Sunshine, Smiles & Solidarity: Our Day at the River Pride Picnic

brutalnerd
Nov 9
4 min read

A relaxed afternoon by the river turned into a gentle celebration of love, inclusion and community. The Melt Festival’s River Pride Picnic wasn’t about big stages or loud crowds - just sunshine, laughter and the peaceful rhythm of Pride flowing along the water.

Colourful "BRISBANE" letters on grass by a river, vibrant patterns, two trees, boats in the background, clear blue sky.

A Gentle Morning by the River

Some days just have a peaceful kind of magic about them. The sun was out, the sky was clear, and the river shimmered like a ribbon of light - the perfect setting for the Melt Festival’s River Pride Picnic.

We arrived ready for a slow and easy day by the water. First, we wandered through the markets before the program began. There were so many delicious foods on offer, and I couldn’t resist grabbing myself a coffee and a couple of giant cookies. I think it might have been the best cookie I’ve ever had - but wow, was it rich!

Two people in vibrant, colourful costumes with embellished hats and pink flags stand by a waterfront railing, smiling under a clear blue sky.

Finding Our Spot

We found a park bench right at the front with a perfect view of the river. Groups of friends and families had gathered nearby - some chatting, some reading, others just soaking up the warm breeze.

I had planned to come dressed in all the colours of the rainbow, and honestly, I’m glad I didn’t. The vibe was far more laid-back — a lazy-day kind of Pride. The only people dressed up were those involved in the event itself.

There weren’t any extravagant costumes or loud performances, but there didn’t need to be. The colours came from picnic blankets, pink flags, and the quiet joy of people showing up as themselves. It was Pride in its most peaceful form — open, relaxed and real.

Water skiers with pink flags perform on a river. A boat and jet ski are nearby. Houses on a hillside are in the background under a clear sky.

Boats, Floats and River Fun

The real highlight of the afternoon was out on the water. Boats of all shapes and sizes cruised past, decked out with Pride flags fluttering proudly in the wind. A few jet skis zipped by, adding splashes of excitement to the calm.

The crowd cheered and waved as each boat passed. Daytime rainbow pyrotechnics shot into the sky, and one tugboat driver looked like they were having the time of their life — spinning the boat in circles and blasting the water cannon with pure joy!

A tugboat sprays water into the air near a shoreline with multi-story houses amidst lush greenery under a clear blue sky.

Pride in the Quiet Moments

As we sat and watched, I found myself thinking about how Pride doesn’t always have to be loud to be powerful. Sometimes it’s in these softer moments - sitting shoulder to shoulder with friends, feeling safe and accepted, surrounded by people who believe in equality and inclusion.

There was such a sense of togetherness in the air - such a beautiful range of ages. People greeted each other with easy smiles, shared drinks, and helped one another find shade. It reminded me how community is often built not through grand gestures, but through small, thoughtful acts of care.

Person flyboarding high above water, holding a pink flag under clear blue sky. A boat and dock with people are in the background.

Heading Home with Full Hearts

The River Pride Picnic wasn’t about huge crowds, energetic music or loud stages - it was about presence, connection and community. A quiet reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful celebrations are the simplest ones — just sunshine, smiles and solidarity by the river.

Colourful smoke explosion in a blue sky with pink flags featuring a bull and rainbow design. Trees and a streetlight in the foreground.

Events like this show how powerful community can be when we make space for everyone. If you get the chance, come along to next year’s Melt Festival or find a local Pride event near you — pack a chair, bring a friend, and be part of the love that keeps flowing.

Because whether it’s a big parade or a quiet day by the river, Pride is always better when we share it together. 🌈

Accessibility Information

🎟️ Cost

Free!

🗓️ When

Held annually in November.

📍 Where

New Farm Park

1042 Brunswick St, New Farm QLD 4005.

♿ Companion Card

Not Needed.

😊 Customer Service

We found everyone very friendly, especially at the markets where we shopped.

🧑‍🦽 Wheelchair Access

Yes - accessible toilets and parking available. Cement paths throughout the park make it easy to navigate.

🚗 Parking & Transport

We parked at New Farm Park.

Parking was free, and we found a space easily by arriving early.

🔒 Security

This was a day time event and felt very safe. Security staff were present, and the atmosphere was family friendly.

💡 Tip: Take sunscreen! I thought I’d be fine sitting under a big shady tree for most of the day… I was wrong — very sunburnt!

🐾 Pet Policy

Dogs are welcome. There’s also an off-leash dog park near the Powerhouse.

🧘 Quiet Spaces

No dedicated quiet areas, but there are plenty of calm spots around the park to rest and recharge.

🍔 Food Options

Markets are held on certain days, and there are restaurants nearby at the Powerhouse. You'll also find free electric barbeques and even a coffee hut near the playground!

👥 Crowds

It was very busy being a Saturday, but there’s plenty of open space to move away from the crowds if you need a breather.

I hope this information helps you plan your visit and encourages you to experience this wonderful event for yourself. If you think anything needs to be added regarding your disability, please feel free to CONTACT ME