Sydney's 34th Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade

Spectators watch as a drag queen poses on a stage on Sydney's Bondi Beach before the running of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras drag race Photograph: Tim Wimborne/Reuters

A participant in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Sergio Dionisio/EPA

A participant prepares for the start of the 34th annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Greg Wood/AFP/Getty Images

Participants wait for their turn to march in Sydney's annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Greg Wood/AFP/Getty Images

Boys on Bikes take to the streets for the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Photograph: Rob Griffith/AP

A participant dressed as a bride entertains spectators at Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Greg Wood/AFP/Getty Images

Peter Tatchell stands on a float, holding a placard against the pope Photograph: Rob Griffith/AP

A reveller performs during the parade in central Sydney. At least 15 floats in the parade were themed to call for equality for same-sex marriages Photograph: Daniel Munoz/Reuters

Paradegoers dance during the 2011 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

A paradegoer dances during the 2011 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

A reveller performs in a dress adorned with cup cakes at Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade Photograph: Daniel Munoz/Reuters