Determined to have a career that makes a difference, proud Yorta Yorta man Craig Holloway has spent more than 30 years creating safer, more inclusive spaces for Rainbow Mob and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
His story is one of passion, advocacy, and deep, unwavering pride – in his identity, his work and his Community.
Making a difference
Growing up as the youngest of five boys in Ballarat, Craig always knew he wanted more than just a job – he wanted to make a difference.
He started his career in the Alcohol and Other Drugs team at the Ballarat & District Aboriginal Co-operative. From there, he continued his work with Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative in Horsham, before moving to Koori Youth Healing Service (Bunjilwarra).
Soon, Craig felt it was time to bring his expertise into the inner-city. He spent nearly a decade at VACCHO before joining the Executive support team at the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS). Now he sits on the Board of Directors for the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA).
Craig with his mother and four older brothers.
“Over 30 years later, I still get to be a part of something that I am so passionate about. One where I know I have made – and will continue to make – a difference.”
Craig’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. He received the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) First People award in 2023, and has been appointed Adjunct Associate Professor in the Centre for Alcohol Policy Research at La Trobe University.
Ensuring all voices are heard
Craig didn’t formally come out to his parents until he was 28 – but in his words, “everybody seemed to know that I was part of the Rainbow Mob community.”
His family in Horsham stood beside him, shaping the man he is today.
“I believe it’s important to be proud and never hide myself away from the world. To speak up for others when they can’t find their voice.”
That strength has carried through every aspect of his work. As a proud Rainbow Mob community member, Craig has long championed visibility and inclusion, always working to ensure LGBTIQASB+ Mob feel seen, safe and valued.
“I think being part of the Rainbow Mob, we work in a way to ensure that all voices are heard, respected, and treated safely.”
And as a member of the Community, he is clear about his role.
“I feel it’s my responsibility as an older Rainbow Mob community member to lead by example. If a younger person is struggling with their identity, I hope they know they can come and have a yarn. That they’re not alone.”
Creating inclusive spaces at work
At VAHS, Craig says there has been consistent support for Rainbow Mob – both in Community and in the workplace.
“Whether it’s events, meetings or activities, the Executive team always get behind us. We’ve even had VAHS sponsor t-shirts for Midsumma to show support.”
He says it’s also about creating accessible spaces for all.
“For the past few years, VAHS has helped open Charcoal Lane as a quiet space during the Midsumma Street Party – a space for Elders, for Mob with sensory needs, for anyone who needs a moment to recharge. This year, more than 200 people used the space across the day.”
At the Midsumma Pride March, February 2025
Visibility that matters
One of Craig’s most visible contributions has been leading and organising the First Nations Pride float in the Midsumma Pride march, held each February, for the past seven years.
“It’s been a long road. See, the fact that Mob were only allowed to lead the march for the first time seven years ago is crazy. But as always with a lot of advocacy and respectful conversations, we got there.”
Attendance has grown over time, but during the Covid-19 pandemic, restrictions and fear kept people away. It took a few years for crowds to return, but last year was a record-breaking year – with the highest turnout.
Aunty N’arweet Carolyn Briggs AM and Craig Holloway
Craig says it’s been amazing to have incredible support from Community – especially from Aunty N’arweet Carolyn Briggs AM, who always puts her hand up to support the Rainbow Mob community.
For Craig, visibility isn’t just nice – it’s essential.
“After all the years of advocacy, we must always have a presence. Even if it’s just Aunty N’arweet and myself, we show up. We’re there.”
He believes that presence at events like Midsumma is critical to visibility, connection, and healing.
Over the years he has seen Community travel from across the state to attend the Pride march. One mum has brought her young children every year to show them they belong.
“This is important for us, to show that we are all loved and respected.”
“Every year I say will be my last year of organising the events for Rainbow Mob throughout Midsumma, but those that know me know that I have a few more years left in me.”
Proud Community support for Rainbow Mob
When asked how ACCOs and allies can support Rainbow Mob, Craig has a simple – but important – reflection.
He stresses it starts with including Rainbow Mob in all and every conversation, and to always show ongoing support along the way. Showing up to events like the Midsumma Pride March are a great way to do just that.
“Rainbow Mob inclusion means we need to be in the driver’s seat – but we need ongoing support from our Elders and organisations.”
“The world is slowly changing. But language still matters. If we’re still using old words in harmful ways, how can our young people see us as someone safe to come to?”
He wants to see more open-hearted support for Rainbow Mob, especially for younger generations.
“Don’t walk in front of us. Don’t walk behind us. Walk beside us.”
Premier Jacinta Allan with Craig at the Midsumma Pride March, February 2025.
Craig’s advice for Rainbow Mob
Craig knows that, sometimes, the road can be tough for Rainbow Mob. And that’s why he offers this advice:
“Be proud of who you are and what you can bring to the table. There will be times when you can feel so alone, but it will get better, and you will find the people in Community that love you just for being you.”
“Never give up.”
What’s next?
After more than three decades of service, Craig isn’t sure what the next chapter holds – but his purpose is as clear as ever.
“I just want to leave the world in a better place for ALL Rainbow Mob.”
