Qtopia Sydney, the home of Queer storytelling, is proud to welcome Mr Rebbell Barnes, an original 78er, to the family as its newest Ambassador. A symbol of resilience and advocacy, Rebbell’s journey as one of the trailblazing participants in the first Sydney Mardi Gras in 1978 at just 16 years old has cemented his place in the LGBTQIA+ community’s history.
Rebbell Barnes was the youngest person to be thrown into the old Darlinghurst police station during the 1978 protests, so becoming an Ambassador for Qtopia Sydney, which has reclaimed the police station as the largest home of Queer history and culture in the world, is a full-circle moment.
“Reclaiming a space that once symbolised hate toward the gay community is incredibly meaningful. To transform this building into a storyteller for our rich history is something truly worth celebrating,” said Mr Barnes.
As an Ambassador, Rebbell will work closely with Qtopia Sydney to bring in schools and corporates, inspiring future generations through his invaluable experience and dedication.
“I am honoured to support Qtopia Sydney’s efforts to create a more inclusive future through its school and corporate programs. Understanding begins with education, and that is where real change starts,” continued Mr Barnes.
Greg Fisher, CEO of Qtopia Sydney, shared his excitement about this new partnership. “Rebbell’s lifelong advocacy and rich history in the LGBTQIA+ community brings a wealth of knowledge to our programs. Alongside our Ambassadors Katherine Wolfgramme and Stephen Spencer, Rebbell will amplify our mission to foster change, respect and acceptance.”
Rebbell’s career in Local Government spans 44 years, notably as Coordinator for Records Management at Bayside Council (NSW) and as Director & President of the NSW Records and Information Management Professionals Australasia. Rebbell is currently a Committee Member of the Events & Marketing Committee at Friends of The Australian Ballet, a Committee Member for the 78ers First Mardi Gras and coordinating the LGBTQIA+ Collection Archives at City of Sydney.
