3 minute read
Meet James ‘Breko’ Brechney
James Brechney a.k.a. Breko is a resident host at Henry’s, The Juniors Kingsford for Breko’s Music Bingo every Sunday night. He is not only a hoot but comes from years of activism for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
Breko is best known for creating the "DIY Rainbow" viral campaign in 2013, encouraging people to draw rainbows on the sidewalks of Sydney as a form of support for same-sex marriage. It all started when the council removed the Sydney Rainbow Crossing from Oxford Street, Breko took to the pavement to create his very own rainbow crossing using chalk. He shared pictures online and others started to do the same thing. Chalk rainbows started popping up all over Sydney. Facebook recognised the movement and even invited him to chalk a rainbow in their Headquarters for Pride Month, flying him all the way to California. Breko’s famous rainbow jacket and chalk from his trip to Facebook HQ have recently found their rightful home at the Pride Museum, QTOPIA Sydney.
Since then, his activism has continued to evolve, championing LGBTQIA+ rights in many ways including serving on the Board of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras for 3 years. He continues to participate in this every year, creating a float with his DIY Rainbow team. This year they won the prestigious Ron Austin Award for Most Fabulous Parade Entry at Mardi Gras 2024. It was a “White Lotus” themed float honouring the hilarious Jennifer Coolidge.
Breko runs his own entertainment business full time hosting Trivia, Corporate Events and Music Bingos across town. Breko’s Music Bingo at Herny’s is on every Sunday from 6.30pm and has been running for just over 6 months now. It continues to grow each week with a diverse audience of the young and the young at heart.
“You don’t need to be a music expert to play and win. It’s great to see some of the older crowd help out the younger patrons with the classic hits and then the tables get reversed when the Gen Z audience need to explain to everyone else who Doja Cat is! Jokes aside, we have built up a community of regulars who love playing every week.” - James Breko
To celebrate Pride Month in June there will be a themed Music Bingo Special on Sunday 16th June with all hits from Lady Gaga to Elton John. Wear something colourful to support diversity and inclusivity. Breko is passionate about entertaining audiences and bringing people together through the power of music, along with his colourful outfits and big smile! He reminds us that change begins with a spark, splash of colour – and sometimes, a song!
