Young people from all over the Yarra Ranges were invited to the first Pride formal over the weekend hosted by the Lilydale Youth Hub.
The Mooroolbark event saw 110 young people hit the dance floor and get dressed up for a safe, welcoming event just for them on Saturday 15 October.
“We are really fortunate and proud to have been able to hold the first ever Pride Formal for young people in the Yarra Ranges,” Youth Engagement Officer Yashna Poorun said.
“It was incredible to see so many Yarra Ranges young people out celebrating who they are and having a great time.
“LGBTQIA+ support and services are pretty rare in the Yarra Ranges, so to have gathered 110 young people to celebrate who they are is enormous.”
For those needing a break from the energy of the dance floor, a special sensory area was set up where young people could chill out.
The event came together with support from FReeZA, Yarra Ranges Council, Lilydale High School, Burrinja, Headspace and Queer Arts Collective, with the help of some dedicated youth ambassadors.
“It’s a credit to all of the young LGBTQIA+ people in the Yarra Ranges and their friends, families and allies. They have made tonight (15 October) a truly unforgettable night, we hope they had a blast.”
