Hide And Seek

During Midsumma each year, Victoria doesn’t just come out — it comes out hairy. In Side A of Episode 222, we grin and bear it as Hide and Seek dives into BearFest 2026, the week-long celebration of bears, admirers, community, and controlled chaos that takes over Melbourne every summer. Jon, Craig and Joenas are joined by Neil of the VicBears committee to unpack what the bear scene actually is (and isn’t), how it grew in Australia, and why it continues to matter far beyond the dance floor. We talk chosen family, intergenerational connection, accessibility, body diversity, and why bear spaces often feel like home for people who never quite fit elsewhere. Then we take a deep, slightly breathless tour through the week itself: BearWatch Beach Day at Williamstown, Midsumma Carnival, the Teddy Bear Banquet, Bearaoke (where dignity goes to die), Underbear nights, pool parties, dance floors, Pride March prep, and everything in between. Sunscreen, hydration, and sensible footwear are strongly encouraged. Along the way,