Bow down, mere mortals because our new overlord has surfaced from the darkest depths of the ocean. Meet Progress Shark, the unassuming soon-to-be installation at Sydney WorldPride 2023 that has already won the internet’s hearts and minds.

So what in the flaming galahs is this all about?

Well, Progress Shark will be perched just outside the Australian Museum in Darlinghurst where there’s currently an exhibition on sharks. What are the chances?

According to a post by the official Sydney WorldPride Instagram account, “the Museum will be transforming its iconic shark statue in support and recognition of the LGBTQIA+ community, with the help of Sydney artist George Buchanan“.

Incredible scenes. Go George and go Progress Shark.

The comments section of the Instagram post agreed that installation was easily the best invention since sliced bread.

Hit Network’s Nic Kelly as well as Drag Race‘s Art Simone and Courtney Act were part of the chorus who voiced their aquatic allegiance to the installation.

Meet ‘Progress Shark’, The WorldPride Sydney Installation Capturing Everyone’s Hearts & Minds
Progress Shark supporter base. Colourised 2023.

The memes also spilled over onto Twitter where the conversation picked up right where it left off.

The rainbow installation is one of many new dotted around the city in anticipation of the weeks-long festival.

The actual events kick off on Feb 17 and run until March 5 featuring performances from pop heavy-hitters like Charli XCX, Jessica Mauboy and Kylie Minogue.

But wait, before you scoot out to see the real headline act, Progress Shark, be warned that it hasn’t changed into rainbow form just yet. This is a tragedy for those hoping to catch a sneak peek but we are confident the situation will be fixed by the beginning of festivities.

If you’re keen to learn a little more about why it’s so damn significant that WorldPride is happening in Sydney this year, you can read our cheeky lil’ explainer here.

Happy WorldPride Sydney 2023, gang! May you meet all the rainbow-coloured marine creatures you desire.

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Image: Instagram @CityOfSydney & @SydneyWorldPride2023