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Australia’s Sexual Revolution: Lifestyle Game-Changer About to Welcome Three-Millionth Visitor
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Aussie Porn Star Lucie Bee announces a very special guest appearance at the California Club
MEDIA RELEASE:
Att: News Editor / Chief of Staff
For immediate release September 7th, 2016
Aussie Porn Star Lucie Bee announces a very special guest appearance at the California Club
St Kilda’s only legal bordello
FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY
The California Club, in association with Porn Star Touring, presents Lucie Bee
in a most unusual
TRADE PROMOTION LOTTERY
Lucie Bee is one of Australia’s best known and published Porn Stars
LUCIE BEE, THE GODDESS OF GEEK & SASSY STRUMPET, BRINGS THE ‘BEE HIVE’ TO MELBOURNE
As Escorts touring the country becomes the norm, Lucie has made a career of performing for the media including the ABC’s Australians on Porn, Triple J’s Hack, The Project, Pedestrian TV, Impulse Gamer and the Kyle & Jackie O Show, as well as being a featured guest on several Australian and international radio shows, documentaries and podcasts, and is quoted regularly in Australian newspapers, magazines and online. Add to that various appearances in Picture & People magazines, including making their 2015 Top 12 Australian Porn Stars and Top 100 Celebrities respectively, presenting discussions at gaming conventions PAX 2015 and GX 2016, Bee is fast becoming known for her brand of geeky adult and cosplay debauchery.
Clients and fans will have the opportunity to WIN a legal one-hour booking with the Lucie Bee, at the California Club, on October 24th.
TO WIN
Clients will need to join the California Club rewards program at www.californiaclub.com.au/memberships and then pop into 30 St Kilda Road, have an hour booking, with any of the lovely ladies on-shift, before Sunday October 16th and they’ll be automatically entered into the draw to win the hour with Lucie Bee on Monday October 24th.
TO BOOK
For those who want to be sure of securing a booking, a limited number of one-hour spots will be available on the day/evening of Monday October 24th and can be pre-booked through the California Club. The rates charged by Lucie Bee for these bookings are greater than normally charged by the venue.
Prostitution is legal in Victoria and a license is required to provide any sexual service for payment. Brothels and escort agencies, as well as sole-operators all need a Sex Work Act (SWA) number to operate legally. Sole-operators can work in pairs and are exempt, subject to approval, from a lot of the licensing requirements and fees payable by businesses. An exempt sole-operator will display an SWA number with an E after it – SWA123E.
Each establishment, agency, or exempt individual is assigned an SWA number which must be displayed in all advertising. Often, those without the appropriate licence advertise themselves as providing massage services, while licensed operators are forbidden by law from using the word massage to describe their services.
What this means is that ‘touring’ escorts, from interstate or overseas, are required to have a Victorian SWA number. If they do not have an SWA number they can only work legally in a licensed brothel or via a licensed escort agency.
Don’t miss your chance to dive down the rabbit hole & into the Bee Hive to meet Lucie Bee, as she makes a very special appearance at the renowned California Club. Lucie Bee is an incredibly unique and accomplished international porn star and escort.
With a reputation for geekery, gaming and a love of smut, you’ll be able to catch her at the California Club in some of her decadent lingerie or perhaps if you book in with advance notice a costume of your choosing. Lucie Bee truly has a costume collection that is second to none. As a special treat to commemorate her appearance at the California Club Lucie will be offering to dress up as whichever character best pleases you to fulfil your ultimate fantasy completely free of charge. On top of this – Lucie will also be offering free signed polaroids and free signed posters. These extras that can be found on Lucie’s website under rates will be offered completely free (Lucie is just as excited as you are!) For any other extras these can be found on Lucie’s website for a small extra cost. To put the cherry on top of this delicious honey Bee ice cream sundae Lucie will be celebrating her exclusive California Club appearance by taking $100 off her regular hourly rate.
With several decadent years in the Australian and international adult industries (and preparing for several more), Lucie Bee is a pocket rocket with a long resume – with Miss Bee, you really are in the hands of a sexual connoisseur. As one of the industry’s most outspoken entertainers and advocates, this home grown talent is consistently on the radar and delights in meeting with fans and better yet – having the opportunity to show them how truly grateful she is for their ongoing support. Lucie is a sexual dynamo with a petite frame and a crystal blue doe-eyed look that will leave every nerve in your body tingling for hours after your private rendezvous.
In demand throughout the adult industry, Lucie has shot with Australian adult producers such as Bright Desire and Oz Fellatio Queens, accompanying her already extensive resume of appearances locally and overseas. She has shot with Aussie Ass, Fake Taxi, Pure XXX, Girls Out West, Pure CFNM, Yanks and MileyWhite.com – with more (including her own) content to come! One of her favourite scenes, ‘Tease’, shot for Bright Desire with Australian adult star Ryan James, received an honourable mention at the 12th annual Cinekink film festival.
2015 marked the launch of her Spider male masturbator sex toy, modelled directly off Bee herself, whilst 2016 saw her as the June/July Penthouse Black Label “Tech Issue” cover girl – you can grab your signed copy or your very own Spider from Lucie’s website. (yes, you can take Lucie home with you)!
Don’t miss out on meeting Miss Lucie Bee at the California Club on Monday October 24th – She’ll be eagerly awaiting the chance to spend some quality time with you behind closed doors.
A different internationally touring porn star will do just one appearance per month at the California Club
Twitter: @CaliClubStKilda @LucieBeexxx @PornStarTouring
Media Enquiries:
Kevin James
t: 03 9529 4727
What conditions are required for a Trade Promotion lottery?
From 20 June 2015 businesses, charities and community organisations do not need to apply to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) for a permit to conduct a trade promotion lottery. Trade promotion lotteries must continue to meet certain conditions or penalties apply.
A trade promotion lottery is a lottery designed to promote a trade or business. This includes any scheme that gives away prizes by any means, which include an element of chance at any stage of the scheme. Even if a part of the scheme is skills-based, the scheme will still have to be conducted in accordance with the regulations if any part of the scheme process includes an element of chance.
Trade promotion lotteries are free lotteries that may require a person to purchase a product or undertake certain actions to be eligible to participate. An entry fee must not be charged, and any ancillary cost (that is, cost of telephone call, SMS or postage) must not exceed $1(including GST).
The conditions of a trade promotion lottery are set out in the Gambling Regulation Act 2003 and Gambling Regulations 2015.
As at 20 June 2015, the conditions for the conduct of trade promotion lotteries are as follows:
- The expense per entry must not exceed the gazetted amount (currently 70 cents)
- Written consent must be obtained from the person whose trade or business is to be promoted by the lottery
- The lottery must be conducted so as to benefit primarily the trade or business being promoted
- Information used to promote the lottery and any scratch and win cards must include:
- the closing date of the lottery
- if applicable, where and when the lottery will be drawn
- the name and date of the publication in which winners’ names will be published
- the entry requirements, if any.
- The names of winners of all prizes over $1000 must be published by one of the following methods:
- in a newspaper circulating generally in Victoria
- on the internet, for a minimum period of 28 days
- if the lottery was advertised solely through a trade journal, promotional magazine or similar publication, in that publication.
- The winners of prizes must be advised in writing of the prize
- Certain records must be kept for a period of three years after finalisation of the lottery
- If the trade promotion lottery is to be drawn, the method of the draw must allow each ticket in the draw a random and equal chance of being drawn
- The winner of a prize must not incur a cost to accept a prize (other than a trivial cost)
- If information about entrants is to be used for a purpose other than the conduct of the lottery, this must be stated in the conditions of entry
- A person who conducts a trade promotion must not use entrants’ information except in accordance with the purposes stated in the condition of entry
- A person who conducts a trade promotion lottery must obtain written agreement from the business, that the business will not use the entrants’ information except in accordance with the purposes stated in the conditions of entry
- An entrant is not required to be present at the drawing of the lottery in order to be eligible to win a prize (unless the entry and draw are to occur on the same day and in the same place)
- The prize must be paid or transferred to the winner within 28 days after the draw
- The winner of a prize may only be substituted via a second draw, and only if the conditions of entry allow it and if reasonable efforts were made to identify the winner that were unsuccessful
- A trade promotion lottery must be conducted in a manner that is not offensive and that is not contrary to the public interest
- A prize may only be substituted if the substituted prize is of the same or greater value than the original prize and the winner either agrees in writing, or the original prize is unavailable due to circumstances beyond the control of the person conducting the trade promotion lottery and reasonable attempts are made to reach agreement with the winner that are unsuccessful.
http://www.vcglr.vic.gov.au/home/gambling/new+applicants/trade+promotion+lottery/
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AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE ADULT EVENT- SEXPO®, LAUNCHES DRONEX
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SEXPO® CELEBRATES ITS 20TH BIRTHDAY IN 2016
SEXPO® – Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo, the world’s premier event for the adult industry, has announced plans for a brand new show called DroneX which will be co-located with SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 (see www.dronex.net.au).
Celebrating 20 years, SEXPO® 2016 returns to its founding home in Melbourne, from November 24-27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. The theme for this year’s event will be Feel The Future, and the event will incorporate a glimpse of products and technology that may shape the next 20 years for the adult industry.
The new event called DroneX will complement the ‘future’ theme. While being co-located with SEXPO®, it will run as its own independent attraction from November 25-27. Patrons however, will only need to purchase one ticket to access both events.
At DroneX, patrons will be able to engage with drone businesses, purchase drones and watch first hand, professional drone racing in action in a purpose built indoor drone racing course – Australia’s largest. Visitors will also get the chance to participate in amateur drone racing, by flying the same obstacle course as the professionals – the first time in Australia that this has happened.
SEXPO® and DroneX Event Manager, Bentleigh Gibson said “…SEXPO® is not just about sex, it’s about Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle. Drone technology and application is increasingly becoming integrated into daily life, commercially, professionally and in leisure capacities. SEXPO® is seeking to give this new industry a platform through which it can reach the general public in a fun and educational way.”
DroneX launches at 5.00 PM on Friday November 25 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets can be purchased online, or at the door.
For more details head to: www.dronex.net.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dronexaustralia
Twitter: www.twitter.com/dronexaustralia
Media enquiries:
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
Background Information about SEXPO®
In spite of its catchy name, SEXPO® is not just an exhibition about sex… it is about health, sexuality and adult lifestyles.
Exhibitor stands include (but are not limited to) aviation, wine tasting, marine sports, electronic home entertainment systems, holiday resorts, spa pools, hair and make-up artists, physical fitness equipment, chiropractors, photographers and more. And, of course, the event still promotes the kind of products and services that one would expect to find at an exhibition called SEXPO®
Apart from the exhibitor stands, there is a stage with rock concert lighting and audio which is the backdrop for a variety of entertaining performances. Popular international celebrities and stage acts include the world famous ‘penile artist’ Pricasso (who uses his penis as a brush to paint surprisingly good portraits – really!), as well as numerous local and international adult stars. There will also be hilarious crowd participation shows, fashion parades, pole-dancing classes and free giveaways.
Since its debut in 1996, SEXPO® has attracted nearly three million visitors.
SEXPO® was founded in Australia in 1996 originally as a forum to allow women and couples to experience all the adult industry has to offer, in a safe and friendly environment. In 2006 the first international licensing agreement was signed and the inaugural South African event held in 2007.
An instant success, these events produced several million Australian dollars of income over 3 years before being on-sold by the South African licensee for more than AU$2,000,000 in 2010. It continues to expand under the new licensee.
SEXPO® was exported to London in 2015 to rave reviews.
We specifically invite people who have never been to SEXPO®, thinking it is just a big “sex show”, to come along and be pleasantly surprised by the fun and relaxed atmosphere.
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES JUDGING PANEL FOR SEXY COSPLAY AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL OF MORPHEOUS’ BONDAGE EXTRAVAGANZA (MBE) AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
Attention: News Editor/Chief of Staff
For immediate Release
Melbourne, Australia
SEXPO® ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL OF MORPHEOUS’ BONDAGE EXTRAVAGANZA (MBE) AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
On June 23, 2016, SEXPO® – Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo, the world’s premier event for the adult industry, announced that it would be bringing Morpheous’ Bondage Extravaganza to SEXPO® Melbourne 2016.
MBE was intending to take over the Fetish Room of SEXPO®, from 6.00 PM – 12.00 AM on Saturday November 26, to showcase the world’s best talent in Shibari (Japanese rope bondage).
Despite best efforts of SEXPO® management for over 4 months, MBE have now advised SEXPO® that they are withdrawing from the event, due to unexpected circumstances. According to SEXPO® event manager, Bentleigh Gibson… “It’s disappointing that after so much planning and promotion, this is the end result, but as they say, the show must go on.”
SEXPO® have announced that despite MBE’s withdrawal, the Fetish Room will still operate at SEXPO®, and plans are underway for a replacement feature with announcements to be made soon.
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 runs from Thursday November 24 to Sunday November 27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets can be purchased from www.sexpo.com.au.
Media enquiries:
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
Facebook: www.facebook.com/australia.sexpo
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexpoaustralia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sexpoaustralia
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Melbourne Sexpo 2016 TV Commercial
SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016 TVC
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Knock back fails to deter Sexpo founder
Twenty years ago David Ross ran Australia’s first Sexpo at the Carlton Crest Hotel. He did want it to be at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, but they knocked him back.
Next week one of Melbourne’s longest running expos – the 20th Melbourne Sexpo – will be held at the MCEC, as it has been for the past 19 years. Just over 40,000 people will attend the four-day event making it one of the city’s most attended expos.
As a Public Relations Consultant, David was approached by the Club X chain of adult retail stores in 1995 with the brief, make the Club X stores more appealing to women.
David, Sexpo’s International Licensing Manager, says, “I was doing a story with a freelance journalist,” he recalls, “and we went to a trade-day lunch. There was a woman standing at a lectern giving a really professional presentation to industry representatives about products and equipment. I looked around at the wine, the white tablecloths, and audience – largely women – and the products, which were laid out on the table for people to pick up and play with, and I thought, ‘You know, this is what we have to do’.
“My intention became then, and remains today, to bring all things sex-related out of adult stores and present them in a welcoming, comfortable, educational, entirely entertaining, safe and fun way,” says David, who is now the International Licensing Manager for Sexpo, while Bentleigh Gibson, Australian Event Manager, has taken over from David running the local events.
From just 20 stands at his inaugural “touch and feel” expo at the Carlton Crest, to a global success story, David’s well-timed smarts took him from an impressive 8000 curious visitors, to a current-rolling total, worldwide, with the 3 millionth (Australian) visitor expected to come through the doors next week.
“To this day, I don’t know whether we lost money or made money from that first event,” he says. “In the early days writing press releases, folding invites and running every aspect of marketing Sexpo Australia fell to David alone. “Still, the level of interest was sufficient to convince us that we were onto something,” he adds. Two decades later and the world is clearly up for more of the same.
Ambitious, brave, and just the right amount of cheeky, very quickly took Sexpo from its humble beginnings to South Africa and beyond, all within a few years. “There is a very clear and growing demand from the public, in every market we go to,” he says. Sexpo UK launched in 2015, with South Africa – which recently held its 10th Sexpo – coming in second behind Australia’s home base of Melbourne with regard to visitor numbers.
“The true catalyst to our success has been to know who to appeal to first,” David explains of his brand’s global appeal and core strategy. “Sexpo is female-focused. They bring their men along, but the former are the braver of the sexes when it comes to confronting curiosity and embracing it.
“From the beginning, it was important for everything to be carefully worded, free from anything remotely graphic or gratuitous,” he recalls. “For men, all we’d need to say would be ‘bare breasts inside’ and we’d be inundated, but for women the marketing had to be smarter.”
With a fun-first related atmosphere, Sexpo visitors can expect to be spoilt for choice. Between its solid mix of local and international performers, from all aspects of the adult entertainment industry (including burlesque, male and female exotic dancing), Sexpo is lauded for colliding the best of all worlds into one extra-special experience for serious shoppers and the oddly curious too.
Sexpo is trademarked around the world and Ross is now actively looking for partners globally, particularly in the US and Russia. “We have shown through our success in South Africa that the format works, but we need to find the right partners to ensure our brand is protected and not tarnished – which in our industry you could imagine how quickly that could happen.”
SEXPO MELBOURNE FAST FACTS
Thursday November 24: 4.00 PM – 10.00 PM
Friday November 25: 11.00 am – 12.00 am (Midnight)
Saturday November 26: 11.00 am – 12.00 am (Midnight)
Sunday November 27: 11.00 am – 8.00 pm
Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
For details on the international aspect of the Sexpo business please contact Grant Titmus on 0419 3881 61
For details on the Melbourne event please contact Brian Johnson on 0409 650 834
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES 2017 Australian Dates
SEXPO® ANNOUNCES 2017 Australian Dates
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SEXPO Melbourne 2016 Delivered another Outstanding Event
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 once again delivered in spades for all event stakeholders. With near on 30,000 people attending from November 24-27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, SEXPO® continues to shine as the premier Australian event for the adult industry.
Some highlights from the event include:
- A record-setting Thursday night attendance of over 3000
- Over 180 exhibitors and retailers
- 60% of the main stage shows were new to Melbourne
- 98% occupancy rate for retail
- An 80% increase in Platinum Pass sales
- The first time SEXPO® hosted a trans adult star (Venus Lux)
- Many new initiatives such as the SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition, DroneX, and the hugely popular Madison Missina tours
SEXPO® continues to be on the cutting edge of industry technology, with inclusions of event-floor activations such as the virtual reality experience, virtual reality gaming, and the very popular stripper robot. Boosted by a free VR headset for all patrons, post-show surveys indicated that over 90% of patrons’ expectations had been exceeded and nearly three quarters of all visitors would recommend SEXPO® to a friend.
SEXPO® Event Manager Bentleigh Gibson has announced that the theme of “Feel The Future” which worked so well in Melbourne, will be rolled out for SEXPO® Perth (May 5-7) and SEXPO® Brisbane (August 4-6) in 2017. According to Gibson, “…the future theme generates a genuine curiosity in people, we love seeing where we are now, and where we might be in 10 or 20 years time.”
Perth and Brisbane SEXPO® visitors will also get a taste of the future, with plans for Virtual Reality experiences, gaming, robotics and sex tech. Plus, all visitors will receive a free VR headset upon arrival. Also on display will be Perth’s largest indoor drone demonstration event called The DroneX Arena which will include freestyle drone flying, drone retailers, amateur drone racing and drone associations.
The next SEXPO® will be SEXPO® Perth being held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 5-7, 2017. Tickets and information can be found at www.sexpo.com.au.
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SEXPO® Announces SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Will Make its Debut in the Wild West in 2017
Following a hugely successful SEXPO® Melbourne in 2016, SEXPO® has announced the continuation of its SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition for Perth 2017.
The SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay competition asks entrants to represent what they personally define as sexy; and are judged on criteria based on creativity, audience interaction, and their conveyance of what sexy is. A unique cosplay competition like no other, the competition encourages contestants to break boundaries that they traditionally couldn’t at other conventions and embrace creativity and sexuality through cosplay.
At SEXPO® Melbourne 2016, all three Cosplay heats were filled well in advance of closing date. The final was a hard fought competition between three very different cosplays with the winner presenting an elaborate cosplay of a Twi’lek.
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 winner Sharné McMurray (pictured above) said “…the SEXPO® Melbourne Cosplay competition was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience! It was well organized, professional and everyone involved was fantastic. I would recommend it to anyone who loves dressing up, having fun and embracing their sexuality!”
For SEXPO® Perth 2017, there will be two heats on Saturday May 6, with the final to be held on Sunday May 7 at 4:15 PM. Up for grabs is a $1,500 grand prize for the winner, one of the largest cash prizes offered for a cosplay competition in Australia. In addition, the winner also receives an all-expenses paid trip to the next SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition. Each heat finalist also receives $500 cash and each heat contestant will receive an exclusive SEXPO showbag worth $250.
SEXPO® Event Manager Bentleigh Gibson said “… we are so proud to give such a passionate community a platform to showcase their amazing talents. Our aim is to bring cosplay to all corners of Australia following the success of the Melbourne and Sydney competitions.”
Further details and a contestant application form can be found at http://www.sexpo.com.au/attractions/cosplay/.
The next SEXPO® will be SEXPO® Perth being held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 5-7, 2017. Tickets and information can be found at www.sexpo.com.au.
Media enquiries:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/australia.sexpo
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexpoaustralia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sexpoaustralia
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
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Behind the Scenes of the Sexy Cosplay Competition with Lucie Bee
TO CELEBRATE THE AMAZING SUCCESS OF SEXPO SEXY COSPLAY, WE ARE OFFERING 20% OFF ALL PERTH TICKETS (EXCEPT PLATINUM) UNTIL MIDNIGHT (AEDT) JANUARY 20, 2017. JUST USE THE CODE “COSPLAY” AT THE CHECKOUT.
After two highly acclaimed competitions in Sydney and Melbourne, SEXPO will be bringing its Sexy Cosplay Competition to Perth from May 5-7. We caught up with geek goddess and host of the Sexy Cosplay Competition, Lucie Bee, to hear her thoughts on the unprecedented success of the competition.
Happy New Year, Lucie! 2016 saw some new additions to the SEXPO line-up, including the Sexy Cosplay Competition. What has it been like, being involved in Australia’s first dedicated sexy cosplay competition?
It’s been amazing! Sexpo has been building on the diversity of its line-up of performers, activities and exhibitors for a while now and this is just such a cool extension of that. Geek culture is front and centre these days, so it’s cool to see people being able to enjoy their interests and get a little sexy to boot!
There was initially some concern within the cosplaying community that “sexy cosplay” within an adult environment such as SEXPO could open the doors to the sexual harassment of cosplayers, and possibly reflect poorly on the cosplaying community as a whole. What is your take on this?
I think people who haven’t had the chance to have the full Sexpo experience would have concerns – but I’m very happy to say we’ve been able to prove them wrong. Sexpo has always had this culture of visitors being able to shed their inhibitions a little, dress up or down and enjoy new experiences. I think that ties in with cosplay, and what many people get out of it, really well.
Based on how seriously Sexpo takes the satisfaction *laughs* of its visitors, making sure people attending feel safe, secure & comfortable in this new environment has always been really important. Security is always top notch and any incident of harassment taken seriously – in my experience as both a performer and attendee, I’ve seen this first hand. Sexpo is definitely somewhere where the notion ‘cosplay is not consent’ is enforced.
There’s a limit on how much skin you can show at a normal convention – quite understandably. Many have a family friendly focus. There hasn’t necessarily been a time or place for the ‘Sexy Cosplayer’ to really let go – until now! I don’t think this reflects poorly on cosplay, I think it just provides another space for the community to enjoy!
Unveiling at SEXPO Sydney 2016 and continuing on at SEXPO Melbourne 2016, how do you think the Sexy Cosplay Competition has evolved over the last two shows?
We definitely made changes between Sydney and Melbourne. The competition is still in its infancy, but with each we find something else we can improve on. In Melbourne we had a better established judging panel & system, which I think helped show people that this is not only a fun event, but also one that can be taken seriously.
Going forward I’d like to see even more diversity in our entrants. Everyone is welcome in this competition and no-one should walk away not feeling like a bit of a star.
Apart from the large prize pool ($1,000 cash to the winner, $500 to each finalist), what do you believe cosplayers get out of entering the Sexy Cosplay Competition?
I think a lot of people shy away from the competition side of cosplay because they don’t always feel like they belong. That can be down to any number of factors. I feel like we’ve really strived to create a welcoming atmosphere with the competition at Sexpo – ANYONE can enter and have that experience.
We’re after more than just how good you are at creating something, we also want to see who you are. It’s the kind of competition where everyone has a chance and that’s honestly what I love most about it.
You were a very busy Bee at both SEXPO Sydney and Melbourne shows, not only hosting the Sexy Cosplay Competition and performing sexy cosplay-themed shows on the Main Stage, but running your dedicated space (the aptly named “Bee Hive”) where patrons could chill out and game, AND presenting seminars in the S.H.A.R.E. Theatre! What have you got planned for SEXPO Perth in May?
What HAVEN’T I got planned might be a better question *winks*
We’re planning a Bee Hive with even MORE games and more opportunities to geek out. We’re going to make more opportunities for Sexpo attendees to learn about and maybe try a little cosplay for themselves! I’m busily working on new shows, a TON of new cosplays and some new seminars that I think will definitely hit the spot for anyone looking to get their sexy geek on.
I’m also hoping to talk more about our amazing Australian porn & adult industry. Sexpo has been celebrating our home grown talent more and more every year and I’ll have plenty of wonderful Australian performers, including some sexy cam-girls dropping by the Bee Hive to play some games & meet some fans!
Finally, what are some tips or advice you can give cosplayers who are considering entering the Sexy Cosplay Competition?
First and most importantly: there’s no one definition of sexy. Each competition we’ve had spectacular cosplays that have run the gamut from the very skimpy, to the very armoured up. We want to hear YOUR definition of sexy.
There is a place for everyone at Sexpo – no matter what gender, body type, fandom you’re a part of, we’d love to see you take part. If you’re nervous, drop by the Bee Hive and play a game or two, we’ll look after you!
If you’re working on something new – tell us about it! Social media like Twitter & Instagram is a great way to get involved prior to the event and I’m always a tweet away! I know Sexpo HQ would love to see what you’re working on! Just use the hashtags #sexpo or #sexpocosplay and we’ll see it.
If you don’t think you’ll be finished by the cut off for entries – please attach progress shots to your entry! We had a few entrants almost miss out in Melbourne because they were concerned they wouldn’t finish in time – don’t let this stop you. We get it – those few weeks between submitting your entry and the competition are prime crafting time!
SEXPO will be held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre at 21 Mounts Bay Road from May 5-7, 2017 – tickets available here. Entries for the Sexy Cosplay Competition should be directed here.
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Aussie Porn Star Lucie Bee announces a very special guest appearance at the California Club
MEDIA RELEASE:
Att: News Editor / Chief of Staff
For immediate release September 7th, 2016
Aussie Porn Star Lucie Bee announces a very special guest appearance at the California Club
St Kilda’s only legal bordello
FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY
The California Club, in association with Porn Star Touring, presents Lucie Bee
in a most unusual
TRADE PROMOTION LOTTERY
Lucie Bee is one of Australia’s best known and published Porn Stars
LUCIE BEE, THE GODDESS OF GEEK & SASSY STRUMPET, BRINGS THE ‘BEE HIVE’ TO MELBOURNE
As Escorts touring the country becomes the norm, Lucie has made a career of performing for the media including the ABC’s Australians on Porn, Triple J’s Hack, The Project, Pedestrian TV, Impulse Gamer and the Kyle & Jackie O Show, as well as being a featured guest on several Australian and international radio shows, documentaries and podcasts, and is quoted regularly in Australian newspapers, magazines and online. Add to that various appearances in Picture & People magazines, including making their 2015 Top 12 Australian Porn Stars and Top 100 Celebrities respectively, presenting discussions at gaming conventions PAX 2015 and GX 2016, Bee is fast becoming known for her brand of geeky adult and cosplay debauchery.
Clients and fans will have the opportunity to WIN a legal one-hour booking with the Lucie Bee, at the California Club, on October 24th.
TO WIN
Clients will need to join the California Club rewards program at www.californiaclub.com.au/memberships and then pop into 30 St Kilda Road, have an hour booking, with any of the lovely ladies on-shift, before Sunday October 16th and they’ll be automatically entered into the draw to win the hour with Lucie Bee on Monday October 24th.
TO BOOK
For those who want to be sure of securing a booking, a limited number of one-hour spots will be available on the day/evening of Monday October 24th and can be pre-booked through the California Club. The rates charged by Lucie Bee for these bookings are greater than normally charged by the venue.
Prostitution is legal in Victoria and a license is required to provide any sexual service for payment. Brothels and escort agencies, as well as sole-operators all need a Sex Work Act (SWA) number to operate legally. Sole-operators can work in pairs and are exempt, subject to approval, from a lot of the licensing requirements and fees payable by businesses. An exempt sole-operator will display an SWA number with an E after it – SWA123E.
Each establishment, agency, or exempt individual is assigned an SWA number which must be displayed in all advertising. Often, those without the appropriate licence advertise themselves as providing massage services, while licensed operators are forbidden by law from using the word massage to describe their services.
What this means is that ‘touring’ escorts, from interstate or overseas, are required to have a Victorian SWA number. If they do not have an SWA number they can only work legally in a licensed brothel or via a licensed escort agency.
Don’t miss your chance to dive down the rabbit hole & into the Bee Hive to meet Lucie Bee, as she makes a very special appearance at the renowned California Club. Lucie Bee is an incredibly unique and accomplished international porn star and escort.
With a reputation for geekery, gaming and a love of smut, you’ll be able to catch her at the California Club in some of her decadent lingerie or perhaps if you book in with advance notice a costume of your choosing. Lucie Bee truly has a costume collection that is second to none. As a special treat to commemorate her appearance at the California Club Lucie will be offering to dress up as whichever character best pleases you to fulfil your ultimate fantasy completely free of charge. On top of this – Lucie will also be offering free signed polaroids and free signed posters. These extras that can be found on Lucie’s website under rates will be offered completely free (Lucie is just as excited as you are!) For any other extras these can be found on Lucie’s website for a small extra cost. To put the cherry on top of this delicious honey Bee ice cream sundae Lucie will be celebrating her exclusive California Club appearance by taking $100 off her regular hourly rate.
With several decadent years in the Australian and international adult industries (and preparing for several more), Lucie Bee is a pocket rocket with a long resume – with Miss Bee, you really are in the hands of a sexual connoisseur. As one of the industry’s most outspoken entertainers and advocates, this home grown talent is consistently on the radar and delights in meeting with fans and better yet – having the opportunity to show them how truly grateful she is for their ongoing support. Lucie is a sexual dynamo with a petite frame and a crystal blue doe-eyed look that will leave every nerve in your body tingling for hours after your private rendezvous.
In demand throughout the adult industry, Lucie has shot with Australian adult producers such as Bright Desire and Oz Fellatio Queens, accompanying her already extensive resume of appearances locally and overseas. She has shot with Aussie Ass, Fake Taxi, Pure XXX, Girls Out West, Pure CFNM, Yanks and MileyWhite.com – with more (including her own) content to come! One of her favourite scenes, ‘Tease’, shot for Bright Desire with Australian adult star Ryan James, received an honourable mention at the 12th annual Cinekink film festival.
2015 marked the launch of her Spider male masturbator sex toy, modelled directly off Bee herself, whilst 2016 saw her as the June/July Penthouse Black Label “Tech Issue” cover girl – you can grab your signed copy or your very own Spider from Lucie’s website. (yes, you can take Lucie home with you)!
Don’t miss out on meeting Miss Lucie Bee at the California Club on Monday October 24th – She’ll be eagerly awaiting the chance to spend some quality time with you behind closed doors.
A different internationally touring porn star will do just one appearance per month at the California Club
Twitter: @CaliClubStKilda @LucieBeexxx @PornStarTouring
Media Enquiries:
Kevin James
t: 03 9529 4727
What conditions are required for a Trade Promotion lottery?
From 20 June 2015 businesses, charities and community organisations do not need to apply to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) for a permit to conduct a trade promotion lottery. Trade promotion lotteries must continue to meet certain conditions or penalties apply.
A trade promotion lottery is a lottery designed to promote a trade or business. This includes any scheme that gives away prizes by any means, which include an element of chance at any stage of the scheme. Even if a part of the scheme is skills-based, the scheme will still have to be conducted in accordance with the regulations if any part of the scheme process includes an element of chance.
Trade promotion lotteries are free lotteries that may require a person to purchase a product or undertake certain actions to be eligible to participate. An entry fee must not be charged, and any ancillary cost (that is, cost of telephone call, SMS or postage) must not exceed $1(including GST).
The conditions of a trade promotion lottery are set out in the Gambling Regulation Act 2003 and Gambling Regulations 2015.
As at 20 June 2015, the conditions for the conduct of trade promotion lotteries are as follows:
- The expense per entry must not exceed the gazetted amount (currently 70 cents)
- Written consent must be obtained from the person whose trade or business is to be promoted by the lottery
- The lottery must be conducted so as to benefit primarily the trade or business being promoted
- Information used to promote the lottery and any scratch and win cards must include:
- the closing date of the lottery
- if applicable, where and when the lottery will be drawn
- the name and date of the publication in which winners’ names will be published
- the entry requirements, if any.
- The names of winners of all prizes over $1000 must be published by one of the following methods:
- in a newspaper circulating generally in Victoria
- on the internet, for a minimum period of 28 days
- if the lottery was advertised solely through a trade journal, promotional magazine or similar publication, in that publication.
- The winners of prizes must be advised in writing of the prize
- Certain records must be kept for a period of three years after finalisation of the lottery
- If the trade promotion lottery is to be drawn, the method of the draw must allow each ticket in the draw a random and equal chance of being drawn
- The winner of a prize must not incur a cost to accept a prize (other than a trivial cost)
- If information about entrants is to be used for a purpose other than the conduct of the lottery, this must be stated in the conditions of entry
- A person who conducts a trade promotion must not use entrants’ information except in accordance with the purposes stated in the condition of entry
- A person who conducts a trade promotion lottery must obtain written agreement from the business, that the business will not use the entrants’ information except in accordance with the purposes stated in the conditions of entry
- An entrant is not required to be present at the drawing of the lottery in order to be eligible to win a prize (unless the entry and draw are to occur on the same day and in the same place)
- The prize must be paid or transferred to the winner within 28 days after the draw
- The winner of a prize may only be substituted via a second draw, and only if the conditions of entry allow it and if reasonable efforts were made to identify the winner that were unsuccessful
- A trade promotion lottery must be conducted in a manner that is not offensive and that is not contrary to the public interest
- A prize may only be substituted if the substituted prize is of the same or greater value than the original prize and the winner either agrees in writing, or the original prize is unavailable due to circumstances beyond the control of the person conducting the trade promotion lottery and reasonable attempts are made to reach agreement with the winner that are unsuccessful.
http://www.vcglr.vic.gov.au/home/gambling/new+applicants/trade+promotion+lottery/
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AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE ADULT EVENT- SEXPO®, LAUNCHES DRONEX
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SEXPO® CELEBRATES ITS 20TH BIRTHDAY IN 2016
SEXPO® – Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo, the world’s premier event for the adult industry, has announced plans for a brand new show called DroneX which will be co-located with SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 (see www.dronex.net.au).
Celebrating 20 years, SEXPO® 2016 returns to its founding home in Melbourne, from November 24-27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. The theme for this year’s event will be Feel The Future, and the event will incorporate a glimpse of products and technology that may shape the next 20 years for the adult industry.
The new event called DroneX will complement the ‘future’ theme. While being co-located with SEXPO®, it will run as its own independent attraction from November 25-27. Patrons however, will only need to purchase one ticket to access both events.
At DroneX, patrons will be able to engage with drone businesses, purchase drones and watch first hand, professional drone racing in action in a purpose built indoor drone racing course – Australia’s largest. Visitors will also get the chance to participate in amateur drone racing, by flying the same obstacle course as the professionals – the first time in Australia that this has happened.
SEXPO® and DroneX Event Manager, Bentleigh Gibson said “…SEXPO® is not just about sex, it’s about Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle. Drone technology and application is increasingly becoming integrated into daily life, commercially, professionally and in leisure capacities. SEXPO® is seeking to give this new industry a platform through which it can reach the general public in a fun and educational way.”
DroneX launches at 5.00 PM on Friday November 25 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets can be purchased online, or at the door.
For more details head to: www.dronex.net.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dronexaustralia
Twitter: www.twitter.com/dronexaustralia
Media enquiries:
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
Background Information about SEXPO®
In spite of its catchy name, SEXPO® is not just an exhibition about sex… it is about health, sexuality and adult lifestyles.
Exhibitor stands include (but are not limited to) aviation, wine tasting, marine sports, electronic home entertainment systems, holiday resorts, spa pools, hair and make-up artists, physical fitness equipment, chiropractors, photographers and more. And, of course, the event still promotes the kind of products and services that one would expect to find at an exhibition called SEXPO®
Apart from the exhibitor stands, there is a stage with rock concert lighting and audio which is the backdrop for a variety of entertaining performances. Popular international celebrities and stage acts include the world famous ‘penile artist’ Pricasso (who uses his penis as a brush to paint surprisingly good portraits – really!), as well as numerous local and international adult stars. There will also be hilarious crowd participation shows, fashion parades, pole-dancing classes and free giveaways.
Since its debut in 1996, SEXPO® has attracted nearly three million visitors.
SEXPO® was founded in Australia in 1996 originally as a forum to allow women and couples to experience all the adult industry has to offer, in a safe and friendly environment. In 2006 the first international licensing agreement was signed and the inaugural South African event held in 2007.
An instant success, these events produced several million Australian dollars of income over 3 years before being on-sold by the South African licensee for more than AU$2,000,000 in 2010. It continues to expand under the new licensee.
SEXPO® was exported to London in 2015 to rave reviews.
We specifically invite people who have never been to SEXPO®, thinking it is just a big “sex show”, to come along and be pleasantly surprised by the fun and relaxed atmosphere.
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES JUDGING PANEL FOR SEXY COSPLAY AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL OF MORPHEOUS’ BONDAGE EXTRAVAGANZA (MBE) AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
Attention: News Editor/Chief of Staff
For immediate Release
Melbourne, Australia
SEXPO® ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL OF MORPHEOUS’ BONDAGE EXTRAVAGANZA (MBE) AHEAD OF SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016
On June 23, 2016, SEXPO® – Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo, the world’s premier event for the adult industry, announced that it would be bringing Morpheous’ Bondage Extravaganza to SEXPO® Melbourne 2016.
MBE was intending to take over the Fetish Room of SEXPO®, from 6.00 PM – 12.00 AM on Saturday November 26, to showcase the world’s best talent in Shibari (Japanese rope bondage).
Despite best efforts of SEXPO® management for over 4 months, MBE have now advised SEXPO® that they are withdrawing from the event, due to unexpected circumstances. According to SEXPO® event manager, Bentleigh Gibson… “It’s disappointing that after so much planning and promotion, this is the end result, but as they say, the show must go on.”
SEXPO® have announced that despite MBE’s withdrawal, the Fetish Room will still operate at SEXPO®, and plans are underway for a replacement feature with announcements to be made soon.
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 runs from Thursday November 24 to Sunday November 27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets can be purchased from www.sexpo.com.au.
Media enquiries:
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
Facebook: www.facebook.com/australia.sexpo
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexpoaustralia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sexpoaustralia
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Melbourne Sexpo 2016 TV Commercial
SEXPO® MELBOURNE 2016 TVC
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Knock back fails to deter Sexpo founder
Twenty years ago David Ross ran Australia’s first Sexpo at the Carlton Crest Hotel. He did want it to be at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, but they knocked him back.
Next week one of Melbourne’s longest running expos – the 20th Melbourne Sexpo – will be held at the MCEC, as it has been for the past 19 years. Just over 40,000 people will attend the four-day event making it one of the city’s most attended expos.
As a Public Relations Consultant, David was approached by the Club X chain of adult retail stores in 1995 with the brief, make the Club X stores more appealing to women.
David, Sexpo’s International Licensing Manager, says, “I was doing a story with a freelance journalist,” he recalls, “and we went to a trade-day lunch. There was a woman standing at a lectern giving a really professional presentation to industry representatives about products and equipment. I looked around at the wine, the white tablecloths, and audience – largely women – and the products, which were laid out on the table for people to pick up and play with, and I thought, ‘You know, this is what we have to do’.
“My intention became then, and remains today, to bring all things sex-related out of adult stores and present them in a welcoming, comfortable, educational, entirely entertaining, safe and fun way,” says David, who is now the International Licensing Manager for Sexpo, while Bentleigh Gibson, Australian Event Manager, has taken over from David running the local events.
From just 20 stands at his inaugural “touch and feel” expo at the Carlton Crest, to a global success story, David’s well-timed smarts took him from an impressive 8000 curious visitors, to a current-rolling total, worldwide, with the 3 millionth (Australian) visitor expected to come through the doors next week.
“To this day, I don’t know whether we lost money or made money from that first event,” he says. “In the early days writing press releases, folding invites and running every aspect of marketing Sexpo Australia fell to David alone. “Still, the level of interest was sufficient to convince us that we were onto something,” he adds. Two decades later and the world is clearly up for more of the same.
Ambitious, brave, and just the right amount of cheeky, very quickly took Sexpo from its humble beginnings to South Africa and beyond, all within a few years. “There is a very clear and growing demand from the public, in every market we go to,” he says. Sexpo UK launched in 2015, with South Africa – which recently held its 10th Sexpo – coming in second behind Australia’s home base of Melbourne with regard to visitor numbers.
“The true catalyst to our success has been to know who to appeal to first,” David explains of his brand’s global appeal and core strategy. “Sexpo is female-focused. They bring their men along, but the former are the braver of the sexes when it comes to confronting curiosity and embracing it.
“From the beginning, it was important for everything to be carefully worded, free from anything remotely graphic or gratuitous,” he recalls. “For men, all we’d need to say would be ‘bare breasts inside’ and we’d be inundated, but for women the marketing had to be smarter.”
With a fun-first related atmosphere, Sexpo visitors can expect to be spoilt for choice. Between its solid mix of local and international performers, from all aspects of the adult entertainment industry (including burlesque, male and female exotic dancing), Sexpo is lauded for colliding the best of all worlds into one extra-special experience for serious shoppers and the oddly curious too.
Sexpo is trademarked around the world and Ross is now actively looking for partners globally, particularly in the US and Russia. “We have shown through our success in South Africa that the format works, but we need to find the right partners to ensure our brand is protected and not tarnished – which in our industry you could imagine how quickly that could happen.”
SEXPO MELBOURNE FAST FACTS
Thursday November 24: 4.00 PM – 10.00 PM
Friday November 25: 11.00 am – 12.00 am (Midnight)
Saturday November 26: 11.00 am – 12.00 am (Midnight)
Sunday November 27: 11.00 am – 8.00 pm
Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
For details on the international aspect of the Sexpo business please contact Grant Titmus on 0419 3881 61
For details on the Melbourne event please contact Brian Johnson on 0409 650 834
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SEXPO® ANNOUNCES 2017 Australian Dates
SEXPO® ANNOUNCES 2017 Australian Dates
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SEXPO Melbourne 2016 Delivered another Outstanding Event
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 once again delivered in spades for all event stakeholders. With near on 30,000 people attending from November 24-27 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, SEXPO® continues to shine as the premier Australian event for the adult industry.
Some highlights from the event include:
- A record-setting Thursday night attendance of over 3000
- Over 180 exhibitors and retailers
- 60% of the main stage shows were new to Melbourne
- 98% occupancy rate for retail
- An 80% increase in Platinum Pass sales
- The first time SEXPO® hosted a trans adult star (Venus Lux)
- Many new initiatives such as the SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition, DroneX, and the hugely popular Madison Missina tours
SEXPO® continues to be on the cutting edge of industry technology, with inclusions of event-floor activations such as the virtual reality experience, virtual reality gaming, and the very popular stripper robot. Boosted by a free VR headset for all patrons, post-show surveys indicated that over 90% of patrons’ expectations had been exceeded and nearly three quarters of all visitors would recommend SEXPO® to a friend.
SEXPO® Event Manager Bentleigh Gibson has announced that the theme of “Feel The Future” which worked so well in Melbourne, will be rolled out for SEXPO® Perth (May 5-7) and SEXPO® Brisbane (August 4-6) in 2017. According to Gibson, “…the future theme generates a genuine curiosity in people, we love seeing where we are now, and where we might be in 10 or 20 years time.”
Perth and Brisbane SEXPO® visitors will also get a taste of the future, with plans for Virtual Reality experiences, gaming, robotics and sex tech. Plus, all visitors will receive a free VR headset upon arrival. Also on display will be Perth’s largest indoor drone demonstration event called The DroneX Arena which will include freestyle drone flying, drone retailers, amateur drone racing and drone associations.
The next SEXPO® will be SEXPO® Perth being held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 5-7, 2017. Tickets and information can be found at www.sexpo.com.au.
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SEXPO® Announces SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Will Make its Debut in the Wild West in 2017
Following a hugely successful SEXPO® Melbourne in 2016, SEXPO® has announced the continuation of its SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition for Perth 2017.
The SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay competition asks entrants to represent what they personally define as sexy; and are judged on criteria based on creativity, audience interaction, and their conveyance of what sexy is. A unique cosplay competition like no other, the competition encourages contestants to break boundaries that they traditionally couldn’t at other conventions and embrace creativity and sexuality through cosplay.
At SEXPO® Melbourne 2016, all three Cosplay heats were filled well in advance of closing date. The final was a hard fought competition between three very different cosplays with the winner presenting an elaborate cosplay of a Twi’lek.
SEXPO® Melbourne 2016 winner Sharné McMurray (pictured above) said “…the SEXPO® Melbourne Cosplay competition was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience! It was well organized, professional and everyone involved was fantastic. I would recommend it to anyone who loves dressing up, having fun and embracing their sexuality!”
For SEXPO® Perth 2017, there will be two heats on Saturday May 6, with the final to be held on Sunday May 7 at 4:15 PM. Up for grabs is a $1,500 grand prize for the winner, one of the largest cash prizes offered for a cosplay competition in Australia. In addition, the winner also receives an all-expenses paid trip to the next SEXPO® Sexy Cosplay Competition. Each heat finalist also receives $500 cash and each heat contestant will receive an exclusive SEXPO showbag worth $250.
SEXPO® Event Manager Bentleigh Gibson said “… we are so proud to give such a passionate community a platform to showcase their amazing talents. Our aim is to bring cosplay to all corners of Australia following the success of the Melbourne and Sydney competitions.”
Further details and a contestant application form can be found at https://www.sexpo.com.au/attractions/cosplay/.
The next SEXPO® will be SEXPO® Perth being held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 5-7, 2017. Tickets and information can be found at www.sexpo.com.au.
Media enquiries:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/australia.sexpo
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexpoaustralia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sexpoaustralia
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
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Behind the Scenes of the Sexy Cosplay Competition with Lucie Bee
TO CELEBRATE THE AMAZING SUCCESS OF SEXPO SEXY COSPLAY, WE ARE OFFERING 20% OFF ALL PERTH TICKETS (EXCEPT PLATINUM) UNTIL MIDNIGHT (AEDT) JANUARY 20, 2017. JUST USE THE CODE “COSPLAY” AT THE CHECKOUT.
After two highly acclaimed competitions in Sydney and Melbourne, SEXPO will be bringing its Sexy Cosplay Competition to Perth from May 5-7. We caught up with geek goddess and host of the Sexy Cosplay Competition, Lucie Bee, to hear her thoughts on the unprecedented success of the competition.
Happy New Year, Lucie! 2016 saw some new additions to the SEXPO line-up, including the Sexy Cosplay Competition. What has it been like, being involved in Australia’s first dedicated sexy cosplay competition?
It’s been amazing! Sexpo has been building on the diversity of its line-up of performers, activities and exhibitors for a while now and this is just such a cool extension of that. Geek culture is front and centre these days, so it’s cool to see people being able to enjoy their interests and get a little sexy to boot!
There was initially some concern within the cosplaying community that “sexy cosplay” within an adult environment such as SEXPO could open the doors to the sexual harassment of cosplayers, and possibly reflect poorly on the cosplaying community as a whole. What is your take on this?
I think people who haven’t had the chance to have the full Sexpo experience would have concerns – but I’m very happy to say we’ve been able to prove them wrong. Sexpo has always had this culture of visitors being able to shed their inhibitions a little, dress up or down and enjoy new experiences. I think that ties in with cosplay, and what many people get out of it, really well.
Based on how seriously Sexpo takes the satisfaction *laughs* of its visitors, making sure people attending feel safe, secure & comfortable in this new environment has always been really important. Security is always top notch and any incident of harassment taken seriously – in my experience as both a performer and attendee, I’ve seen this first hand. Sexpo is definitely somewhere where the notion ‘cosplay is not consent’ is enforced.
There’s a limit on how much skin you can show at a normal convention – quite understandably. Many have a family friendly focus. There hasn’t necessarily been a time or place for the ‘Sexy Cosplayer’ to really let go – until now! I don’t think this reflects poorly on cosplay, I think it just provides another space for the community to enjoy!
Unveiling at SEXPO Sydney 2016 and continuing on at SEXPO Melbourne 2016, how do you think the Sexy Cosplay Competition has evolved over the last two shows?
We definitely made changes between Sydney and Melbourne. The competition is still in its infancy, but with each we find something else we can improve on. In Melbourne we had a better established judging panel & system, which I think helped show people that this is not only a fun event, but also one that can be taken seriously.
Going forward I’d like to see even more diversity in our entrants. Everyone is welcome in this competition and no-one should walk away not feeling like a bit of a star.
Apart from the large prize pool ($1,000 cash to the winner, $500 to each finalist), what do you believe cosplayers get out of entering the Sexy Cosplay Competition?
I think a lot of people shy away from the competition side of cosplay because they don’t always feel like they belong. That can be down to any number of factors. I feel like we’ve really strived to create a welcoming atmosphere with the competition at Sexpo – ANYONE can enter and have that experience.
We’re after more than just how good you are at creating something, we also want to see who you are. It’s the kind of competition where everyone has a chance and that’s honestly what I love most about it.
You were a very busy Bee at both SEXPO Sydney and Melbourne shows, not only hosting the Sexy Cosplay Competition and performing sexy cosplay-themed shows on the Main Stage, but running your dedicated space (the aptly named “Bee Hive”) where patrons could chill out and game, AND presenting seminars in the S.H.A.R.E. Theatre! What have you got planned for SEXPO Perth in May?
What HAVEN’T I got planned might be a better question *winks*
We’re planning a Bee Hive with even MORE games and more opportunities to geek out. We’re going to make more opportunities for Sexpo attendees to learn about and maybe try a little cosplay for themselves! I’m busily working on new shows, a TON of new cosplays and some new seminars that I think will definitely hit the spot for anyone looking to get their sexy geek on.
I’m also hoping to talk more about our amazing Australian porn & adult industry. Sexpo has been celebrating our home grown talent more and more every year and I’ll have plenty of wonderful Australian performers, including some sexy cam-girls dropping by the Bee Hive to play some games & meet some fans!
Finally, what are some tips or advice you can give cosplayers who are considering entering the Sexy Cosplay Competition?
First and most importantly: there’s no one definition of sexy. Each competition we’ve had spectacular cosplays that have run the gamut from the very skimpy, to the very armoured up. We want to hear YOUR definition of sexy.
There is a place for everyone at Sexpo – no matter what gender, body type, fandom you’re a part of, we’d love to see you take part. If you’re nervous, drop by the Bee Hive and play a game or two, we’ll look after you!
If you’re working on something new – tell us about it! Social media like Twitter & Instagram is a great way to get involved prior to the event and I’m always a tweet away! I know Sexpo HQ would love to see what you’re working on! Just use the hashtags #sexpo or #sexpocosplay and we’ll see it.
If you don’t think you’ll be finished by the cut off for entries – please attach progress shots to your entry! We had a few entrants almost miss out in Melbourne because they were concerned they wouldn’t finish in time – don’t let this stop you. We get it – those few weeks between submitting your entry and the competition are prime crafting time!
SEXPO will be held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre at 21 Mounts Bay Road from May 5-7, 2017 – tickets available here. Entries for the Sexy Cosplay Competition should be directed here.
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ADULT INDUSTRY REMAINS ON THE CUSP OF ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGY as MyFreeCams.com and SEXPO® collaborate for 2017
It’s well known that usually it’s the adult industry who is the first to embrace new technology when it comes to delivering adult content and services. No clearer example of this is in the space of virtual reality where users can now stream content directly to their headsets, to be enjoyed in any number of environments.
Developing at an equally impressive rate is what’s known as “camming” – the practice of performing on the internet through live webcam footage. Since its launch in 2004, MyFreeCams has reshaped the industry through countless technological innovations and by fostering an environment of creativity and independence among its performers. MyFreeCams is the pioneer of modern camming culture and counts over 250,000 models and over 25 million members as part of its positive and welcoming community.
MyFreeCams.com – The #1 Adult Webcam Community and SEXPO® – Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo have once again partnered to strengthen their existing hold on the Australian adult market for 2017. International webcam leader MyFreeCams.com has continued as the official naming rights sponsor for the Australian Health, Sexuality and Lifestyle brand, SEXPO® for 2017 which includes Perth (May 5-7), Brisbane (August 4-6) and Melbourne (November 16-19).
According to SEXPO® Australia’s Event Manager, Bentleigh Gibson “…we are proud to continue this alignment with MyFreeCams.com. SEXPO®, a great established Australian brand, along with MyFreeCams.com, a technology leader in the global adult community sector. With our next event being themed around “the future” of the adult industry, having an industry leader like MyFreeCams.com on board makes perfect synergy.”
MyFreeCams expects to have twenty or more cam girls appearing at each event.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/australia.sexpo
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexpoaustralia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sexpoaustralia
Media Enquiries:
Bentleigh Gibson
bentleigh@sexpo.com.au
P: 03 9639 3104
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