Adelaide's most in-demand and enduring performance artists.
Labelled 'a real chameleon' by Buzzfeed, she really can do it all! Whether you're watching her tear up the dance floor, being spellbound by a power ballad, or getting hypnotised with a spoken word lip-sync, you'll be left captivated by this phenomenal entertainer!
Performer of the Year
Eve Elle

Adelaide Leather & Fetish (AL&F) is run by a committee of dedicated volunteers who strive to build our vibrant and diverse fetish, kink, and sex positive LGBTQIA+ community through monthly social events, educational forums, and Adelaide's premiere fetish weekend, GEAR'd.
The team behind the events have a strong focus on consent based interactions, community connectedness, education, fundraising for various community causes, and breaking down stigma faced by those with interests in kink and fetish.
Event of the Year
GEAR'D: Adelaide Leather & Fetish

Greg Kelly is a long-term survivor of the HIV/AIDS pandemic whose life and work reflect resilience, advocacy and deep compassion. A classically trained chef, Greg has spent over three decades transforming kitchens, community spaces and shared tables into places of healing and connection.
Through the cooking classes he created for people living with HIV, including those facing financial hardship or social isolation, he offered not only nourishment but dignity, knowledge and hope. His approach was never merely instructional; it was relational, generous and grounded in a belief in the restorative power of food. Greg's voluntary work spans health campaigns, community radio and, more recently, flood recovery efforts in Lismore.
As an advocate, he speaks openly to challenge stigma and build understanding. Now, as the author of Start With Your Own Onion, he preserves stories that might otherwise be lost, offering a powerful testament to what it means to live well and serve others with humility, humour and unwavering purpose.
Volunteer of the Year
Greg Kelly

Hike Society Adelaide Inc. brings together people from all walks of life in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.
Formed out of Adelaide's LGBTQI+ community, the group is open to anyone who shares our passion for the outdoors, a sense of adventure, and a respect for diversity and the wellbeing of others.
We hold approximately two scheduled Sunday hikes per month around the Adelaide regions and beyond as well as occasional 'pop-up' hikes on other weekends. Our calendar includes a mix of scenic grade-3 undulating trails, a few challenging grade-4 climbs, and more relaxed grade-2 bushwalks.
So whether participants are seasoned hikers or new to the trails, they'll find a place here. And of course, it's not just about the hikes, but the friends we make, the laughs we share, and the unforgettable memories along the way.
Community Group of the Year
Hike Society Adelaide Inc.

Human.Kind Studios is a centre for interconnection and care. Founded almost 9yrs ago, it has evolved into a multidisciplinary space offering yoga, functional movement, physiotherapy, counselling, psychology and social impact events.
Spanning two locations in the Adelaide CBD and Glenelg, plus a large contingent of international live-streaming students, the studio has grown to become a large and established community hub- offering genuine care, support and tailored services for those who need it the most. It has a raft of LGBTQIA+ initiatives, staff and therapists who are members of the queer community and actively seeks to welcome people into a safe and inclusive space.
Community Group of the Year
Human.Kind Studios

Jace Reh is a proud Gamilaroi Trans and disabled activist working in queer mental health using peer practice models. After winning NAIDOC SA LGBTQIA+ Person of the year and Mr Bear SA title, Jace co-curated a book featuring works from exclusively queer and disabled people from across SA.
First Nations Person of the Year
Jace Reh

Katie has been a volunteer with Thorne Harbour Health for almost 12 months. During this time, she has provided the Therapeutic Services' team with reception and administrative support for two days a week.
Part of Katie's responsibilities include being the first point of contact for many LGBTQIA+ clients and people living with HIV seeking support for their mental health and alcohol and other drug use. Katie's warm and open approach to clients, means that the initial impression of Thorne Harbour Health is one of safety and inclusion.
Katie approaches her volunteering with passion, warmth and diligence. She kindly donates her time to serve some of the most vulnerable members of her community and has been a welcome addition to the Thorne Harbour Health team. Without volunteers such as Katie, Thorne Harbour Health's Therapeutic Services would lack any administrative support, and other staff would have less capacity to meet the needs of their clients.
Volunteer of the Year
Katie Head

Keenan is a Wirangu, Mirning and Kokatha person from the far west coast of South Australia. They identify as a Blak queer, non-binary person and are now based in Tarndanya (Adelaide) on Kaurna Yerta. Keenan is the vice-chairperson of the Wirangu Aboriginal Corporation, the All-Genders regional member for Region 5 (West and West Coast) of the First Nations Voice to the South Australian Parliament, and was the 2021 South Australian NAIDOC LGBTQIA+ Person of the Year.
First Nations Person of the Year
Keenan Smith

By day I work full time as a public servant. I used to work for "Gay Community News" in Dublin as staff photographer and have worked with the Phnom Penh Post newspaper in Cambodia. I am also a full time mother to four cats.
Volunteer of the Year
Kellie Greene

Kleo Fox is a professional Performer Artiste and an avid supporter for Council events including 'Pride Of The South', Australia Wide Pride Marches, 'Picnic In The Park' & the wider community.
Providing entertainment and mentoring for the Festival City of Adelaide, North, South, East and West, as well as Hostess to Trivia Nites, WHAT A DRAG! - Drag Workshop, Charity and Private Functions and Community Festivities.
A devoted supporter of the LGBTQIA+ Family Community & a strong ambassadress for bringing Good Vibes, Laughter, Positivity & Inclusivity.
Performer of the Year
Kleo Fox

Libby Trainor Parker is a comedian, author, cabaret tragic, teacher, radio presenter, journalist and cat parent. She has many strings to her bow and no idea how to play violin.
Libby has won awards for her work in arts, education and health advocacy, particularly in endometriosis and women's (AFAB) health. Her five star reviewed, sell-out shows aim to empower, entertain people, and tickle funny bones.
Following a late endometriosis diagnosis at 36 years old, Libby has dedicated her life to advocating for people with chronic illness, pain and disability through her award-winning show Endo Days and her rave-reviewed book of the same name published by Wakefield Press in 2023. She believes every person has a right to appropriate, quality health care and support.
Now with a fresh diagnosis of neurodivergence in her 40s, Libby is on another mission to empower people to learn about their bodies and brains so they can take charge of their physical and mental health.
Performer of the Year
Libby Trainor Parker

Lindsay Prodea has been a prominent member of Adelaide's performing arts scene for over 20 years, with standout performances across musical theatre, cabaret, and live events.
He has taken on acclaimed lead roles including Peter Allen (The Boy From Oz), Joe Pitt (Angels in America), Frankie Valli (Jersey Boys), and Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby). He has performed at major events including Adelaide Carols by Candlelight and the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, and stepped in last-minute to critical acclaim in Simply Brill at the 2024 Fringe.
A regular performer at Fringe and Festival seasons, Lindsay is also the long-standing host of Broadway Sessions. He was awarded the Adelaide Critics Circle Individual Performer Award in 2024, and has received multiple accolades from TASA and the Adelaide Theatre Guide for his body of work.
Performer of the Year
Lindsay Prodea

Mary’s Poppin is a queer-owned and operated LGBTQIA+ nightclub that has been proudly serving the community since 2016. From the very beginning, creating a safe and inclusive environment—for both staff and patrons—has been a core value.
The venue now welcomes over 8,000 patrons each month, a testament to the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere cultivated by its dedicated team of over 50 proud LGBTQIA+ staff. At the heart of Mary’s is this team, who ensure the space remains authentically queer and deeply connected to the broader community.
Employer of the Year
Marys Poppin

Minty Hydrangea is a passionate queer artist who thrives on captivating audiences while creating, and promoting queer art.
For me, Drag has consistently been a part of my personality, before even the first wig sat upon my head. For years I have worked within the community, supporting the Queens which came before me, while learning, and taking advice. When Minty was born, it was with all the wisdom, love, and support of those that came before me.
Since gaining my platform, I have pushed my boundaries. I've painted my body green, jumped in a pool in full drag, thrown my body off high stages, won competitions and performed with some of the best drag queens in Adelaide.
As a proud and loud queer performer, I have also devoted myself to helping and guiding my fellow newcomers to the artform, whether that be through donating items, to helping with makeup and performances. Minty Hydrangea is for the people, and that is how she will continue to be.
Performer of the Year
Minty Hydrangea

Miss Gloss is an iconic, queer-owned and operated cabaret show based in Adelaide on Kaurna Land, proudly celebrating and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Nominated for Event of the Year by the South Australian Pride Awards, Miss Gloss is a bold, vibrant platform where creativity knows no bounds. With a strong focus on inclusivity and representation, especially within the drag and queer performance scene, the show champions diverse local talent and provides a safe, empowering space for artists to thrive.
Miss Gloss continues to push boundaries, foster community, and inspire audiences with unforgettable performances and unapologetic queer excellence.
Event of the Year
Miss Gloss Events: Club Gloss

Poppin Out is an annual street party that takes place at the conclusion of the Adelaide Pride March, carrying the spirit of celebration and community well into the night. Hosted in collaboration with Mary’s Poppin on Synagogue Place in the East End, the event transforms the street into a vibrant, safe, and welcoming space for continued festivities.
Poppin Out proudly showcases a diverse lineup of local queer talent, with drag performers and DJs taking centre stage. More than just a party, the event is a powerful celebration of identity, joy, and connection—bringing the LGBTQIA+ community together to dance, express, and celebrate freely.
Event of the Year
Poppin Out

Positive Gathering Place, a collaboration between SAMESH and Positive Life SA, is a vital community program for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in Adelaide. Developed from the original Positive Lounge initiative, the gatherings offer a safe, inclusive space for connection, nutritious meals, and access to a community pantry.
In a state where PLHIV face higher financial stress, social isolation, and poorer wellbeing compared to interstate peers, Positive Gathering Place has become a lifeline. It provides meaningful social support and promotes overall wellness. The initiative is deeply valued by community members, offering consistent connection, reducing stigma, and improving quality of life.
Community Group of the Year
Positive Gathering Place Lunch – SAMESH & Positive Life SA

This tennis club was founded in 1983 as "gay tennis" and in recent years, the club was incorporated and became "Pride Tennis Adelaide Inc.". We play tennis twice a week at two different clubs, i.e. Trinity Gardens Tennis Club where we've been for nearly 42 years and also at Sturt Lawn Tennis Club from 2020.
Whilst our club is predominantly a tennis club, we are also very mindful to create a friendly, safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQ+ (and friends). We also value social interaction within our club and to promote this, we provide afternoon teas and suppers and both venues.
We also put on two dinners per year, one is our trophy night and the other dinner is our Christmas/awards night. Whilst we have many long-term members, we welcome new members and do our best to attract new people to our club through word-of-mouth and social media.
Sport, Health and Wellbeing Award
Pride Tennis Adelaide Inc.

Pride of the South is a volunteer-based social, support and networking group for the LGBTIQA+ communities of Adelaide's outer Southern suburbs and beyond.
We aim to fight social isolation, connect LGBTIQA+ people with supports and services, and enhance the wellbeing of our community by fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Community Group of the Year
Pride of the South

Organised by Pride of the South, the annual Southern Pride March and Family Fun Day is a vibrant and joyful celebration of LGBTIQA+ identity in the South and beyond.
Event of the Year
Pride of the South (Southern Pride March)

Rainbow Crows is the official LGBTIQA+ supporter group for the Adelaide Football Club.
Formed in 2016, we provide an environment that safely allows everyone to passionately support our wonderful football club. We advocate for a stronger culture of inclusivity within the AFL, AFLW and for a full Pride Round in both competitions.
Rainbow Crows works closely with other AFL pride supporter groups, the LGBTIQA+ community in SA and is constantly striving to further a positive partnership with the Adelaide Football Club, the Crows Supporters Group and the AFL, that will be beneficial to all.
We provide Social meet ups before AFL games and at every Crows AFLW game and other AFL/Crows related events.
Community Group of the Year
Rainbow Crows

Rainbow Hollow provide a service with the outlook "WHERE EVERY PERSON IS EQUAL".
Each individual is treated equally, no matter, colour, ethnicity, sexuality, disability.
Rainbow Hollow's name was based on RAINBOW - symbolising "Diversity" and Hollow symbolising "a safe place"
Our employees encompass individuals of varying sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions to be able to support people best.
Actively participating in Pride March yearly, IDAHOBIT events, SARRA rainbow alliance and addressing diversity in sport, we are connecting communities continually.
Community Group of the Year
Rainbow Hollow Services

Rainbow Hub SA is an independent community-led incorporated organisation providing a voice for over 77,000 older LGBTI+ people in SA aged over 50. This is achieved by advocating and building community through action, events, aged care training, targeted projects and information sharing.
The history of Rainbow Hub SA is that in 2017-2018 the LGBTIQ People Ageing Well Project engaged with older people from SA’s rainbow communities to find out what mattered most to them as they age to better inform policy and create a groundswell for change. This unique project was the first time in SA that older LGBTI+ people had been invited to be heard in relation to their ageing experience. The project also celebrated the lives and contributions of older rainbow people and led to the formation of COTA SA’s Rainbow Hub and since July 2024, Rainbow Hub SA.
The organisation has continued to thrive and become a key part of the LGBTI+ community fabric.
Community Group of the Year
Rainbow Hub SA

SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance is a member-powered peak body uplifting LGBTIQA+ South Australians and the sector that supports us. Our vision is for LGBTIQA+ South Australians to thrive in a society where we experience health, safety, inclusion, equity, and equality.
We work with and for our communities in three key ways:
- Advocacy: Driving legal, policy, and systemic change to tackle discrimination and inequality.
- Capacity-building: Strengthening skills, resources, and sustainability within our communities.
- Inclusion: Equipping allies and organizations with the tools to affirm LGBTIQA+ people.
Together, we’re building a South Australia that is inclusive, safe, and welcoming for all.
Sport, Health and Wellbeing Award
SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance

Since 2015 the SAMESH Program has run as a partnership between Thorne Harbour Health and SHINE SA, funded by SA Health. Thorne Harbour Health (THH) is a community-controlled health organisation governed by our members and accountable to the communities we serve.
Community Group of the Year
SAMESH

SHINE SA is South Australia's leading sexual and reproductive health service, committed to providing inclusive, expert care, education, and advocacy for all.
We have a long-standing commitment to the LGBTIQA+ communities of South Australia, offering inclusive and holistic sexual health services, and respectful, evidence-based education. Our services also include specialist support for trans and gender-diverse people, LGBTIQA+ youth, and people living with HIV.
We actively advocate for systemic change, partner with community-led organisations, and support capacity-building within the health and education sectors. SHINE SA is proud to centre equity, respect, and celebration of diversity in everything we do.
Community Group of the Year
SHINE SA

Shania is a force, a big one! She loves short walks, thick loafs of bread (if you know what I mean) & men who can't commit! Most of all, Shania loves to entertain, tell a joke, make people forget about their issues & laugh.
She's not afraid to be in on the joke either. She may not be able to death drop or do a split, but she gives good face & head (if you're into that sort of thing) She may be a big girl, but thick is in baby, Shes not into tic tok more thick thots & is all about the old school Hunny.
Oringially starting in the Adult industry, Shania was the O.G Hens night queen, but soon she fell in love with the LGBTQI community, now working across both communities, bringing the art of Drag, joy & entertainment. Working with icons, Shania continues to advocate LOVE, empowerment & humility. Be you boo & do it your way!
Performer of the Year
Shania Twatt

Style & Spirit was a world-first exhibition presented by SAMESH and The David Roche Gallery celebrating the life and legacy of Chester Weinberg — the first fashion designer known to die of AIDS-related illness. The exhibition featured over 50 original garments and highlighted Weinberg’s role in fashion history and the early AIDS epidemic, bringing to light a legacy long overlooked by the industry.
Chester Weinberg overcame homophobia, antisemitism, and poverty to become a global fashion figure, mentoring icons like Donna Karan and Marc Jacobs. His untimely death in 1985 was followed by erasure, but this exhibition reclaimed his impact and honoured his story. Thousands visited from across Australia and beyond, gaining insight into a forgotten trailblazer and the ongoing fight against HIV stigma.
Event of the Year
Style & Spirit: The Fashion of Chester Weinberg – SAMESH

Sustainable Style is a community sewing program by SAMESH in collaboration with ECH, using creativity and sustainable fashion to combat social isolation and stigma. Launched in 2023, the group engages LGBTQIA+ community members — including disabled, non-binary, culturally diverse and ally participants — in inclusive, skill-building sessions that foster connection and resilience.
Participants aged 7 to 80+ meet regularly to create wearable art using recycled materials, reducing landfill and promoting wellbeing. The group provides a safe space for creativity, learning, and social engagement. For many, Sustainable Style has supported mental health, built confidence, and offered a rare opportunity to feel seen and empowered in a welcoming community.
Event of the Year
Sustainable Style – SAMESH & ECH

Thorne Harbour Health is one of Australia's largest LGBTIQA+ community-controlled health services. Thorne Harbour Health works primarily across South Australia and Victoria, but also leads on national projects.
As a LGBTIQA+ community-controlled health service, THH is run by community, for community, and has governance structures to remain accountable to community. As a result, Thorne Harbour Health's reputation for delivering health services that are embedded within, staffed and trusted by the communities that we serve, is unparalleled.
We envision a healthy future for our communities, a future without HIV where all people live with dignity and wellbeing.
Employer of the Year
Thorne Harbour Health

TransmascSA is a volunteer-run, community peer support group for trans and gender diverse people assigned/presumed female at birth, but don't identify as female (trans men, trans masc, non-binary, gender queer etc).
We provide a safer, confidential social support style group that promotes holistic well-being and social connectedness through peer support. Running for the last 9 years, and with over 1000 members in our online community, we run social events for our members to access community and peer support, as well as information sessions to help disseminate information about transition and navigating the world as trans and gender diverse people.
We also moderate online group spaces for members to connect, ask questions and receive support, as well as advocate on behalf of trans and gender diverse folks and work with government agencies and health care providers to improve care.
Community Group of the Year
TransMasc SA

Transfemme SA is a community group supporting over 650 gender diverse South Australians, led by a small team of volunteers. We run fortnightly groups in person, alongside a highly active Discord group, and a Facebook group for peer support and community connection.
Our community sessions average of 18 attendees, and 4 new attendees per fortnight. In our online spaces we see over 25 community members engage daily, seeking connection, peer support and service navigation.
Our sessions combine a mix of fun activities (board game nights, quiz nights), community education sessions (transition chats nights, support person nights), and practical skill building nights (sustainable style collaborations on clothes repair/tailoring, cooking lessons, voice training sessions).
Community Group of the Year
Transfemme SA

Adelaide's Fabulous Award winning Drag Queen and comedic Hostess & Entertainer. Broken Heel Festival competition winner 2024, Creator and Star of X & The City, Co-Creator of the ' What a Drag' community Drag Workshop 2024 and of course Lover of Fashion and Shoes.
Performer of the Year
Xanthe Starr
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