15 Years of CLOSET: A Night of Pure Queer Joy

In September, I had the absolute privilege of taking to the decks to celebrate 15 years of CLOSET - one of Melbourne's most beloved and enduring queer parties. From the moment I walked in, the energy was electric. The dancefloor was already heaving with joy and hot bodies.

What makes CLOSET so special? Since that sweaty February night in 2009 when founders Joshua Mason Browne and Anna Whitelaw first opened its doors (and surprised everyone by drawing a 1500-strong crowd!), CLOSET has been more than just a party - it's been a home. A place where the community comes together to celebrate, dance, and simply be.

Sharing the stages with some of Melbourne's finest queer DJs is always highlight. The warm hugs and hellos from DJs that I have never met before feels safe. People encourange and build each other up, its not a competiton.

Together, we wove a soundtrack that honored CLOSET's rich history.

The dance floor response was pure magic - exactly what you'd expect from a crowd that's helped shape Melbourne's queer nightlife for over a decade.

Looking out at the sea of faces - some who've been there since those early days in 2009, others experiencing their first CLOSET - it was clear why this party has stood the test of time. In a world that often tries to put us in boxes, CLOSET has always been about breaking them down. From their cheeky street posters to their inclusive "homosexuals and those who love them" motto, they've created something truly special.

After 150+ parties across Melbourne, Sydney, and Hobart, countless New Year's Day celebrations, Halloween extravaganzas, and even taking over the NGV for the Keith Haring exhibition, CLOSET shows no signs of slowing down. And thank goodness for that - our community needs spaces like this more than ever.

Here's to 15 years of CLOSET, to Mason and Anna's incredible vision, and to many more years of creating magical, inclusive spaces where our community can come together and dance like nobody's watching. 🌈

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