301 Forbes St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Location: 301 Forbes St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Date: Thursday 14 May 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Free – Book Tickets
Oxford Street: The Making of the ‘Golden Mile’ – History, Culture & Conversation
Join leading voices in history, heritage, and culture for a fascinating and lively discussion exploring the ever-evolving story of Oxford Street — one of Sydney’s most iconic and culturally significant precincts.
This engaging panel brings together heritage expert Matt Devine, historian Dr Shirleene Robinson AM, and club producer & DJ Gemma to unpack the rich, layered history behind the famous ‘Golden Mile’.
From Aboriginal Pathway to Cultural Icon
Long before it became a bustling urban strip, Oxford Street began as an Aboriginal maroo (walking track), connecting communities and country.
By the late 19th century, it had transformed into a major commercial route linking Hyde Park to Sydney’s eastern suburbs. In the early 20th century, the street was widened and reimagined as a fashionable boulevard.
From the 1960s onwards, Oxford Street underwent another powerful transformation — emerging as the heart of Sydney’s LGBTIQA+ communities, known for its vibrant nightlife, activism, creativity, and the globally recognised Mardi Gras parade route.
Meet the Speakers
- Matt Devine – Registered architect and heritage specialist with the City of Sydney, working to recognise and celebrate the cultural significance of Oxford Street and its LGBTIQA+ history.
- Dr Shirleene Robinson AM – President of Sydney’s Pride History Group and Honorary Associate Professor at UTS, with expertise in oral history and LGBTIQ+ heritage.
- DJ Gemma – A pioneer of Sydney’s underground queer dance scene, with a career spanning over three decades. Co-founder of iconic club nights including Club Kooky, Club Arak, and Club Bent, and performer at major events such as Mardi Gras, Vivid Sydney, and WOMADelaide.
A Conversation Across Time
This unique discussion will explore:
- The transformation of Oxford Street across centuries
- The cultural and social forces that shaped the ‘Golden Mile’
- The rise of Sydney’s queer nightlife and community spaces
- Heritage preservation and future challenges
- Personal stories and lived experiences from the scene
Why This Matters
Oxford Street is more than just a road — it’s a living archive of Sydney’s social evolution. This conversation offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from experts and cultural pioneers who have shaped, studied, and lived its story.
Event Highlights
- Panel discussion with leading historians and cultural figures
- Insights into Sydney’s LGBTIQA+ history and heritage
- Stories spanning from early Aboriginal pathways to modern nightlife
- Engaging, accessible, and thought-provoking conversation
Be Part of the Story
Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Oxford Street’s past, present, and future — and discover the stories behind one of Sydney’s most iconic cultural corridors.
