Michael Rolik interviewed by James Waites in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras oral history project [sound recording]

Michael Rolik, CEO of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (MGras), talks about his upbringing; Sydney; his experiences on the board of MGras; his time in London, UK; Asian Games; the MGras 2011 Annual General Meeting (AGM); cultivating volunteer talent; renaming of the company and festival; government support and corporate partners - diversity policies; current focus of change and rebuilding; the Global Financial Crisis era; media partnership; strategic planning, efficiencies and logistical problems; future directions; fund raisings; application to Registration of Cultural Organisations (ROCO); a need for a community workshop to enhance Parade; brand image - home and abroad; inclusion of women; connections with Asia; his thoughts on the next three years as CEO.