The Dykes on Bikes are an essential and exciting start to every Mardi Gras Parade – a celebrated institution of strong, visible, activist lesbian women who between 1988 and 2010 patrolled the back streets of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills and Newtown to deter gay bashing and support the community, continuing to host rides, social events and charity fundraisers today.
Their place at the beginning of the Parade started with their first entry of eight riders and continues each year in recognition of their history patrolling the streets.
As Australia’s longest-running, female-identified motorcycle club and one of the country’s oldest LGBTQIA+ community groups, they remain active in defending the community.
They are a regular presence at Trans and Gender Diverse events, Drag Story-time events and at regional pride festivals such as Rainbow on the Plains (Hay) and Coastal Twist Fair Day (NSW Central Coast).