Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras announces
returning Co-Chairs, appointment of Treasurer
and newly elected Board for 2025 – 2026
Media Release Sydney 08 january,2025
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is pleased to announce that Kathy Pavlich and Mits Delisle will continue as Co-Chairs of the organisation, and that Wendy Maloney has been appointed to the Board as Treasurer, strengthening leadership continuity as Mardi Gras enters a significant period of planning and community engagement ahead of its 50th anniversary.
The organisation also confirms the appointment of four newly elected Directors following the 2025 Annual General Meeting. Luna Choo, Savanna Peake, Jarrod Lomas and Kathy Pavlich were elected by members and join continuing Directors Mits Delisle, Damien Nguyen and Diana McManus on the Board for the 2025–2026 term. Wendy Maloney has been appointed to fill an existing Board vacancy. This marks the first public announcement of the Board’s full composition following a strong member turnout of 1,627 votes at the AGM.
Kathy Pavlich and Mits Delisle, Co-Chairs of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, said, “We are honoured to continue serving as Co-Chairs and to work alongside a Board that reflects the depth and diversity of our communities. This is an important moment for Mardi Gras as we strengthen our foundations and prepare for our 50th anniversary. We look forward to working collaboratively with our new and continuing Directors to support the organisation’s renewal, deepen community engagement and ensure the Festival continues to evolve with clarity, pride and purpose.”
Jesse Matheson, Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, said, “We congratulate all newly elected Directors and thank every candidate who stood for election. We are also pleased to welcome the continued leadership of our Co-Chairs, whose experience and commitment will help guide Mardi Gras through a significant period of planning and growth. As we look toward our 50th anniversary, the Board remains focused on strengthening the organisation, supporting our communities and delivering a Mardi Gras that reflects our shared pride and future.”
With continuity in leadership and a refreshed Board bringing diverse experience, Mardi Gras moves into its next chapter with stability and shared purpose. The Board will guide the organisation in strategic planning for the years ahead, preparing for the milestone 50th anniversary in 2028 and supporting the delivery of a vibrant and inclusive Festival and year-round program.
Returning Co-Chairs
Kathy Pavlich returns as Co-Chair with more than three decades of involvement in Mardi Gras and extensive professional experience in security, risk management and governance. Known for her deep organisational knowledge and strong community relationships, she brings long-standing leadership and continuity to the role.
Mits Delisle continues as Co-Chair, drawing on a background in community leadership, organisational strategy and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. As a continuing Director, Mits has contributed to key governance reforms and the broader renewal of the organisation.
New Treasurer
Wendy Maloney has been appointed by the Board to fill an existing vacancy and will serve as Treasurer. She brings extensive experience in finance, holding a Master of Taxation and serving as Head of Finance at Two Good Co, a social enterprise supporting, empowering and employing women with lived experience of homelessness, domestic violence and complex trauma.
Newly elected Directors
Luna Choo joins the Board as a Malaysian trans woman and community advocate whose work spans peer support, grassroots organising and community mobilisation. She brings lived experience and a strong commitment to elevating diverse LGBTQIA+ voices.
Savanna Peake brings governance experience through her roles with the Pride Business Association and Women’s Legal Service NSW. Her background in public education, union organising and LGBTQIA+ advocacy informs her strong focus on equity, inclusion and community empowerment.
Jarrod Lomas, President of the Pride Business Association (NSW), offers a decade of experience across government, business and community organisations. His expertise spans operations, communications and stakeholder engagement, contributing to the Board’s strategic capacity.
Kathy Pavlich, in addition to continuing as Co-Chair, also serves as a re-elected Director, contributing her extensive governance and community experience.
Continuing Directors
The continuing Directors for the 2025–2026 term are Mits Delisle, serving as Co-Chair, Damien Nguyen and Diana McManus.
Mardi Gras thanks outgoing Directors Louis Hudson, Kyriakos Gold and Luc Velez for their contribution and dedication to the organisation and community.
Festival Details
Festival dates: 13 February – 1 March 2026
Festival theme: ECSTATICA
App: Free to download via App Store and Google Play
More info: www.mardigras.org.au
About Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) is an LGBTQIA+ not-for-profit member-based organisation that produces the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade and Festival and several other events and supportive initiatives throughout the year. SGLMG was built on the foundations laid by early community activists who fought for LGBTQIA+ rights in a time of widespread, institutionalised oppression and discrimination. Year-round, SGLMG also develops initiatives that celebrate LGBTQIA+ identity, champion creative expression, challenge injustice, and elevate diverse voices. The organisation proudly provides a platform for SOGIESC communities to share with the world.
