Two eye-catching pink buses will start driving passengers across Sydney in celebration of the 46th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival 2024.
The wrapped buses will be on the road throughout the Mardi Gras season before taking part in the parade on Saturday 2 March.
Rainbow Families will proudly take a seat in the decorated Transit Systems buses for the parade, joining the 200-float street parade as parts of Transport for NSW’s float as it rolls through Oxford Street, Flinders Street and Anzac Parade.
Bus Operator Transit Systems is showcasing its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, servicing public transport routes across Sydney.
The pink bus wraps align with the Mardi Gras Festival 2024 theme, “Our Future” as Transit Systems and Transport for NSW focus on attracting the next generation of workers and creating a welcoming environment across all of our transport networks.
During the Mardi Gras season, Sydneysiders will also spot rainbow buses in North Sydney and the Northern Beaches, a “Happy Mardi Gras” wrapped tram on the L2 & L3 and decorations across city train and light rail stations.
Transport Minister, Jo Haylen, said:
“The Sydney Mardi Gras is a celebration of diversity and inclusion, and I am thrilled to see our buses are part of the festivities.”
“With over 12,000 marchers for the Mardi Gras Parade, public transport will be playing a major role, in helping passengers get to where they need to go, but also in the parade itself.”
“Public transport should be a safe place for all and I thank Transit Systems for their work in celebrating diversity.”
Rainbow Families, Bern Foley, said:
“We are thrilled to see public transport represented in the Mardi Gras Parade, and it has already started the sharing of transport stories about our experiences and challenges.”
“Having this amazing bus in our Rainbow Families entry has meant we can ensure accessibility, allowing for more of our community members to take part. Hopefully we can continue to improve the journey as we ensure a more inclusive future together.”
“We are proud to partner with Transit Systems in ensuring each and every passenger feels safe and respected.”
Transit Systems CEO, Michael McGee, said:
“Our support for the Mardi Gras reflects our commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting a positive, accepting culture within our organisation.”
“We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where individuals feel comfortable expressing their authentic selves. At Transit Systems, we envision a future where everyone is celebrated for their unique identities.”
Transport for NSW Secretary, Josh Murray. said:
“These bus wraps will serve as a moving billboard, promoting the values of inclusion and support throughout Sydney.”
“It is great to see our private operators investing in this important celebration and working hard to make all their passengers feel welcome on public transport.”
