Panti Bliss will fly the flag for Ireland at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras today.

The gay rights activist has jetted to Australia to lead the green float celebrating Ireland at the 38th annual parade.

Around 200,000 revelers are expected to line the streets for the spectacular televised event.

The Irish float will be one of the largest in the parade, and will celebrate Ireland and its strong connections to Australia.

Shane Clark, Director of Corporate Services and Policy at Tourism Ireland is hoping people will follow the rainbow back to Ireland: