The biggest night on Brisbane’s LGBTQIA+ calendar is set to return on Saturday 20 June, with Brisbane Pride announcing the 65th Queens Ball at Brisbane City Hall. This year marks the first Queens Ball since the recent passing of the event’s founder and long-time organiser, Dame Sybil Von Thorndyke.
Celebrating more than six decades of history and honouring Dame Sybil’s remarkable legacy, Queens Ball is understood to be the longest continuously running LGBTQIA+ event in the world.
First hosted as a private party in a house at Mount Tamborine in 1962, Queens Ball now brings together hundreds of community members, performers and allies for a night of celebration, recognition and pride.
This year’s theme – United Colours of Pride – invites the community to come together in a vibrant celebration of diversity, unity and shared identity — a powerful reflection of the strength found across Queensland’s LGBTQIA+ communities.
Brisbane Pride President James McCarthy said the 2026 Ball would continue the event’s proud legacy while embracing a message of unity and visibility.
“The Queens Ball has always been about bringing our community together – to celebrate who we are, honour those who lead and inspire us, and recognise the richness of our diversity,” said Mr McCarthy.
“With the sad passing of Queens Ball founder and longtime organiser Dame Sybil Von Thordyke, this year’s Queens Ball offers community members the opportunity to reflect on Dame Sybil’s immeasurable contribution to our communities, and to honour and celebrate her considerable legacy.”
“This year’s theme, United Colours of Pride, speaks to the strength we find in standing together. At a time when visibility and solidarity matter more than ever, Queens Ball reminds us that our community shines brightest when we celebrate and stand with every member of our shared rainbow community,” said Mr McCarthy.
Held in the iconic Brisbane City Hall, the Queens Ball transforms the venue into a spectacular showcase of glamour, fabulous performances and community spirit, with attendees encouraged to embrace the United Colours of Pride theme.
The evening will once again feature the hotly contested Queens Ball Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to LGBTQIA+ communities.
“Each year, the Queens Ball honours the people and organisations who make our community stronger,” said Mr McCarthy.. “It’s a night of joy, reflection and celebration, and in 2026, we invite everyone to be part of something truly special.”
The Queen’s Ball will be held at Brisbane Town Hall on Saturday 20 June 2026. Award nominations and ticket sales will be announced soon. For more information, visit: www.brisbanepride.org.au for details.
Image: The Queens Ball – United Colours of Pride – artwork by Capturing the Awesome (photo of Dame Sybil Von Thordyke – courtesy of John Oxley Library – State Library of Queensland)