The first Fruits Parramatta of 2026 brought local LGBTQIA+ professionals and business owners together at the Bar30 Deck to reconnect, network, and look ahead to a massive Mardi Gras season.
Our February event marked the official return of Fruits Parramatta for the year, offering the perfect opportunity for the Western Sydney community to reconnect after the summer break. Held at the private and welcoming Bar30 Deck at PARKROYAL Parramatta, the evening was filled with vibrant conversation, drinks, and canapés, all enjoyed under the glow of all-night happy hour prices.
The evening was expertly hosted by PBA Business Associate Stephen Haggett, whose warmth and energy set a welcoming tone for the night. Stephen made a point of welcoming both our long-time regulars and several first-time guests, ensuring that everyone, from established business owners to those just starting their networking journey, felt right at home in the inclusive space.
Everyone is welcome at the PBA! Check out our upcoming events.
Lucky Door Prizes: A Night at the Theatre and Some Fabulous Wine
As is tradition, the excitement peaked with our lucky door prize draws. This month, guests had the chance to win two sets of double passes to the New Theatre’s upcoming production of Perfect Arrangement by Topher Payne.
Presented as part of the Mardi Gras+ program, the play is a sharp, provocative drama set during the “Lavender Scare” of 1950s America. It follows two State Department employees tasked with hunting “sexual deviants,” while secretly being gay themselves and living in “lavender marriages.” It’s a story that explores fear and the weaponisation of identity. Themes that remain poignantly relevant today.
A huge congratulations to our winners: Chere Koh and PBA Lifetime Member Anthony Venn-Brown OAM. We hope you enjoy this fantastic piece of queer theatre!
In addition, Michael Batti from Altitudo took home a $100 gift voucher from Ampersand Wine. With bold entrepreneurial spirit and a creative eye for detail, they transformed the historic estate into a destination of rare beauty and distinction. Today, Ampersand Estates is recognised as one of Australia’s top 10 winery stays. It’s a true gem in the South West.
PBA Board Associate Stephen Haggett with Anthony Venn-Brown (OAM) and Chere Koh.
A Massive Mardi Gras Season Awaits
While February kicked off with a relaxed vibe, the energy is quickly ramping up as the PBA prepares for an action-packed Mardi Gras festival.
Fair Day (Sunday, Feb 15): The PBA will be out in force! Make sure to swing by the PBA Stall at Victoria Park to say hello to the team and find out more about what we have planned for the year.
Fruits Sydney: Mardi Gras Edition (Thursday, Feb 19): This is our biggest event of the year! As part of the official Mardi Gras+ program, we are celebrating 30 years of Fruits. Held in the heart of the festival season, this high-energy night will feature special guest and star of RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under, Hannah Conda. Expect entertainment, vibrant networking, and a celebration of three decades of community. Get your tickets here.
Lemons (Sunday, Feb 22). Get tickets.
Fruits Parramatta: Mardi Gras Edition (Thursday, March 5): We return to Western Sydney to close out the season on a high note. Join us for a special social night focused on community and conversation, complete with more great door prizes. Book your spot for March here.
Whether you are looking to grow your business, expand your professional network, or simply want to catch up with likeminded people in a relaxed environment, there is a place for you at the PBA.
Everyone is welcome at the PBA! Check out our upcoming events.
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