The loss of his own clothes en route to Sydney didn’t stop internationally acclaimed photographer Spencer Tunick from directing Sydney to decisively lose theirs last Monday!

Commissioned by the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Spencer Tunick’s call for volunteers was answered by over 5000 Sydney-siders who risked running late for work, having their private parts broadcast on international television and being spotted by a familiar face in the crowd!

An extensive queue of people snaked its way around Circular Quay and into the Royal Botanic Gardens from 3am onwards, lining up to participate. This overwhelming response demonstrates the strong message that we, as Australians aspire to live in an open and equal society. The feeling of togetherness was palpable, as people from all walks of life, gay and straight, lay side-by-side, naked on the Opera House steps.

A deafening applause ended the mass orchestration of nudity, with a slight sentiment of disappointment at Tunick’s instruction to get dressed!