More than 200,000 revellers take to the streets of Sydney in some VERY risque outfits for gay Mardi Gras

The 38th Mardi Gras in Sydney is roaring into life with the famous Dykes On Bikes to lead the parade thorugh the CBD on Saturday evening that is expected to attract half a million spectators. 

Among those planning to attend is Malcolm Turnbull, a regular Mardi Gras spectator whose presence would make him the first prime minister to go to the parade, and Bill Shorten (inset). 

Final touches were being made to costumes and floats before more than 12,000 participants began to strut, dance and march their way down Sydney's Oxford and Flinders Streets.