Castlemaine PrideFest26 kicks off with a night of connection at Buda
Published on 13 October 2026
Castlemaine’s PrideFest26 weekend will open on Friday 13 November with Regional Connections, a relaxed evening of social and professional networking for LGBTIQA+ people, friends and allies at Buda Historic Home and Garden.
Presented by GLOBE Victoria and Castlemaine Pride, the evening brings GLOBE’s popular Melbourne Connections events to the region. It’s supported by Mount Alexander Shire Council, Dhelkaya Health, Thorne Harbour Country and Business Mount Alexander.
GLOBE connects LGBTIQA+ people professionally and socially to create opportunities, recognise contribution and support success in our communities.
“Living in regional Victoria has so much going for it, but it can make it harder to find and connect with other LGBTIQA+ people,” said Damien Stevens-Todd, Thorne Harbour Country Program Manager. “Regional Connections is a chance to meet locals in a welcoming, relaxed setting, whether you’ve lived here for decades or arrived last month. We’re also excited to connect regional and city networks, and to share what makes this part of Victoria so special.”
Business owners, professionals, creatives, volunteers, retirees and anyone simply keen to meet new people are all welcome. Allies are warmly encouraged to come along too.
“We want everyone to feel at home in Mount Alexander Shire, and to know they belong here,” said Rebecca Pedretti, Manager Economy and Culture at Mount Alexander Shire Council.
“Social connection plays a big part in our health and wellbeing, and for LGBTIQA+ people living in regional areas, finding that connection can be harder. Supporting community-led events like Regional Connections is one of the ways Council is working towards a more welcoming, inclusive and connected shire.
“It’s also a great example of our local economy working for the wellbeing of our community. Events like this bring people together, back our local businesses and producers, and showcase our region to visitors from across Victoria.”
“Pridefest26 is about visibility and belonging, and Friday night is a great way to start the weekend,” said Sherene Clow, LGBTIQA+ Wellbeing Officer, Dhelkaya Health.
Visitors from Melbourne, Bendigo and beyond are invited to make a weekend of it, with Buda’s gardens at their spring best, and Castlemaine’s galleries, cafés, makers and local produce just around the corner. On Saturday, the Pridefest26 celebrations continue at the Old Castlemaine Gaol from 12.00pm to 5.00pm.
The evening includes an optional focused networking session, canapés with vegan and gluten-free options and a raffle.
Event details
Event: Regional Connections, opening Castlemaine Pridefest26
Date: Friday 13 November, 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Location: Buda Historic Home and Garden, 42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine
Tickets: $25 general |$12.50 concession |Free for GLOBE members
Book:www.globevictoria.com.au/product/regoinal-connections-castlemaine-pride-globe-victoria
Supported by: Mount Alexander Shire Council, Dhelkaya Health, Thorne Harbour Country, GLOBE and Business Mount Alexander
For more information, contact Council’s Business team on 5471 1745 or email business@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.