78ers

78ers are the participants in the events that took place in Sydney in 1978 related to the first Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade.

Group of people gathered for a celebration, some wearing black t-shirts that say '78ers The First Mardi Gras'. They are smiling, standing outdoors in front of a building with columns, with a mix of men and women of various ages.

L to R: Rebbell Barnes, Robyn Kennedy, Diane Minnis, Karl Zlotkowski, Lance Day, Sydney Town Hall Flag Raising, Mardi Gras Festival 16 February 2024. Photo credit: Anne Morphett

The term 78ers was coined in 1997 to describe participants in the following events:

  • International Day of Gay Solidarity march on the morning of 24 June 1978

  • First Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade on 24 June 1978

  • Protest at Darlinghurst and Central Police Stations on 25 June 1978

  • Protest at Central Court, Sydney on 26 June 1978

  • March from Martin Place to Darlinghurst Police Station on 15 July 1978

  • March from Paddington Town Hall to Taylor Square and Hyde Park on 27 August 1978

Individuals who participated in one or more of these events are known as “78ers”.

78ers are the second float in each year’s Mardi Gras Parade after First Nations. 78ers also host a stall at each year’s Mardi Gras Fair Day.

Three people standing outdoors, smiling, wearing black shirts with pink text and graphics, and sunglasses, with trees and a pink umbrella in the background.

LL to R: Libby Bessell-Brown, Branco Gaica, Cheryl Clark. Fair Day 16 February 2025. Photo credit: Anne Morphett

Are you a 78er?

If you participated in any of the events in 1978, we invite you to become a member and be added to the Who Was There in 1978 list.

If you are not a 78er but would like to support us, we invite you to become an Associate Member.

Learn about the First Mardi Gras

Learn more