Picture this: Brisbane City Hall transformed into a kaleidoscope of sequins, tuxedos, and rainbow flags swaying to a rhythm that’s equal parts disco throwback and modern anthem. For 60+ years, this glittering beast of a party has been our community’s beating heart. It’s where leather-clad veterans swap stories with baby gays over champagne flutes, where our history literally waltzes with our future.
The Queens Ball: Where Generations Collide in Glittering Harmony
60+
Years of Queens Ball
800+
Award Winners
From Backroom Beginnings to City Hall Royalty
Our ball’s origin story reads like queer folklore – born in 1961 among Mt Tambourine’s whispering trees when gathering could mean danger.
Fast forward to 1988’s legendary Roxy explosion when Sybil Thornedyke emerged from backstage to find “the venue packed to the rafters with young queers!” (Her words, not ours – and we’ve been dining out on that quote for decades).
The Awards - Our Community's Oscar Night
These aren’t just trophies – they’re love letters to the people keeping our scene alive. Who’ll take home:
Activist of the Year
Recognises individuals who have engaged in advocacy or activism for LGBTIQ+ causes
Ally of the Year
Recognises individuals who do not identify as LGBTIQ+ that have engaged in advocacy or activism for LGBTIQ+ causes and/or have shown exceptional support for the community.
Artist of the Year
Individual artists who identify as LGBTIQ+, including (but not limited to) photographers, painters, poets, fiction writers
Community Social Group of the Year
Recognises groups who run, organise and/or host social events for the LGBTIQ+ community (excludes sporting or community support groups)
Community Sporting Group Group of the Year
Recognises groups who run, organise and/or host sporting events for the LGBTIQ+ community (excludes social or community support groups)
Community Support Group Group of the Year
Recognises groups that provide support services to members of the LGBTIQ+ community (excludes sporting or social groups)
DJ of the Year
Recognises individuals who DJ regularly at LGBTIQ+ events and venues
Drag Performer of the Year
Recognises the contribution to the LGBTIQ+ community of individual drag performers, including Drag Queens and Drag Kings
Event of the Year
Recognises events for the benefit of the LGBTIQ+ community held either once or at regular intervals throughout the year
First Nations Leadership and Engagement Award
Recognises individuals who identify as LGBTIQ+ and members of the First Nations community who have engaged in advocacy or activism for LGBTIQ+ causes
Performer of the Year
Recognises individual performers who identify as LGBTIQ, including (but not limited to) musicians, dancers, comedians, and burlesque performers.
(Not DJs or drag performers)
(Not DJs or drag performers)
Venue of the Year
Recognises venues that provide a safe space and/or a space for the provision of goods and services to those who identify as LGBTIQ+
Volunteer of the Year
Recognises individuals who have volunteered (without pay) their time, skills, and passion to LGBTIQ+ community organisations and/or causes
Young Achievement Award
Recognises individuals aged 25 years and under who have made a significant contribution to the LGBTIQ+ community
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