It has been a series of firsts for Sydney's celebrated Mardi Gras, even though it was the 38th time the parade had marched along Oxford Street.
Revellers jostled to take selfies on Saturday night as Malcolm Turnbull became the first prime minister to attend the event.
Speaking with SBS, Mr Turnbull did not discuss reports that his presence at the parade would antagonise members of his backbench, but did express his support for Mardi Gras.
“This is an event that Lucy and I have attended for many, many years," he said.
“I think it is a wonderful event in the life of Sydney and delighted to be here.”
Malcolm Turnbull speaks about the Mardi Gras parade:
Opposition Leader Bill Shorten became the first major party leader to take a spot on a parade float, once again affirming Labor's pledge to introduce marriage equality if elected.
In the lead-up to Mardi Gras, historic apologies had been issued to the original marchers, known as the 78ers, from police and state politicians for the violence and humiliation they suffered at the first parade.
Members of the group were bashed by police when they descended on Darlinghurst in June 1978 to protest against the criminalisation of homosexual acts and discrimination against the gay community.
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As some of the original protesters took their places in the line-up once again, they were met with applause and thanks from about half a million people lining the streets.
After the floats disappeared down Flinders Street the clean-up crews moved into action, collecting the estimated 230kg of glitter used to give the night some sparkle.
Participants are seen taking part in the 38th annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, in Sydney, Saturday, March 5, 2016. Source: AAP
