Lion has today announced it will be a major partner of the 2022 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, with Little Creatures to be the event’s official beer for the next three years, and for Sydney WorldPride in 2023.
The partnership between Little Creatures and Mardi Gras reflects the brand’s passion for connecting with consumers and contributing to community and culture in a positive, vibrant and sociable way.
Following Hahn Ice’s sponsorship of the event 30 years ago, the recent partnership is another positive step for inclusion in Lion’s history.
Joining with Mardi Gras once again elevates Lion’s more recent work with the LGBTQIA+ community, including a multi-year relationship with Bobby Goldsmith Foundation via its special release beer Brooklyn Brewery Stonewall IPA, which raises money for Australia’s longest-running HIV charity.
Little Creatures has also supported WA’s PrideFEST from its home in Fremantle.
“As a company striving to do more for inclusion, we are excited to be back as an official sponsor Sydney’s world-famous Pride celebration,” said Lion’s chief marketing officer, Anubha Sahasrabuddhe.
“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on all hospitality operators, but many venues and events that are so vital to Sydney’s queer community have been among the hardest hit.
“A big reason we wanted to be involved is to support our vibrant and resilient pub, bar and hospo industry as they plan another incredible festival for everyone to enjoy in 2022.
“And going into it knowing that we’ll be a part of WorldPride in Sydney in 2023 makes this announcement even more special.”
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO, Albert Kruger said, “We’re delighted to have Little Creatures join us as our official beer partner for the next three years. They have shown great dedication to equality, both within their organization and for the wider LGBTQIA+ community.”
Sydney WorldPride CEO, Kate Wickett added, “Sydney WorldPride will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with old friends and make new friends as we welcome people from around the world.
“We are really looking forward to showing off the best in LGBTQIA+ arts and culture to the rest of the world. Little Creatures is a fantastic Aussie Beer and I’m sure some wonderful fun will be had and memories will be made over a couple of cold ones at Sydney WorldPride next year.”
The announcement is especially meaningful to Lion’s Pride@Lion members – the company’s employee group that celebrates LBGTIQ+ inclusion and visibility – which has made incredible advances in raising awareness and evolving the company’s culture with the full backing of the all Lion team members.
The Lion, Little Creatures and Brooklyn Brewery teams have some great plans for Fair Day, the Parade and a range of other exciting events that will be announced in coming weeks.
To mark this announcement, Lion will triple its funding commitment to the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation in 2022, donating $60,000, as well as $10,000 of in-kind contributions.
