Message From Our President & Vice President.

It’s been a busy month behind the scenes for SLM, and the weeks ahead are shaping up to be just as full!

 First, I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to Brendan and Ryan, who have joined our management committee. You’ll read more about them later in the newsletter, but for now, thank you both for pitching in and stepping up to support the work we do.

 Our August Social was a fantastic night, followed soon after by UNITY, held in partnership with our friends at WAQK earlier this month. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and new connections being made.

 Looking ahead, we’ve got a stall with WAQK at the ACON Parramatta Pride Picnic on Saturday 11th October, 11am–5pm in Parramatta Park. If you’re around, come by, say hello, and show your support.

 This Saturday, SLM is also managing the coat check for Woofclub, raising funds for Twenty10 and the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation. We’ve had some challenges finding volunteers recently, so if you’re able to lend a hand, it would mean a lot. Participation from our amazing members is what makes these efforts possible.

 A big congratulations to Jono, recently crowned Mr Harbour City Bear 2025! We also celebrate the newly announced leather and kink titleholders in Queensland, your achievements inspire us all.

 Meanwhile, Luis is travelling for work and has been connecting with European leather and fetish groups, proudly sharing the story of the Sydney leather community on the international stage. While not a requirement of his role, it’s wonderful to see our community represented abroad.

 Behind the scenes, we’re working hard on implementing new membership software. This will mean digital membership cards, easier access to member-only deals and codes, and more flexible membership terms. During this transition, new member sign-ups are temporarily unavailable, we appreciate your patience as we get this right.

 And finally, while there are still plenty of events to come this year, we’ve just announced our last event for 2025: Leather Feast – Picnic in the Park. Mark your calendars for Sunday 7th December, 12–5pm at Centennial Park. It’ll be a relaxed way to celebrate the year and enjoy time together outdoors.

 Thank you, as always, for being part of SLM and for helping us build such a strong, vibrant community.

 We look forward to seeing you this coming Friday night from 7:30pm for our Monthly Leather Social.

 Phil & Igor

SLM is delighted to announce two new additions to our Management Committee!

 During the recent Sydney Leather Titles, both of these amazing men stood proudly before everyone vying to be our next community ambassador. While that wasn’t the outcome this time, both Brendan (@myleatheralt) and Ryan (@pupryke) have chosen to step forward in another powerful way, by committing their time, energy, and passion as General Committee Members of SLM.

 This speaks volumes about the strength, depth, and evolution of our community, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have them onboard.

 Please join us in giving Brendan and Ryan a warm welcome! You’ll see them at upcoming events, always ready for a chat and connection. Check out our updated org chart to see the full SLM team.

Mick ‘Darkroom Daddy’ Watson

At SLM, we’re committed to keeping our community connected. That’s why we’re stepping out from behind the keyboard and in front of the camera to say hello and share a little about who we are. We hope this helps foster connection and gives new or curious faces someone familiar to say hi to next time.

 Today, meet Mick Watson,  also known as Darkroom Daddy. Mick was one of the founding members of The Hide, before going on to co-found both Sydney Leather Men and then Sydney Leather Festival. With leadership, passion, and dedication at his core, Mick has helped shape spaces for connection, collaboration, celebration, and community growth.

 Recognised as Leather Person of the Year 2025 at the recent Sydney Leather Titles, Mick continues to be a driving force in Sydney’s leather and fetish scene. Mick was also recognised in 2023 as Leather Person of the Year by the former Sydney Order of the Bootblacks, acknowledging his efforts and fostering collaboration across the community.

Mick admits he found this process a little nerve-wracking (you might catch him glancing at notes to his left, lol), but that’s the point. We believe in showing up authentically, nerves and all and not overly polished. 

Keep an eye out as we roll out more intros in the coming weeks. Let’s keep building connection, one moment at a time. #weareslm

JNP Leather

New Member Benefits Partner – Welcome JNP Leather!

 We are excited to announce a new member benefits partner: JNP Leather! Specialising in impact toys and Impact coaching, JNP Leather are now offering SLM members 10% off their products and services.

 Some of you may remember JNP Leather from the Gear Market during Sydney Leather Festival, where they showcased their incredible craftsmanship and passion. Now, we’re thrilled to bring them on board as part of the SLM MBP family.

 You can check out some of their stunning floggers and gear on Instagram @jnpleather, and reach out to James directly for bespoke requests, workshop info, or to chat about all things impact play.

 Please join us in giving a warm welcome to JNP Leather, and don’t forget to take advantage of this exclusive SLM member benefit!  https://www.instagram.com/jnpleather

MEMBER BENEFIT PARTNER UPDATE

UPCOMING EVENTS