Meet Jarrod Lomas
Jarrod Lomas is one of nine candidates vying for the four open positions on the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) Board of Directors.
Jarrod’s professional experience spans government, non-profits, and the business sector. He is currently President of the NSW Pride Business Association, a not-for-profit organisation that works to promote LGBTIQ professionals in the business community. He has volunteered with organisations such as the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Foundation, Out for Australia, Qtopia, and Queer Screen. Jarrod has lived in Sydney for almost 10 years.
Electronic voting opened Friday, November 7 and will close Tuesday, November 25 at 5pm. In-person voting is available at the SGLMG Annual General Meeting on November 29.
In an interview with Gay Sydney Australia, Jarrod spoke about his first Mardi Gras, what he thinks about police marching in the parade, and what he believes he brings to the role that no one else can.
Read for yourself…
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Why do you want to be on the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Board of Directors?
Mardi Gras is at an important crossroads, and I believe I am well placed to help steady and strengthen it, while delivering progress, together. I bring capability, relentless community focus and clear governance, so that Mardi Gras can thrive long after the 50th anniversary in 2028. This is about building progress that lasts and making sure no one is left behind.
Describe your first Mardi Gras. What year, what did you wear, what were the highlights, what memory stands out the most?
Being from Perth, I’d watched it for years from the other side of the country. 2018 was my first year physically at the Parade. I was new to Sydney, wearing a simple tee and shorts, glitter across my face, overwhelmed in the best way. The moment that stands out (apart from bumping into Cher!) was realising this city had space for me. It was joy, progress and possibility all at once. It felt like home for the first time and I’ve been at or in the parade ever since.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing SGLMG?
Sustainability. Financially, culturally and structurally. If we don’t rebuild stronger foundations, the pressure on the organisation will keep compounding. We need clearer governance, smarter partnerships and a renewed commitment to community outcomes so Mardi Gras can keep evolving without losing its purpose or its people.
What can you bring to the role that no one else can?
I bring real experience in fixing systems, strengthening organisations and bringing people together across politics, business and community. I understand governance, partnerships and culture, and I know when it should be someone else’s voice heard rather than mine. My strength is bridging divides and creating practical, lasting solutions grounded in community.
What is your position on police marching in the parade?
I support police participation in the parade, marching in or out of uniforms, without firearms. Recognising ongoing relationship-building while acknowledging unfinished hurt – the history is real and harm remains – there’s still a way to go. Trust must be earned through accountability, cultural change and action, not symbolism alone. We can keep moving forward without ignoring our history.
How can the SGLMG board come together to serve and support all LGBTQI communities?
By returning to purpose. Clear governance, respectful debate and shared goals. A board that listens widely, engages year-round and makes decisions rooted in community impact. We need less vested interests and division, and more collaboration. Progress only happens when everyone feels seen and valued.
If you were not running, which of your fellow candidates would you choose?
I’d be supporting Protect Mardi Gras and community Independents. Shane, Sav, Kyri and Kathy are all people who are community-focused, collaborative and not running on division. Grounded, practical and solutions-based. Committed to strengthening Mardi Gras as a movement and a cultural institution. That’s the kind of leadership the organisation needs right now.
In the lead up to the SGLMG Annual General Meeting, Gay Sydney Australia will be interviewing several of the candidates running for the board. To read more from Gay Sydney Australia, please click here