There’s something magical about dancing the night away with your friends in a space where there’s no judgment - just joy, respect, and freedom to be yourself.

​

I’m Lavina Harte, founder of The Coast is Queer Party, a vibrant LGBTQIA+ and Allies event based in Geelong. I started the party after moving here from Melbourne in 2020 and noticing there wasn’t a regular queer event that truly brought the community together.

​

Our first event at Captain Bar was a huge success, and I’ll never forget people coming up to thank me - from proud parents to trans locals - saying how much it meant to have a space where they felt seen and celebrated. That’s when I knew this was more than a party. It’s a community.

 

I fund each event myself because this isn’t about profit - it’s about creating connection. It’s about giving opportunities to local DJs, drag performers, and creatives, and ensuring every person who walks through the door feels safe, welcome, and free to shine.

​

Originally from country Western Australia, I came out the same year I moved to Melbourne, and found belonging in the city’s northside queer scene. Now living in Geelong, I’m proud to bring that same energy to the coast - inclusive, creative, and full of heart.

When I’m not planning events, you’ll find me paddleboarding, catching up with friends and enjoying the local food scene, or dreaming up big ideas like one day hosting “The Pier is Queer” -  a full-scale celebration on the Geelong waterfront.

​

Because at the end of the day, The Coast is Queer is more than a party - it’s a movement for visibility, connection, and pride on the coast.