The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation (BGF) Bake Off is set to return to Oxford Street on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 3 pm, promising a delightful afternoon of baking, creativity, and community spirit. This much-anticipated event, part of the Qtopia Sydney Pride Fest, aims to raise essential funds for the BGF’s support services for people living with HIV.
Since its inception, the BGF has been a beacon of hope and support for the HIV community, providing practical, emotional, and financial assistance to help individuals live well and independently. The Bake Off is one of the many innovative ways the foundation engages with the community to raise awareness and funds for its crucial work.
The Heart of the Bake Off
The Bake Off is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity and community. Amateur and professional bakers will gather to showcase their skills across various categories, including best decorated cake, best cupcake, best tart or pie, best tasting cake, and the ever-popular worst cake. Each entry will be auctioned off, with proceeds directly supporting BGF’s essential care and support services.
Hosted by the renowned Sydney drag icon Joyce Maaynge, the event promises to be a lively and entertaining affair. Maaynge’s enthusiasm and charisma are sure to set the stage for a memorable day. “Darlings, the ovens are pre-heating and so am I!” Maaynge exclaimed, “Get ready for high tiers, thick cream and absolutely no soggy bottoms.” The event will take place at Universal, a vibrant venue that perfectly complements the festive atmosphere of the Bake Off.
A Legacy of Love and Support
The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation was established in 1984 in honor of Bobby Goldsmith, one of the first Australians to die from an AIDS-related illness. In his final weeks, Goldsmith’s friends came together to ensure he could remain at home, surrounded by love and treated with dignity. This act of compassion laid the foundation for the BGF, which has since expanded its services to include disability support, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community and others seeking inclusive, progressive, person-centred care.
For more than 40 years, the BGF has been a lifeline for people living with HIV, providing a range of services to help them live well and independently. The Bake Off is a testament to the foundation’s community-driven roots and its commitment to supporting those affected by HIV.
Judges and Supporters
The Bake Off will be judged by a distinguished panel, including BGF President and Bake Off co-judge Professor Carla Treloar AM, Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich MP, and President of the Pride Business Association Jarrod Lomas. Treloar emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “It’s a brilliant way to bring people together, celebrating creativity while supporting people living with HIV through the work of Bobby Goldsmith Foundation.”
Greenwich highlighted the ongoing need for support and connection within the HIV community. “Events like Bake Off are a joyful reminder of the strength of our communities,” he said. “While HIV is no longer the crisis it once was, the need for connection, support and accessible services hasn’t gone away. Initiatives like this bring people together in a fun way, while raising funds that make a real difference to people living with HIV.”
Lomas expressed his excitement about being part of the event. “I’m thrilled to be part of Bake Off this year and to support Bobby Goldsmith Foundation during Pride Fest,” he said. “Bakers, start your engines – and may the best cake win.”
Join the Bake Off
Cake entries are free, and participants can enter more than one cake and category without needing to purchase a ticket. To grab your ticket and submit your cake entry, simply complete the online registration form. The Bake Off is an excellent opportunity to showcase your baking skills, enjoy a fun-filled day, and support a worthy cause.
For those looking for inspiration, there are plenty of cheeky baking suggestions available. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, the Bake Off welcomes everyone to participate and contribute to the cause.
The BGF Bake Off is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and support. Join us on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Universal on Oxford Street, and be part of a sweet celebration that makes a real difference in the lives of those living with HIV.
