Optus puts Sydney Mardi Gras coverage on the web

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 23 February 2012 15:19

Your IT - Entertainment

Internet coverage of this year's Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will be delivered by Optus.

Mardi Gras TV, produced by Optus and directed by the Mardi Gras organisation, will deliver a range of content from the festival, including an hour-long presentation of the parade.

Mardi Gras TV will be in operation from February 27, with the parade highlights available from 7.30pm on March 4.

"By showcasing Sydney Mardi Gras 2012 on the Internet we are able to reach a larger audience than ever before," said Michael Rolik, CEO of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. "While Mardi Gras attracts more than 20,000 visitors to Sydney every year, this year for the first time viewers from around the world will be able to tune in and share the celebrations and excitement of our GLBTQI community parade and festival."

Optus consumer managing director Michael Smith described the event as a unique opportunity. "It builds on our digital partnership with the ARIAs, which saw us bring exclusive behind the scenes content to our customers via mobile, as well as our digital partnership with Football Federation Australia."

"Optus is committed to supporting the different cultures and lifestyles of our people and we are proud to see our relationship with Sydney Mardi Gras move beyond our participation in the parade," he added.

Optus employees will be part of the parade with a Mad Hatter's Tea Party themed float.