The return of Rainbow on the Reef for its fifth year has been met with fresh excitement as organisers add a complimentary, Pride-themed transport option for Rockhampton residents. Running from May 29 to 31, the festival invites regional visitors to Gladstone for three days of colour, performance and community connection. The newly announced free bus service, wrapped in Pride colours and organised with local support, aims to make attending easier for people who live outside Gladstone while turning the trip itself into part of the weekend’s festivities.
How the free service works
The shuttle is sponsored by Kinetic Central Queensland and will be driven by a volunteer driver, departing Rockhampton on Saturday morning so passengers arrive in time for the festival’s signature Fair Day. The bus returns attendees to Rockhampton on Sunday after events conclude, and then continues on to Mackay to connect with another regional service already announced. This schedule reflects the festival’s intent to link towns across central Queensland and provide a safe, convenient travel option for people who want to celebrate together.
Logistics and booking
Seats on the bus are completely free, but they must be reserved in advance via Humanitix. Organisers stress that space is limited and recommend booking early to secure a spot. The service is timed specifically around the Fair Day activities at the marina to ensure passengers miss none of the main attractions. By coordinating pickups and returns, the festival and partners hope to reduce barriers to attendance for regional community members and allies alike.
Accessibility and inclusivity on board
The transport option is designed with accessibility in mind: the vehicle includes room for wheelchair users and other mobility needs, and the service is presented as fully inclusive. Organisers describe this feature as part of the festival’s broader commitment to removing obstacles so that LGBTQIA+ people, families and allies can participate. The use of a Pride-wrapped bus also aims to send a visible message of welcome and belonging before passengers even step onto festival grounds.
Creating community before arrival
Rhonda Franklin, president of Rainbow on the Reef, has emphasised the social value of travelling together. She says the shared journey helps build momentum and a sense of camaraderie, turning transportation into a pre-event gathering where people can connect, relax and prepare for the weekend. Organisers intentionally shape the onboard experience to foster a feeling of belonging, so attendees feel safe and supported from departure through return.
Festival highlights and resilience
Across the three days, the programme includes crowd-pleasing events such as a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show to launch the weekend, the popular Pride Fair Day at the marina, a lively Balls Out Bingo session, and a leisurely community brunch to close the festival. These activities have helped the event become a key moment of visibility in Gladstone and surrounding communities, drawing LGBTQIA+ people, allies, friends and families for a weekend of celebration and solidarity.
Community response to challenges
Recently organisers confronted a wave of homophobic vandalism that targeted festival signage in the Gladstone area. Rather than diminishing enthusiasm, local backlash appeared to galvanise support, with more people expressing interest in attending and amplifying messages of inclusion. The addition of the Rockhampton bus alongside the Mackay service reinforces the festival’s message: regional Pride is resilient, growing and worth travelling for.
For anyone planning to attend, remember that bus seats are limited and must be reserved in advance through Humanitix. Festival tickets and transport bookings are available now, and organisers encourage early registration to avoid disappointment. For ongoing coverage and community stories about LGBTIQA+ life, entertainment, and events around the region, readers can follow local outlets and the festival’s social channels for updates and practical information.