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Perth newsreader Narelda Jacobs, 43, is one of the co-hosts of SBS’s coverage of the 2019 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (airs Sun., Mar. 3 at 8.35pm).
What does co-hosting the Mardi Gras telecast mean to you?
It is an absolute honour and privilege. I made the pilgrimage to my first Mardi Gras as a 21-year-old. Little did I know that over two decades later, I’d be in the box seat of the event that has Australia and the world in awe.
Why do you consider the parade to be so important?
It gives the entire community a chance to come together and celebrate diversity. Seeing people from all walks of life – from parents with young children to the elderly – lining the streets in the tens of thousands warms my heart. It sends a message to the world that not only is it OK to be LGBTQI, it’s fabulous!
What’s the best bit?
Hands down, hearing the Dykes on Bikes roaring up Oxford Street. It makes me ridiculously emotional. I’ve been to Mardi Gras as a spectator three times and without fail I’m overcome with pride for women who epitomise this year’s theme: fearless.
You’ve broken down barriers in your career. Did you ever think you’d be a trailblazer for LGBTQI and Indigenous people?
I didn’t know I’d broken down barriers! I’m simply a journalist who was given an amazing opportunity over a decade ago to present 10 News First. I’ve always thought the best leadership is through example – as a journo, a partner, a mum and a fiercely proud member of both our Indigenous and LGBTQI communities.
What’s been the most gratifying part of having such a prominent profile?
Anyone who has a prominent profile has the power to influence. I found it gratifying to use that power to speak out about marriage equality. Hopefully I was able to influence at least a handful of “no” voters to swing “yes”. The “yes” day was one of the happiest and most rewarding days of my life.
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