Yarra Trams is for the first time inviting the public, including those who live in Brimbank to submit designs for the tram wrap to feature on the pride tram next year, with designs put out to a public vote.
The state government has partnered with queer arts and culture organisation Midsumma, and LGTBIQA+ media organisation JOY Media to deliver the initiative.
Design submission will be accepted until the end of September via the Yarra Trams website and will be reviewed by a panel of six judges, before finalists are put to a public vote to decide the winner.
The voting stage will run from October 8 to October 23, with the winning design applied to a D-class tram and be a part of the 2023 Midsumma Pride March in February. The second placed design will be applied to a tram shelter near the Victorian Pride Centre for the Midsumma March.
The winning artist will receive $5000 and the runner-up will receive $3000.
Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll said the tram wrap is a “wonderful symbol of inclusivity” on an iconic Melbourne tram network.
“We can’t wait to see the designs and to be marching with the new tram in support of members of the LGBTQI+ community in our city,” Mr Carroll said.
In a statement, the government said the 2023 #AllAboard tram will serve as one of the “many highlights” of the pride march.
“For the last two years, Yarra Tram workers have proudly marched with this symbol of inclusion and diversity.
“It is expected the winning design and final wrapped tram will be unveiled to the public in mid-December, at the tram’s home depot in Malvern,” the government said.
Details: yarratrams.com.au/all-aboard.
