This year, the 2011 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras will have, for the first time in history, a group of surfers taking part in the parade and marching along Oxford Street with their surfboards.

Thomas, the founder of GaySurfers.net explains, "By participating in Mardi Gras, we are showing the public that a healthy diversity exists in both the gay community and the surfing community."

GaySurfers.net was established in February 2010 and is a free website that offers gay surfers a place to meet, socialise, create surf groups based on geographic location and plan surf events. In just one year, GaySurfers.net has almost 3,000 members from around 80 countries. Australia itself has 650 participating members and 250 of these surf Sydney's surrounding beaches.

When asked about the mission of the site, Thomas laid out two very specific main objectives; To bring gay surfers together and improve public awareness. In a very short amount of time, however, it has become much more to many. "Our site breaks down prejudice and builds up self-esteem by creating a network of openly gay surfers who understand the trials of being homosexual within surf culture", says Thomas. "Essentially we're making it easier for them to accept themselves. That's a big part of our mission: to remove shame from the equation and help gay surfers be the best they can be."

The site is designed for men and women, and all ages are jumping on board. "We're stoked that younger surfers are finding and using the site to network with other surfers. This is especially important as younger guys who are just discovering their homosexuality need the most support and encouragement – especially in light of recent, tragic news of homophobic bullying and suicides among gay teenagers."

Thomas emphasises that GaySurfers.net is not a dating site, nor is it a porn site; it is strictly a social community based on a passion for surfing. "Those hoping to slide a questionable photo in under the radar better find another website, because we monitor this one closely." He is serious when he says he wants GaySurfers.net to remain "a safe place for all ages."

"As GaySurfers.net grows, I hope our message of acceptance and understanding spreads throughout the global surfing community. Nomads unite! Gay or straight, we all share a passion for the greatest sport in the world."

For more information visit www.GaySurfers.net, or contact [email protected]