Snow goggels in rainbow coloursACON’s popular fundraiser Bingay is back at The Shift, and now will be a monthly extravaganza rather than a weekly event.

Every monthly event will also have a fabulously flamboyant theme, with the first one on June 18 being a winter wonderland spectacular! There’ll be snow stopping the fun with camp wintery decorations, cool outfits and special frosty treats.

Bingay took a break while The Shift was being renovated but now that the new-look venue is up and running, Bingay’s ballsy fun is set to return to The Shift’s upstairs bar on the third Thursday of every month.

Bingay hostess Charisma Belle will continue to oversee the madcap proceedings and Bingay’s long time barrel babe Naomi Palmer will continue to spin the balls and sing up a storm.

Charisma says she’s looking forward to picking up where she left off and putting her own unique spin on the event. “Bingay is such a fun gig. I’m absolutely thrilled that it’s back and I’m really looking forward to continuing with all the camp carry on that has made Bingay such a popular night out for locals and visitors alike.

A Sydney institution, Bingay is gay bingo which means there’s classic disco tunes, weird rules and penalties, outrageous antics, hilarious repartee, deliciously lewd bingo calls, and prizes that range from the silly and camp to great theatre tickets and restaurant vouchers.

The event is also a fundraiser for ACON, NSW’s leading HIV and LGBTI health organisation.

ACON Events Coordinator David Wilkins says the Bingay team is looking forward to making their comeback. “The new monthly format will allow us to really pump up the production values with a ridiculously camp theme every month, giving LGBTI community members and their friends a unique and hugely entertaining night out every month.”

“For those who have never been to Bingay, or haven’t been for a while, the night has never been better. The wonderfully funny hosts, The Shift’s great production values and a fantastic volunteer team make for a fabulous night out…and all done and dusted by 10pm which leaves plenty of time for some extra fun.”

Punters at the June and July editions of Bingay will be in the running to win a holiday in the Aussie Alps, courtesy of the generous folk at Frosty Fruits Ski Trip, Australia’s highest gay and lesbian ski event. Every guest at the June Winter Wonderland and Xmas in July editions will be in the draw to run a fully hosted 4-day holiday package with stunning on-mountain accommodation at the Hotham Alpine Resort. There’ll be plenty of snow time and group snow activities, plus evenings full of apres drinks, relaxing spas or saunas, some of the best alpine dining in Australia and warm fireside chats in fabulous chalets.

Winter Wonderland Bingay
Date and Time:
Thursday 18 June, 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start
Location: Upstairs at The Shift, 85 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Cost: $20 for all games