Planning your dream wedding for 2025 or 2026? InterContinental’s luxury Australian properties offer three extraordinary destinations where your perfect celebration comes to life. From designer gowns to breathtaking venues, here’s everything you need to know about creating an unforgettable wedding for 50-200 guests at our iconic locations.

Why Choose InterContinental for Your Wedding

For over 75 years, InterContinental has been synonymous with luxury hospitality and unforgettable celebrations. Some of our Australian portfolio features three of the country’s most spectacular wedding destinations, each offering the impeccable service, elegant venues, and attention to detail that define the InterContinental experience.

What sets InterContinental weddings apart:

• Iconic locations: Prime positions in Australia’s most sought-after destinations
• Five-star service: Dedicated wedding specialists and white-glove hospitality
• Comprehensive packages: Everything from intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations
• Luxury partnerships: Exclusive collaborations with world-renowned brands like Vera Wang
• Global expertise: International standards with local Australian charm

Designer Wedding Dresses: The InterContinental Vera Wang Experience

When it comes to wedding dress designers, few names command the respect and desire of Vera Wang. As part of our exclusive “One Look, One Love” campaign, InterContinental is proud to offer brides the opportunity to wear a Vera Wang gown valued up to $10,000 when they celebrate their wedding at our Sydney, Hayman Island, or Sanctuary Cove properties.

About Vera Wang: A Designer Legend

For over three decades, Vera Wang has defined modern bridal elegance. Her client list reads like a who’s who of style icons: Zendaya, Victoria Beckham, Ariana Grande, and Gwen Stefani have all chosen Vera Wang for their most important moments. Her designs perfectly blend timeless romance with bold sophistication – ideal for brides who want their gown to make a statement worthy of an InterContinental celebration.

Vera Wang’s signature style features:

• Clean, architectural lines combined with romantic details
• Luxurious fabrics including silk, tulle, and intricate lacework
• Modern silhouettes that flatter various body types
• Attention to couture-level craftsmanship

The InterContinental Vera Wang Bridal Collection Experience

Through our exclusive partnership, brides have access to 60 extraordinary designs from Vera Wang’s newest collection. This collaboration makes luxury bridal fashion more accessible while maintaining the exclusivity and craftsmanship that both brands represent.

Your Vera Wang Bridal experience includes:

• Personal consultation with Vera Wang specialists
• Access to the complete bridal collection
• Professional fitting and alteration services
• Gown valued up to $10,000 included with your wedding package
• The confidence of wearing one of the world’s most celebrated bridal designers

Wedding Dress Investment Considerations

For couples planning luxury weddings with budgets of $30,000 and above, designer wedding dresses represent a significant investment. At InterContinental, we understand the importance of this decision and have created partnerships that deliver exceptional value.

How much are Vera Wang Bridal Dresses:

• Vera Wang statement bridal gowns: $8,000 – $25,000+
• Custom couture pieces: $15,000 – $50,000+
• InterContinental’s Vera Wang inclusion: Up to $10,000 value included

When planning a luxury wedding, many couples allocate 10-15% of their total budget to the bridal gown. Our Vera Wang partnership allows couples to reallocate these funds to other wedding elements while still achieving their designer dress dreams.

InterContinental’s Three Iconic Australian Wedding Destinations

Each InterContinental property offers a distinct personality and setting, allowing couples to choose the perfect backdrop for their 50-200 guest celebration.

InterContinental Sydney: Urban Sophistication Meets Harbour Magic

Perfect for: Couples who love cosmopolitan elegance and iconic city backdrops

Located at the heart of Sydney’s Circular Quay, InterContinental Sydney offers the ultimate urban luxury wedding experience. Exchange vows with the Opera House as your backdrop and Sydney Harbour stretching endlessly before you—a setting that’s both uniquely Australian and internationally recognised.

Why couples choose InterContinental Sydney:

Unparalleled location advantages:

• Harbour views: Premium harbourside position with Opera House and Bridge views
• Heritage architecture: Stunning 19th-century façade combined with modern luxury interiors
• Central accessibility: Easy arrival for interstate and international guests
• Icon photography: World-famous landmarks create magazine-worthy wedding photos

Venue options for every celebration size:

• Boronia Room – Grand celebrations come alive in this spacious venue accommodating up to 240 guests with elegant sophistication and harbour city style.
• Hermitage Room – Heritage charm meets modern luxury for up to 160 guests in this beautifully appointed space with timeless architectural details.
• Grevillea Room – Intimate white-walled elegance creates the perfect backdrop for boutique celebrations of up to 50 guests seeking exclusive luxury.
• Acacia Room – Celebrate with up to 150 guests while overlooking the Royal Botanic Gardens, where natural beauty meets urban sophistication.

InterContinental Sydney wedding experience:

• Dedicated wedding coordinator from planning to execution
• Award-winning catering showcasing Australian cuisine with international flair
• Luxurious accommodation for wedding parties and guests
• Seamless coordination between ceremony and reception venues
• Access to Sydney’s best suppliers and wedding professionals

Guest experience at InterContinental Sydney: Your wedding guests enjoy five-star accommodation in the heart of Sydney, with easy walking access to the Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, and The Rocks. The hotel’s prime location transforms your wedding into a Sydney discovery experience for out-of-town guests.

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InterContinental Hayman Island Resort: Private Island Paradise

Perfect for: Couples seeking ultimate exclusivity and tropical luxury

Escape to your own private paradise in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Hayman Island offers the ultimate destination wedding experience where natural beauty meets absolute luxury – a setting so spectacular it justifies the journey from anywhere in the world.

Why couples choose InterContinental Hayman Island:

Exclusive island luxury:

• Private island setting: Ultimate exclusivity with pristine natural beauty
• Great Barrier Reef location: UNESCO World Heritage surroundings
• Helicopter and yacht arrivals: Unforgettable guest arrival experiences
• All-inclusive destination: Ceremony, reception, accommodation, and activities in one location

Venue options for intimate luxury:

• Hayman Beach – Say “I do” with your toes in powdery white sand as The Whitsunday Islands create a picture-perfect backdrop for up to 300 guests.
• Coconut Beach – This intimate crescent of soft sand accommodates up to 200 guests with gentle ocean breezes and stunning island views. *Subject to tides.
• Coconut Grove – Tropical dreams come alive with direct beach access and enchanting Whitsunday Island vistas for up to 200 guests.
• Formal Gardens – Step into an enchanted garden under tropical greenery for ceremonies of up to 150 guests or intimate receptions for 80.
• Hayman Pool – The ultimate show-stopper where 250 guests celebrate around Australia’s largest swimming pool with perspex dancefloors and fireworks above the Whitsundays.
• Pool Lanai – A romantic covered outdoor sanctuary for up to 100 guests with alfresco luxury and complete weather protection.
• Bam Bam Lawn – Cocktail hour perfection beside the Infinity Pool where up to 220 guests watch the sun melt into The Whitsunday Islands.
• Arkhurst – Drama meets elegance in this curved 23 x 23 metre space with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and lagoon views for up to 300 guests.
• Stella Maris Chapel – Perched beneath Hayman Island’s summit, this charming hilltop chapel offers infinite views for intimate ceremonies of up to 70 guests.

InterContinental Hayman Island wedding experience:

• Dedicated island wedding specialist managing every detail
• World-class cuisine featuring fresh local seafood and tropical flavours
• Luxury resort accommodation across multiple room categories
• Access to island activities: snorkelling, sailing, spa treatments
• Professional photography in some of Australia’s most beautiful locations

Guest experience at InterContinental Hayman Island: Your wedding becomes an exclusive island retreat. Guests enjoy resort activities, spa services, water sports, and fine dining, making your celebration a memorable vacation for everyone involved. The island’s exclusivity ensures privacy and intimacy impossible to achieve elsewhere.

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InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort: Coastal Elegance and Garden Romance

Perfect for: Couples who love romantic gardens, waterfront settings, and Gold Coast sunshine

Nestled between pristine marina shores and lush subtropical gardens, Sanctuary Cove combines coastal elegance with relaxed luxury. The resort’s iconic glass Chapel and manicured grounds create a fairytale setting just an hour from Brisbane.

Why couples choose InterContinental Sanctuary Cove:

Romantic setting advantages:

• Glass Chapel: Australia’s most photographed wedding chapel overlooking the stunning Coomera river
• Subtropical gardens: Lush, manicured landscapes perfect for outdoor celebrations
• Marina elegance: Sophisticated waterfront ambiance with luxury yacht backdrop
• Gold Coast location: Reliable weather and easy guest access

Venue options for garden romance:

• The Grange – Our most popular venue features distinctive architecture that creates a memorable location for celebrations of up to 120 guests.
• MacArthur’s Ballroom – Sophistication at its finest, this grand ballroom accommodates up to 180 guests for opulent celebrations where elegance takes centre stage.
• The Fireplace – Cosy and intimate elegance perfect for boutique weddings of up to 50 guests who want an exclusive, personal celebration.
• The Fountain Terrace – Outdoor beauty meets sophistication as up to 50 guests celebrate overlooking the resort’s iconic fountain with refined garden elegance.

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove wedding experience:

• Specialised chapel wedding coordination
• Catering showcasing Queensland’s fresh produce and Gold Coast flavours
• Resort-style accommodation across the property
• Access to championship golf, marina activities, and spa services
• Seamless ceremony-to-reception transitions within the resort

Guest experience at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove: Guests enjoy a resort vacation atmosphere with golf, marina activities, and Gold Coast attractions nearby. The property’s relaxed luxury makes it perfect for multi-day celebrations where guests can truly unwind and enjoy the experience.

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Planning Your InterContinental Wedding: Timeline and Tips

18-24 Months Before Your Wedding (Essential for 2025-2026 bookings)

Venue selection and booking:

• Schedule site visits to your preferred InterContinental property – BOOK HERE
• Compare venue packages and inclusions
• Secure your preferred date (peak seasons book earliest)
• Confirm Vera Wang gown inclusion details

Vera Wang gown selection:

• Begin dress appointments and style consultations
• Allow 6-12 months for creation and fittings
• Coordinate with your chosen venue’s aesthetic

Guest planning for destination celebrations:

• Send save-the-dates with property information
• Arrange group accommodation rates
• Plan arrival and departure logistics

12-18 Months Before Your Wedding

Detailed planning with your InterContinental team:

• Finalise menu selections and beverage packages
• Confirm ceremony and reception venue details
• Plan guest activities and experiences
• Coordinate with preferred suppliers

Vera Wang gown progression:

• Complete initial fittings and design consultations
• Schedule interim fittings as your wedding approaches
• Coordinate accessories and styling elements

6-12 Months Before Your Wedding

Final coordination phase:

• Complete guest count and dietary requirements
• Finalise photography locations across your chosen property
• Plan rehearsal dinner and post-wedding activities
• Confirm all travel and accommodation details

Vera Wang gown completion:

• Final fitting and styling consultation
• Coordinate transport and storage at your venue
• Plan photography timeline to showcase your gown

See The Ultimate Wedding Checklist Guide

The InterContinental Difference: Service Excellence

What Sets Our Wedding Service Apart

Dedicated wedding specialists: Each property features experienced coordinators who understand luxury wedding expectations and local venue advantages.

Five-star hospitality: From guest arrival to departure, every detail reflects InterContinental’s commitment to exceptional service.

Comprehensive packages: Our wedding offerings include venue hire, catering, accommodation options, and exclusive partnerships like Vera Wang.

Local expertise with global standards: Each property combines intimate knowledge of their destination with international luxury hospitality standards.

Investment in Excellence: Understanding InterContinental Wedding Pricing

Comprehensive luxury wedding packages typically include:

• Ceremony and reception venue hire
• Five-star catering and beverage service
• Dedicated wedding coordination
• Premium accommodation options
• Access to property amenities and activities
• Vera Wang gown (valued up to $10,000) through current promotion

Investment ranges vary by property and package selections, with comprehensive luxury wedding experiences typically starting from $30,000+ for intimate celebrations. Each property’s wedding specialists provide detailed proposals based on your specific requirements and guest count.

Current Wedding Trends at InterContinental Properties

Destination Wedding Excellence

InterContinental’s three Australian properties perfectly serve the growing destination wedding trend:

• Sydney: Urban destination combining city sophistication with harbour beauty
• Hayman Island: Ultimate tropical escape requiring guest travel and accommodation
• Sanctuary Cove: Relaxed luxury destination with resort-style guest experiences

Designer Fashion Integration

Our Vera Wang partnership reflects the trend toward luxury fashion integration in wedding celebrations. Couples increasingly seek comprehensive luxury experiences where every element – from venue to gown – meets the highest standards.

Multi-Day Celebrations

All three InterContinental properties excel at hosting multi-day wedding celebrations:

• Welcome events and rehearsal dinners
• Day-after brunches and farewell gatherings
• Guest activities and local experience coordination
• Spa services and relaxation options

Special Bridal Offer: One Look, One Love Campaign

Limited-Time Vera Wang Partnership

Through December 30, 2025, InterContinental offers an exclusive opportunity for Australian brides to receive a Vera Wang gown valued up to $10,000 when booking their wedding celebration at our Sydney, Hayman Island, or Sanctuary Cove properties.

Campaign benefits:

• Access to Vera Wang’s complete bridal collection
• Professional fitting and styling services
• Gown value up to $10,000 included in wedding package
• Exclusive partnership between two luxury brands
• Limited-time availability creating unique opportunity

Booking requirements:

• Wedding must be booked by December 30, 2025
• Available at all participating InterContinental Australian properties
• Gown selection and fitting process coordinated by specialists
• Terms and conditions apply for this exclusive offer

Planning Your Perfect InterContinental Wedding

Choosing Your InterContinental Property

Consider your wedding personality:

• Urban sophistication: InterContinental Sydney for iconic city elegance
• Tropical exclusivity: Hayman Island for private island luxury
• Garden romance: Sanctuary Cove for relaxed coastal elegance

Guest logistics:

• Local celebrations: Sydney offers easy accessibility
• Destination experiences: Hayman Island creates ultimate exclusivity
• Resort-style gatherings: Sanctuary Cove balances luxury with relaxation

Next Steps in Your InterContinental Wedding Journey

Schedule consultations:

• Discover Sanctuary Cove’s garden and chapel romance
• Visit InterContinental Sydney to experience city side luxury
• Explore Hayman Island Great Barrier Reef’s private island exclusivity

Begin planning:

• Connect with dedicated wedding specialists at each property
• Compare venue packages and inclusions
• Schedule Vera Wang gown consultations
• Plan guest experiences unique to each destination

Secure your celebration:

• Book your preferred property and date
• Confirm Vera Wang gown inclusion
• Begin detailed planning with your dedicated coordinator
• Start creating the luxury wedding experience you’ve always envisioned

Your InterContinental Wedding Awaits

Whether you envision harbour views in Sydney, island exclusivity at Hayman, or garden romance at Sanctuary Cove, InterContinental’s three Australian properties offer luxury wedding experiences that exceed expectations. Combined with our exclusive Vera Wang partnership, your celebration becomes a perfect blend of iconic venues, designer fashion, and five-star hospitality.

One Look. One Love. One Unforgettable InterContinental Beginning.

Ready to begin planning? Contact our wedding specialists at your preferred InterContinental property to schedule consultations and discover why couples choose InterContinental for their most important celebrations.

Terms & Conditions

The “One Look, One Love” Vera Wang partnership is available for weddings booked by December 30, 2025, at participating InterContinental Australian properties. The Vera Wang Bride gown included in this offer is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash. Eligibility for the gown is contingent upon proceeding with a confirmed wedding booking at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, InterContinental Sydney, or InterContinental Hayman Island Resort. In the event of a wedding cancellation or postponement after the gown has been ordered, the cost of the gown will be charged back to the couple in addition to the wedding cancellation charges.

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This year’s theme, Dream, invites visitors to step into the unexpected, to explore imagination through light, performance, technology and flavour. Across the city, from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour and beyond, Vivid Sydney will feature immersive installations, inspiring talks, dynamic live music and bold culinary experiences.

To help you plan your visit, we’ve rounded up seven standout events that showcase the spirit and energy of Vivid Sydney 2025 —including a rooftop dining experience above the harbour and a high-fashion light display at Customs House.

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From sky high tea with sweeping harbour views to peaceful picnics in the Royal Botanic Garden, the city is brimming with beautiful moments to share. Wander through weekend markets, take in a world-class exhibition, or surprise Mum with tickets to a heartwarming show. Whether you’re planning a full day of activities or one unforgettable experience, we’ve rounded up the most thoughtful things to do this Mother’s Day in Sydney to make her feel genuinely celebrated.

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Experience Sydney Festival
Sydney Festival has returned to transform the city this January with theatre, music, art and unexpected moments. From a gripping crime drama in Darlinghurst Courthouse to a Wild West takeover of Town Hall, over 130 events are taking place across Sydney. With free performances, bold ideas and creative energy everywhere, the city is once again a vibrant a stage for the arts.

Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales
When respite from the summer heat is calling, make your way to the air-conditioned comfort of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Just a short walk from the city centre, the Gallery showcases thought-provoking works from Australian and international artists. Visitors can explore both the contemporary-focused North Building and the heritage-listed South Building, home to the Gallery’s historical collections.

Embark on A Kayaking Adventure
There’s something magical about watching the city come to life from the water. Paddle through the early morning calm of Sydney Harbour at sunrise, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks on a guided sunrise or sunset tour. 

Catch a Movie at an Outdoor Cinema
Embrace Sydney’s warm summer evenings and catch a film under the stars at any of the city’s beautiful outdoor cinemas. There are many to choose from, but one of the most spectacular is perhaps WestPac OpenAir. Located adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens, this long running summer institution features glittering views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Stroll through Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens
Savour the Sydney sun and spend an afternoon wandering through Australia’s oldest botanic garden. Explore at leisure, dive deeper with a guided cultural tour or enjoy one of the Gardens’ many summertime events.

Explore a Weekend Market
Sydney is brimming with opportunities for weekend treasure-seekers. Kirribilli Markets is just a quick ferry ride from Circular Quay, and features endless stalls of handmade goods, vintage wares and gourmet treats. Otherwise, start the weekend off on a delicious note with a trip to the Friday night Chinatown Night Markets, a bustling affair that transforms Dixon Street into a hub of heavenly eats.

Have a Drink at Aster Bar
What better way to end a summer day than with a drink at one of the Sydney’s premiere rooftop bars? Set on the 32^nd floor of InterContinental Sydney, Aster offers sweeping views of the Harbour, as well as a creative menu of bespoke cocktails and bites. Particularly spectacular during the hazy pink sunset hours, once the light fades from the sky visitors are treated to a glittering view of the city and beyond.

Planning to explore Sydney this summer? Join us at InterContinental Sydney, where the perfect home base for your city-escape is awaits. Learn more.

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Planning a family holiday in Sydney offers countless opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. With its perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions and world-class dining, the Harbour City is one of Australia’s top destinations for all kinds of travellers. Children will love the parks and sun-soaked beaches, while parents can enjoy everything from fine food to family-friendly entertainment.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all itinerary, these are some of our favourite ways to enjoy a memorable family holiday in Sydney this summer.

While there is no one way to plan the perfect escape to Sydney, these are some of our favourite places to start:

Spend a Day at Taronga Zoo

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo offers the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Little animal lovers can enjoy up-close encounters with giraffes, meerkats, and even elephants. When lunchtime rolls around, grab a takeaway from The View and enjoy a picnic with sweeping harbour views.

Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) offers a vibrant and ever-changing collection of contemporary works, with plenty to engage younger visitors. The Primavera exhibition showcases bold, thought-provoking art by emerging Australian talent, while ongoing family programs like ArtPLAY encourage kids and parents to create together. Whether you join a workshop or simply wander the galleries, the MCA is a creative and welcoming space for families.

Take in the Coastal Air on the Bondi to Coogee Walk

The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk remains one of Sydney’s most iconic outdoor activities. The six-kilometre route features scenic clifftop views, beach stops, and plenty of shady rest points along the way. With a fully paved path and family-friendly facilities, it’s a great option for all ages.

Dive into the Region’s Aboriginal History at the Royal Botanic Gardens

Learn about the region’s traditional landowners, the Gadigal people, with an informative and interactive tour through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Led by a First Nations guide, the Aboriginal Heritage and Harbour Tour offers stories of the Gadigal lifestyle, traditions, and use of land, while an Aboriginal Bush Tucker tour teaches visitors about traditional bush ingredients and their many uses.

Enjoy a Live Performance at Any One of Sydney’s Theatres

Sydney’s theatre scene is alive with performances to suit every age group. At the Theatre Royal, SIX the Musical reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII in a pop-powered production that older children and teens will enjoy. For a more traditional outing, The Nutcracker returns to the Sydney Opera House, offering a festive ballet filled with charm, colour and timeless music.

Learn to Surf at Bondi Beach

No trip to Sydney is complete without a surf lesson at Bondi. Local schools cater to all experience levels, offering group and private sessions perfect for families. The gentle swells make it ideal for beginners, and instructors are trained to assist children and adults alike.

Enjoy a Scenic Ferry Ride to Manly

A ferry ride to Manly is a simple yet memorable family activity. The journey offers postcard-worthy views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House before arriving at Manly Beach. Once there, stroll the esplanade, grab fresh fish and chips, or relax on the sand. Sunset return trips are especially scenic.

Find the Best Gelato in Sydney

Turn your holiday into a delicious quest to find the best gelato in town. From cult favourites like Messina to hidden gems such as Mapo and Ciccone & Sons, there’s no shortage of contenders. Why not try a new one each day and vote for a family favourite by the end of the trip?

Enjoy a Family High Tea at InterContinental Sydney

Introduce young travellers to the tradition of afternoon tea at InterContinental Sydney. Set within the historic Treasury Building, the The Treasury’s high tea service includes a dedicated children’s menu, while adults can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and three tiers of seasonal classics. It’s an elegant and memorable family experience in the heart of the city.

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With over 100 events taking place over the two-and-a-half week program, Sydney Festival offers something for everyone.

For information on tickets and the full event program, visit the Sydney Festival website.

For detailed directions to events and venues, please see our friendly concierge team at InterContinental Sydney.

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SailGP will return to Sydney on February 18-19 for the ninth event of SailGP Season 3.

The event will see Australia compete against eight countries — Switzerland, Canada, Denmark, France, Great Britain, New Zealand, Spain and the United States of America — for the top spot in a thrilling event that showcases the best of Sydney Harbour. This up-close and heart stopping race has a range of both ticketed and free options for spectators, providing plenty of opportunities to immerse into the action.

Sail GP Village, the Race’s transportation hub for ticketed viewing options and pre and post-race event venue, is located at the Barangaroo Waterfront Precinct, located just 1km west of InterContinental Sydney.

For detailed information regarding tickets sales and viewing points, visit the Sail GP Website.

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WorldPride kicks off on Friday the 24th of February with an unmissable concert in the Domain, with performances by Kylie Minogue, Charli XCX and Jessica Mauboy.

InterContinental Sydney is conveniently located a 5 minute walk from the Domain, and provides easy access to WorldPride events around the city.

For detailed event program and ticketing information, visit the WorldPride website.

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