Yarra Trams has revealed a newly designed tram to celebrate inclusion and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams has announced that the Victorian Government is supporting the 2024 #AllAboard Pride Tram to operate on Melbourne’s tram network from today.
“Everyone should feel comfortable on public transport in Victoria and this tram is a wonderful symbol of inclusivity,” said Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams.
“This brightly coloured tram is sure to turn heads as it rolls across the world’s largest tram network.”
The new vibrantly designed E-Class tram was created by Victorian artist and LGBTQIA+ community member Phi Do – with the tram featuring playful and nostalgic stickers.
“As soon as I saw the #AllAboard design competition advertised I knew I had to make a submission and spent weeks creating a design that went with my bright, positive and playful style of illustration,” said winning artist Phi Do.
Nearly 50 designs were submitted for the 2024 #AllAboard Pride Tram design competition and reviewed by a panel of ten judges, before five finalists were put forward for a public vote to decide the winner.
The #AllAboard Pride Tram is one of the most recognisable on the network and a popular feature in the annual Midsumma Pride March held in February. For the last three years, Yarra Trams employees have proudly marched alongside the tram.
The winning artist was awarded $5,000, while second-placed artist Emma Georgia Stamatellis took home $3,000 for a submission that will be featured on a tram shelter near the Victorian Pride Centre ahead of the Midsumma Pride March.
The #AllAboard Pride Tram will be based at Yarra Trams’ new Preston Depot and will operate on routes 11, 86 and 96 – transporting thousands of passengers to Melbourne’s iconic events over summer.
“We have worked hard in recent years to build a workforce that represents the incredible city that we serve every single day, and this tram is a tangible representation of our commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Yarra Trams Chief Executive Officer Carla Purcell.
Yarra Trams partnered with LGBTQIA+ arts and culture organisation Midsumma, the Victorian Pride Centre, and JOY Media to deliver the initiative.
For more information about the 2024 #AllAboard Pride Tram, visit: www.yarratrams.com.au for details.
Image: Winning artist Phi Do, Trambassador Frock Hudson and Minister Gabrielle Williams with the 2024 #AllAboard Pride Tram – courtesy of Yarra Trams