Message From Our President & Vice President.

Mardi Gras is done for another year. The brilliant memories made continue to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. The bonds within our leather community are stronger as we all move forward working together. The Mardi Gras photos on the SLM website are a place to share memories,  stories of lived experiences, allyship, or anything that resonates with you. Your stories will become historical notes for Sydney Leather Men of the future to enjoy. We want to hear from you.

We also have other important dates in 2025 to look forward to. Our community leaders, the Sydney leather title holders (Timo & Lani) are preparing for their international competitions. Timo has an IML send off in early May and we are honoured to give an SLM send off to Lani at our Social in March, where we will show them we are at their side in this important part of their journey. Let us all come together again to give them the support they need.

Phil & Pete

We’re excited to share that our social media platforms are growing and thriving! We’ve just hit 1,000 followers on Facebook, 1,200 on Instagram, and 51 on Bluesky—helping us share community updates and events with a global audience.

While we love engaging with you across these platforms, our website remains the best and most accurate source for all event details, including the full line-up for the remainder of 2024.

SLM is committed to using online tools to support and connect the Sydney Leather community. Our three community chat rooms linked to our Facebook group provide a space for members to ask questions, seek advice, and engage directly with others.

Our website continues to grow and evolve, with increasing monthly traffic. It’s intended to be a one-stop shop for news, events and photo galleries, capturing moments that will hold historical significance in years to come. With the ever-changing social media landscape, our website remains a key focus for ensuring everyone has access to the latest information.

Don’t forget, the SLM Shop is also live on our website! Grab the latest merch, support SLM, and help spread the word about our amazing community.

NEW LIMITED EDITION TSHIRTS 

AVAILABLE NOW

SPANK FUNDRAISER – SMrL24

SPANK – A Fundraiser for Sydney Mr Leather 2024, where everyone is welcome.

Get ready for an amazingly fun afternoon of fundraising, fetish, and community spirit as we come together to support Sydney Mr Leather 2024, Timo!

 Saturday 5th April 2025
 Ground Floor – Oxford Hotel
 2:30pm – 5:30pm (welcome to stay later)
 Hosted by Timo (Sydney Mr Leather 2024)
 Inclusive Event Open To All

Funds raised will be shared between Timo’s International Mr. Leather (IML) travel fund and the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, supporting people living with HIV.

– Raffles & Auctions – Incredible prizes up for grabs!
– A Truly Australian Meat Raffle – But what will the meat be?!
– Shake Your Cake! – Will you shake your ‘cake’ for a chance to take home the cake?
– Used Gear Sale – Score some fantastic pre-loved fetish gear!
– And so much more!

Most importantly, this is a celebration of community and titleholder support. Whether you’re here to bid, buy, donate, or just bring the energy, everyone is welcome – wear your best fetish gear or come as you are!

Let’s rally behind Timo as he prepares to represent Sydney and Australia at IML! Bring your friends, bring your generosity, and let’s make this an afternoon to remember!

Event Banner and Poster are designed to look like advertising pages from old Drummer Magazines, filled with subtle nods.

 2025 MEMBERSHIP

2025 Membership: $37 annually (1st Jan – 31st Dec)

As an SLM member, you’ll enjoy the benefit of FREE monthly social events.

 2025 Member Benefits:

• Discounts & Reduced Ticket Offers: Enjoy perks from our valued Partners (membership benefit partners) throughout the year.
• 10% Off Merchandise: Members save on all SLM merchandise.
• Monthly Members-Only Door Prize: Each month, members will receive 5 free chances for hundreds of dollars in prizes from amazing sponsors like Sax Fetish, Naughty Boy Australia, Oxford Hotel and Studio Kink Sydney and more.
• Monthly Members-Only Cash Draw: A guaranteed cash prize of at least $50! It jackpots the following month if not won.
• Ad Hoc Perks: Expect surprise treats like free drinks, and more.

This program means members receive chances to win hundreds of dollars in benefits and prizes each month for an annual $37 membership fee.

IMPORTANT UPDATE

Our 2025 revised membership benefits program has been carefully updated to ensure that financial members receive the full value of their membership.

As part of this, we kindly ask members not to distribute members-only raffle tickets to non-members. To uphold fairness, raffle winners will be required to confirm their current financial membership before collecting prizes.

Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping SLM benefits exclusive to our valued members!

 LEATHER LEGACY: STORIES FROM OUR PAST

1981: Ron Moore lifts the trophy

It’s a sweaty Sydney night at Stranded nightclub in March 1981, as men vie to be crowned Mr Australian Leather. MC’d by Star Observer publisher Michael Glynn, interest is high after local man Patrick Brookes became the first (and only) Australian winner of Mr International Leather in Chicago just the year before. There’s even a rumour that the Newcastle contenders, Dallas and Greg, are straight. “Their asses just ain’t in it”, cries one patron quoted in the Star. Ultimately it is Sydneysider Ron Moore who lifts the trophy, who the judges state is definitely gay. How they know is anyone’s guess…

Photo: William Yang, held at the National Library of Australia http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-136863507

ALL DAY EVERY DAY DRINK SPECIALS @ THE OXFORD HOTEL

SHOW MEMBERSHIP CARD FOR DRINK DISCOUNTS, SAME DISCOUNTS PROVIDED DURING MONTHLY LEATHER & BLUF SOCIALS

Jug Specials

Hahn Superdry – $21

James Squire 150 Lashes – $22

James Squire Orchard Crush – $24

Toohey’s New- $19

Spirits

Wyborowa vodka – $7.50

Beefeater gin – $7.50

Havana Club3yo rum – $7.50

Havana Club Anejo rum – $7.50

Ballantines scotch – $7.50

Olmeca tequila – $7.50

Jim Beam bourbon – $7.50

Wine

Stonefish chardonnay – $7.50

Stonefish cab sav – $7.50

Stonefish sparkling – $7.50

 STUDIO KINK – BDSM BITES

 Dive into the art of BDSM with our BDSM Bites series – an exciting and informative collection of classes designed for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Each class is a standalone topic where you can learn about different aspects of BDSM.

From impact play to power dynamics, wax play to sensory exploration, these classes offer a deep dive into key topics, giving you the confidence and knowledge to safely explore your desires. With a mix of theory and demonstration, you’ll learn both the basics and advanced techniques, all while fostering open communication and a strong foundation in consent.

Whether you’re looking to expand your BDSM toolkit, enhance your relationships, or simply satisfy your curiosity, BDSM Bites delivers a fun and educational experience tailored to your needs. Join us for a journey of self-discovery, connection, and playful exploration!

No partner, or experience, is required for these classes – though feel free to bring both along! Click here to see the bites available.

Did you know that Studio Kink Is an SLM Sponsor Offering:

10% MEMBERS DISCOUNT ON WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES

And Regular Tickets Giveaways to Workshops At Leather & BLUF Socials.

 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

WE NEED YOUR HELP

We’re looking for volunteers to help with coat check shifts at Wooflcub on the 29th March. As a thank you, volunteers will receive an entry ticket to the event in exchange for their time and effort.

If you’re interested in this volunteering opportunity, please message us on Facebook.

STATEMENT ON UNITY

UNITY: Where CommUNITY Comes Together; We Are Stronger Together!

Please Take a Moment to Read This Important Message

Unity is more than just a word, it’s a commitment to togetherness, mutual support, and belonging. It’s about creating space where everyone feels safe, valued, celebrated, and empowered to be their natural selves.

This belief has been the driving force behind UNITY, the all welcome and unifying event SLM proudly launched in 2023. While our core purpose remains fostering spaces for leather men to connect, we recognised the need for events that embrace the entire leather and fetish community, events that could heal divides and build a stronger, more connected future.

Since its debut, UNITY has grown into something truly special, drawing incredible attendance, positive feedback, and continuous requests for its return. We’ve proudly collaborated with Dykes on Bikes, Sydney Ms Leather 2023, and other community leaders to promote and encourage greater variety of participation.

However, UNITY is about more than just attendance, It’s about creating a space where all gender expressions, sexualities, pronouns, fetishes, backgrounds and kinks are embraced and welcomed. A space where EVERYONE can feel safe, be seen, and celebrated, surrounded by a supportive, like-minded community.

UNITY 2025: Expanding the Vision

Looking ahead in 2025, we’re excited to take UNITY even further with nine events already scheduled and more to come. It’s not just about inclusivity anymore, it’s about UNITY in the diversity of fetish and the growing spectrum of self-expression.

We’re expanding UNITY’s scope to truly reflect the variety of our community, ensuring it’s a welcoming space for all. Whether you’re drawn to leather, rubber, sports gear, pup play, BDSM, kink, or any other fetish, you’ll find a home at UNITY.

Building Strength Through Unity

Our focus remains on creating spaces that bring people together, not drive them apart. In a world that often highlights differences, UNITY stands as a reminder that our strength lies in embracing those differences and celebrating what unites us.

But strength doesn’t come from standing alone, it comes from standing together. True community is built when we support one another, celebrate each other’s journeys, and unite under a shared purpose. When we stand as one, we are stronger, louder, and more resilient.

Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we can create spaces where community thrives, where connections grow, and where everyone feels safe and that they belong. But unity doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by choice, by action, and by standing shoulder to shoulder, regardless of our differences.

Breaking Down Barriers: UNITY and Leather & Laces Are for Everyone

We know that because UNITY is hosted by SLM, some might assume it’s a men-only event, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. UNITY, like our other event, Leather & Laces, is designed for EVERYONE in the leather, fetish, and kink community.

So, let’s be completely clear and upfront: While SLM and its events team proudly organize these events, UNITY and Leather & Laces are safe spaces for EVERYONE, ALL ARE WELCOME!. They’re for the entire spectrum of the community, regardless of gender identity, sexuality, body type, fetish preference or background.

Trans, non-binary, cis, hairy, smooth, larger, thin, short, tall, facial-haired, back-haired, fem, masc, butch; EVERYONE is welcome. Ultimately If you’re kinky, love fetish, and want to connect with like-minded individuals, you’ll find a home at UNITY and/or Leather & Laces.

Come as you are. Celebrate who you are. Because in the end, it’s our shared passion, respect, and community spirit that truly matters.

💪 UNITY is here to stay.

💙 UNITY is for everyone.

This is UNITY. This is SAFETY. This is us, Stronger Together.

Sydney Leather Festival (SLF) is all about showcasing the variety in our Leather, Fetish, and Kink community. Our vision over the coming years is to make SLF a must-visit global event, attracting visitors from around the world to experience everything Sydney has to offer.

SLF had been asked: “Is Sydney Leather Festival just about leather?” The answer is absolutely not! SLF is a showcase and celebration of the entire fetish and kink spectrum, welcoming puppies, handlers, rubber lovers, sports gear enthusiasts, uniform fans, and all kinks, including emerging ones.

This festival is about bringing the community together, creating spaces for connection, education, and exploration, where everyone can truly be their kinky selves.

We also want to make it clear that SLF is an independent entity. While it was originally supported by SLM, it now stands on its own as a community-driven festival. And most importantly, SLF is for everyone, regardless of gender expression, identity, or experience level. Yes, some spaces may cater to specific attendee groups. However, It’s about community, connection, and celebration.

Our goal is to engage and welcome newcomers and first-timers, ensuring SLF is an inviting and exciting gateway into the world of leather and fetish for all.

Festivals like SLF don’t happen without the incredible work of event organisers, volunteers, and supporters behind the scenes. It takes a huge effort to create these spaces where our community can thrive, and the best way to ensure their success is by showing up, spreading the word, and taking part.

SLF 2025 is about your fetish, your kink, your festival, your tribe and it’s driven by your community through its groups, events, and businesses. So when the event schedule starts rolling out, help us get the message out and make sure you attend what you can!

The Official Opening of Sydney Leather Festival 2025  

UNVEILED – FETISH ART WITHOUT INHIBTION

ARTIST EXPRESSION OF INTEREST OPEN NOW

Step into a world where art and desire collide, UNVEILED is a intended to be a bold and uninhibited exhibition celebrating fetish, leather, and kink through the mediums of paint, drawing, photography, sculpture, and visual art.

This showcase brings together works from artists across our community, exploring the raw, sensual, and boundary-pushing beauty of fetish expression.

As the official opening night of Sydney Leather Festival 2025, UNVEILED sets the stage for a festival of connection, creativity, and unapologetic visibility.

Artists are called to join us as we strip back the layers, embrace the provocative, and honour the artistry of fetish without inhibition.

EOI Closes 18th May 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Message From Our President & Vice President.

Our Sydney leather community is back at its vibrant pace after the holidays. The excitement of Sydney Mardi Gras is upon us once again. We look forward to the return of familiar events, these are our ‘customs’ that we cherish. And we welcome the new members to our ‘Sydney Leather Men’ family who will celebrate with us for the first time.

We salute the original 1978 Mardi Gras marchers, their stance against oppression, & what they endured on that evening.  Sydney’s gays and lesbians would not get back in line & so the Mardi Gras started. Those struggles continue to capture our imagination and inspire all of us.

Our community is strong and we will continue to express ourselves no matter what. Enjoy, be safe & look out for one another.

Phil & Pete.

We are super excited to be Marching in the Mardi Gras parade on Saturday 1st March and being free to be uniquely liberated in leather, alongside Studio Kink, Oceanic Pups and Handlers and Sydney Leather Women and Queers. Keep an eye out for our small flags like the one on the right above during the parade. The fetish and kink floats are all around the early 90’s in the order.

Due to some availability changes we have limited places available, so if you are keen to march get in touch with Igor, Timo or Lani ASAP. Payments are due direct to the float account by 20th February.

Also keep an eye out for our 2nd Parade entry with Boys on Bikes following on from the amazing Dykes on Bikes in spot #2. We have nearly 60 bikes, many with pillions who will be enjoying the parade. Keep an eye our for the flags similar to the above  which we had printed for this years parade.

 We’re excited to share the 22 events that are already locked in and scheduled for 2025—and that’s just the beginning! Expect even more throughout the year, including some spontaneous ones.

Our Leather Socials and BLUF Sydney Socials remain our core male identifying events for SLM Inc, However we recognise our role and opportunity in creating inclusive leather & fetish events to further bring together our community!

Other Inclusive Events Provided By SLM Inc:

• Leather & Laces: A Leather and Fetish all inclusive social bringing the community together to celebrate and showcase our bootblacks and a care for leather.

• UNITY: Where CommUNITY Comes Together! Its Back. Now a Leather & Fetish all inclusive social. A Space for everyone to be seen, to socialise in a safe environment and bond.

Keep an eye out for more details on Timo Sydney Mr Leather 2024’s upcoming Fundraiser on Saturday April 5th in the ground floor of the Oxford Hotel to support him representing Sydney at IML in May.

Head to the Events page for the full events program, and keep an eye out for FB events being created soon. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable together!

This Friday, we start our new home in partnership with the Oxford Hotel and in residency with the famous Harbour CityBears. This is a match up made in heaven. Our home bar will be the Polo Lounge on Level 2 of the Oxford Hotel. A Space we can exclusively claim to be our own. It will have a Cigar Balcony, Bootblack space and potential for future coat check space. It will evolve as we do a few events using the space, so watch this space.

There will be a welcome desk as you arrive meaning members can pick up cards, merchandise ordered, and importantly member raffle tickets before entering. There are toilet facilities on this level and a private bar. Food can be ordered and consumed on this level from the Oxford Kitchen.

We acknowledge there are a number of stairs making accessibility difficult for some and apologise. We do not believe there is significantly more stairs than our previous venue and hope these stairs will be easier to navigate.

So come join us as we welcome the start of Mardi Gras season and start a new life at the Oxford Hotel, from 7pm Friday 14th January.

2025 Membership: $37 annually (1st Jan – 31st Dec)

As an SLM member, you’ll enjoy the benefit of FREE monthly social events, designed to bring our community together. Beyond our monthly socials, we are dedicated to creating as many opportunities as possible for members and the wider community to connect, bond, and build lasting relationships.

 2025 Member Benefits:

• Discounts & Reduced Ticket Offers: Enjoy perks from our valued Partners (membership benefit partners) throughout the year. We are continually looking for more benefits and offers for members.
• 10% Off Merchandise: Members save on all SLM merchandise.
• Monthly Members-Only Door Prize: Each month, members will automatically receive 5 free chances for hundreds of dollars in prizes from amazing sponsors like Sax Fetish, Naughty Boy Australia, Oxford Hotel and Studio Kink Sydney and more.
• Monthly Members-Only Cash Draw: A guaranteed cash prize of at least $50! It jackpots the following month if not won.
• Ad Hoc Perks: Expect surprise treats like free drinks, and more to keep things exciting.

Raffles with a Purpose: Raffle tickets will only be sold for special occasions, such as fundraising for Timo’s IML travel fund or chosen charities, ensuring these efforts feel meaningful and focused and are done with purpose.

 This program means members will now receive chances to win hundreds of dollars in benefits and prizes each month for an annual $37 membership fee.

 IMPORTANT UPDATE

Our 2025 revised membership benefits program has been carefully updated to ensure that financial members receive the full value of their membership.

 As part of this, we kindly ask members not to distribute members-only raffle tickets to non-members. To uphold fairness, raffle winners will be required to confirm their current financial membership before collecting prizes.

Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping SLM benefits exclusive to our valued members!

ALL DAY EVERY DAY DRINK SPECIALS @ THE OXFORD HOTEL

SHOW MEMBERSHIP CARD FOR DRINK DISCOUNTS, SAME DISCOUNTS PROVIDED DURING MONTHLY LEATHER & BLUF SOCIALS

Jug Specials

Hahn Superdry – $21

James Squire 150 Lashes – $22

James Squire Orchard Crush – $24

Toohey’s New- $19

Spirits

Wyborowa vodka – $7.50

Beefeater gin – $7.50

Havana Club3yo rum – $7.50

Havana Club Anejo rum – $7.50

Ballantines scotch – $7.50

Olmeca tequila – $7.50

Jim Beam bourbon – $7.50

Wine

Stonefish chardonnay – $7.50

Stonefish cab sav – $7.50

Stonefish sparkling – $7.50

MEMBERS DISCOUNT ON WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES

Regular Tickets Giveaways to Workshops and Classes At Leather & BLUF Socials.

1980: Are you a nice boy, or a leather boy?

This was the question posed by Sydney musician Wayne Harrison his 1980 dual-single record, “Nice boys / leather boys”.

Distributed by Warren Fahey’s “Larrikin Records”, the first Australian release by an openly gay performer apparently sold like hot cakes at “Folkways” record shop on Oxford Street. It even featured a cut-out-and-keep cardboard boyfriend on the record sleeve, which you could dress as a nice boy, or a leather boy, depending how you were feeling…

45 years later “Nice boys / leather boys” has all but disappeared, and can’t be heard online. Is there a copy collecting dust on your shelves? Share it with us!

UNITY: The IML Send-Off Party! – Where CommUNITY Comes Together

UNITY is presented by Sydney Leather Men Inc and is about celebrating ALL our community’s diversity, embracing ALL fetishes, ALL gender expressions, and ALL pronouns. It’s a space for everyone to connect, bond, support, and on this night party together.

This special edition is dedicated to celebrating and sending off the incredible Timo (Sydney Mr Leather 2024) & Nick (Pride of The Hide 2023) as they head to International Mr. Leather (IML) in Chicago to represent OUR community alongside 3 other amazing Australian titleholders.

Let’s show them the love and support they so richly deserve as they represent us on the international stage! Our DJ for the night from 10pm to keep the atmosphere electric is one of our very own kinksters in DJ AnVi.

We are equally honoured to welcome home Lani (Sydney Ms. Leather 2024) fresh from International Ms Leather (IMsL) in New York. Come hear her incredible experience and let’s hope she brings the IMsL sash home for a well-deserved celebration!

Doors Open: 8 PM (Brighter lighting & background music)

Party Mode Activated: 10 PM – 1 AM (Lights down, DJ AnVi up!)

Tickets: $10 Online or $15 on the Door (If Not Sold Out)

*A Portion of Ticket and Door Proceeds Will be Donated to Timo & Nick’s for Travel Expenses and Chosen Charity.

COAT CHECK VOLUNTEERS

WE NEED YOUR HELP

We’re looking for volunteers to help with coat check shifts. As a thank you, volunteers will receive an entry ticket to the event in exchange for their time and effort.

If you’re interested in this volunteering opportunity, please reach out to us on our ‘Contact Us’ form on here or on Facebook.

ARE YOUR LEATHER & BOOTS MARDI GRAS READY?

Join us for a leather social event celebrating our local heroes—the Bootblacks! Get Your Leather and Boots Mardi Gras Ready!

Presented by Sydney Leather Men Inc in partnership with Sydney Bootblack 2023 Jon.

All are welcome to come socialise at this leather and fetish community gathering, where you’ll have the chance to meet and be served by the unsung heroes of our community the Bootblacks.

It’s a night to honour the craftsmanship & dedication of the Bootblacks while enjoying the camaraderie of the leather community, inclusive and united.

An opportunity to have your leathers carefully cared for by our experts and have them looking amazing in time for Mardi Gras and the Parade., you can also bring along items you might want the bootblacks to care for before Mardi Gras rather than on the night.

This event is ALL INCLUSIVE, ALL FETISH, ALL WELCOME.

$5 Door Charge – All Money Goes to The Bootblacks on Duty.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Personal Message from our President (Mick Watson)

Almost four years ago, the dream of bringing a leather club back to Sydney began to take shape. The result was Sydney Leather Men, a space that has grown, evolved, and flourished because of your support, attendance and engagement.

I am regularly told by people in this community how SLM and its social events have positively impacted their lives and opened new worlds to explore. You only need to witness the atmosphere and the smiles of happiness on people’s faces as they socialise and bond at our events to see the impact it has had. When we first set out, we thought if we could positively impact 20 people by creating an affinity space where leather men felt welcomed and safe, we would have achieved success. We have far eclipsed this vision with over 130 financial members committing to the vision and purpose of SLM over the last 12 months.

However, with that pride also comes the realisation that my own journey with SLM has taken a personal toll. Over these past few years, I’ve poured so much of my time and energy into SLM and other community initiatives. Sadly, this has come at the expense of prioritising my own health and well-being and relationships.

Balancing a job while dedicating nights and weekends to SLM and community initiatives has been unsustainable for me. However, I acknowledge my own role in this situation. Being so driven by the desire for the success of SLM, I’ve often kept my hands in too many areas rather than empowering our incredible committee members to fully take the reins of their portfolios. To my team, I deeply apologise for not giving you the appropriate space to shine as individuals, especially given you have all been instrumental in SLM’s ongoing success.

Burnout has subsequently taken a toll on me, both physically and mentally, leaving me at a low point where negativity has weighed heavily. Yet, when I ask myself, “Why keep going?” the answer remains: because this community deserves more and better!. To those who seek to create division, I say this: our community is stronger than that. I believe that truth, honesty, and authenticity will rise above negativity, and that positivity and unity will prevail.

That said, I feel it’s time for me to take a step back and put focus on rebuilding my own health. I have made the difficult decision to resign as President of Sydney Leather Men Inc., effective Monday, January 20, 2025.

While I’m stepping down from the Presidency, I am pleased to be remaining part of SLM Inc. as Treasurer and Membership Officer. We have assembled a diverse and dedicated committee, united by a passion to guide SLM into an exciting future. I am confident with strong new leadership that this group will take SLM to even greater heights.

Moving Forward, On Monday, January 20th, the SLM Committee met to discuss and make key appointments ahead of the first official AGM in the coming months.

I’m honoured and excited to announce your new executive team:

• President: Phil Reilly
• Vice President: Peter Rayner
• Treasurer & Membership Officer: Mick Watson
• Secretary: Igor Rudar
• Events Officer: Timo Rissanen
• Social Media Officer: Jon Nguyen
• Merchandise Officer: Jaime Aguilar
• Public Officer: Tony Pike
• General Committee Member: Shane Imbert
• General Committee Member: Vacant

With Phil and Peter at the helm leading with energy and fresh perspectives, supported by a talented and passionate committee, we are all confident SLM will continue to thrive. Congratulations to Phil, Pete and Timo on taking on new roles.

Thank you all for being part of this journey, and here’s to the bright future of SLM Inc. and the Sydney leather community!

Join Us in Shaping the Future of SLM

For SLM to grow and thrive, we need your help. Community-led organisations like SLM Inc. rely on members to drive things forward. If you’re passionate and want to contribute to shaping the future direction of SLM, we’d love to hear from you! We have committee opportunities available and always welcome new ideas and energy. More hands make lighter work, and together, we can create something even greater for our community.

If you’re interested in joining the committee or lending a hand, please reach out, we’d be thrilled to have you on board.

Yours in Leather,

Mick Watson

On Behalf of The SLM Inc. Committee. SLM Committee 

Congratulations to Dylan on being chosen as The Pride of The Hide for 2025! We are confident you’ll represent the community with pride and authenticity, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things you’ll accomplish as an ambassador for The Hide.

A heartfelt congratulations also goes out to the other four contestants who courageously put themselves forward. Your bravery and commitment to wanting to represent are inspiring. Please keep your heads held high and continue to be open to supporting the wider community without a title.

A special shoutout to Nick Toff as well, who has officially become a Sash Daddy! After an extended and impactful title term, your efforts have left a lasting mark on the community. Congratulations to you.

Here’s to celebrating those who continue to make our community stronger!

Mick Watson’s incredible efforts for our community are recognised and valued throughout the country and beyond.  We look forward to his ongoing work with Sydney Leather Men (SLM).

Becoming Presidents of SLM is an enormous privilege for us both. We will work closely with Mick & the other SLM committee members (Igor, Shane, Jon, Jaime, Timo, Tony) on behalf of all our members.  

All of us are busy and life is full of challenges.  As a community organisation, our mission continues to create affinity spaces for gay male and male identifying Leather Men. The support of our membership is so inspiring to us.

In Sydney we are fortunate that the different institutions, as well as leaders, within our community are established and strong. New groups have emerged that we will support. We can all draw strength from one another. And to overcome problems we can, through listening, learn to respect differences. We look forward to talking to you all about how we can maintain our community on its upward trajectory.

Phil Reilly & Pete Rayner

We’re excited to share that UNITY is coming back in 2025, with a slight twist!

Introducing UNITY: The Leather & Fetish Social.

This all-inclusive social event will continue to celebrate everyone in our community, welcoming all gender expressions, pronouns, and fetishes. It’s all about creating a safe, welcoming space where the entire leather and fetish community can come together, connect, and celebrate what makes us unique.

Get ready to unite in 2025, we can’t wait to see you there!

2012: Sydney Mr & Ms Leather step out together

Each month we’re publishing a photo from our community’s history – from bygone leather bars to parties from our past times – feel free to send us yours, and help build our archive!

Here we see Mistress Tokyo and Dick Savvy – Mr and Ms Leather Sydney 2012 – looking resplendent in their sashes as they lead the leather pride float up Oxford Street between downpours during a rainy Mardi Gras parade. Did you spot the matching socks, jocks and cuffs on the flagbearers? Nice work, boys.

Photographer: C.Moore Hardy, via the C.Moore Hardy Photography Collection at the City of Sydney archives, March 2012.

https://archives.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/1973278

Get ready. INQUISITION is returning on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, and trust us, you won’t want to miss this wild ride! Bought to you by HAUS of SAVVY.

SLM Financial Members Get $10 Off Tickets. Use The Code in Members Area  on Our Website. Over 500+ tickets have already sold, don’t delay. Get yours NOW.

COAT CHECK VOLUNTEERS

Exciting News! Sydney Leather Men Inc. are honoured to have been invited as a community-run organisation to operate the coat check for HCB Underbear XXX on 26th February 2025, as part of Bear Essentials!

This is an incredible opportunity for SLM to raise funds for our community and our initiatives while supporting this amazing event for the bears.

However, we need your help to make this a success! We’re looking for volunteers to help with coat check shifts. As a thank you, volunteers will receive an entry ticket to the event in exchange for their time and effort.

If you’re interested in this volunteering opportunity, please reach out to us on our ‘Contact Us’ form on here or on Facebook.

JANUARY SOCIAL PHOTOS

2025 Membership Price: $37 annually (1st Jan – 31st Dec)

As an SLM member, you’ll enjoy the benefit of FREE monthly social events, designed to bring our community together. Beyond our monthly socials, we are dedicated to creating as many opportunities as possible for members and the wider community to connect, bond, and build lasting relationships. With an exciting calendar planned for 2025, we aim to host over 20+ events (many of them FREE) throughout the year, offering a variety of ways to engage, celebrate, and strengthen our leather and fetish community.

2025 Member Benefits:

• • Discounts & Reduced Ticket Offers: Enjoy perks from our valued MBP’s (membership benefit partners) throughout the year. We are contunually looking for more benefits and offers for members.
  • 10% Off Merchandise: Members save on all SLM merchandise.
  • Monthly Members-Only Door Prize: Each month, members will automatically receive 5 free chances for hundreds of dollars in prizes from amazing sponsors like Sax Fetish, Naughty Boy Australia, and more.
  • Monthly Members-Only Cash Draw: A guaranteed cash prize of at least $50! It jackpots the following month if not won. The potential to win your membership costs back in cash!
  • Member drink specials and venue offers (More TBC)
  • Ad Hoc Perks: Expect surprise treats like free drinks, exclusive events and access, and more to keep things exciting.

Raffle tickets will only be sold for special occasions, such as fundraising, ensuring these efforts feel meaningful and focused and are done with purpose.

This revamped program means members will receive chances to win hundreds of dollars in prizes each month for an annual $37 membership fee, attend free events and support the ongoing evolution of Sydney Leather Men Inc.

Renewals and new memberships open 1st January 2025. Existing members will need to log in to their account on our website to renew their membership and retain member numbers. Member cards will be issued and available in person at each monthly social. *not all cards will be available for January due to expected high volume.

We want to remind you that SLM Inc is a registered community run association and its members have an opportunity to guide its future direction, we are not a private business and as such community support through membership is vital to our future.

We’re grateful for your continued support and attendance and can’t wait to share another incredible year with you!

REMINDER – PLEASE LOG IN TO CHECK YOUR ‘AUTO RENEWAL’ STATUS.

After two incredible years of hosting our events at Kinsela’s, we’re thrilled to announce the next step in the evolution of our Monthly Leather and BLUF Socials. The SLM Inc Committee has been presented with an opportunity that we believe is in the best interest of everyone involved and will help set us up for a successful future.

From our Social on Friday February 14th, 2025, SLM Inc. will be moving our Monthly Socials to the Polo Lounge (Level 2) at The Oxford Hotel !

This exciting move positions us alongside two iconic brands in the Sydney scene: Harbour City Bears (HCB) and The Oxford Hotel, as well as legendary parties like Trash Daddy. The Oxford not only recognises what we bring to the table but also offers SLM the perfect platform for our socials to grow, evolve, and enhances entertainment opportunities for our community in the future.

Here’s what you can look forward to at our new home:

• • A dedicated cigar balcony for leather and BLUF enthusiasts.
  • A bootblack space to celebrate and support our bootblack community.
  • Member drink discounts and benefits from The Oxford (details TBC).
  • The opportunity to collaborate with Harbour City Bears (HCB) and The Oxford on exciting future ideas and events.

But before we kick off this exciting new chapter, let’s give Kinsela’s a proper send-off! Join us on Friday January 17th, 2025, for our Summer Leather Social upstairs at Kinsela’s from 7pm with one last hurrah before heading down to Trash Daddy also on that evening.

We’re incredibly grateful to Kinsela’s for hosting us over the past two years and look forward to celebrating this transition with all of you. The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see you at The Oxford Hotel in February!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Celebrating Our Titleholders

2024 marked a remarkable year for our titleholders. Coach Jura, Sydney Mr Leather 2023, achieved global recognition by placing 4th at International Mr Leather (IML), elevating Sydney’s visibility in the international leather community. Timo, Sydney Mr Leather 2024, has already begun his own journey with strength and vision, and we’re thrilled to support him as he heads to IML in May 2025. Alongside the amazing Lani De Viate, Sydney Ms Leather 2023 and Pride of The Hide 2023 Pendragon Nick, our local titleholders continue to inspire and unify our community. We also want to extend our gratitude and admiration to everyone who stepped forward to compete for the Mr& Ms titles this year, even if they didn’t walk away with the sash. Their ongoing dedication and contributions to the community, title or not, are truly inspiring. It’s these acts of selfless commitment and community spirit that highlight the incredible strength and progress of our community.

Supporting Our Community

This year, SLM Inc donated approx. $2,700 in support of our local titleholders and organisations like Qtopia Sydney, ensuring we stay true to our mission of giving back. We remain committed to further supporting Timo and other community initiatives in 2025.

A Changing of the Guard

2024 saw changes to our committee, with valued members like Raymond, Ian, and Stephen stepping down but continuing as active supporters. We welcomed new committee members: Jaime, Phil, Shane, Jon, and Tony, who’ve brought fresh energy and ideas to SLM. We’re grateful to everyone who’s contributed and look forward to working together in the new year. We are also looking forward to our first AGM to be held in early 2025 and look forward to sharing and discussing our progress with members.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The new year promises exciting things, including our Mardi Gras float collaboration with Sydney Leather Queers and Women, supported by Studio Kink, under the theme “Liberated in Leather.” EOIs close on December 29th, so don’t miss your chance to join!

We’re also gearing up for Friday, January 17th, when we kick off the year with our first Monthly Social. With over 20 events planned for 2025, we’re committed to creating spaces for connection, celebration, and visibility.

Thank You for Believing in SLM, Your support drives everything we do, and we’re humbled by the belief you’ve shown in 2024. Let’s keep building, supporting, and lifting each other up as we step into 2025. From all of us at SLM Incorporated, Thank you and have a safe and wonderful festive season, we can’t wait to see you in the new year!

Leather & Love,
Mick ‘Darkroom Daddy’ Watson
President, SLM Inc.