Saturday 1st March 2008
The 2008 Mardi Gras Parade marked the 30th anniversary of the protest which began it all. Special indulgences were granted to supporters of the Sydney House to
assist in the parade.
With a sterling effort the Rainbow Habit, which made it's first appearance more than ten years ago and was originally conceived by Mother Desmond Three Three With A Bloody Good Tan, made a welcome return and was expertly displayed. Our banner was also proudly borne by several supporters and members of visiting Australian Houses.
Fred's head, suitably lashed into submission, was brought out after ten years to follow the fabulous Rainbow Habit in the parade and our own webdog, proudly wore the Bicentenial Leather Habit.
About 10,000 parade participants began to assemble mid afternoon.
Our very own paparazzi is also on hand to expertly record a pictorial record.
Meanwhile Sister Rowena has found his own paparazzi!
Only the most saintly and inspirational sister is granted his own special place in parade reflections!
Sister, Photo opportunity!
Suitably lashed in place!
A picture speaks a thousand words really!
The colour, splendour and excitement
A visiting Sister from the West and...
Sister Salomé's found a stray!
Another photo opportunity!
Sister CPR II, Cardinal Titi and St WD 4.0
Huddle Sisters!
They came from the West! Sisters of the Order of the Black Swan
Sisters wearing the Rainbow Habit join Mother Desmond Three Three
for a photo opportunity.
Him again!
...and Sister C.P.R.II gives advice to a novice
Sister CPR II with St WD 4.0 who's proudly wearing the Bicentenial Leather Habit.
Dusk falls and floats light up as departure approaches.
"One, two, buckle my shoe Sister!"
Time draws near and the Rainbow Habit takes form.
O.P.I. volunteers in position to carry the train.
...and the wait is over Sisters. We're off!
Link arms Sisters, those trains weigh a tonne!
Mother Desmond holds the banner high.
You can bet his arms are going to ache!
See what can happen when you join the Sisters for a History Walk
(See the History Walk pics.) You may get paraded before 350,000 people!
Mother Desmond Three Three speaks to the carmera for the live broadcast.
I know my lighter's in here somewhere!
At last, the top of the hill, and round the corner at Taylor Square,
with a well known icon in the background.
I'm sure I should recognise that face, if only I'd put my glasses in.
We acknowledge our volunteers and thank them for their assistance.
Just some of the gathered faithful lining the parade route.
Mother Desmond has off loaded the banner!
Hello gorgeous, coming our way?
Sydney Sisters Present: Sister Salomé of the 9th Mystic Rhinestone, Sister Rowena Keeper of the Holy Doyley, Sister Mary Go-Round,
Mother Desmond 3 3 With A Bloody Good Tan, Sister Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation II,
Cardinal Titi Chartay Immaculata Deceptionata and Novice Sister Helena,
Photos courtesy of John William and the webdog
Back To 2008 Archive