Pinkboard Graffiti Wall - Community Graffiti Wall 1

ohhhh- me first?

Back to the subject of parties....

Sadly this Saturday night is the final night for DJ Rob Marshall at the Taxi Club. He will be missed greatly at this venue but can still be seen at the Flinders hotel on sunday mornings and at Bondi Junction friday nights.

If you've ever been to the Taxi Club and seen this amazing young DJ in action, please come along this week and give him the send off he deserves. Not sure what or who is going to replace him but they have a hard act to follow.

Any venues out there looking for a top class DJ, I suggest you send someone along to sign this guy up.

He starts at midnight on saturday night and goes till around 6am. Hope to see everyone there.

Here's a community announcement for the wall.

There is a Sydney Leather Pride workshop on this wednesday evening.

The details for it are as follows:

Date: 10th September 2003

Topic: "Corporal Punishment - a formal approach"

Time: 7.00pm to 9.00pm

Venue: Pride Centre, Hutchinson Street, Surry Hills

Cost: $5.00 for SLPA members and $10.00 for non-SLPA members

Sydney Leather Pride Annual General Meeting this Thursday evening.

The details for it are as follows:

Date: 18th September 2003

Time: 7.00pm to 9.00pm

Venue: Manacle, Club Bar

Includes the election of the 03-04 office holders.

If you have not renewed your membership or would like to join, membership processing is available at Manacle from 6:15pm

Come along and hear what a community group is doing for their members and the wider community, get involved! Your community is only as good as you make it.

Dinner (and naturally drinks) are available from the bar.

Are you a man who is interested in Freemasonry?

Freemasons share a concern and respect for human values, moral standards, the laws of society and the rights of individuals. We are involved in helping other people through charity work and community service and attend regular meetings and participate in activities.

Freemasonry is an orgranisation that embraces confidentiality but is not a secret society., consists of members who are men of faith but is not a religion or a substitute for religion., seeks to emphasise universal harmony and does not permit discussion of religion or politics and supports those in need but is not a benefit society.

Interested in freemasonry? Send an email to info@lodgesoutherncross.org.au

I agree, the "community" as we know it here in Sydney is gone. No longer is Darlinghurst the only place gay men can live. many of us live in the outer suburbs and that suits us fine.

We are simplying moving to a different way of organsing ourselves. ie. more like other australian cities. and it makes more political sense as well. governments think they'll only need to sacrifice 1 or 2 seats in parliament if they don't treat us with respect, but when we are spread out, visilbly, there are more seats at stake and more chance we'll be treated with respect.

The ghetto is dead! Long live the ghetto!

9th Australian Masters Games - Women's Cricket Team.
Are you over 35 yrs old and enjoy playing cricket? Would you like to be part of the Sydney Women's Cricket Team going to Canberra for the 9th Australian Masters Games? It's on from 2nd - 7th Nov. Meet new friends and have fun - plus, play some awesome cricket. Contact the Cricket NSW for details of the Sydney team.

Any interest on the Gold Coast in forming an integration group ??? The supply of gay men is running low so a breeding and conversion programe would help! Perhaps we could get an endangered species government grant???

Some special interest groups I have already tried:

- Gay Chess club [it just got too hard moving from one Square to the next]
- Gay Horse riding club [more gay women than gay men and none with a nice seat]
- Gay health food club [it resulted in a 70's style demmo protesting that shops were stocking too many straight cucumbers]
- Gay beachgoers [still turn up sometimes]
- Gay photographers [full of cockless sleezey voyeurs, self excluded naturally]
- Gay speech training [designed to help young gay men speak up and be heard, but resulted in drag queen type instruction]
- Gay rights and wrongs [still join in sometimes - we aimed to cause severe disruption to homophobes]
- GreyGay [need more members as so many use hair colour or shave heads - sat through an hour listening to one man talk about a gangbang he endured..... 78 years ago.....]
- Gay Power [we kept on getting phone calls and emails from recently widowed women who need handyman type help around the house - Our t-shirts were very popular]

I would like to hear of other groups particularly a support group perhaps for obsessive compulsive disorganisers... could be helpful to meet others with the same disorder.....

I have moved many of the posts on this wall to a new wall Equality. Let's keep this wall for discussion about community groups and events.

Queensland : New Smoking Laws

Commencing November 2003 the Queensland government will be conducting a review of Legislation concerning Tobacco Control and Smoking in public places.
As part of this review the government is accepting submissions from members of the public.

If you want tougher smoking laws, then now is the time for you to let the government know how you feel, prior to drawing up the new legislation. Encourage your friends and family to send in a submission also. Interstate people are welcome to make a submission regarding Qld legislation.

Do you want 100% smoke free pubs and clubs? Do you want your outdoor cafe, restaurant, and beer-garden areas smoke free? Do the patrons and staff of bars and clubs deserve to be free of the dangers of passive smoking?

You can make a submission to the following addresses:

Wendy Edmonds
Minister of Health
GPO Box 48
Brisbane Qld 4001

Or e-mail Wendy Edmonds at: health@ministerial.qld.gov.au


Looking forward to a smoke free Sporties Hotel.

Jags 'n' Bugs Playpen Aussie based mature online GLBT and pagan group.
Games,quizzes,community newsletters,birthday announcements,news,discussions,many laughs and terrific people.
***Chat room opening October 31st 7pm AEST***
JOIN NOW
http://groups.msn.com/JagsnBugsPlayPen/_homepage.msnw?&pps=k

note this down as the date time venue has changed

PRIDE Annual General Meeting
4.00pm Saturday 29th November 2003
Erskineville Town Hall
104 Erskineville Road, Erskineville NSW

Pride moves:
http://ssonet.com.au/showarticle.asp?ArticleID=2672&x=13&y=13

For those who are interested in a community venue

~~~~~~~~~~~~
Blu UPDATE - Appeal Sat, 25 Oct 2003

Hi everyone,

Over the past several months a small group of people have been voluntarily working above and beyond the call of duty to bring a new venue to Sydney. In particular for people from the outer-CBD suburbs to socialise at.

The entire concept of Blu Community Club has been to replace the likes of Caesars Bar, and the other venues that have recently closed and bring back the 'friendly-venue'.

To date, most of the financial support for this Club has been offered in the form of sponsorships, and product donation, etc.

As a Community Club - Blu is not permitted by law to have investors (ie people who invest money on the basis that they would receive a profitable return for that money). The Club under the Registered Clubs Act - MUST return all profits back into the Club for the gain of its members. And as such is a Non-Profit Public Company.

Sadly, a major sponsorship deal has fallen through and in doing so has put Blu Community Club's existence in jeopardy.

Blu needs to find a person/s or business or alike who is willing to take a stand and yes a risk, and assist us before we become another Community Ghost.

What we need is to secure an amount of $50 000 as soon as possible or else we will have no choice but to cease in opening Blu.

This financial assistance can be in the form of a Loan (to be re-paid with interest), a Sponsorship deal, as advertising payment (where Blu would advertise & promote your company throughout our newsletter, website and indeed within the venue), or other arrangement.

BLU is a fantastic concept - and is desperately needed by the Community. Please do not let us down. We have come this far - only to find ourselves not quite across the finishing line.

To find out more about Blu check out our website ( www.bluentertainment.com ) or email plan@bluentertainment.com for a copy of our 'Blu Plans'. These plans highlight our concepts, and commitments to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and heterosexual Community.

We need your help NOW.

Please contact me if I can be of any further assistance. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours Truly,

Michael Donnelly
Director
Blu Entertainment Ltd.
02 9832 7717
ACN: 105 718 545

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Blu Night - Your Community Club.
A new experience ... coming soon.

Email: enquiries@bluentertainment.com

Rugby players wanted - "The Sydney Convicts" Rugby is putting a team together to compete in an international gay rugby tournament - The Bingham Cup - in London in May 2004. Players, coaches, assistants and supporter needed. Experience (rugby or rugby league) preferred but not necessary. All are welcome. If you would like more information please email Fuzz on sydneyconvicts2004@yahoo.com

QUEER EYE FILM FEAST
FRI 12TH DEC
MURWILLUMBAH NSW
SHORT FILMS, FREE FOOD, DJS MC
HEAPS OF FUN
STARTS AT 7PM
TICKETS $10 (PREBOOKED) $12 AT DOOR
INFO
www.youngpride.4t.com

(got a short queer film?? email me on rendv8@hotmail.com and we will screen it on the night!)
thanx
Young Pride.

Sydney Leather Pride are currently setting up our new office in the new Pride Centre at Erskineville Please allow for some delays with queries as we sort out phone lines. Email contact is best or contact committee via mobile as listed on the updated website. Members who have time to help us unpack and set up please contact the volunteer coordinator.

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/index.html

** The Femme Mystique **

A night where we explore and celebrate the femme identity

The Femme Mystique, an event at which we honour the femme identity. Listen to visions of lust, passion, gender, politics and sexuality from femmes and from the TG butches who desire them.

Join celebrated international femme writer Joan Nestle along with Jodie Joyce, Mel Norton, Wife & Aunties, Stella Delight and Dash Gray & Gil Beckwith in a night of spoken word, film and music mixed by Sveta.

Sunday, 23 November, 2003
The Imperial, 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville
Doors open @ 6.00pm; Performances start @ 8.00pm
$15 full / $12 conc.

The Femme Mystique is identity-inclusive and non-clique. Please check your phobias and suspicions at the door. Bring your open mind, submissives, curiosity and respect. This is a butch, femme, transman, FTM, transgender, intersex, hermaphradyke, genderfuck, transensual femme, SOFFA, ethnodiversified, D/s respected space.

www.transensualevents.com

Gay Spiritual Group. I'm starting a new social and discussion group in the NSW Northern Rivers area, under the name Gay Spiritual Group. It's for gay men (sorry girls, not enough space at my place) who want to meet others who are also spiritual or should I say realise that they are spiritual. I've always believed that as gays and lesbians, because we have to deal with others who show disdain towards us, can stay with and build upon the sensitivity, understanding and compassion that results from the coming out experience, if we want to. <p> Although it will be very informal, there will probably at some stage in the future be meditations, guest speakers, and so on. Fridays at 7:30pm. Email innerpeace@hot.net.au for more details.

The Inaugural Bendigo Queer Film Festival
March 27/28th 2004
At the Campbell Theatrette, Bendigo Library
At this regional event, a finely tuned selection of international and national lesbian and gay movies brought to Australia for the Melbourne Queer Film Fest (14th year) and the Brisbane Queer Film Fest (5th year) film package will be brought to Bendigo.

It is proposed that this Festival will become one of the significant events on the annual calendar across regional and country Victoria for the GLBTI and the wider community.

If you are interested to find out more contact the committee ........
bendigoqueerfilmfestival@hotmail.com

Are you a same-sex attracted young person who lives in the St George or Sutherland area?
GLYSSN is a social/support group for under 25s that meets twice a month in the St George area. A safe and friendly space to meet other people, talk about things that are important to you and just hang out. For more information visit www.stgeorgeyouth.org/html/projects/glyssn
A survey is also being conducted of the needs of same-sex attracted young people in the St George and Sutherland area. To obtain a copy of the survey send an e-mail to - glyssn@stgeorgeyouth.org - or call 95808008

WINE OFFER!!

Support the Sydney Pride Centre this Xmas and help raise funds for the new PRIDE Centre. Tempus Two has put together a special wine offer for the Sydney Pride Centre this Xmas.

For every mixed case of Tempus Two Semillion Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Merlot ordered Tempus Two will donate $50 to the Sydeny Pride Centre. Cases are $150 plus $5 delivery (outside NSW extra). To place your order go to www.pridecentre.com.au/news

Place your order before the 1st December 03 and recieve 1 years complementary membership to the Sydney Pride Centre (limit of 1 complementary membership per person).

** THIS SUNDAY **

~ The Femme Mystique ~

The Femme Mystique, an event at which we honour the femme identity.
Listen to visions of lust, passion, gender, politics and sexuality
from femmes and from those who desire them.

Join celebrated international femme writer Joan Nestle along with
Jodie Joyce, Mel Norton, Wife & Aunties, Stella Delight and Dash Gray
& Gil Beckwith in a night of spoken word, film and music mixed by
Sveta.

Sunday, 23 November, 2003
The Imperial, 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville
Doors open @ 6.00pm; Performances start @ 8.00pm
$15 full / $12 conc.

The Femme Mystique is identity-inclusive and non-clique. Please check
your phobias and suspicions at the door. Bring your open mind,
submissives, curiosity and respect. This is a butch, femme, transman,
FTM, transgender, intersex, hermaphradyke, genderfuck, transensual
femme, SOFFA, ethnodiversified, D/s respected space.


If you'd like to be notified of upcoming events, you can join the
Transensual Events mailing list by clicking on:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Transensual_events/

AUDITIONS FOR PRIDE NYE KOOKY KAROUSEL
---------------------------------------

The PRIDE NYE artisitc team at the Sydney Pride Centre is looking for volunteers to audition for the upcoming Kooky Karousel party. If you would like to perform in one of the shows or become one of our roving entertainers this NYE, come to;

Sydney Pride Centre
104 Erskineville Rd Erskineville
12.00pm
Saturday 29th November

PRIDE is looking for anyone who has the desire to perform and be a part of this fantastic community event. No experience is required just a fun attitude and the ability to attend rehearsals between Christmas New Year and leading up to the event.

PRIDE is also looking for people with circus skills i.e. stilt walkers, jugglers, fire-eaters, drummers, dancers and any one who has a Kooky act.

Come one come all to Kooky Karousel!

South Sydney News -New- Taylor Square Celebration
Press release Modified: 07 November 2003 November 30
The $6.7million dollar Taylor Square project has finally been completed resulting in a transformed and more user-friendly Taylor Square.
http://www.sscc.nsw.gov.au/router?model=c&item=2839&category=2

The Mayor of South Sydney, Councillor Tony Pooley will officially open the
new Taylor Square, on November 30 with a T Party community festival from 5pm.
The opening is being held on the eve of World AIDS Day and funds raised by
T Party will go to the AIDS Council of New South Wales (ACON). "I know local residents and businesses have been looking forward to the completion of the project and we all can now celebrate the emergence of the 'new' Taylor Square," Mayor Pooley said.
The official opening of Taylor Square will be held at 5pm on Sunday, November 30, with T Party continuing the entertainment until 10pm. For further information please call Stephen Gilby on 9288 5186.<

South Sydney City Council Christmas Carols.
At Joynton Park on Grandstand Parade, Zetland. Sunday 7 December 7pm to 8:30pm. Celebrate Christmas at Joynton Park with The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir,
Choralation and more.

Sydguys Social Group recently formed for guys 25 to 40 years of age looking to meet new friends & socialize in the Syney area. It is designed to fill the void for a social group for guys who dont fit into the many under 25's groups or are not ready for Mags. We meet one Saturday a month for a daytrip somewhere around Sydney, dinner & a movie. One Sunday a month we have a get together in the afternoon in a Newtown cafe where we have use of a room for lunch, games & trivia or nearby for a picnic & walk. Two Fridays a month we meet at a member's home for videos, pizza or snacks & a chat. If you would like to come along call Greg on 9501 3636 before 11pm.

If you were identified as a female at birth, yet feel that does not accurately reflect who you are - you might find this Australia-wide, Sydney based community group useful - FTM Australia. We are on the internet at http://www.ftmaustralia.org/

Our membership ranges from female-to-male transgender people right through to men with transseexualism (usually post transition men with transsexual background); and includes their partners and families. Some are youth who identify as neither female people nor males - others are transsexual men identified as 'girls' at birth; others are men who have transition as part of their history and have moved on in life, with partners (men or women or both); or who live in out in the suburbs with their wife and children.

Please pass the information onto anyone you know might be struggling with their gender appearance - as there are a range of options open to them today.

AIDS Awareness Week ACON events

Candlelight postponed
Due to the appalling weather conditions we have chosen to postpone tonight's Candlelight AIDS Memorial. It was to be held in Green Park, Darlinghurst where the ground is now quite soggy. The Memorial will now be held on Monday next week - December 1, World AIDS Day - at 8pm in Green Park. We have already received close to 300 names for the reading on the night and can now take more names for next week. Call 9206 2110 (answering machine) or email candlelight@acon.org.au.

SMS a Red Ribbon
Red ribbons, the international symbol for HIV/AIDS, were the first ribbons designed to raise awareness for a specific cause wtih their debut at the 1991 Tony Awards. Now ACON is helping the red ribbon make another first with virtual red ribbons. Buying a Red Ribbon this year is as easy as sending an SMS. To get your red ribbon delivered to your mobile phone, SMS the following request based on your mobile phone handset type to 188 74 40: Nokia - 'REDRIBBON 3572' or Ericsson & Alcatel - 'REDRIBBON 8587' (please ensure REDRIBBON is one word and there is space before the number). This SMS will cost you $3.50 GST incl and will be charged to your carrier account. This service is available for Optus, Vodafone, Virgin Mobile and Testra post-paid accounts. This service is proudly supported by BlueSkyFrog.com

Real Red Ribbons
Volunteers are still needed to help sell real red ribbons on Friday 28, Saturday 29 November and Monday December 1. If you can spare four hours of your time please call 9206 2024 or email redribbon@acon.org.au. We are also keen to hear from people who can sell ribbons at their workplaces for example.

MELBOURNE & VICTORIA'S GAY MEN'S FOUR WHEEL DRIVING GROUP

If you are a gay male living in Victoria, own an "off road" Four Wheel Drive vehicle, there is a group operating out of Melbourne catering for 4X4 off road trekking activity.

Social meetings take place every month and regular trips into the bush and off road mountainous areas of Victoria have been taking place monthly now for over three years.

The Group's website is located at http://www.geocities.com/southeastern4x4

or mobile Douggie on 0413 023 113 for more information.

BOBBY GOLDSMITH FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER SUNDAY 14th DECEMBER.

Dear Friends,

We would love to seee you all down at the fabulous East Village rooftop bar (just 2 mins from Taylor Square) for the opening night of Smooch!

Special Guest DJ STEPHEN ALLKINS aka [LOVE] Tattoo will be playing new tracks from his forthcoming album. Also DJing will be Scott Pullen (Terrace @ Queer Nation), Peter Fam (Arq/Colombian/Shift) & DJ Renae (Mardis Gras/Arq/Civic).

Entry is $10 / $5 goes to BGF

Bring a friend & a smile & enjoy the beautiful music while you watch the sun set over the city skyline.

Sunday 14th December 4pm - 10pm

East Village.

Smoocher, where exactly is East Village?

"just 2 mins from Taylor Square" encompasses about every place I know!

"Smoocher, where exactly is East Village?"

234 Palmer St, East Sydney.

SydGuys Group, have been trying to get in touch with your social group but in vain. Notice says to contact Greg, but no one seems to answer is there an email address to get in touch with you guys. Email me on lonelyindian2003@yahoo.com.au

hi we are off to perth for NYE and for a week in the sun. any perth dykes out tere that can help us out on where to go NYE and venues? thanks

www.thefrocks.com.au
Hi Girls - please support your local sydney lesbian rock group!

What in the hell happened with South Sydney Council's Christmas Carols??? I turned up at about 7.30 pm to find there was a ' man & a dog' present...wasn't helped at all by the poor street directions..not even a current street Directory has that place listed..I feel sorry for the G&L choir who looked extremely disappointed...whoever organised this needs a crash course in logistics and promotions management!!!

Hello - gay level headed guy here - want to meet cool chicks (yes girls!!) for friendship / fun / to hang out etc... - where are you all? - whats the best forum? any suggestions?!

Joe - How about volunteering for a community organisation. Not only do you help, but you also have the opportunity to meet other people who are also volunteering, cool chicks and guys.

Now here!!! Khush a social club for gay indian men and women is now in Sydney. Please email khush_sydney@yahoo.com.au for further information. Volunteers needed to setup Khush website.

Hi Arti - everyone...

Joe needs some spoon-feeding here.
What community groups are out there? - This sounds like a good idea!
thanks

Just a quick reminder that the last SLPA education workshop for the year is to be held tonight. The details are as follows:

Title: Uniforms - From SS to Santa !

Place: Club Bar, Manacle, Taylor Square

Date: 10th December 2003

Time: 7.00pm to 9.00pm

Cost: $5.00 SLPA members/$10.00 for non-SLPA members

If you require any further details, please email minotaur@isp.net.au

What community groups are out there? - This sounds like a good idea!
thanks
Joe - Tue 9 Dec 2003 23:14:40

What about NMG for starters ?

Sydney Greek & Gay is a social and support network for gay and bisexual men of Greek background.

We have been running successfully in Sydney for the past year after a successful launch at the 2003 Mardi Gras Festival in which we had 50 Greek & Gay men attend a community forum.

We have regular discussion nights, dinners, parties and social functions.

The group is free & fun, private and confidential.

For more information contact: greekgayguys@hotmail.com or visit www.greekandgay.com

Sydney Leather Pride Assoc.
Notice of General Meeting 6:00 pm Saturday 13th December.
Christmas Social 7:00 ?10:00 pm Saturday 13th December

Our next General Meeting will be held the Club Bar at Manacle (1 Patterson Lane, Darlinghurst) on the 13th of December. The meeting will be followed by a social evening for members and friends commencing at 7:00 pm. We hope to see you all on the night. All members will be given a drink voucher on arrival to start off the Christmas Celebrations.

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/

Thank you to all who supported the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation fundraiser at the launch of Smooch @ East Village on Sunday. The night was a huge success & over $1,000 was raised.

Thank you.

Congratulations to the Asian Marching Boys for organising another fabulous night at the Midnight Shift on 18 December 2003. The shows on the night were nothing less than spectacular. Just one question though.....who is the talented Sara Lee? Girl, you should get out more cause you are bloody amazing.

Sat 17 January 2004
@ Waverley Bowling Club, Birrell St, Waverley
"HIGH DRAMA"
a fun mad cap party from 5pm-1am.
DJ's Kate Monroe, Gary T, Yin Yang and Fiesty.

There's Jelly wrestling, Pole Dancing (no, not from polland), this you gotta see, a night of madcap frivolous fun..
Throw on the party frocks, wrestle in the jelly with kate monroe or anyone you wish.
This is an event for Boys and Girls who want to have a fun night.
Dress: High Drama (that allows you to be anything)

Tickets $29.99 from Burgerman, Surrey St, Surrey Hills
Burgerman, Bondi Road, Bondi
Sharpes Pharmacy, Taylors Square
or $35 at the door.
Don't miss this night, theres lots of surprises....

Does anyone know of any websites which advertise the global gay event calender for 2004, parties mostly.

BINGAY is on every Tuesday night at the Imperial Hotel at 8.30pm -11.15pm
This is the longest running community fundraising night in Sydney.
Hosted by the very funny Mitzi Macintosh and her singing, lesbian barrel girl, Naomi.

Mitzi call the numbers, and keeps the laughs coming all night!
Come and see why this night is just so popular nearly 4 years after it started!
Great prizes. Free snacks and food every week.
All money raised goes to ACON

REDCARPET NIGHT FOR QUEER SCREEN
7.15pm SUNDAY, 18th January, 2003

RedCarpet Night is proud to launch the Mardi Gras Film Festival Program with a look at some brilliant queer short films from past festivals and a couple of films from the up-coming 2004 festival season.

RedCarpet Night is a bi-monthly short film screening that raises money for non-profit organisations. This January we are raising funds for Queer Screen. Our program includes a diverse range of short films from local filmmakers.

The titles we will be showing include:
* Writer/director Miro Bilbrough's beautiful cine-poem Urn;
* Writer/director Rob Leggo's slapstick romance High Street Love Story;
* Director Andrew Lancaster's and writer Brian Carbee's coming out, getting out 'mother-and-son' comedy In Search Of Mike;
* Kieran Galvin's tragic tale The Burning Boy;
* Director Wenona Byrne's funny/sad story of family Saturn's Return;
* Writer/director Marie Craven's delightful first-time school-girl crush narrative Blow;
* Directors Andrew Soo's and Julia Kalceff's funny take on the lesbian relationship, nesting habits, jealousy and not-so well-adjusted paranoia, The Ex.

RedCarpet Night is a unique concept for giving Australian filmmakers an opportunity to show their films in a non-competitive cinema environment. There is no entry fee and no genre criteria.

All proceeds of the Sunday, 18th January screening will go to Queer Screen Limited, a not-for-profit community organisation that brings you Sydney's annual Mardi Gras Film Festival, the queerDOC festival and the My Queer Career filmmaking competition. The screening will be held 7.15pm at the Valhalla Cinemas on Glebe Point Road, Glebe. Pre-sale tickets are available through the Queer Screen Office on 02 9332 4938. All tickets are $13. No concessions available. No booking fee applies. Entry for 18 years + audience.

If you experience any difficulties, please contact us for assistance. info@queerscreen.com.au

The Gold Coast branch of Southern Hemisphere Information Technology Gays is holding its quarterly meeting after 9pm, 20th January 2004 at the picnic ground to the south of the car park opposite the Seaworld Car Park [the Southport Spit].

This is an event for Computer industry [gay] workers only.
This Group is not affiliated with Gay Geeks.

So clean up your hard disks and memory sticks [and adapters], update your binary codes and be there. Light refreshments should accompany you as there will be lap-top dancing. A public barbecue is available so bring your own meat or fish, sausage sizzle is optional. Insect repellent/protection is advisable. The annual competition to select the most boring computer speaker will start at 10pm sharp, bugs permitting and the winner will be crowned by a former SBS Newsreader.

Attari and PL/1 enthusiasts should use Dencorub cologne for identification purposes.

You've gotta be there to be square!

Please - no email ping-pong. This is a computer Industry function so a help file is not going to be available. The organising committee exempts itself from responibility for errors/omissions and all performance issues are strictly the responsibility of attendees.

Sick of the lesbian pub and club scene? Come along to Lesbian Open House - meets every Tuesday at 7pm, upstairs at the Green Iguana Cafe, 6 King Street, Newtown. Check out our website at http://sydneyopenhouse.freeservers
Topic up for discussion this Tuesday 13/1/04 is 'Matchmaking your friends; would you do it, have you done it - and are the scars healing?'

Get involved in your community

Twenty10 Gay and Lesbian Youth Support and the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of NSW are urgently seeking folks to help finish renovations in our new building in Bedford St, Newtown. We are calling on you to lend a helping hand throughout the next few week (and help us save money!).

We need as many people as possible so whether you have experience in renovations or not, please do give us a call to find out how you can volunteer or help us meet some of the costs furnishing our new premises. Call Tim on 0405 014 975 or email info@2010.asn.au to get involved.

Community Dancers Wanted!
for Asian Marching Boys fundraiser party "Exposed"
on Thursday 4 March at Shift.

Ever wanted to get up on stage but felt you didn? have the experience?
Now's your chance.
Looking for boys and girls, any colour, shape and size,
to perform in one community number at our pre-Mardi Gras "Exposed?party.

The routine will be simple, yet fun and effective.
No previous dance experience required,
just a commitment to fun and helping your community!

Contact Saha on
salimfox@dodo.com.au or 0407 285 673

For People Living With HIV/AIDS

A forum on disclosure, sex, relationships and sexual health.

Saturday 7th February 2004 3.00pm The Sanctuary Centre

6 Mary St Newtown Bookings 9515 3217

Panel members will present clinical, psychological, educational, and personal perspectives on disclosure, sex, relationships and sexual health. This will be followed by facilitated break-out discussion groups.

Please RSVP by 5th February 2004 (for catering purposes) 9515 3217

Brought to you by: PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS, Northern Sydney Health, South East Health, ACON and Central Sydney Area Health Service

Sydney Leather Pride
General Meeting
Saturday 31st January 2004
6.00pm
Betty's Soup Kitchen,
84 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW
Social dinner to follow

Also website updated with news on
Leather Harbour Cruise 4 March
Carnal Party on the 27 March

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/

hi, does anyone know if there is a gay tennis team in sydney? i'm looking to start playing again...

any info would be greatly appreciated.

stephen

Have a look at http://www.scog.asn.au/tennis.htm

ACON will be hosting six events during the 2004 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival including the return of the popular Great Debate. ... ACON? Festival events will include:

The Art of Condoms Exhibition ?February 5 to February 21
This exhibition using mixed media will explore gay men? relationships with sex, condoms and HIV.
Phatspace, Room 35, Level 2, 94 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst
Wed-Sat 12pm-6pm FREE

Walking the Same Streets Photographic Exhibition ?Feb 5 to Feb 21
ACON and the City of Sydney Council joint project with images on display from amateur photographers around street safety.
Pine Street Creative Arts, 64 Pine Street, Chippendale
Mon-Fri 10am ?5pm, Sat-Sun 11.30 ?3.30 FREE

Visions Positive Art Exhibition ?February 6 to March 6
Paintings and sculptures created by people living with HIV/AIDS attending art workshops with the PLC.
Positive Living Centre (PLC), 702 Bourke St, Surry Hills
Tue-Sat 11am-4pm FREE

Seven Deadly Sins Dance Party ?Friday February 20 This girls only dance party will be a major fundraising event for ACON? Lesbian Health Project.
G.A.S, 467-477 Pitt Street, Sydney
Tickets $40 incl GST from ACON, Darlinghurst Bookshop, Toolsheds Taylor Square and Newtown

Fair Day Stall - Sunday February 22
ACON will also have an information stall and the popular Chill Tent at Fair Day

Debby Doesn't Do It For Free February 22 - 24 Sex Workers Cultural Event -
?Exhibition of Video, Sound, Textile & Mixed Media Installations- 10am - 6pm
?Performance Tuesday 24th - 9pm
69 Abercrombie St Chippendale
Tickets $12/10 - call 9319 4866

The Great Debate - Thursday February 26
"Monogamy is Monotony" is the topic for debate with a cast of great celebrity speakers who will challenge your definition of relationships.
York Theatre, Seymour Centre, Cnr City Rd & Cleveland St, Chippendale
Tickets $38 plus $2.40 booking fee from Seymour Centre Box Office 9351 7940 or $30 concession plus $2.40 booking fee from ACON

Stir It Up Lesbian Health Speaker Series ?Thursday February 26
"Lesbian Bed Death" will be the hot topic for the night with conversation, controversy and coffee on the menu.
WareHouse Caf?255 Devonshire St, Surry Hills

V-Day Sunday February 29
Join us as we celebrate women, raise awareness and envision a world without violence.
Footbridge Theatre Glebe
Proceeds donated to NSW Women? Refuge and Resource Centre, for muslim and aboriginal women? refuges, the gay & lesbian anti violence project, swop VDAY
A WORLDWIDE CAMPAIGN TO STOP VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN & GIRLS
A benefit production of Eve Ensler? The Vagina Monologues
Directed by Gail Kelly 5pm at Footbridge Theatre
February 29, 2004
Bookings www.ticketek.com or 9266 4800 Tix $49.95, concession $40.95
Proceeds to ?NSW Women? Refuge and Resource Centre for Muslim and Aboriginal womens?refuges ?The Lesbian Anti Violence Project ?Sex Workers Outreach Project
Supported by Amnesty International and ACON. V-Day is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls.
This year? V-Day Spotlight is on missing and murdered women in Juarez, Mexico.
V-DAY2004 join us as we celebrate women, raise awareness and envision a world without violence
V-Day info is at www.vday.org

For more information about any of these events please call 9206 2000 Happy Mardi Gras from ACON!

http://www.acon.org.au/community/index.cfm?doc_id=1353&cat_id=23

We want you!

The official 2004 Mardi Gras Marching Group

You don't have to have experience, you just need enthusiasm, commitment to rehearsals (over two weeks prior to Parade) and the ability to shimmy glamorously for an hour or two. Everyone is welcome. This is your chance to be part of one of the world's truly wonderful street parades and experience the elation of 300,000 people cheering you on!

parade@mardigras.org.au

I want you too!
If you're under 25 and you and your friends want to march in Mardi Gras as part of the official Youth Float, all you need to do is email youth@mardigras.org.au

Is a slut someone who has more sex than you?
Can you be faithful to more than one person at a time?
Is a relationship 10 days or 10 years?

Come along to the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Great Debate this Thursday to find out! NSW Upper House President Meredith Burgman will MC the night and try to control a panel of celebrity debaters on the juicy topic of "Monogamy is Monotony". Speakers include David Marr, Jean Kittson, Sue-Ann Post, Bruce Meagher, Garry Scale and Craig Hassall.

The Great Debate (a fundraiser for ACON and NMG)
8pm, Thursday 26 February
York Theatre, Seymour Centre.
Tix $38 plus booking fee from Seymour Centre Box Office on 9351 7940 or ACON Reception. Concession tix $30 plus booking fee from ACON

Upcoming event - Sunday 21 March 2004


** Transcendent **

A party for Trans, Intersex, Genderqueer?nd our friends

Transcendent, an extravaganza of Trans, Intersex and Genderqueer talent. Join Jodie Joyce, Stella Delight and Elias se Mbessakwini along with international artists Max Wolf Valerio, Sean Dorsey and hip hop artist Katastrophe in a night which boasts music mixed by Sveta, spoken word and film.

Sunday, 21 March, 2004
The Imperial, 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville
Doors open @ 6pm; Shows start @ 7pm
$15 full / $12 conc.

Transcendent is identity-inclusive and non-clique. Please check your phobias and suspicions at the door. Bring your open mind, submissives, curiosity and respect. This is a transman, FTM, intersex, hermaphradyke, genderfuck, transensual femme, SOFFA, ethnodiversified, D/s respected, accessible space.

www.transensualevents.com

For those who weren't aware that the Evolution Underwater 13 to 17s party was on last night at Victoria Park Pools - it absolutely went off!! (yes, this one actually happened, thank God!)

The turnout was huge, the music was pumping with Mike Kelly and Dan Murphy, the shows were extravagant, and the atmosphere was just brilliant!

A big thanks to all of the guys at Velocity Inc and City of Sydney for working so hard to make this happen! It's great to see that even after two failed events, you've still got the energy and the drive to put hours of effort into providing this necessary space for the youths. Congrats!

The ORIGINAL Melbourne Based Gay Men's Four Wheel Drive Group

is having a weekend trip into the Licola back blocks on 27-28 March 2004, departing an outer SE suburb Friday evening.

A chance to take on challenging off-road tracks, mud, dust and climbs in the rarified air of some of Victoria's breathtaking wilderness in the company of a mixed bag of gay blokes, complete with two (or one if you leave Saturday morning)overnight camps around a river side fire, camp cooked tucker over a few ales and gas bagging under the stars.

Trips similar to this have been made almost on a monthly basis since inception of the Group three years ago.

If you own a suitable off raod 4x4, think you might enjoy being part of this group AND like some tough driving conditions, more information can be found at their website listed below.

This 4x4 Group is informal, has relatively few rules, jealously guards its reputation as NOT being another Gay Sex Contact Group. What guys do together is their business.

Male singles and couples aged 18 or more only.

If you are not into 4x4 driving or looking after your own needs in a camping situation, this may not be the group for you.

Web site http://www.geocities.com/southeastern4x4

The Raelians -

I've just read the SSO about them being excluded from the Mardi Gras Parade .

Please explain ?

I'm sure there a gays in the movement and if they want to join the Parade showcasing their beliefs , who is NMG to stop them ?
Maybe there is something I dont know ? or something we are not being told ?
BUT..............
is sure smacks of discrimination to me .

Michael Woodhouse is quoted " that information did not demonstrate the support of the Raelian organisation and the GLBTQ Community "

So, can the RSL or Workers Club or Arq or Coles or anyone else stop some gay people entering their premises with similar words " from the information we have you do not demonstrate the support we at RSL/Coles/Arq like " ???????

Sydney Leather Pride Association
is proud to announce that in 2004 Leather Pride Week will run from
Sunday 9th May to Saturday 15th May.

The week includes:

Leather Fair Day- Sunday 9th May ?Last year the Leather Fair drew a crowd of 3,500 people. This year the Fair at Prince Alfred Park will be bigger and returning the very popular beer garden plus all day entertainment, contests, leather supplies, food stalls, community groups and something special for mum as it falls on Mother's Day. Leather Person of The Year will be announced on the day. Nomination forms will be sent out to SLPA members soon. Organisations and business interested in becoming stallholders, sponsors or donating prizes are invited to contact SLPA Fair Day Co-ordinator.

Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) Service - Sunday 9th May ?The annual church service will be held at the MCC, Crystal Street, Petersham at 7:30 PM.

ArtSpace ?The SLPA ArtSpace exhibition will be launched on Monday 10th May and run for the week until Saturday. Artists who would like their works shown in the exhibition are invited to contact SLPA's curator.

Inquisition - Saturday 15th May ?There is always high anticipation about what Inquisition will deliver. SLPA has spent a lot of time looking into different venue options and focusing on what the leather and fetish community want for their party. Issues such as lighting have been addressed. In 2004 Inquisition will be held at Fox Studios and will cater for 2200 partygoers.

As this event will sell out, tickets will be released first to SLPA members, then to other leather and like-minded organisations for their members. Limited tickets will be available to the general public. Membership tickets will be on sale in early April.

Education ?Education events will be run every night of the week. Those interested should look out for fliers, advertisements, or check out the SLPA website Education page.

Leather Physique Contest ?A new event this year for the body builders and body beautiful.

Bob Buckley Memorial Lecture ?This year the lecture format is being replaced with an evening of spoken word inviting contributions from members of the community, a 5-minute limit on any spoken word piece, poetry, musings, favourite passage from a book ?here will be a commemorative prize for the audience's choice of best original piece.

For further information see website ww.sydneyleatherpride.org
email slpasec@sydneyleatherpride.org
or contact:
Greg Bloye, President - 0418 118 437

Update: Leather Physique Contest - A new event this year for body builders and the body beautiful.

Leather Pride Love Muscle Physique Competition
Saturday 8 May: 7.30pm @ Petersham RSL Club
Further details soon www.sydneyleatherpride.org.
Competition entry enquiries to the President

SYDNEY PREMIERE
EATING OUT

Sun April 4, 8.30pm
Valhalla Cinema
Glebe Point Rd, Glebe
Bookings Mon-Fri 10-6pm 9332 4938
Or from the venue on Sunday
$15 full / $12 Members

Queer Screen is thrilled to present the Sydney premiere of EATING OUT, the funniest gay romantic comedy of the year. Direct from two sell-out sessions at this year's Melbourne Queer Film Festival, where it was the hit of the festival, this may be the only chance to catch this film on the screens of Sydney.

At a sold out sneak preview at the Phoenix Lesbian and Gay Film Festival last month, EATING OUT nabbed the festival? top award - the Best Gay and Lesbian Film of the Festival. The demand for this film at this year's London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival has been so overwhelming for two scheduled sessions that festival organisers have rushed to include an extra screening to quell the demand for tickets.

EATING OUT follows a hunky straight college student who figures the fastest way to a girl? heart is through her gay best friend. College student Caleb has an affection for aggressive girls. Gwen is an aggressive girl who falls for gay acting boys. Add their two gay room-mates into the mix and it's a match made in therapy.

QUEER SCREEN website: www.queerscreen.com.au
EATING OUT official website: www.poshpictures.com/eatingout

Is there anyone else out there with a poker machine problem?

I have just heard that the staff at SWOP (sex workers outreach project) have gone on strike today due to management problems with ACON. can someone please confirm whether or not this is true or not?

Just a quick note to say that Sydney finally has a radio service for the GLBT community!!! Beat FM 87.6 is testing its signal and can be picked up in mot of the eastern suburbs and newtown - great dance music now and an even live shows from April 26. More dteilas to come

My source tells me that a few of the people behind FREE Fm in the late 1990's are involved in BEAT FM and as a strange twist BEAT FM is shortly to move into the same studio that OUT FM once occupied.

That's right! Lots of deja vu and only good karma We start full live programming on Monday April 26 from the ol' Out studios - we got a great lineup of shows including some surprises! The website should be up soon - www.beatfm.com.au

Silly sausage! No-one behind Free FM are involved, perhaps a couple of presenters...the management structure is a couple of old well-known drag queens and DJ's.Plus we are a privately owned business so we aren't as tied down 'community station' wise as Free and Out.

Was Free community owned? i thought it was just dance music.

umm... it appears beatfm.com.au is currently unregistered - probably not a good idea to promote a web address before you actually own it, or some nasty person could spend $66 and steal it from under your nose... might be a good idea to sort it out first thing tomorrow morning

Thanx for the concern CeeJay, but we had the domain name on hold for us and it has now been finalised...sooo much to do, sooo little time!?! And yes Free was a community station; well really an aspirant going for the community licence that was taken by FBI. Turn it up loud okay

Leather Pride Notice of General Meeting
2.00pm, Saturday 17th April 2004
Pride Centre, 104 Erskineville Road, Erskineville, NSW

please feel free t attend and have your say in the future of LP events including Inquisition and LP Fairday

Girth and Mirth Sydney is hosting a *Bulk Steam* event on

Sunday, 18 April 2004
Sydney City Steam (357 Sussex Street Sydney)
from 2pm onwards.
Cost of entry: $15

This is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet the big and bear men of
Sydney in an informal and relaxing environment. Sydney City Steam is
Sydney's foremost relaxation centre - you can choose to simply relax in
the refreshing spa bath and have a chat with other big men and their
admirers or, pursue other activities on the four levels of themed
entertainment.

Girth and Mirth Sydney has upgraded our website to support profiles,
personals and forums. Join up today at http://biggersydney.com

Rod - Sat 10 Apr 2004 12:51:51

Well Hi there Rod oops Victoria oops Rodney *blush*

Hope BeatFM is a HUGE success *slurp*

Thanx muchly Mr Dark Past...hmmmmm who could u be? www.beatfm.com.au is comming soon and email can be sent to info@beatfm.com.au *no slurp but a bit of fleuring*

Kings Old Boys Social Group. April 2004
In 2003 a group of us organised a get-together for gay guys of all ages who went to Kings. It was a huge success and we are now holding it annually in Sydney. If you went to TKS and want to be on the mailing list, email us your full name, year of leaving and house to sameveringham@swiftdsl.com.au

regarding Beat FM 87.6 - will it be broadcasted over the Internet?

Also, will Beat FM 87.6 have a talkback segment? Transcripts could be discussed further using facilities like Pinkboard

Beat FM will launch full live programming (presenters/DJ's) from midday Monday April 26th and will have a huge variety of queer programs including Carlotta doing a talkback show!?! initially listeners will only be able to pick us up over the radio but, we are looking into having live streaming over the net asap.

Hmm...
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/04/24/1082812659542.html

Just Jeans, DaimlerChrysler, Roche, Allianz and Centrum are pulling their ads from The L Word on Ch7. A bit like the bad ol' days when Cadbury pulled its ads from Hey Hey It's Saturday because they were doing a live cross to the Mardi Gras parade. Maybe it's time for another boycott...

I would hope we had more purchasing power than some obscure fundamentalist group with an email list of 600.

Roche in particular makes quite a bit of money from HIV treatments, so it's only *slightly* hypocritical if it's true.

Allianz are now saying the advertising was booked on the show 'in error' so it should never have been there in the first place, and Just Jeans is also copping out by saying that because it was given to them as 'bonus airtime' by the networks they never actually booked it, so they didn't *really* cancel it. See www.justjeans.com.au

Yeah, right... that makes things so much better...

Beat FM 87.6 is now on-air full-time with a great selection of gay and lesbian presenters and DJ's including Carlotta, Luke Leal, Kate Munroe, Jake Kilby, Kelly Lynch, Paul Goodyear, Lexie Bradfield, Dan Murphy and more plus some very camp shows including Better Homos & Gardens (a renovation show with a difference...no water features here) with Atlanta Georgia, Naomi Palmer and Robert Maxwell and Lock 'n' Load (an entertainment review with fangs) hosted by Daisy Fantazy and Jade Dupont. All in all a great selection of personalities and talent on Sydney's new radio service for the GLBT community - Beat FM 87.6

How come the signal quality got so bad in Surry Hills on the day before the launch of Beat FM? Any reason? Heard it beautifully in Randwick!

We are looking into at the Rushcutters Bay transmitter as we have had a few similar complaints - thank you for letting us know. I will update pinkboard on what we find.

CeeJay - Sun 25 Apr 2004 19:19:23

yeah, that'd be smart. boycott HIV drugs...... how did we ever get into this mess?

Just a quick note to let everyone know that we have worked out the bugs and Beat FM is now broadcasting clean and clear from all three transmitters. Hope you like what we have in store for the G&L community!

Rod, I won't tell anyone if you crank up the broadcast power.

Just wondering about narrowcasting - are you able to tranmit to a broader audience but cannot to due to law? or do we all have to pitch in for a more powerful transmitter?

Now there's a fund raiser

ffozstyle is a Sydney based group of guys who are into fisting. We hold ff parties at Headquarters, Crown Street, Sydney with our 3rd party to be held on Sunday 13th June 2004 from 8pm. Anyone interested from beginners to the experienced are welcome, besides its a relaxed way to meat other guys. This venue and the group maintains a strict SAFE SEX policy. So Checkout: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/ffozstyle OR contact Steve and dave at fistozstyle@yahoo.com.au

tonight:
Leather Pride Love Muscle Physique Competition
Saturday 8 May: 7.30pm @ Petersham RSL Club *
A new event this year for the body builders and body beautiful.

tomorrow:
Leather Pride Fair Day 2004
Sun 9th May 2004
11am - 5pm
Prince Alfred Park

monday:
The SLPA ArtSpace exhibition will be launched on Monday 10th May 7pm at Tap Gallery and run for the week until Saturday.

GLLAM presents - The Royal Variety Performance Show. In the presence of the Kings and Queens and (and Kings) of Marrickville. Featuring Vanessa Wagner, Sexy Galexy, Frumpus, The Frocks & Illusionist Tomothy Woon. Aspiring divas come ready for an open mic session. Bring picnics, blankets, family & friends & join in the fun. 7pm-9.30pm, Saturday 8 May 2004. Marrickville Town Hall, 303 Marrickville Road.

WARNING: Shameless self promotion ahead!

This week on "Cruisin' with Jake Kilby", we have loads of CD giveaways, plus some season one of Will & Grace on DVD. There'll be loads of music, movie and TV news and gossip and we'll be joined by Ryan Murphy and Dan Murphy to get an update of what's going on in the club scene. Tune in on Tuesday night from 7pm - 10pm, Beat FM 87.6.

Thanks to all who called in for the giveaways on Cruisin' with Jake Kilby tonight. There will be another Will & Grace DVD to giveaway next week for those who missed out.

Keep on supporting queer airwaves! Beat fm 87.6

Does anyone know what's happening with the gay rights lobby? I heard that a number of people on the committee resigned last week because the lobby refuses to support gay marriage and won't campaign for it. There was nothing in the star observor today about it. Anyone know what happened?

There's some info at:

http://www.glrl.org.au/publications/newsletters/2004/2004_May_Committee.htm

nom-de plume 'highSMITH' writes a superb article on the realities of HIV in the current SSO. Queer or unqueer, +/-, most will find the article captivating. I hope

For those who are interested...

"Cruisin' with Jake Kilby"
Tuesdays 19:00 - 22:00
87.6 Beat FM

This week on Cruisin' we have more great giveaways, including tickets to G.A.Y, season one of Will & Grace on DVD, more CD's and Stiffies Underwear. There will be the usual gossip, news, and nonsense. Get set for cruise control...

CALLING HIV+ve Asian men in Sydney for YUM CHA!!

Date/Time: 11am on Saturday, 22 May
PLEASE ARRIVE NO LATER THAN THIS TIME to avoid waiting

Place: Silver Spring restaurant, 191 Hay street, Sydney
behind Capital theatre
between George & Pitt st's in front of escalators

Price: $15.50 for all you can eat (except larger dishes)

Organised by Asia Plus - a program of the Asian Project of ACON.
Feel free to contact John on 0413 04 33 66 or asia@acon.org.au

Is that appropriate? i mean it's one thing to say that there's a dinner hapening for poz guys, but to advertise where it's being held like that would freak alot of people out and they'll be scared off. precisely the people who need support the most.

I have had second thoughts after posting the invite for Yum Cha and agree it could have been done without the venue details. I am sorry for the insensitivity. John

Smoke free Pubs and Clubs. Proposed new Legislation for Queensland.

The Queensland govt. has been reviewing the legislation covering smoking in public places (Tobacco and other Smoking Products Act).
On the 1st June 2004 (next week) the health minister will be releasing a Discussion paper outlining proposed changes to make it illegal to smoke in all pubs, clubs, and casinos. It is possible that the proposals may also include Alfresco dining/beer gardens, parks and beaches.

There is to be a period were public submissions are invited to let the govt. know how far the legislation should go, and when it should take effect. Submissions are to be open from 1st June till 31 July 2004. The discussion paper is to be posted on the Qld Health website once released. This will make it accessible so that you can send in a submission.

Please send in a submission. If you want to go to your favourite gay pub and not come home stinking of smoke then next week is your opportunity to let the govt. know.
People living outside of Qld are welcome to make a public submission expressing an opinion on Qld legislation. The more states/territories that ban smoking, the more pressure this places on all the other states to follow.

Once the discussion paper is released next week I will be placing another notice on this site advising of the exact web address.

If anyone knows where I can post similar notices on community websites (particularly for Brisbane/Qld) then please let me know.

See you in a smoke free Sporties Hotel (Brisvegas gay pub) soon.

Lets see...no smoking on the beach and they kick all the smokers out of the pubs so they have to light up on the street. How long before it's banned there too?

Wed 26 May 2004 10:43:52 - not soon enough. smoking is a filthy habit and you are much better off not smoking. what are the reasons you keep on smoking (apart from addiction)? what are the benefits of smoking? why should we have to put up with such a destructive drug in our society?

much better for you to go and shoot up somewhere and dispose of your needle safely. you'll do less damage to the rest of us.

Wed 26 May 2004 11:40:30
I'm not saying that smoking is good for anybody or has any benefits, but many, many people indulge in unsafe habits which endanger themselves and other people on a daily basis (including shooting up).

People have and always will indulge in things which are no good to anybody.

I just think its all getting a bit too hysterical. Why not try to find a comprimise?

Wed 26 May 2004 16:21:23 - the compromise can be that we don't outlaw smoking altogether and only allow people to smoke inside their own homes. anything less is unacceptable.

Sat 29 May 2004 12:50:06

That's big of you

Sat 29 May 2004 12:50:06

You know, you're right. Let's ban extreme sports, driving cars and motorcycles, alcohol, fast food, sex, industry - they're all potentially bad for you and other people.

Lets also ban hard drugs. Oh they already have? Just proves how successful prohibition is.

Kelly's parties for trannies and bi guys are now being held monthly instead of weekly. The first Friday of every month, as it happens. There's a roaring log fire to greet you when you arrive, and all sorts of interesting surprises waiting to spring out at you! New friends welcome, old friends welcome back.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/frillseekers

Eat, Drink, and be Mary!

I'm really disappointed with Beat FM at the moment on 2 fronts.

1. The signal is just appauling almost to the point of being a total waste of time. I'm sure some of those DJ's that have those late night programs must sit in the studio wondering if anymore than just a handful of people are actually listening.

In my opinion until this issue is resolved Beat FM continues to be a white elephant.

2. Their website. HELLO !!! Youve been on air now for how long ?? Checking the website and there's a front page with an email contact and a phone number contact - THATS IT !!!
Guys , Just in case you didnt know - thats not a website.

Please - lets get some useful info up on that website ASAP particularly for the underprivledged who cant pickup the white elephant signal.

Smoke Free Pubs/Clubs – Public submissions open – Have your say.

For the last 7 months the Qld govt. has been reviewing the laws concerning smoking in public places (Tobacco and other Smoking Products Act). A proposal has been made to introduce legislation totally banning smoking in all pubs, clubs and casinos in Qld. The govt. has opened a 2-month period where it is seeking feedback from the community concerning the proposed legislation changes.

In particular the govt. is keen to hear your ideas on:
1. How far the new legislation should go.
2. A timeline for the new legislation to take effect.
3. A timeline for mandatory future review (i.e. toughening) of the legislation.

The health minister has released a Discussion Paper outlining possible new legislation. The Discussion Paper can be accessed at http://www.health.qld.gov.au/atods/default.asp (this site also contains info on the current Qld legislation)
Printed copies can be obtained by contacting Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Services, Queensland
Health, on 07 3234 1709.

You are welcome to make a public submission in reply to the discussion paper.
Submissions must be received by 31st July 2004.
The next step after this round of submissions is the drawing up and then passing of legislation. It is expected that the legislation will be passed before Christmas.

People living in other states/countries are welcome to make a public submission expressing an opinion on Qld legislation. The more states/territories that ban smoking, the more pressure this places on all the other states to follow.
Please send in a submission, and also send this information on to your friends/family so they can also make a submission.
You could also send in letters for publication in your local and state newspapers (as I have done) letting more people know how they can make a submission. If you want to go to your favourite pub and not come home stinking of smoke then now is your opportunity to let the govt. know.

Queensland looks set to become the 3rd state/territory in Australia to ban smoking in all pubs, clubs, and casinos. In late 2003 the South Australian and then the ACT government, announced similar legislation to ban smoking in pubs and clubs. Unfortunately there is a delay of 4 years and 3 years respectively before their legislation takes effect (Oct. 2007 for SA, and Dec. 2006 for ACT). Queensland must have smoke free pubs and clubs THIS YEAR. (Premier Beattie has recently said he is happy to allow 2 or 3 years before the legislation takes effect).


If anyone knows where I can post notices on community websites (particularly for Brisbane/Qld) then please let me know.

See you in a smoke free Sporties Hotel (Bris-vegas gay pub) soon.

Sat 29 May 2004 18:17:18


you don't need to prohibit tobacco - only make it illegal to consume in public. and it wouldn't have to be a completely enforced for it to make at least some dents in the lowering of smokers in public. ie. smokers can linger in back alleys where they can indulge in their addiction out of the public eye.

Queer Screen presents

A smash hit FLASHBACK from the 1990s...

RELAX...IT'S JUST SEX

Sunday 6th June - 8.45PM

Valhalla Cinema
Glebe Point Rd, Glebe
$15 Full/$12 members/concessions

Bookings 9332 4938 (Mon - Fri 11-4)
Remaining tickets from the venue on the night.

GAY SEX, LESBIAN SEX, STRAIGHT SEX; RELAX...IT'S JUST SEX.

“Relax...It's Just Sex careens from comedy to tragedy and back again. It's an emotionally powerful and ultimately heart-warming trip through life in the '90s.” - San Francisco International Lesbian & Gay Film Festival

Featuring one of the finest ensemble casts around, staring Jennifer Tilly - Bound's Femme Fetale and Tank Girl's Lori Petty.

www.queerscreen.com.au

ph: 9332 4938

you don't need to prohibit tobacco - only make it illegal to consume in public. and it wouldn't have to be a completely enforced for it to make at least some dents in the lowering of smokers in public. ie. smokers can linger in back alleys where they can indulge in their addiction out of the public eye.
- Tue 1 Jun 2004 15:36:39

Yes like the homosexuals once did

RE: PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS RE SMOKING LAWS.

Many thanks for the info.

I went to
http://www.health.qld.gov.au/atods/default.asp
and read the Discussion paper the govt. put out about possible stricter laws banning smoking in pubs/clube etc.

I was shocked to learn that 200 Australians (nonsmokers) die each year from Passive Smoking. It was equally disturbing to read that 65,000 school children in Queensland alone are smokers.

I have sent in my submission to the Health Minister saying that smoking in all pubs, clubs, casinos, and Al Fresco dining areas must be banned IMMEDIATELY.
My family has done the same.

Thanks for letting me know about this opportunity to have my say about law reform on smoking in public places.

I agree about banning smoking.

I want to go to the pub and not come home stinking of other peoples smoke.
As for the information released by the government in their own Discussion Paper it is absolutely disgusting when you read the facts. It sounds as if the govt. is going to pass really strict laws, and bloody good on them too. About time I reckon.

I too have sent in my submission asking the govt. to ban smoking.

Please everyone else do the same too. The more states that bring in these laws the sooner all Australians will be able to go to the pub in safety and comfort.

Can someone invent a cigarette that prevents the smoke reaching anyone but the smoker? That would solve the problem (except for smokers breath).

The more states that bring in these laws the sooner all Australians will be able to go to the pub in safety and comfort.
Barry - Townsville - Wed 2 Jun 2004 20:48:57

ALL Australians? Except for the smokers of course. Nobody gives a toss about their comfort, and seem intent on causing them discomfort because they choose to do something you disapprove of. Why is it so hard to have separate (air tight) areas so EVERBODY can have a good night?

Frequently in clubs people are intoxicated and/or drug f***ed, and yes their behaviour can have a detrimental impact on others or cause their night to be less pleasurable, but do we all start petitioning against it? No. We put up with it because we understand that it's a nightclub and people go there to indulge themselves and party. Its a live and let live philosophy which unfortunately isnt being extended to smokers. How would a separate area be hurting you?

The anti-smoking witch-hunt is going too far. I resent the implication that smokers should be treated with disrespect - or that law changes are for their "own good". Its up to ADULTS to decide what's good for them.

I'm old enough to remember the outbreak of AIDS and the bollocking the homosexual community over that, and the uncomprimising 'moral majority' anti-smoking lobby are beginning to sound very Nile-esque.

I was really pleased to read what the Qld smoking laws look set to become. From reading the info I downloaded at http://www.health.qld.gov.au/atods/default.asp
it sounds really good.

I have sent in a submission congratualing Qld on their forward thinking.
I can't wait till we get similar laws here in Victoria

Thu 3 Jun 2004 16:47:46 - the dangers of smoking are well documented.

why do people continue to make comparisons to the anti-smoking lobby with anti-homosexual lobby? it's hardly the same thing. stop trying to use homophobia as an excuse to continue your addiction.

I hope them all the best with the anti smoking lobbies, but I don't know how successful they will be with the leather community...

Cigar sex is alive and well...

Yummy

Cigar sex is alive and well...

Yummy
Stoggie Pounding - Fri 4 Jun 2004 11:17:05

Who's your Daddy then.....

I agree....

Thu 3 Jun 2004 16:47:46 - the dangers of smoking are well documented. why do people continue to make comparisons to the anti-smoking lobby with anti-homosexual lobby? it's hardly the same thing. stop trying to use homophobia as an excuse to continue your addiction.
- Thu 3 Jun 2004 22:16:41

The dangers of many things are well documented.

LOL. Perhaps people continue to make these comparisons because both these ideologies have a similar holier- than- thou attitude and an evangelical hatred of anybody who disagrees with them. They campaign against a minority and they do it under the guise of "health concerns".

So I reiterate, if a separate, air locked, unmanned smoker's room was established in a pub, how is that of any concern to you?

There are more pressing and important issues facing gay people right now than trying to stop someone having a durry in peace.

The government you are so fond of writing letters to are also raking in bucket loads of cash from cigarette taxes and getting kickbacks from their big business cigarette company mates.

And why do you assume I even have a nicotine addiction?

Her Tongue Magazine is a magazine for Women of Brisbane and Beyond. It is very queer women friendly and started up because of a lack of lesbian/bi women newspapers, magz or just general support of lesbian/bi women media.

If you'd like to submit something we'd love to read/view it! We accept artwork, comics, articles, short stories, erotica, photographs, poetry, political or non-political stuff, event details (we have a monthly calendar of events!). Basically we're keen to publish anything (as long as it's not sexist, racist or homophobic).

All women are welcome to come along to its meetups on the 2nd and 4th Sat of the month, and 3rd Friday of the month at Visible Ink Space, 139 Constance St Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, Qld.

If you're not from Brisbane and would like a copy each month it costs only $15 Concession or $20 Waged for a whole year's subscription! Email hertongue@excite.com for more details or info or send a money order or cheque to Her Tongue to the above address.

Cheers,
Lani
Her Tongue Magazine

Fri 4 Jun 2004 17:02:00

a) I don't have a problem with your proposal to have a separate room for smokers. i have a problem with smokers incosiderate attitudes who smoke in public. ie. in the street where i am walking, standing at the entrances of buildings which i have to walk through in order to get on with my life.

b) i don't hate smokers. just their filthy habit - and yes, i know the superficial comparison with "hate the sin, love the sinner" christian lines - but as is pointed out time and time again, the dangers of smoking are well documented.

do you think there is a common reason as to why the queer community and lower class people all have higher rates of smoking than the population average?

c) yes, the government is raking in the dough from smoking taxes. so considering they take so much of your smoking money, are banning smoking in all the places you like to frequent and smoking actually impairs your health - you must either have a very strong reason to smoke, or are just a sucker for punishment. neither of which i can really help you with. though acon is running quit smoking courses - you may want to try them out.

d) i assume you have a smoking addiction because you keep on going on about how much smokers are being oppressed just like homosexuals are/were - despite the scientific evidence that SMOKING IS BAD for you.

and besides, do you reckon you could stop if you wanted to? that's the test of whether you are a nicotine addict.

Fri 4 Jun 2004 21:38:56

Smoking is bad for you
Binge drinking is bad for you
Breathing polluted air is bad for you
Stress is bad for you
... I could go on and on and on

There is scientific evidence for all of these, yet people keep doing all of them and will continue to. There is not much you can do to stop them, except to educate them. Telling someone that what they are doing is wrong or illogical won't make them stop. Prohibition just drives it underground increasing the risks.

With smoking in particular it is an addiction which people will not give up until they want to or need to. Wanting to be in a pub but not being able to smoke may help some people give up.

It is the venues that are not providing smoke free sections that we need to convince now, then smokers will slowly follow suit.

- Fri 4 Jun 2004 21:38:56

a)Well you must be one p***ed off puppy every minute of your life. Have you thought of moving to a country area?

It makes me wonder what you will turn your attention to when you finally get your way.

b)Yes, everbody knows all the statistics about how bad it is for you (by the way, obesity is threatening to overtake smoking as the no.1 preventable killer, you should look into that); but as I said before it is still up to the adult to make their own CHOICE, not to be dictated to by someone who dislikes their lifestyle. The last time I looked it was still legal.

I'm not sure why you put that second paragraph in - are you somehow suggesting that smoking is "low class". Is this now a classist issue?

c) see d)

d) Its funny that you would sneeringly refer to "my addiction" because I dont smoke - but my friends do and I respect their right to do so. I also enjoy socialising with my friends in pubs and drinking alcohol, which as Arti mentions above is also bad for you (perhaps we should have non-drinking pubs now).

----------------------------------------------
Arti, I agree with all the above. I hope that there could be different smoking & non smoking areas in pubs and clubs, so that it would mean I would be able to conduct a conversation with my friends without having to follow them outside every ten minutes (or into dark alleyways, as someone suggested before)

Sat 5 Jun 2004 15:16:02

no i'm not saying that smoking is low class. only that there is probably a common element as to why the gay community and lower class people smoke. ie. stress in life and subsequent addiction to smoking.

and no, i'm not a pissed off puppy every minute of my life. only when i am around incosiderate smokers.

i actually had to work with a seriously addicted smoker and it was hell trying to have a prolonged meeting with him because after about 1hr of discussions he'd get really aggressive about the smallest detail. i learnt to let him go for a smoke on the hour every hour. when he returned he was alot more civilised. at least until the hour was up again and he needed his nicotine hit.

and yes, smoking is a legal substance, but people are still idiots for smoking despite the dangers and the clamp down on where they can smoke. seems like the government is taking them for a ride and they are only more than happy to oblige. a logial person would change their behaviour (ie. give up smoking), but smokers aren't logical, they are addicts.

geez, for someone who doesn't smoke you really seem to love defending your friends right to smoke! one would've thought that if you had your friends best interests at heart you'd be getting them to quit their unhealthy habit.

smoking really is a problem for many people in our community, particular HIV poz people who are on the pension. not only does it impair their immune system even further than it already is, but i actually drains their finances quite considerably.

i'm dying for a smoke

- Mon 7 Jun 2004 02:50:45


lol.... very funny!!

I am currently writing a paper on the issues impacting on GLBTQ students living in student residences. I will be presenting this paper in March to a conference of Australian university residential college managers. If you have lived on a university residence, are considering living on one, or currently are living on one, I would love to hear of your experiences!

Please email viks_uni_stuff@hotmail.com
Thanks!

I have also sent in a submission to the govt. asking for laws banning smoking.

Thanks for the info mate.
Look forward to a drink in my skoke free pub soon.

New Mardi Gras is advertising for people to join the Festival and Sleaze Working Groups - I've posted more details on the NMG board. It would be great to get 'new blood' involved to make the festival as inclusive as possible - the first Working Group meeting is next week.

As I'm sure you all know, the Mardi Gras Festival is now a community-based, non-curated arts, sport and cultural festival. If you have interest and/or expertise in any of those areas and have the time to get involved, please do! If you have ideas and contacts but can't commit to actually becoming a member of the Working Group, that's great too.

Bring on the smoking bans in pubs and clubs.

I sent in a submission to the govt also.

CAN YOU HELP!!!
"Aid for AIDS"
There is now an organisation in the United States that excepts unwanted or unused HIV medications for redistribution to 3rd world countries.
I myself have already sent 2 lots of medications that I nolonger need or use anymore. If you feel that you are able to help in any way then please take a look at there website...
Aid for AIDS: http://www.aidforaids.org

Beat FM have just announced that their website is now up at
www.beatfm.com.au

I would never have a partner who smoked. Thanks goodness I don't have to worry about that as my partner and I have been together for 16 years.

I can't wait till we can go to the gay pub and not have to put up with other peoples smoke. Give it up smokers and it will widen your circle of potential boyfriends. Nonsmokers are so much nicer to kiss. Plus you know they are not going to die early on you due to a smoking induced illness.

2 gay guys, partners for nearly 6 years are seeking a group in the Newcastle area for Chubbies, Bears, Cubs etc anyone know who we can contact

"Cruisin' with Kilby & Co."
Tuesdays 19:00 - 22:00
87.6 Beat FM

This week on Cruisin' Sydney's own diva Shauna Jensen will be dropping in for a chat, as will NMG Co-Chair extraordinaire and groovy gal about town Steph Sands. We have more great giveaways, including CD's from Central Station Records and underwear from AussieBum and there will be the usual gossip, news, and nonsense.

hey, whats the story with the green ticks??

There is a rumour going around that Beat FM sacked The Canadian Club show because the host of the show (Glen Upton) didn't think that BQN was a great party and said so. Is this not censorship?
I really enjoyed his show and am sorry hear this if it is true. Shame on Beat Fm for getting rid of one of their best shows.

Sydney Leather Pride Assoc.
The next General Meeting will be held on
Saturday 10th July 2:00 pm at
Sydney Pride Centre (old Erskineville Town Hall).

The meeting will include pictures of the events of Leather Pride Week and be followed by beer and snacks for our members and Leather Pride Week volunteers.
All members are welcome and if you know anyone who is thinking of joining it is a good opportunity to bring them along to find out more about the association.

Also, the website has been updated with select pictures from Fair Day and the Harbour Cruise. Inquisition and Love Muscle pics will follow. Email me if you had your pic taken and it isn't there, and I'll try and hunt it down for you or come to the GM.

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/

QUEER SCREEN QUIZ NIGHT

It's time once more to batter the grey matter as Queer Screen presents Quiz Night 4. Test your knowledge of cinema, tv and all queer trival. Fame, glory and fantastic prizes could be yours!

Tables of 10 are available for pre-booking for $100 ($10 per person)

This is Queer Screen fundraiser so your support would be heartily welcomed. Great Prizes too!!!

WHERE?
Auditorium – Paddington / Woollahra RSL Club
226 Oxford St
Paddington

WHEN?
Sunday 27 June 7.30pm
Bar opens at 6.30

BOOKINGS?
Credit Card Bookings: 9332 4938 (Mon - Fri, 11am to 4pm)
Cash: At Door

Book Now!!! This is a PRIDE WEEK Event!

THE NOT SO GREAT DEBATE

The Velocity crew is back at it again, bringing with them their newest event for Pride Week 2004 - The Not So Great Debate. The debate is being held at the Erskineville Town Hall on July 2 at 7.30pm.

The topic for the debate, hosted by the beautiful Amber G'Oui Ti, will be 'That youth should be seen but not heard' and the teams are:

Affirmative - Steph Sands, Lou-Anne Lind, and Stevie Clayton
Negative - David Skapinker, David Hughes, and Murray Hood

EVENT DETAILS

Venue
Sydney Pride Centre, Erskineville Town Hall
104 Erskineville Road, Erskineville

Date and Time
Friday July 2
Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start

Tickets
Available on the door
$10 Full Price, $5 Student/Concession

For more details on The Not So Great Debate, please visit www.velocity.org.au.

Pride Week Celebration have begun!

Sydney’s Pride Week celebrations start today Thursday 24th June and end Sunday 4th July. Pride’s brand new Website now has the full program available. Just click on this link http://www.pridecentre.com.au to get all your Pride Week information.

SSO Pride Week Awards…presented by the Sydney PRIDE Centre

Tickets are now being snapped up for the Awards Night as the votes are pouring in. Now is your chance to pick the people who have made a difference in our community – to vote just visit http://www.ssonet.com.au.

The winners will be announced at the Awards Night and tickets are on sale for $25 from the Toolsheds or from the Sydney PRIDE Centre. This includes champagne and canapés on arrival as well as finger food served during the night. Drinks will be available to purchase.

The Awards Night takes place:
Saturday 3rd July 7.30pm to midnight
Sydney PRIDE Centre
Erskineville Town Hall
104 Erskineville Road Erskineville

Your hosts for the evening are Sexy Galexy, Portia Turbo, Kate Monroe and Claire de Lune with DJ’s Shigeki and Kelly Lynch doing the honours behind the decks. Performances by Brown Skin, Mystique, Sexy Galexy, Claire de Lune and her boys will keep you entertained all night.

Pride Night...it's on nights like these I wish I were a Sydney sider...well, perhaps New Years eve...and around Mardi Gra...hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...Mardi Gras!!!

We Victorians need more organised celebrations.

who won?

Here are the results of last nights Pride Week Awards held at Pride's new premises in Erskinville Town Hall.

Outstanding Young Achiever: Shane Janek (aka Courtney Act)	Outstanding Young Achiever: Murray Hood (Velocity)	Community Member of the Year: Ian Jopson (other nominees: Bob Brown, Rodney Croome, Monica Hingston & Peg Moran, Michael Woodhouse)
Community Supporter of the Year: Clover Moore (other nominees: Marie Bashir, Mark Latham, Tanya Plibersek, Karen Purser)	Villain of the Year: John Howard (not present) (other nominees: Tony Abbot, Peter Jensen, George Pell, Peter Stokes)	Most Innovative Community Event: Bingay (other nominees: Club Arak, DIVA "And All That Jazz", NMG DJ Spin Off , Youth Gender Fair)
Quiet Achiever of the Year: Tim Young GLCS & 2010	Outstanding Community Group: ACON Safe Sex Sluts & Party Rover Team (other nominees: New Mardi Gras, Pollys, Queer TV, Velocity)	Hall of Fame: Bill Whitaker
Sexiest Male: George Moneta (not present) (other nominees: Paul Freeman, Shane Janek, Ian Jopson, Mike Kelly)		Sexiest Female: Ann-Marie Calilhanna (other nominees: Sarah Denning, Sexy alexy, Merryn Johns, Shannon Keogh)

Photos by Greg

I don't mean to be overly critical but I and everyone I know who attended thought this year's Pride Week Awards night was extremely underwhelming, particularly compared to last year's rather glamorous awards night at the Paddington Town Hall. The venue this year, just didn't work - too small, no tables or chairs, could barely see the people on stage (who did do a very good job actually). It felt like a very bad school dance. It certainly wasn't worth $25!! I know there are always cost issues but if Pride wants people to attend the Awards night then I hope that they will learn from this and go back to a better venue next year.

Hello everyone!

Panther, thanks for the photos. Saw you there Sat night!

S.E.D. - Mon 5 Jul 2004 18:18:35

I couldn't disagree with you more. I was there with a whole group of people and what I saw was my friends and everyone body else having a great time. It's so sad that you have chosen to be so negative about an event that was pulled together by so many volunteers in the community.

It was fun, it was inclusive and yes, Pride tried to lower their costs...it was a fundraiser after all! Also, every single Pride speaker and all the MC's talked about the fact that Pride was trying to showcase it's new space. Can you blame for that given that is what their business is? To run a community centre.

I thought the night was great. Cheap drinks, great food (LOVED the fairy bread), great people, fantastic atmosphere.

It's not always about glam. Sometimes, it's about community. This is what they tried to do and I'm not about to have a go at them for it.

This was my first Pride Week Awards Night, so I can't offering a comparison to previous years.

I was there with a group of friends and colleagues, most of which was their first time aswell, and we all had a fantastic time! It was such an intimate and vibrant atmosphere, and the excitement lasted throughout the whole night and even afterwards at assorted venues.

PRIDE and the volunteers should be commended for a job very well done! I'm looking forward to next year's.

Sydney Leather Pride Assoc.
The next General Meeting will be held on
Saturday 10th July 2:00 pm at
Sydney Pride Centre (old Erskineville Town Hall).

That's this saturday!! with beers afterwards.

Also, pictures from the march Carnal party, and fabulous shots from Inquisition are now up on the website in all their laser goodness. And yes, you can see Neal Crawford. More pics at the meeting.

Hi there.

Im a keen AFL person who loves watching the Sydney Swans however I have never been to a live game at the SCG to watch the Swannies go round.

I recall in the days of the Burdekin Hotel there was a gay Swans supporters club and alot of these people went to the games and then went to the Burdekin post match for a few beers.

Is there still out there somewhere a gay group who all go to the Swans games together ? I'd love to join in.

Details would be appreciated.

Velocity Inc
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

PLACE AIDS Council of NSW
Level 2
9 Commonwealth Street
Darlinghurst NSW 2010
TIME 2.00pm
DATE Saturday July 17, 2004

Whatever happend to Dreaded Ned's Gay Guide?

It used to be very good but most of it hasn't been updated since 2002.

Is there another gay guide (with proper reviews - not just a bar list) that anyone can recommend?

who is Velocity Inc
is there a website or info?

who is Velocity Inc
is there a website or info?
- Thu 8 Jul 2004 20:46:58

They put on the under 18s dance parties and other youth events throughout the year. Remember the Evolution Underwater party in March this year?

www.velocity.org.au

Hi there.

Im a keen AFL person who loves watching the Sydney Swans however I have never been to a live game at the SCG to watch the Swannies go round.

I recall in the days of the Burdekin Hotel there was a gay Swans supporters club and alot of these people went to the games and then went to the Burdekin post match for a few beers.

Is there still out there somewhere a gay group who all go to the Swans games together ? I'd love to join in.

Details would be appreciated.

Promoting Tenpin Bowling.

Hello to Everyone.

Amigos Singles is a gay tenpin bowling league located at Randwick AMF centre, 130 Belmore Road, Randwick (above Coles supermarket). The membership consists of gay and gay-friendly men and women with ages ranging from 20s to 60s.

Scores are handicapped so beginners or lower average bowlers are advantaged slightly. The singles format is 'user friendly' to people who are shift workers, business travellers or are likely to be a bit irregular in attendance. With a maximum of 4 people to 2 lanes, finish time is usually around 10pm.

Bowling fee per night is $20 and includes AMF's bowling centre fees, shoe hire, three on-lane social nights and two nights out (one mid-year and one end-of-year) plus end of year trophy.

We meet each Wednesday at 8:10 pm to start bowling at 8:30 pm. Those who choose to do so often drop into the Taxi Club for drinks on the way home.

We run three mini-seasons each year; the current season started on 18th May. Points are scored each week towards both the current season ladder and end of year champion. The points competition is optional and social bowlers are welcome.

You are more than welcome to come along any time, either to participate in the competition or just to enjoy a night's social bowling with a friendly group of people.

Presently, the league is seeking new members. If you, or anyone else you know, are interested you or they can email <amigos-singles@optusnet.com.au> or phone Ian (0411 397 653) or Donna (0407 109 727).

Anyone interested in setting up a femmes group-The Femme Club -a SUPPORT club as alot are far apart and some seem to have a difficult time.The aim is to provide support to each other via emails,phones and letters.If any interested we maybe able to organize 3 monthly get togethers on weekends.I may also set up a website depending on the need for support

Hi Guys,
This is the first time that I have had a chance to go through the pinkboard in a while.

But I am curious at whom the strange person is, that is squarking so much about smoking.

Yes I do agree that quite a few smokers are inconsiderate,
being a smoker my self I dont like having smoke blown in face either. Infact there isnt really much I like about smoking but I as the rest of the smoking population are addicted to the damned product.

Giving up is really not as easy as most may think.

But in reference to the comment " lower class", I do wonder what you consider to be as such.
Are we talking about financial, status- what are you actually refering to. As there are many trailer trash who do not smoke and then there are many extremely wealthy people who do.
I really do agree with the smoking issue, but lets face facts if all you banner waving non smokers are trully serious then go the full hog and have all forms of tabacco banned within Australia, but do be prepared that if such a thing was to happen the tax hike would be incredible, as you well know how much the government makes from it- you said it yourself.
Now the true question is, (at the moment any one whom has smoked even if they give up will all ways be considered a smoker by the health industry, and as such are not entitled to many perks as a life time non smoker) if the government stops all forms of tabacco should smokers be exempt from the extra tax, leaving all non smokers to carry that burden.- You cant have it both ways.
Please remember that 30 yrs ago smoking was thrusted upon us and some very lucky ones did not take it up. I Do agree that the younger generation has no real excuse to taking it up, not with all the education they recieve and so on.
Then there is the peer pressure factor- and maybe that is what you are referring to re the "class" statement, but peer presure happens in all levels of societies.

Once its all said and done, Please remember that not all smokers are inconsiderate as are not all non smokers (for you smokers that carry on about the non smokers)

When they bring in the "smoking area" will it work?
Will non smokers not be allowed to go there?
And will many establishments either raise thier prices to make up for the short fall in business, or simply close down.

Better still they may be like the ACT where there is a wall that does not reach the ceiling or the floor but is conveniently located around the gabling area- AND THAT IS THE ONLY PLACE ONE CAN SMOKE.

Some where a happy medium has to be reached for both sides.
In the mean time lets all be alot more considerate to each other.

Hi.
The Gf and I just got back from a stay at Liberty Resort Cairns. What a great place! Our room was unreal, the location and decor were fab. BUT we spent the whole time wondering where everyone was, after all it is peak season, and there were only a handful of guests. Also, we were the only gay guests there!! We finally found out on the last day that it changed hands last December and is no longer exclusively gay and lesbian, and they are trying to rebuild thier client base, although they were still very gay friendly. I cant help thinking what a shame it didnt work out.

Thu 15 Jul 2004 10:43:54

Unfortunately alot of smokers AREN"T considerate of other people as they have no control over their addiction and how it affects people.

Lay off the smokers. Sure they taste less yummy when kissing and their clothes and hair smell BUT it is very difficult to give up. How much do those packets cost now anyway??

Usually the inconsiderate ones are drunk! So blame the big drinkers for being inconsiderate.

All you struggling smokers out there, I have hope you can give it up. After a full on struggle, I finally did.

Take Care

Love you anyway

ACON is running Quit Smoking courses for all you people having difficulty overcome your nicotine addiction.

find more info at: www.acon.org.au

I dont agree that smoking should be banned in nightclubs. I do however, feel that people need to be more considerate when smoking in clubs. I work behind the bar in one of melbournes most well known gay nightclubs, and although i have been a light smoker for 4 years, have only stated experiancing smoking related problems since i began working in clubs (i.e. constant throat scratch). it is not practical to ban people from smoking in clubs, as, with any banned activity in a nightclub, it is VERY hard to police. i do however, feel that it would be appropriate to ban people from smoking infront of a bar. there is nothing more irritating (to the eyes, throat, voice, and general annoyance) than someone coming up and ordering a drink, and at the same time blowing a mouthful of smoke in your face. also irritating is smokes left in ashtrays, whils still burning, either because the punter has put it down, to pick up again shortly, or because they have finished with it, but have failed to but it out properly. There is nothing more irritating to the eyes than the smoke coming from a burning cigarette in an ashtray. So, smoke if you will in nightclubs, but please, dont smoke in front of the bar, for the sake of the people who have to put up with it 11 hours a night

I'm a smoker, and I think banning smoking from licensed venues is a great idea! For the last few months, I've been cutting back from a pack a day to perhaps a pack a week. The hardest environment to stop smoking is (surprise, surprise) a licensed venue.

If smoking is banned from licensed venues, then chances are smoking will become a dying habit.

I'm a smoker...
- Wed 21 Jul 2004 07:42:53

I agree to a point. But, if they are going to do it, then it must be done across the board so that some commercial venues wont have an edge over others by allowing smoking in their venues. And I don't agree there should be smoker areas, where it might end up with services being much better in the smokers areas than the smoke free areas. Perhaps duty of care should include reduction of harm related to smoking.

Peelboy,
the problems you associate with people smoking at the bar are experienced by your patrons as well. ie smoking ends left in ashtrays on tables, having smoke blown in your face not to mention having clothes and skin burnt by people insisting on taking cigarettes on the dance floor. It is very unpleasant for non smokers.At least in NSW you cannot smoke at the bar.
I agree it is hard to police if you can smoke in some areas and not others and the only answer is to ban it accros the board as suggested by the last poster in order not to disadvantage any venues. It has been made abundantly clear for at least thirty years that smoking causes significant damage to health, if not death, just ban it.

I agree, just ban it!
Enough pussy-footing around as if we are about to do some thing bad. No more comfy-blanket notices and pictures on packets pretending they are going to work! It’s a shameful approach that hasn’t worked, isn’t working and hardly any evidence showing it’s going to work. There’s more evidence against tobacco than needed to ban it. The trauma and the suffering of smokers and second hand smokers, their friends and family and the amount of money spent by the taxpayers, far out-weigh any reason politicians and tobacco companies can conjure up. It should not be allowed to be consumed!
But then again, we ARE living in a world of bushes and howards…how can anyone expect anything better.
As for civil liberties…well, I don’t see any one trying to legalize any of the other recreational drugs…you recon there’s more happening here than that meets the eye?!

No government, especially not here in australia anyway is going to ban such a huge revenue raiser. the tobacco industry is a multi billion dollar industry in aust. if you ban tobacco because it kills, then you would also have to ban alcohol under the same reasoning. as much as i don't understand why people want to smoke in the first place i can't see it being banned out right. the most we can hope/ask for is that smoking be banned at all public venues... is that asking for too much?

Request to PeelBoy: can you please write some thing on the Party wall about up comming Peel events.

Thanks Mate.

There were times in the past where I was only one of two people in my group of friends who didn’t smoke. When we went out for dinner or lunch, it was hard to sit there alone when your friends had to go out for a fag. But things have changed, and now, the couple of my friends who do smoke are pretty reluctant to leave the table for a fag.

I think the multi-billion dollar industries will fall with time. Small steps will do wonders to change the culture, and with time, change it to a level where it’ll be possible to control tobacco use more rigorously.

So, I think although we may not be able to do it today or tomorrow, we should take those little steps to make sure it’ll happen eventually. Starting from public places, enclosed areas and perhaps any place where there’s a fire hazard. During summer that’s most of Australia!

After george bush, I think…I hope, the world population would take a little more time to think before casting a vote.

Will Do!!!!

anyone got a lighter?

anyone got a lighter?
- Fri 23 Jul 2004 03:13:52

WOW! There ARE people living in the red chillie state!

How's the Cube going these days? Been there couple of times when we were in Can. and enjoyed an almost homely atmosphere. Had a great time!

Hi,

Queer Screen is holding a fundraising preview screening of

CONNIE & CARLA

starring Toni Collette and Nia Vardalos disguising themselves as drag queens to escape the mob!

THURSDAY 29TH JULY, 7PM
VALHALLA CINEMA, GLEBE

Bookings: 02 9332 4938 (Queer Screen)
Tix: $12 members/ $15 non-members

Remaining tix on sale on the night!

Come and support Queer Screen!

www.queerscreen.com.au

Rally today 1pm Sydney Town Hall.

***** TOOWOOMBA'S GLBT SOCIAL SUPPOURT GROUP *****

YOU WILL NEVER BELIEVE IT BUT...............

Silvers Social Club has been invited back to the Burke and Wills. The Burke and Wills has a new management team with new ideas, we have been invited back by Mr. Hackford the owner himself asking us to give them another go.........

Therefore Starting FRIDAY JULY 30

You are cordially invited to join with other members of GLBT community every Friday night from around 8:30pm until late in the front main bar located on Ruthven st.

This area has been given to us for use, with a guarantee of comfort and security. The area has been nicely renovated and is much more comfortable and also much more private - also there are pokies, a juke box, pool table and reasonably priced drinks.

The new management team has promised to work with the community, so if you have any ideas please feel free to let Robert or Mark know on Friday nights, or you can email glbt_silverwheat@yahoo.com.au

Cheers

Robert

Did anyone go to the rally on Sunday? i've only read negative commetns on other websites. what do people here tthink of it?

WOW! There ARE people living in the red chillie state!
- Fri 23 Jul 2004 09:09:28

It's actually a red chilli territory ...not state : P

My partner and I went on Sunday and as usual, the socialists couldn't help themselves! Clover did announce that the SCC would be bringing back the partnerships register that South Sydney started. The rallies are important but never seem to attract the support. Do we care about equality- not enough to get out of bed on Sunday morning me thinks!

Shamefully, my best intentions of attending the rally were waylaid by the hangover I experienced on Sunday. However, I did make it up to the Newington Inn for the debate/lecture/talk on gay marriage. I had expected more people to attend that than did, but cant really complain as I didnt attend the rally. It was quite good, apart from being bombarded with leaflets for various other political events, but good on them for getting out there and organising.

Perhaps the Fed Parliament should've been in Sydney after all...MG parade could've gone past infront of it, protests would be more visible and(!) the politicians would be just an eggs though away from all the activities!

But then again, the traffic would've been a bummer aye?!

Maybe if they organised a dance party protest it would attract more people... sad but true.

Have they thought about an outdoor protest at domain maybe... including all of the concepts who make us who we are ie.... stage, performers, music, political pressence.... and basically a way of getting exposure?

Maybe a daytime slightly like fairday style is the go?

Suggestion? - Thu 29 Jul 2004 12:54:06

The gay and lesbian community already has a tainted enough reputation as dance party addicts (and whatever connotations which may come with that). Staging a dance party protest would definitely give more volume, but I think it would be conveying a detrimental message.

Something like fairday would be better, but I still think there would be an issue with attendance.

What about something similar to the South Bank protest in Brisbane some time back? As far as I know (and someone could clarify this) a gay couple were kicked out of South Bank for kissing in public, so a large group of gay couples protested by kissing in the middle of South Bank.

This attracted a large turnout. I'm sure we can think of another creative way to convey a positive and influencial message while still attracting some numbers.

The lack of 'community' turnout at the protest cannot really be blamed on the fact that people were sleeping, getting over partying from the night before, etc, etc. The truth of the matter is that gay marriage is just not really important or on the agenda for most gay people, for some sure but not the majority. Tolerance and acceptance by the wider community at large is not dependent on marriage rights either.

I'd have to agree with Reality Check. The average poof and dyke is not clamouring to get married.

My gf and I went and saw Farenheit 9/11 last night. It was amazing, horrifying, sickening and astounding. It's absoultely a must-see.

<quote>I'd have to agree with Reality Check. The average poof and dyke is not clamouring to get married.
- Fri 30 Jul 2004 16:46:32

This average poof couldnt agree more.

Hi Everybody,
Did anybody go to the "Mapout Illawarra" last saturday.
I did, had a great time it was good to see so many people there...

hi all,

thought people might be interested in a new queer publication due out in october...


glory box

glory box is a new non-commercial queer newspaper to be distributed monthly in the melbourne area with limited interstate distribution. glory box will initially conduct a three month pilot from october 2004 with the goal of making it an ongoing project from 2005.

glory box aims to contribute to queer liberation and queer culture, both
through the paper and with a series of debauched parties.

glory box encourages people who would not normally consider themselves "media makers" to contribute.

we welcome all contributions whether they have clear queer content, are
written by a queer person or not as we see queer liberation as something that is not just for queer people but a project of sexual liberation for all.

we want glory box to be a publication that contributes to queer liberation not simply as an end goal but something that people are doing and living now.

glory box welcomes controversy. we are not interested in producing another sanitised and polite publication. contributors are encouraged to take risks and be explicit. we also welcome contributions under pseudonyms.

what do we want?

+ politics - we are not interested in telling you what is political or in
simply being reactive and we encourage contributors to incorporate politics into their work, not make politics their work. we do not want to preach or be a "queer socialist worker".

+ sex - queer sex is being increasingly sanitised. we want to bring back
the raunch. queer porn is very welcome.

+ critique - we don’t do reviews. we’re not interested in providing people with a list of commodities they have to buy to fit into a certain lifestyle. critiques of form, artist, genre will be accepted.

+ gonzo journalism

+ analysis - glory box is not a ‘news’paper so straight news articles will
not be accepted. analysis of contemporary issues however is very welcome.

+ randomness - how about writing a critique of toilet door penis or vagina art?

+ art/images/comics - we welcome non-textual contributions in all forms.

how to contibrute?

glory box has a style guide for contributions. it is available by emailing
glorybox@internode.on.net.

we encourage contributors to get in touch with the editors to discuss
possible contributions well in advance of deadlines. the deadline for the
first issue is august 30.

Thank you for your interest in the Glory Box project.

It has come to our attention tonight that Glory Box is the name of a women's event in Melbourne that has been running for a few months now (www.theglorybox.com). We are not associated with this event and were not aware of its existence until the event manager contacted us this evening.

Our 'Glory Box' crew got together tonight and had a discussion about alternative names for the publication. We've spent some time preparing this project and were quite attached to the old name so we're finding it a little difficult to rethink.

We will be in touch in a couple of days with a new project name and the completed style guide. Please ignore any emails/posts you may have received earlier this evening.

Sorry for any inconvenience and we look forward to your participation in the (renamed) Glory Box project in the coming months.

The 'Glory Box' team

Hi everyone.

Velocity Inc will be conducting it's first Community Consultation Process on Saturday 14 August, which is to be held at the Sydney Pride Centre (Erskineville Town Hall) from 2pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend this process, which will primarily be aimed at evaluating the needs of the youth sector of the GLBTQI community. The process will be followed by light entertainment including a DJ and light refreshments, including a chance to meet all of the Velocity crew.

Email me at mhood@velocity.org.au for more details.

Hope to see you all there!

Murray Hood
Velocity Inc - President

Dear Members and Supporters,

It’s Time to Play the Numbers Game - Respond Now to Labor’s Betrayal

The Howard Government plans to re-introduce its same-sex marriage ban. This ban will define marriage as between a man and a woman and ban the recognition of valid foreign same sex unions.

The ALP agreed to await the outcome of a Senate inquiry before voting on Howard’s marriage ban. But in a spineless move to pander to the fundamentalist Christian Right, the Labor Party has disgracefully betrayed our community. This week, at a forum organized by extremist, homophobic Christian fundamentalists, Nicola Roxon, the Shadow Attorney General, announced that Labor will ignore its commitment and will vote for the ban next week.

The Labor Party has decided that there are more votes in homophobia than in equality. This legislation is spiteful and discriminatory. Our community must let the Labor Party know loud and clear that we will not stand by quietly as they join John Howard in beating the drum of homophobia.

It has been alleged that this backflip by the Labor Party was in response to 12,000 submissions by the fundamentalist Christian Right in support of Howard’s marriage ban.

It is a dark day for equality. We must act now. By next Friday the 13th, we want Mark Latham, Leader of the Labor Party, and Nicola Roxon to receive 13,000 e-mails expressing our outrage at their betrayal.

This has become a numbers game. It’s our turn to show our strength in numbers.

Below is an e-mail for you to send. Help us reach 13,000 by Friday the 13th.

Yours in the fight for equality,
Somali Cerise & Rob McGrory
Convenors
www.glrl.org.au

------------------

Mr Mark Latham MP
Leader of the Opposition
E-mail: M.Latham.MP@aph.gov.au

Ms Nicola Roxon MP
Shadow Attorney-General
E-mail: Nicola.Roxon.MP@aph.gov.au


Dear Mr Latham and Ms Roxon,

I am writing to express my outrage and deep disappointment in the Labor Party’s decision to abandon its commitment our community.

When the Marriage Legislation Amendment Bill 2004 (“Bill”) was first introduced, the Labor Party gave a commitment to our community to send the Bill to a Senate Committee to investigate fully the implications of the Bill. I strongly condemn Nicola Roxon’s announcement at a forum organised by those who hold extremist homophobic views, that the Labor Party plans to renege on its promise to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Australians.

I urge the Labor Party to stand true to its commitment and wait until the Senate Committee hands down its report before making any decision on the Bill.

This Bill will further entrench discrimination against same sex couples and deny same sex couples who have validly married overseas the right to have Australian courts recognise their marriage.

Howard’s marriage ban sends a strong symbolic message that same sex relationships are second class. By singling out a section of the population as inherently less worthy and taking steps to deprive us of lawful rights, federal Members of Parliament who vote for this Bill will stigmatise lesbians and gay men. Gay men and lesbians already face alarmingly high levels of violence and discrimination and this Bill gives comfort to those who perpetrate such violence.

By supporting this Bill, the Labor Party is promoting homophobia over equality. As a party that prides itself on fairness and equality I urge the Labor Party to oppose this discrimination, and defend this attack on gay men and lesbians.

I implore you to await the outcome of the Senate Committee inquiry and to vote against this Bill.

Yours sincerely,

Just to share some happy news.

My workmate just turned to me and asked what was a good charity he could do some volunteer work for. I suggested The Luncheon Club and explained what they did and he went "Yeah, that's a good one. What's their number?"

The final report from the inquiry into Amphetamine and Party drug use in Victoria is out.

over 730 pages...will try and find out if they have it online.

Looks like a good research paper...

hi Guys,

Sorry I haven't had time to check the board

Is there going to be a demonstration over the gay marriage affair?

Thanks

<<<<>>>will try and find out if they have it online.

Yeah, Here tis.

(1) http://www.google.com.au/search?q=Amphetamine+and+Party+drug+use+in+Victoria+&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&btnG=Google+Search&meta=cr%3DcountryAU

(2) http://www.druginfo.adf.org.au/article.asp?id=7163&ContainerID=629

Micheal - Sun 8 Aug 2004 07:14:37 Replies: add

Micheal
- Sun 8 Aug 2004 07:14:37

Thanks Micheal.

I found one paper using your first link...
http://vic.capmon.com/dayfiles/data/v0916600.pdf

The final report ( 800 page printed version) is sent to all agencies, and it's free (in Victoria).

Whatever happened to Cruising With Kilby & Co? Where are you Jake? We miss your voice on the radio!!!

Hey GT, I have taken a break from the radio. I miss it terribly, but I am not off air for good. I'm currently studying two nights a week, working full time, and DJ'ing. My roster is hectic. This is my last semester of a 2 year course, so I am trying to concentrate on that.

Our office recently moved to the other side of town as well, so getting to the radio after work in peak hour traffic was a pain. I then get home late, have to walk the dog, get to bed late, and subsequently have a tiring day at the office the following day.

Beat FM's studio is supposed to be moving any time now, to a location much closer to my home, so I expect to be back then. I still have my spot on the radio, I'm just having a bit of a break.

Thanks for supporting the show. Hopefully it will be back soon, better than ever in the new studio and with internet streaming!

www.jakekilby.com - Fri 13 Aug 2004 00:09:15

Who said you were allowed to have a life, Jake?

queerDOC is now online! - www.queerscreen.com.au

queerDOC 2004
September 9 - 12
Valhalla Cinema, Glebe

queerDOC is the world's only documentary festival focused soley on supporting queer documentary filmmaking.

We've got a really diverse program this year with all kinds of wild documentaries from AMERICAN EUNUCHS (ouch!) to DRAG KINGS ON TOUR (yay!)

queerDOC opens with Australia's own THE TASTY BUST REUNION and closes with a film about the incredible rebel Catholic nun, Sister Jeannine. Closing Night will be hosted by Rainbow Sash spokesperson Michael Kelly and the wondrous Monica Hingston.

More info and bookings: www.queerscreen.com.au
Phone Bookings: (02) 9645 1611

For everyone involved in arts, cultural, sporting and community groups - info on submitting an event for the 2005 Mardi Gras Festival is now on the New Mardi Gras website - http://www.mardigras.org.au/MardiGras2005/

SLPA Presents Carnal
Saturday 18 September 2004
10pm- 4am @ Lava Bar, Burdekin L4
$25 SLPA Members & DSP /$35 pre-sale incl Bfee /$35 @ door
bag check included ROAR DJs Sveta & Mark Murphy

www.sydneyleatherpride.org

i stumbelled across this website and thought i might mention something that really ticked me off. the diva awards the gal that works at the imperial won queen of hearts for being the barrell gal at bingay and raising money etc etc.(all well and good. apperently the queen of hearts is a charity award. how can u can win an award for charity when you are being pd for the work you are doing???? would have liked to see it go to a more worth while recipient

Tue 31 Aug 2004 11:29:00

is she paid?

yes i had a feeling she was too

Ages ago I watched a documentary that dealt a little bit with homeless LGBT youth, and in it there was a Sydney organization that worked specifically with LGBT youth who had been kicked out of home, had run away, lived on the streets, etc (sorry, can't remember the name!). It seemed like a really good organization, not just in that they were doing worthwhile work but also that it seemed to be well run.
Anyway, I'm just wondering if there's anything similar in Melbourne? In that case, what are they called and how do you contact them?

Also, about a year ago in one of the Melbourne LGBT magazines/newspapers there was an article about a group of gay people who go to schools and talk to students about homosexuality. Anyone who knows what they are called and how to contact them?

Thanks!

Beat FM is now streaming it's audio. 'Tis a blessing for those operating under that old tyrant - distance

MONICA HINGSTON has invited CARDINAL PELL to queerDOC Closing Night

Outspoken human rights campaigner, Monica Hingston has called upon her cousin, Cardinal George Pell, to attend a screening and forum among gay Catholics about the Church’s attitude towards homosexuals, also hosted by Michael Kelly, head of the Rainbow Sash Movement.

Hingston is hosting a forum at queerDOC Closing Night after the screening of IN GOOD CONSCIENCE: SISTER JEANINE GRAMICK’S JOURNEY OF FAITH about a rebel Catholic nun fighting for gay and lesbian rights within the Catholic church. Valhalla Cinema, 7pm Sunday September 12.

The closing night film, IN GOOD CONSCIENCE, by Emmy Award winner, Barbara Rick, is a film about a gentle revolutionary - the inspirational Sister Jeannine Gramick who founded a compassionate ministry to gay and lesbian Catholics. In 1999, Pope John Paul the Second issued an ultimatum: denounce homosexuality or lose everything. Stripped of her ministry and abandoned by the order she had been with for over forty years, Sister Jeannine takes on the Vatican and continues to speak out about the injustices faced by the gay and lesbian community.

Cardinal George Pell was a member of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith – the body that attempted to silence Sister Gramick.

queerDOC Closing Night film
IN GOOD CONSCIENCE: SISTER JEANNINE GRAMICK’S JOURNEY OF FAITH
7PM, Sunday September 12
Valhalla Cinema, Glebe.

Post screening forum hosted by Monica Hingston & Michael Kelly

www.queerscreen.com.au
 

The Sydney Leather Pride website has been updated with the latest newsletter and details of the Carnal Party (18th Sept) and upcoming AGM (25th Sept).

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/index.htm

Any idea if or when Carnal tix will become available to the public Evil Twin as my SLPA membership has lapsed and there is not time to renew, thanks in anticipation.

Membership renewals are due now. Download the form from the website, fill it out and fax/send it in. You can fax in your ticket order form at the same time. Or you can pop down to Sax and buy your non member ticket there.

******** Priscilla Queen of the Desert – the movie!********

You’ve seen the drag show now see the real thing – the movie. On Saturday 25th September at 7.00pm the Sydney PRIDE Centre will be screening the original movie “Priscilla Queen of the Desert” at the Sydney PRIDE Centre, Erskineville Town Hall. Come and re-live our very own part of movie history ten years on, right here in Erskineville - The home of “Priscilla”.

PRIDE's very own Portia Turbo will be the hostess of the movie night and will provide insights to the making of the movie.

Tickets are $15 and include a light supper before the movie. Wines from Tempus Two and beer from Carlton Draught will be on sale through out the movie. All proceeds from the night go to support the Sydney Pride Centre.

And if that’s not enough the official after party is to be held across the road at the Imperial Hotel. Yes and you guessed it Priscilla Queen of the Imperial is showing, starring Mitzi Macintosh, Farren Heit and Wyness Mongrel Bitch. To receive free entry into the show, enter before 10.30pm and show your movie ticket stub at the door.


Movie: “Priscillia Queen of the Desert”
Tickets: $15 on the door, includes a light supper before the movie
Venue: The Sydney PRIDE Centre, 104 Erskineville Rd Erskineville
Date: Saturday 25th September 04
Time: 7.00pm – 10.00pm
Official After Party: Imperial Hotel from 10.00pm, enter before 10.30pm and receive free entry to the Priscilla Queen of the Imperial show with your movie ticket stub.

ALL Proceed goes to support the Sydney Pride Centre

- Thu 2 Sep 2004 08:55:03 The Sydney homeless youth organisation is twenty10, their web site is www.twenty10.org.au if you contact them, they should be able to tell you of their victorian equivalent if there is one.

Sydney Leather Pride Association
Notice of General Meeting
5.00pm, Saturday 25th September 2004
Manacle Bar

Closely followed by an Annual General Meeting
5.30pm, Saturday 25th September 2004
Manacle Bar

If you were thinking of joining the Committee, this is your chance.
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/index.htm

Hellfire is pleased to announce that with our move to Club 77, we are able to run a separate cloak check which has been taken on by CSN and PLWHA. ALL proceeds from our cloak check will be going to these charities (they will be taking alternate months), so if you feel like a night out that also allows you to do some community good, please join us this Friday (14/09/04) at Club 77.

More details: http://www.hellfiresydney.com

Is anyone going to this Save A Mate first aid course thing at ACON on this saturday?? (it was in SSO & SX a few weeks ago)
They told me i got in but said there were heaps of people on a waiting list...
So is anyone going?

This is in today's SMH - does anyone know what it actually means for Pride?
----------
Of nudes and prudes

The enhancement of Erskineville Town Hall brought some interesting topics to the table during Monday night's City of Sydney council meeting.

At the meeting the council announced it would support the establishment of a Neighbourhood Service Centre in the hall, which is now used by the gay collective called Pride.

The decision was met with relief by one councillor, Shayne Mallard, who seemed dismayed at some of the hall's current uses, especially one event planned by the Gay Sydney Nudists group.

"A gay naked dance party is not appropriate for a public-owned hall," Mallard said. "I'm not a prude, but I do think that gay or straight dance parties should be held in private homes."

Pride has cancelled the event.
--------------

Does this mean Pride is losing the building, or just sharing it?

I do find the idea of councillors deciding what is 'appropriate' for the community just a little offensive. Particularly when it is an openly gay councillor who courted 'our' vote.

You've gotta love those "I'm not a (racist, sexist, homomophobe, prude...), but..." statements.

At least he didn't say "some of my best friends are nudists", I guess...

So... now that we're supposed to be having dance parties in private homes... who's putting their hand up to have Mardi Gras 2005 at their place?

Save A Mate first aid course - how was it?

Newcastle's 2nd Annual Rainbow Festival
October 8-17 2004

The Festival has been organised by Rainbow Visions Hunter, with the support of local organisations, individuals and groups.

This year’s Festival program is really diverse and comprises nearly 20 separate events. These include a film night (which doubles as the launch of the Festival), a community picnic, a bush and beach walk, a talk by internationally renowned photographer William Yang, a community dance, two queer art exhibitions (one of which specifically targets youth), a theatre peformance, a spiritual celebration and a tour of the Hunter Wine Country by Ike and Hal Gayland (very, very distant relatives of two other famous Novocastrian brothers, Mike and Mal Leyland).

More info: www.rainbowvisions.org.au/rainbowFestival.htm
Email: festival@rainbowvisions.org.au

Smoking Debate- lets ban alcohol from pubs/niteclubs too, its bad enough with drunk people coming up to me, breathing thier disgusting alcohol fumes in my face, vomiting all over the place, groping me, trying to chat me up and getting abusive when i dont want to talk to them (i dont drink), but like going to pubs/niteclubs for a good time, the above i can do well with out!!!

Wed 22 Sep 2004 18:25:38

I know you were being sarcastic, but I AGREE!

let's do without alcohol in our community, we are so much better off without getting pissed/stoned/high.

Comedy For Cancer - 30th October 2004
A Fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer Research

We have secured the talents of Drag Queen and MTV star Verushka Darling as our MC, the wonderfully funny Jackie Loeb and equally as talented Sue Lewis......ohhhh and Shelly Silberman of course will be doing her usual rude and hilariously funny routine!
There will also be an auction and raffle on the night with some great prizes.

Details are as follows -:
30th October 2004 - Paddington RSL
Doors Open at 7pm- Show starts at 8pm.
Tickets $40 (with every cent going directly to Ovarian Cancer Research)
Tickets can be purchased through Ticketek

We went to the GBLT pre-rally for the anti-Howard rally today. Very disappointing. I guess everybody was sleeping off Sleaze Ball. Couldnt go to the rest of the rally - did anybody else? Was it well populated?

Following yet another attempt to be part of the wider community by going to Sleaze I was left with dissapointment and feelings of desperation as far as connecting with my community. Finding the pub scene a little overwhelming as well. If anyone has any leads on where I can broaden my contacts be it sporting or just social can you please let me know.

Grizzler - are you in Vic or Sydney? In either case, there are plenty of gay sporting groups around. Mardi Gras (and I'm assuming Midsumma) includes heaps of sporting/social events as part of their calendar. also try contacting Team Sydney or Team Melbourne, both of which have links to lots of sporting groups.
http://www.teamsydney.org.au/links.htm

For example, Sydney Outfields softball have an introductory social game this weekend:
www.sydneyoutfielders.com

- Sun 3 Oct 2004 21:22:36

I was a little disappointed at the turnout, too. It was great being able to speak there, though. The crowd may have been small, but it was still very receptive.

I didn't get to see the rest of the rally, either.

Hey guys,

I saw the outfielders mentioned above. This 2pm Sunday (17th October) they are having a BBQ and Social hit as part of thie registration for a summer season.

www.sydneyoutfielders.com

ACON needs your help to make thousands of red ribbons for the 2004 Red Ribbon Appeal.

Why not get together a few friends and help out for a few hours at the Red Ribbon Working Bee?

You’ll be supporting a brilliant cause and will feel better about yourself.

If you can help out, please contact ACON.

Red Ribbon Working Bee
Saturday & Sunday, October 16 & 17
10am-6pm
Masonic Centre
Cnr Goulburn/Castlereagh Streets

Refreshments, snacks and entertainment provided.

Email redribbon@acon.org.au or call 9206 2058

Show us your beats!

Velocity is again diversifying it's events and is now hosting a DJ competition for GLBTQI youth and their friends - the DJ Beat Off. The competition will provide a rare opportunity for aspiring young DJs to get their foot into the industry and show off their skills. The winners will be selected by audience voting, and there will also be a number of well established DJs to provide valuable comments and advice to the entrants.

"It's one of Velocity's goals to identify and promote the talents of GLBTQI youth and their friends," says Velocity President, Murray Hood, "We achieve this goal very successfully by giving exposure to young performers at all of our dance parties, and young artists at the evolve art exhibitions. Now we want to give a golden opportunity to aspiring young DJs to show off their skills to the community in a real club environment."

The Beat Off will be held at Stonewall Hotel on the third level, with the competition starting on Sunday 14th November from 6pm until 11pm. Attending the event will be a broad range of dance party and club promoters scouting for new talent to offer bookings. One primary example of this is the Sydney PRIDE Centre, who will be selecting a DJ to play at the pre-party Cocktail Party at PRIDE NYE.

"PRIDE is thrilled to be a support of the DJ Beat Off and we are in full support of Velocity's efforts" says Sydney PRIDE Centre Co-President, Lou-Anne Lind, "Each year, PRIDE offers an up and coming DJ their first chance to play at a dance party. This year, PRIDE will do this in partnership with Velocity and we will be offering the winner a set at this year's NYE party."

"We are really excited about this event and urge everyone from the community to come and support these young DJs," says Event Producer, Nick Kelleher, "It's important that we support the talents of our youth and encourage them. We should expect a great mix of music styles - everything from house and funky, trance and hardhouse, to RnB and breaks."

If you would like to play at the Beat Off, then submit your demo disc with a short biography to:
Velocity Inc
DJ Beat Off
PO Box 434
Concord West NSW 2138

Entries close on Sunday 7 November, and the first heat will held on Sunday 14th November at Stonewall Hotel on the third level from 6pm until 11pm. For more details, please send an email to beatoff@velocity.org.au.

Conditions of Entry
* Entrants may submit no more than two (2) demo discs of different styles
* All entrants will be notified within a week before the event as to when they will be playing their first heat
* All entrants and patrons MUST be eighteen (18) years or older - ID will be checked
* Stonewall Hotel reserves the right to refuse entry
* While Velocity will not actively aim to refuse any entrant the opportunity to play, we may need to limit the number of entrants due to entrants per heat and other constraints. This is to ensure the competition is as fair as possible

Gay Mormons in Sydney meet once a month to discuss issues of faith and socialise.

All you Elders and Sisters are welcome - active and inactive, religious and those who aren't!

The experience of being a Mormon and being homosexual, bisexual, transexual, transgender makes us unique.

Come and meet others and stop isolation.



Please refer to the following link for more info.


http://www.affirmation.org/Chapter_pages/australia.asp


PLEASE NOTE: people fantasizing about Mormon missionaries should please restrain from contacting this group.
The purpose of this group is to socialise with people who share a common past and culture: the experience of having been or being an LDS or RLDS.

Hi,

There's an advance preview screening of PREY FOR ROCK AND ROLL on Monday NOV 1, 6.30pm at the Valhalla Cinema in Glebe.

Yes, we’ve set the date for your chance to catch the incredibly sexy lesbian icon Gina Gershon (BOUND) as an aging bisexual rock chick struggling to make the big time with her long term foxy all-girl band....

Bookings: www.queerscreen.com.au

Don't miss out!

Green Kitten Open Mic

Looking for something a bit different? Spoken word, poetry, prose, comedy, WHATEVER. If you can do it in under 6 minutes you're on. It's a GLBTQ event with all supporters welcome.

The Hub Cafe and Bar
Sydney University Village
90 Carillon Ave(near cnr Missenden)
Newtown

Tuesday 16 November at 7.30 pm. Coffee, cakes and alcohol for sale..no cover charge.

For more info email greenkittenopenmic@yahoo.com (register for a performance spot befor 10 Nov!)

Y-GLAM and St Martin’s Youth Arts Centre is proud to present

CHILDREN OF THE GODS

A devised piece written and performed by youth members of St Martin’s and Y-GLAM. An exploration of sexuality, identity, homophobia and the power of the individual voice using mythological and historical tales intermeshed with the actors’ own stories …

Sappho, Narcissus, Oscar Wilde, Virginia Wolfe, Gertrude Stein, and Matthew Shepard are all used as inspiration….

St Martin’s, in collaboration with Y-GLAM, this year turns its attention to the experience of young same-sex attracted young people as the basis of a new devised work. The piece will have at
its core the thoughts, hopes and fears of young same-sex attracted Australians, placing their experiences alongside those of mythological and historical figures in a musically and visually stunning piece that will move, inspire and provoke you.

St Martin’s partnership with Y-GLAM is an exciting new direction for St Martin’s and adds to the strong relationships already established with other youth organisations. Y-GLAM is an arts project for same-sex attracted young people based within the Moreland Community Health Service, and has produced a number of productions and videos and has toured regionally.

4-13 November 2004

Preview Nov 3 @ 8pm All tickets $ 10

Thu – Sat @ 8pm $25 full/$15 conc/$10 members

Signed Performance : Nov 5

Matinee: Nov 6 @ 2pm All Tickets $5

Forum Performance: Nov 10 @ 6pm

28 St Martin's Lane, South Yarra - Irene Mitchell Studio @ St Martin’s

Bookings: (03) 9252 0760

Sydney Gay Mormons group

meets Sunday 7 November at 12.15

call Angelo for more details

0424 091 344 or check out the webpage: www.affirmation.org and go to the International link

Next meeting 5 December in Newtown.

ATTENTION HOMEMOVERS AND HOMEMAKERS!

SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR A MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY STUDY OF RELOCATION AND HOMEMAKING BY LESBIANS, GAY MEN, BISEXUALS AND QUEERS.

What does ‘home’ mean to you? Have you moved to find ‘home’? How do home and moving home relate to your queer identity?

The study explores your personal experiences, constructions and meanings of home as queer Australians, and seeks to understand how ideas of home intersect with GLBQ identities. This project is part of a doctoral program at Macquarie University, and volunteers will be asked to participate in a 1 hour taped discussion with the researcher.

Any interested homemakers or homemovers, please contact Andrew Gorman-Murray for further information. Ph: 0414 849 260. E-mail: agormanm@els.mq.edu.au.

Queer*dyke*trans friendly event happening on Sunday 12 December titled Queer People of Colour. Full details can be found on the Party Wall or www.transensualevents.com. Come and support your community in a safe, sexy space.

Clover rocks!
Sydney Council just launched their centrepiece for the New Year's Eve fireworks
- a giant 'mirrorball' to be suspended from the Harbour Bridge

love you Clover, you have clearly been paying attention
I consider this a Thank You to the community who voted her in!

Yeah the Clover Moore "controversy" thing is hillarious!

The christmas decoration thing has outraged people who dont live in the council area and who dont get to vote for Clover.

The remix anthem thing has outraged people who dont live in the council area and who dont get to vote for Clover.

As far as I can tell, everyone who lives here, totally loves everything shes doing Its a shame the news media cant be trusted to report that.

I think she will be Mayor for a long long time.

In view of the tsunami disaster, I propose the Sydney Gay community should come together and show some community spirit.

This could be done in one of two ways.

First all the major gay venues could work together on January 5 and donate all moneys taken in the clubs that night to the Australian victims and their families. All the DJ’s could agree to work that single night for free and donate their fee as well.

Alternately, with the help of our Lord Mayor, a free concert could be organized for Hyde Park for January 5. Put together as many DJ’s as possible with live bands, stalls, etc. Again all monies raised to be donated to the victims of this disaster.

We may not be able to raise a huge amount of money but at this time every dollar would help.

Any CONSTRUCTIVE comments or thoughts?

Any CONSTRUCTIVE comments or thoughts?
- Wed 29 Dec 2004 05:47:19

Don't forget all of the performers / drag-queens. Get them to donate their fees aswell.

I think it's a great idea. Such a worthwhile cause, and it would show that we are a community who care about others and not just ourselves.

Why January 5, though?

- Wed 29 Dec 2004 08:48:39

Sorry I meant Jan 8... brain doesn't function too well that early in the morning! lol

Hi

I'm working on a book, a small slice of which deals with the early days of the gay community in 70's and early 80's and the influence of a certain prominent sydney businessman. Things like venues etc, and my memory could do with a little freshening. Any stimulus would be greatly appreciated. I'm thinking things like Capriccio's, flo's place etc..

JEREMY JOHNSTONE 16.01.74 - 01.01.05

Most beautiful and beloved JEREMY JOHNSTONE (born 16.01.74) unexpectedly passed away on New Years Day and will be terribly missed by all.

Jeremy was way too beautiful for this world and devastatingly for those who knew and loved him, he chose to take his own life - putting an end to the internal pain and suffering he silently endured.

A service is planned for Friday 7th January 2005 please contact 0405 223 954 or 0404 182 727 for further information
See also this weeks SSO.

South Eastern 4x4 Gay/Bi Men's 4WD Group is having a weekend trip January 15 & 16 leaving Jamieson on Saturday morning heading to Mt Striling, Craigs Hut area via the Slate Mine and Sheepyard Flat.

You would have needed to be a 4WD owner to be on this trip.

If you want further info about future trips and the group, visit www.drive.to/southeastern4x4

What better way to enjoy Mardi Gras Launch or Fair Day.......get involved!!

If you are interested in volunteering your time or skills, or know someone who might be, please respond to the e-mail address below:-

volunteer05@hotmail.com

Hope to see you there.......

EVOLUTION SPELLBOUND

Velocity set to cast spells over under 18s. Evolution Spellbound biggest party yet!

Community organisation Velocity is set to host yet another exciting themed dance party next January 22, 2005. Taking the popular theme of the supernatural, the party is set to attract hundreds of underage revellers to dance the night away without alcohol, drugs or cigarettes to the entrancing beats of popular DJs Dan Murphy, Murray Hood, Mags and Mike Kelly. This second Evolution Party is set to be the biggest event in the successful history of Velocity hosted dance parties.

Special performances by Mystique Jewelle, Leo de'Lush, Amber G'oui Ti and Edtina Fiesta will capture the theme of the night in all new dance production numbers.

As a community funded and volunteer based organisation services the young gay and lesbian community, has seen Velocity awarded by Pride Week and other community organisations. Your support of this event for a key group in our community is vital for its continuation.

Tickets are $20+bf, and are on sale now and available through Hum Records Darlinghurst, Newtown and North Sydney.

Event Details
What - Evolution Spellbound, Dance Party for 13 to 17yrs
When - Sat 22 January 2005. 6PM until Midnight
Where - Sydney Pride Centre, 104 Erskineville Road Erskineville
Tickets - $20+bf
DJs - Dan Murphy and Murray Hood (Arena), Mags and Mike Kelly (Lounge)
Performances by - Mystique Jewelle, Leo de'Lush, Amber G'oui Ti, Edtina Fiesta, and introducing Jordan Stone

If you know of any young people who might be interested in attending this event, please send them this information.

The Velocity Crew

hi can someone tell me the address for the best chat room in sydney for positive people

If you are interested in volunteering your time or skills, or know someone who might be, please respond to the e-mail address below:-

volunteer05@hotmail.com
Hope to see you there.......
- Tue 11 Jan 2005 23:06:14

why is it not a @mardigras.org.au email address?
the website has not been updated with volunteer info - what's gone wrong at NMG HQ?

What better way to enjoy Mardi Gras Launch or Fair Day.......get involved!!

If you are interested in volunteering your time or skills, or know someone who might be, please respond to the e-mail address below:-

volunteer05@hotmail.com
Hope to see you there.......

An ad for volunteers went into the Star Observer this week and it is a @mardigras.org.au address. You can also volunteer via the website, www.mardigras.org.au and simply click on the SUPPORT link.

simply click on the SUPPORT link.
another volunteer - Thu 13 Jan 2005 22:37:55
but
The Volunteer page is still not up to date
>Very soon you will be able to register with us online, but in the meantime please send an email to newmardigras@mardigras.org.au with volunteer in the subject line and an indication of what you would like to help with.
<
not really enough info for me

Domestic abuse and violence is not just a straight phenomenon. It occurs throughout the GLBTQ community. To raise awareness and funds for this cause, there shall be a celebrity-packed performance of The Vagina Monologues at the Sydney Opera House on February 16, 2005.

The cast includes Imogen Bailey, Bec Cartwright, Bianca Dye, Mia Freedman, Corrine Grant, Chloe Maxwell, Gabby Millgate, and Clover Moore.

For more information, and to find our where to buy tickets, please visit www.vdaysydney.com

Are you an aspiring artist, photographer, sculptor etc...then why don't you enter a piece or two at the new art space at Fair Day.

Information from fairday.artzone@mardigras.org.au

HOpe to see you there

Hi everyone, this is (sometime) DJPeter from Gayskate. As you may know Gayskate has not operated in Sydney since the public liability insurance situation reached absurd and ridiculous levels and the owners of the Majestic Rollerink in Petersham (Inner West Sydney) were unable to justify the cost. More recently we know the property was sold. I heard a rumour today that our former rink had been bought by Melbourne Pride. Is anyone able to confirm or deny this rumour? Any further information?

Jan 2nd: Book writer:
It is interesting that you ask for this sort of information. As a non-breast beating "HEY I'M A 78er" I remember a call for information from that period from Minnis and Co. back a few mardi gras' ago. The upshot being sole-ly of a political view.

But,I also remember back when NMG was staging it's first parade in 2003. There was a group of Generation Youth and Twenty 10 kids in the old Erskinville workshop working on a lead float with a couple of representives of the 78er set. They were also asking questions about the period but again all they got told about was the politics and the repressions.

Then they discovered me.I told them all about the fashions, the parties and bars/clubs and Bath-houses as they were called then. The drug scene - mostly cocaine in those days as well as speed. Then there was the sex[no condoms].

Also all the trials and tribulations that young gay men had to deal with in the those days. And what shade of blonde you wanted to have for that particualar weekend's clubing was a three martini conference with your friends before you all rushed off to the Hairdresser.

But what fasinated them was the stories about a young budding 70's gay scene that thought nothing of over filling a mini-moke, remember them? [sans seat-belts] with your mates [4], coolers [3], beach-bags [4] and tearing off to Lady Jane for a naked day of sun, swimming, gossiping, cruising and al-fresco sex.

Followed by a loud laughing after a morning in the beach with lunch at the old Doyles Hotel. This routine usually included driving off over to Bondi Beach. A cruise of the broadwalk and the checking out the Bondi Pavilions change room for a quick blow-job before taking over several tables in the fore-court of the Bondi Hotel.

Then continuing the day chatting and planing our evening's movement to include Chez Ives,the Barrel Inn or Texas Tavern. At the same time cruising the passing trade and inviting other passing gays guys to our tables. The surprising thing was that the management or the 'straights' didn't even bother us.

For many, these sort of stories are what also makes gay oral history more personal and human. You can have too much facts and figures.

So, the question is... what sort of book are you intending to write.

http://www.newcastle.edu.au/centre/cips/rsip-questionnaire.html

INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN AN ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE
Rethinking Social Intolerance Project

A team of researchers from the Universities of Newcastle and Sydney are conducting research into large scale queer events such as Mardi Gras, Midsumma, Feast, Perth Pride, Brisbane Pride, and other major events in regional areas of Australia.

Part of the research involves an online questionnaire which seeks information about a range of aspects relating to the events themselves including the events that you go to and why you go to them, and your views on risk, safety, crowd management and conflict.

We would really appreciate it if you could either click on the link to the website below, or copy and paste it into your browser, and complete the questionnaire. It should take about 15 minutes, and most answers simply require you to click on a dot point.

There is more information about the questionnaire and the broader project itself at the website.

The link is www.newcastle.edu.au/rsip/

This research project has been approved by the University of Newcastle Human Research Ethics Committee, Approval No. H-515-0203.

National Survey Covering ALL aspects of GLBT people's health. www.privatelivessurvey.com.au.

Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria, recently launched the Private Lives survey. Private Lives is the biggest and most ambitious research survey of the health and wellbeing of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people ever conducted
in Australia. It is being carried out through Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria (www.glhv.org.au) in partnership with the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) at La Trobe University. The survey is located at www.privatelivessurvey.com.au.

The survey covers areas of general health, psychological wellbeing, health service utilisation, relationships, sexual and reproductive health, sexual activity, pregnancy and parenting, internet use and experiences of
discrimination. The survey takes 20 mintues and is totally anonymous. You have to be over 16 to complete the survey. Have your say fill in the survey!

Does anyone know if there's a group/organization of LGBT people in Melbourne that goes out to schools and informs about homosexuality? I thought I read about this kind of group a few years ago, and I'd like to get in touch with them, so any contact information would be appreciated!

Also, does anyone know if there's a group working with/running a shelter for homeless LGBT youth in Melbourne? Contact information for them would be great too!

Thanks.

Chook - Fri 11 Feb 2005 09:40:47

There are organisations that run programmes for Gay youth. I do't know whether they run school programms. I can find their contact information and post it on this wall if thats what you are looking for.

Please note that any surplus funds raised from these workshops and seminars will be donated to the: David Williams Trust Fund for Aids.

In March 2005 the Australian Fetish community will host a visit by Fetish Diva Midori. To some she is a latex clad vixen they've seen in the pages of Skin Two, to many more a practitioner and teacher of traditional Japanese rope bondage. Mixing with a "who's who" of the leather scene such as Joseph Bean, Isla Strix, and Carol Queen, she was christened Fetish Diva by Fakir Musafar- the"father" of The Modern Primitive Movement.
She has also appeared in Skin Two, Playboy, British Esquire, Wired, Vogue, Surface and Mademoiselle as well as having written for many publications and books including the intro for Family Jewels, Readings in Contemporary Sexuality, The Beauty of Fetish and Spectator.
In 2000 her book The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage was published, a how to guide that has been so successful it is now onto its 4th print run. The step by step diagrams, supported by clear instructions are complemented by stunning photography from Michael Blue who Midori also collaborates with on www.beautybound.com
For more of Midori's world explore home site www.fhp-inc.com
During her stay in Melbourne Midori will conduct a series of five seminars and two workshops which will include:

Introduction to Japanese & other Creative Bondage Essentials
Dominant Masochist, Submissive Sadist, & Other Fresh Insights to Desire
Predicament Bondage
The Art of Feminine Dominance
Creative Male Genital Play
Advanced Rope Bondage & Rope Demo
Pushing the Psychological Edge

Tickets for workshops and seminars are only available from Eagle Leather and Lucrezia & de Sade, and go on sale 1st February.

Other events planned for Midori in Melbourne include:

Sunday March 13th 3.00 pm Book signing at Eagle Leather

Sunday March 13th 4.30 pm Book signing at Lucrezia & de Sade

The Midori visit of Australia, will be highlighted on her final evening here in Australia on Saturday March 19th with a major fetish event called * L`Erotica * being held at QBH in Melbourne at 9.00 pm. Midori will feature as the evenings main performance artist,
but other performers highlighted for the evening include:
Hellfire Sydney, Azaria Universe,Yumi Umiumare, Marquis de Sade, Sprinkle Magic, with DJ`s, Sveta, Scot Anderson. Mandy Rollins and other perverted performers.
Tickets for L`Erotica are available from Eagle Leather, Lucrezia & de Sade, Marquis de Sade, Hares & Hyenas, and Its My World.

The Melbourne part of her tour is being managed by Mistress Laura
MistressLaura@depraved.com.au

This is going to seem like a rather strange request but the NMG Parade Working Group is looking for some strong men to feature in this year's lead float.
Please email Somali on scerise@acon.org.au or call 0411 869 595.

Chook - Fri 11 Feb 2005 09:40:47
There are organisations that run programmes for Gay youth. I do't know whether they run school programms. I can find their contact information and post it on this wall if thats what you are looking for.
u.w. - Mon 14 Feb 2005 10:18:40

u.w. - I would really appreciate it if you could post their contact information. Thanks!

BRISBANE FILMMAKING GROUP

AIM:
The aim is to produce movies, ranging from short films to feature-length films, with gay themes, while having a great deal of fun. It will not be producing pornographic material.

WHAT WE NEED:
We are looking for people of gay male, lesbian, bisexual or transsexual orientation to join our Gay World Movies group in Brisbane. Our group will need writers, actors and crew.

COMMITMENT:
This is not a group for casual home movie people who want to spend an hour every couple of months chatting about technology. We will be making full use of our resources to produce respectable films. There will be weekly production meetings leading up to a film. On the shooting days (usually weekends) we will be starting at 5am or 6am, and working up to 12 hours. These days are usually the most exciting, fun, satisfying days if you enjoy filmmaking.

See our web page at http://users.tpg.com.au/adslf206

Hi guys,

The Imperial currently has a 24 hour licence, and the licensee Shadd has applied to upgrade & soundproof the venue which would ultimately benefit the local residents.

The move is being opposed by locals as they have been led to believe through letterbox drops that the venue is actually applying for a 24 hour licence making it noisier. They now want the venue closed at midnight every night of the week.

This means the only gay venues for the entire Sydney GLBTQ community to feel safe and accepted to party in at night, are in the Oxford Street & Taylor Square area.

If you live near The Imperial (close enough to see and/or hear patrons) please contact Jackie at the hotel: imperial@bigpond.net.au and she will be able to give you information for a specific letter you can sign and send onto the relevant department.

If you live further away but would still like to support the venue, please email your concerns directly to Clover Moore or Claire Elek who are supporting the early closure of the venue:

clover@clovermoore.com
celek@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Copy in Jackie on imperial@bigpond.net.au so they have an idea of who is supporting them as well.

Thanks for your help.

Dan Murphy.

how could clover support it

I don’t want to clog up the graffiti walls with too much more about The Imperial, so I’ve posted the letter I emailed Clover Moore and Claire Elek on my blog at: http://danmurphy.blogspot.com

Feel free to use it as a template if you’d like to email them with your concerns.

Thanks again for the support,
xo

how could clover support it
- Wed 16 Mar 2005 15:05:29

There is NO evidence that she has, except for a few misinformed emails doing the rounds.

Well Clover's not saying one way or the other (which I guess is proper), other than to confirm that it is before the courts, but either way it's better to lobby now than after a decision is made. I thought Dan's email was extremely positive and well thought-out.

In any case, this is what the Herald has to say about it:

http://www.smh.com.au/spike/index.html

What a drag

The Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, beamed as she was hauled up Oxford Street for this year's Mardi Gras parade, with her many gay constituents beaming back. But she shouldn't expect the same reception around the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville. The hotel is one of the last remaining drag venues in Sydney and is internationally acclaimed for its acts after being featured in Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

However, the pub is embroiled in a Land and Environment Court battle with the council over its trading hours. The Imperial's management is collecting a petition of supporters protesting against the proposed new closing time of midnight and yesterday circulated an email appealing for support from locals. Moore's office wouldn't shed any light on the matter because it was before the courts.

Well well well, I just found our Mogenic is coming back after fixing the current lemon site thats up now, (current one goes to slow) they've spent $80,000ish!!!! on renovating the new site thats coming out in a month or two, I was lucky enough to see a preview (shhh!) and was pretty damn impressed with what I saw. Keep an eye out guys, these mogenic kids will be noticed for sure!

In regards to chooks question about GLBT services that go into schools...
there is a great project called Pride and Prejudice who do exactly that. Visit their website at www.prideandprejudice.com.au I think they also have links to other similar services like the SSAFE Schools project.

some pretty interesting discussions read here...i like it!

Hiya
Coming to Hobart, want to experience a new dimension in the
gay club scene then visit us at "Flamingos", 60 Argyle Street,Hobart. Hobarts only dedicated gay night spot,open Friday and saturday nights 8.30pm till late.
Smoke free,large plasma display showing featured gay musos and other vids friendly atmosphere, only requirement is bring a smile in with you.

Thomas

There is NO evidence that she has, except for a few misinformed emails doing the rounds.
- Thu 17 Mar 2005 10:42:28

By staying silent on the Imperials problems and her complete inaction on the Taxi Clubs problems over the past 14 months, Clover is doing herself no favours with sections of the gay community.

Sure a vast majority of queens could care less that these venues are under seige from HER council but come next election, the people who have lost thier jobs and more because of her inaction will make sure she gets the message loud and clear.

She's very quickly forgotten who her major voter base is. There's obviously not enough headlines involved to warrent her interest in these cases. If either venue could get nation coverage in a major newspaper or on television, you can be sure Clovers smiling face would be not too far behind.

We now have new smoking laws covering all of Qld.

It is now illegal to smoke in the following areas:
- with-in 4 metres of an entrance to a non-residential building (i.e. shops, offices, train stations, banks etc).
- in enclosed spaces (i.e. inside buildings etc, including inside Gay Saunas)
- at patrolled beaches (including some artificial beaches e.g. Southbank).
- with-in 10 metres of childrens playgrounds.
- 1/3 of liquor licenced premises and 1/3 of poker machines must be smoke free (progressing to 100% in July 2006).

The Qld. Govt has set up a great website explaining all the new laws. Both now and up until the new laws are fully implimented in July 2006 (see "Timeline").

See http://www.health.qld.gov.au/atods/tobaccolaws/

The site also allows you to report breaches of the new laws that you see.
This will result in a Qld Health inspector attending and issuing $150 on the spot fines to smokers breaking the law. Fines also apply to business owners if they do not take reasonable measures to stop people smoking on their premises.

Happy smoke free Queensland to all.

National university research centre is seeking gay men in Melbourne and Sydney for interviews about their lives. All interviews are confidential and anonymous. We’re looking for men who may or may not be on the scene. In Sydney we particularly want men in the under 25 and 25-40 age groups. In Melbourne we particularly want men aged 25-40. Participants receive $25 for expenses. Email s.croy@latrobe.edu.au for details.

Hi there, this is Mazz Image asking for help... Does any one out there know how to get in touch with "David the Electrician". He's a great, cute guy, has co-ordinated volenteers for Mardi Gras Security and I lost my phone book with his number.
If you can help please email art@mazzimage.com
Thanks,
Mazz

I have seen people breaking the new laws by smoking inside a gay sauna and also patrons smoking in a nonsmoking area of a gay club. I knew that this was illeagal and fines applied, but didn't know who to report this to.

Thanks for the useful information mate.
I checked out the website http://www.health.qld.gov.au/atods/tobaccolaws/

What a terrific source of knowledge about our new laws. I had no idea that it will be illeagal to smoke in all outdooor eating and drinking areas as of July 2006. Bloody about time too!!

I also used the website to report to QLD Health the sauna and gay club where people were breaking the law.

Good on Qld for such great laws that will save lives.

Sydney Leather Pride MG Parade photos, now up on the website.
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org

The future of 2SER's Gaywaves gets decided today

If 2SER is producing another queer radio program, what's the fuss about Gaywaves being taken off the air? Just because something's been around for a while doesn't mean it should be around forever. We'll still have a voice on the radio with the new program

Gaywaves was not a GLBTI program, and certainly wasn't a queer one either. It was an out dated Gay and Lesbian coalitionist radio program that rarely investigated anything outside the narrow monosexist confines that were established early in its history.

ET -they're great, any idea if we'll see any from the Harbour Cruise?

I don't have the Harbour Cruise pics yet. But I have some more work to do on the site this weekend, so stay tuned for more photos.

Sydney Leather Pride Website has been updated, including pics from last year's Inquisition 12.

www.sydneyleatherpride.org

Any of you who have knowledge of/interest in community and sporting groups in and around Sydney and have some time on your hands - your assistance would be appreciated as part of the 2006 NMG Festival Working Group.

See the NMG wall for more details....

I'm a 40yo guy who still thinks like a 25yo but who is sick of bars and clubs and drugs cause i just don't think I fit in anymore. When I do go out for a big one (which averages no more than 6 times a year) I spend my whole night gorking at all the beautiful guys from 18-35 who frequent the bars, clubs and parties. I have no self confidence, by nature I'm a lazy type of person and i'm about 20kg overweight compared to my "ideal" weight but as stated I'm too lazy to do anything about it. I'm also shy in public, if somebody makes eye contact with me and i don't know them my first tendency is to look away. I havent had a partner for 12 years and I haven't picked somebody up since 1997.

Its time I tried something different and am looking for some advice on where I can view a listing of gay social groups. I'm not looking to self improve myself 'cause I just know I'm too lazy and beyond help in that regard.

What I do crave is the opportunity to make new friends who will just accept me as I am. I need some ideas rather than sitting in my unit at home from the time I get home from work on a Friday night until I leave for work on a Monday morning.

Ideas ? Advice ? Help Appreciated

Check out the Pinkboard Personals for friendships. (It's not all sex.) Also have a look through your local GLBT newspaper. They often contain community group listings and activities. Let us know where you live and someone may be able to suggest some local groups.

Panther, I live in Alexandria

I'm not exactly sure of the general age brackets, but there's an ACON group called MAG (Mature Age Gays) which I know attracts a very large amount of nice people - I've run into the many times.

There are no doubt many more groups around, but this would probably be the biggest. ACON is based in Darlinghurst near Hyde Park behind the American Express Building.

Have a look at http://www.acon.org.au/community/index.cfm?cat_id=66&subcat=69 for details.

We're starting up a Book Club if you'd like to join us. The first meeting is about 4 weeks away and the book we've chosen is "Running With Scissors" by Augusten Burroughs.

Send me an email at djdanmurphy@mac.com if you'd like any more info.

Maybe you should put what you have written about yourself into context. If someone came up to you at a venue and said:

"I'm a 40yo guy who still thinks like a 25yo ... [on the rare occassion I go out] I spend my whole night gorking at all the beautiful guys from 18-35 who frequent the bars, clubs and parties. I have no self confidence, by nature I'm a lazy type of person and i'm about 20kg overweight compared to my "ideal" weight ... I'm too lazy to do anything about it ... I'm not looking to self improve myself 'cause I just know I'm too lazy and beyond help in that regard. "

Would you really want to get to know this 'person'?

There aren't many purely social groups in inner Sydney. Helix meets on the northside. CBD meets in Canterbury-Bankstown. There is Cronulla Gay Group.

Have a look at http://www.ssonet.com.au/Services/community.asp?keywords=social&imageField2.x=0&imageField2.y=0 for some more.

Gee you're a callous cow aren't you

There is a Polly's club dance this Saturday night at Marrickville Town Hall that you might be interested in. It is a very "non-Oxford St scene" event & is a lot of fun. The vast majority of the crowd would be late 30's & over. There is no attitude & it is very easy to strike up a conversation.
Starts at 7pm & entry is $20 - BYO drinks or there is a bar. The dances are held about every 6-8 weeks.
hope you find something that you're into.

Re: Re: In Need - Thu 28 Apr 2005 19:18:56
Gee you're a callous cow aren't you
- Mon 2 May 2005 20:45:26

That's abit OTT -- who u referring to?

Re: Re: In Need - Thu 28 Apr 2005 19:18:56
Gee you're a callous cow aren't you
- Mon 2 May 2005 20:45:26

I didn't write the post but I agree with the poster about the description hardly being a great introduction. Why would you want to be with someone who didn't give a shit about their health or appearance.

Gday Greg is this group still going as lm looking to meet new mates in syd after moving here from victoria.

From page 7 of today's Sydney Star Observer:

"The next Gay Dads And Their Young (GDAY) outing will be a trip to the George Street cinemas on Sunday 29 May. All gay dads and guardians with children under 18 are welcome. Call Reymon on 0423 537 999 or email monn_l@bigpond.com"

Hope that's a help

Whoops! The email is actually:

monny_l@bigpond.com

Hi Everyone!

I am the only Female DJ playing in my heat at DJ IDOL @ UN Nightclub on the 4th of June 2005.

I have a heap of FREE PASSESS which also entitle you to FREE COCKTAILS before 11pm on the evening.

If you would like to be added to my guestlist to receive this once only offer, please send us a reply...

It really would be great the have the support of the gay community behind me.

With regards

DJ LALA

things are looking good for the impy. apparently they just have to change a couple of things and all will be well.

Would help if I included my e-mail address wouldn't it?

rhythmvision@austarnet.com.au

Cheers!

Were there any photos taken at Inquisition this year? Would love to see them.

Hey there I am putting together a wicked show for this Queens Birthday Long Weekends' INDULGENMCE Leather party.
Due to Big Queer Nation I am short ONE DANCER/PERFORMER for this highly sexy and creative show, and I NEED YOU!
You dont have to be a "Dancer" as such, just a guy with a good body who can move and is comfortable with performing.
The show is only 5 minutes, with three rehearsals and is worth $200 plus perks for you.It is for the Midnight Shift Club and should be alot of fun to workl on, you obviously get to party on the rest of the night in INDULGENCE style...
Please contact JASON on 0431 261 202 before Tuesday Night if this sounds like you. Cheers!!

Inquisition 13 pics now up.

http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/

None of me I knew I forgot to do something...

Wow! I have been nominated in the category of Outstanding Community Member. Thank you to whoever nominated me. I hope everyone here will vote for me!

Dear Larry

On behalf of the Board of the Sydney PRIDE Centre, we are delighted to announce that you have been nominated for the 2005 SX PRIDE Week Awards by the gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual and queer communities.

The SX PRIDE Week Awards is a major annual event in the Sydney GLBTQ calendar. It is to recognise and celebrate the hard work by our community members. The category that you are nominated for is "Outstanding Community Member". The Awards Night is part of the annual PRIDE Week celebrations, which is in commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots that became legendary and inspired gay liberation across the world.

The successful nominees for the SX PRIDE Week Awards will be announced in SX News on Thursday 9 June when public voting commences. Look out for the 2005 PRIDE Week Program in the current edition of SX News.

The Cocktail Launch Party for the 2005 PRIDE Week is Friday 10 June from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at Stonewall Hotel (Level 2), 175 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst with guest speakers Steph Sands of New Mardi Gras and Portia Turbo of PRIDE. The Official Opening Night of the 2005 PRIDE Week is Big Queer Nation on Saturday 11 June.

We hope you can join us as our guest at the SX PRIDE Week Awards on Sunday 26 June at the Paddington RSL from 6:30pm.

We look forward to seeing you at the Cocktail Launch Party.

Happy PRIDE Week!

Kind regards
Janine Tennille
PRIDE Co-President

www.pridecentre.com.au
(extract reprinted with permission)

anyone know who else was nomiated

Velocity evolves, how bizarre?

Velocity Inc., the young organisation committed to planning youth events are presenting two events for the public during Pride Week; the Evolve exhibition, on the 14th-18th June, and the How Bazaar? market day, on the 18th June, at Pine Street Creative Arts Centre, 64 Pine Street, Chippendale. Exhibition opening times are 9.30am-5.30pm during weekdays and on Saturday, both are open 11am-4pm. Admission is free

Based on last year’s success, the Evolve exhibition returns, bringing along with it the premier of the How Bazaar? market day for 2005. Ed Ng, 22, events organiser, says “These Velocity fundraising events are for queer and queer-friendly people of all ages, so bring your friends and family. Everyone is welcome!”

Evolve 05 is an art exhibition displaying the works of upcoming, young talent in the community. Categories include painting, drawing, sculpture, digital works, mixed media, photography, wearables and film, and nominated artworks are available for sale to the general public. This exhibition is a great platform to get young people’s creativity and the issues that are relevant to them recognised, out there and rewarded. Nominated artworks are available for sale!

How bizarre can a bazaar be? Well there’s no denial that everyone loves a great bargain. Whether it’s clothes, CDs, DVDs, books, posters, jewellery, games or collectibles, How Bazaar? has them all. Do you have the barter’s tongue? Whip it out and snag prizes at the market day.

Velocity events provide fun, safe and social spaces where young can network, be themselves and realise that they’re not alone. The proceeds are going back to the group to fund future events for youth.

“So come down and see what young people can do, whether you have a knack for the arts, crafts or a good ol’ fashion bargain!”

For more info about event details, submissions or stall-hire email Ed Ng at edrenaline@optusnet.com.au, call Pine Street Creative Arts Centre on 9319 5488 or check the following websites:
www.velocity.org.au
www.pinestreet.com.au
www.pridecentre.com.au

Daily Telegraph's attempt to whip up homophobic "furore"

Below is the hate-promoting article on the front
page's of today's Telegraph. There is a link for the
on-line poll on this issue below... hearteningly and
hilariously, the poll currently indicates an
overwhelming majority (75%) supporting anti-homophobia
education in high schools!!

http://dailytelegraph.news.com.au/story.jsp?sectionid=1258&storyid=3239088
(extract from email by Bryn Simon

-The daily telegraph has a front page article
condemning a school for teaching about diversity. In particular it is condemning a school who got yr 9 students to imagine the difficulty in being heterosexual in a homosexual world to create empathy.

Quickly click http://dailytelegraph.news.com.au/ and
hit the 'poll' link below the "School sex furore" picture.

If you believe in teaching about diversity click 'yes'
it should be taught.

Hello. I coordinate a social support project for queer youth in the southern suburbs of Sydney. We have a project running for culturally and linguistically diverse communities in our local area.
I'm keen to talk to any queers from Macedonian, Arabic, Chinese or Pacific backgrounds to hear your stories and get some input on our project.
E-mail me at glyssn@stgeorgeyouth.org, www.glyssn.com

Voting has now opened!

Following are the nominees for the SX PRIDE Week Awards categories that are determined by public voting. These persons, groups or events were shortlisted by the PRIDE Week Committee from nominations received from the community over the last few weeks.

Villain of the Year:
Pope Benedict
John Howard
John Laws
Gordon Moyes
Amanda Vanstone

Outstanding Community Member:
Lou-Anne Lind
Joyce Maynge
Larry Singer
Gary Burns
Mark Orr

Outstanding Contribution by a Community Group:
Bingay
BeatFM
Canterbury-Bankstown District Gay and Lesbian Social Group
Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service
The Luncheon Club

Most Innovative Community Event:
Big Queer Nation
Queer Screen Opening Night
Dikes on Mikes
Queer Prom (GLAM)
BiFusion

Sexiest Male:
Ashley Swift
Neal Crawford
Dion Arlotta
Saha Salim
Kabi

Sexiest Female:
Patricia Wade
Kate Monroe
Shauna Jensen
Katrina Fox
Kelly Lynch

Community Supporter – Metro/East Regions:
Her Excellency Marie Bashir AC, Governor of New South Wales
Lee Rhiannon, MLC
Tanya Plibersek
Linda Burney, MP
Evan Cooper

Community Supporter – Northern Region:
Ian McLean (Helix North Shore Gay Group)
Hornsby Council supporting GALAH (Gays and Lesbians at Hornsby)
NorthAIDS
NORTHSIDERS

Community Supporter – South/West Region:
Michael Organ, MP (help with the University of Wollongong queer space campaign)
TK Eckleberg (Artistic Director) - Shopfront Theatre for Young People (Carlton)
Helen Westwood (Major of Bankstown)
Sekneh Hammoud (Corner Youth Health Service – Bankstown)
Rudy Van Der Hart (PFLAF Western Sydney)

Voting is through www.sxnews.com.au/sxw/vote_inf.htm until Monday 20 June.

The winners will be announced at the SX PRIDE Week Awards Night on Sunday 26 June at the Paddington RSL from 6:30pm. Tickets now on sale from the Toolshed (Newtown & Darlinghurst), Salt Clinic (Taylor Square) and online through www.pridecentre.com.au. Concession and New Mardi Gras/PRIDE members tickets through Salt Clinic (upon presentation of card), Monday to Saturday.

Check out SX News each week til the Awards Night for further information on the nominees.

Come along and meet the nominees and presenters for the Awards Night at the Cocktail Launch Party on Friday 10 June at Stonewall (Level 2) from 7:00pm. Guest Speakers - Portia Turbo of PRIDE and Steph Sands of NMG. It's the perfect warm up for BQN!

Happy PRIDE Week!

PRIDE Board

www.pridecentre.com.au

I'm voting for the "major of bankstown". Now, I wonder who will win the "quite achiever" award they had advertised in sx last week. Is there a sub(editor) in the house?

It's fantastic to see that Sydney is having a Winter Pride Week festival. Well done all.

Thank you Matthew for nominating me as Outstanding Community Member. I am up against some tough competition this year. Most of the other nominees have a very public profile, whereas I have worked very much in the background. I have written a brief bio so that people can see some of my other involvements with the community.

http://www.pinkboard.com.au/history/pinkboard/bio2005.html

Panther, with all respect, the other candidates do not have a forum like this to promote themselves on. I think it's a forgone conclusion who will win.

But Panther's bio link doesn't seem to work -- hence the universe remains in balance

We had fun at the Pride Launch last night. Met a few people, including prospective NMG committee member and award nominees, and socialised accordingly. Portia Turbo was a fine hostess with the mostest.

Dikes on Mikes, the ultimate lesbian karaoke event has been nominated for 'Most Innovative Event' at this years SX Pride Week Awards. Get out there and vote for the songquest phenomenon that is the one and only Dikes on Mikes. Vote at www.pridecentre.com.au, and visit the website at www.dikesonmikes.com.au

The popular gay Oscars returns!

Rollout the red carpet and see the stars of the GLBTQ community. A night to recognise and reward those in our community who work so hard for our rights. Hosted by Portia Turbo, Daisy Fantayzee, Patricia Wade and Shelley Silberman. Performances by Melissa Tkautz, Patricia Wade, Leo Love, Brownskin, Claire de Lune and DJ Shigeki. There is also a very special tribute to the Stonewall Riots....

Tickets are now on sale through Salt Clinic (Taylor Square), Toolshed (Darlinghurst & Newtown) and online at http://www.pridecentre.com.au/tickets.asp. Tickets are $25/$20 (+bf). PRIDE and NMG Members and Concession (nil bf) are only through Salt Clinic - Monday to Saturday (upon presentation of valid card).

The SX PRIDE Week Awards Night is a fundraising event for the Sydney PRIDE Centre.

The response for the SX PRIDE Week Awards is amazing, as there is an overwhelming amount of voting. It's fantastic to see the community get behind this. At this stage, the voting result is extremely close in all categories.

Keep those votes rolling in through http://www.sxnews.com.au/sxw/index.html

Thank you to everyone who supported PRIDE Week at the Cocktail Launch Party. It was a fun night!

We look forward to seeing you at the Awards Night.

Happy PRIDE Week!

PRIDE Board

Vote for Sydney's Sexiest Lesbian
Vote for Patricia at http://www.sxnews.com.au/sxw/content_pride_form.htm


Vote patricia - sexiest female
http://www.sxnews.com.au/sxw/content_pride_form.htm

Just gave you my vote xx

How come there aren't any photos of the sexiest male and female anywhere? How can I choose to vote for if I haven't seen them?

a SLPA event for all during the Pride week celebrations
"Everything you wanted to know about Kinky Sex"

"Everything you wanted to know about Kinky Sex"
Thursday 23 June @ Pride Centre 7pm for 7.15 start.

featuring MC Nurse Nancy and a panel of sexperts from SLPA
Entry Free snacks provided
Come along with those burning questions and meet our panel of experts including current and past presidents of SLPA.
Got something you have never been able to ask even your best friends? we will try to pop your cherry of sexual knowledge.
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/
A free event Open to all 16 years +
Email slpa.education@gmail.com to rsvp
at
Sydney PRIDE Centre 'Erskineville Town Hall' 104 Erskineville
Road ERSKINEVILLE, NSW. 2043
http://www.pridecentre.com.au/

The 2nd annual NMG Queer Arts Forum (part of Pride Week) is on this coming Monday 20 June at the Pride Centre. See the Festival wall for more details.

Event registration for Feast 2005 is taking place right now until the 20th July!

Themes this year are: Family, Fetish and Philosophy.

Feast runs from 4 - 27th November.

Put it in your diary and hit the website for more info!

www.feast.org.au

Hi all

It's been loads of fun reading up on all the comments about the Sexiest Female Award (titbits)...

I also wanted to let people know that long-time Pride President Lou-Anne Lind has been nominated for 'Outstanding Community Member'. She has a very long history of community involvement and I have attached a brief bio below.

Happy voting!

Summary of service to the community:

1996-98: Clover Moore’s advisor at Bligh. Louanne was known to help hundreds of gay people (especially positive people) and also help people after hours. She started her involvement with our community at this time.

1997–99: volunteered for various events and organisations including BGF auction days and Red Ribbon day.

1999-04: Sydney PRIDE Centre director and president. Lou-Anne has also been Pride’s youngest and longest-serving President.

2002-003: Member of the PALQ Mardi Gras rescue consortium

2003: Chair of Mardi Gras Constitution Committee

2002-04: Pride Week Director

2005: Mardi Gras and Pride Board volunteer

http://www.sxnews.com.au/sxw/index.html

See you at the Awards Night...can't wait!

Voting closes on the 20th... today... try and vote... it's not happening.

Voting closes at midnight on Monday 20 June, so you still have time to get your votes in...

You may be experiencing problems with voting because you have already voted or your place of work has a privacy policy of 1 IP address opposed to multiple users. To ensure the voting result is accurate and fair, only 1 vote per person (per category) is allowed. This is controlled through lodging an IP address when voting occurs. Some companies may have a Privacy Policy of 1 IP address opposed to multiple users to protect employee privacy. The message of "sorry you cannot vote..." means that someone from your work or home has already voted (most government agencies have the privacy policy of 1 IP address). We suggest that you either vote at home (if you are able to) or an internet cafe. Apologies for any inconvenience caused but it's important the integrity of the voting process is upheld to ensure a fair result. The only other method of voting to ensure a fair result is a ballot like the Diva Awards.

Currently, the voting result is very close is all categories...

We look forward to seeing you at the SX PRIDE Week Awards Night on Sunday 26 June at the Paddington RSL from 6:30pm. Tickets will be available on the door.

Come along and show your support.

Happy PRIDE Week!

The result is fantastic! Many of the winners have won by a margin. It's a very close call.

Thank you to everyone who voted.

We hope to see you at the Awards Night where the winners will be announced and presented with their award.

Tickets through Salt Clinic (Taylor Square), Toolshed (Darlinghurst & Newtown) and online at http://www.pridecentre.com.au/tickets.asp. Tickets are $25/$20 (+bf). PRIDE and NMG Members and Concession (nil bf) are only through Salt Clinic - Monday to Saturday (upon presentation of valid card).

Tickets will be available on the door.

Happy PRIDE Week!

"Many of the winners have won by a margin."

Huh? What did the others win by? No margin?

Come along tomorrow for Pride Green Kitten!

http://www.spraci.com/event.cgi/48499

Sydney Uni Village - The Well
90 Carillon Ave
Newtown
7.30pm - 9.30pm

$5 (suggested donation)

It's poetry, spoken work, prose and comedy hosted by lesbian comic Jody Ekert (www.jodyekert.com) with thirteen talented queer performers all with six minutes in the spotlight!

Just moved to FNQ and looking to find out about the local community - particularly on the Tablelands.

Please email us at wimmin@frasergays.com

Thanks in advance,
Sarah & Suzey

why do you spell it wimmin

The 10th Australian Masters Games will be held in Adelaide from October 7-16 2005. Over 60 sports will participate. The Masters Games is Australia's largest Multi sport festival. The dance component of the games will conduct same sex events in all categories. If you would like more information about this event visit the website at www.AustralianMastersGames.com

Anything?

The artwork for this looks great
http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/council/onexhibition/TaylorSquareRainbowBanners.asp

is anyone going to bother putting the list of pride week award winners up? Or didn't anyone go?

It was a great night. Congratulations to all the winners:
Young Achiever - Megan Carrigy
Outstanding Community Member - Joyce Maynge
Community Supporter Metro/East - Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir
Community Supporter North - Hornsby Council
Community Supporter South/West - Michael Organ MP
NMG Outstanding Volunteer - Ryan McMahon
NMG Community Supporter - Tony Butler of Butlers Hire
Hall of Fame - John Marsden
Quiet Achiever - Peter Brennan
Outstanding Contribution by a Community Group - Bingay
Most Innovative Community Event - Big Queer Nation
Sexiest Female - Katrina Fox
Sexiest Male - Neal Crawford
Villain - John Howard

Ha! Like Neal could possibly lose! Congrats to all the winners, and a special yay to Megan from Queerscreen.

LOL We cant even field a candidate for sexiest Male!!
Sorry you didnt make it to No1 Panther, but your contribution is still completely valid!!

What a night! What a fantastic PRIDE Week!

Thank you to everyone who supported the SX PRIDE Week Awards. There were many special moments, in particular Steve Ostrow's tribute to the Stonewall Riots, Amanda Vanstone (Aunty Mavis) accepting the Villain of the Year on behalf of the Prime Minister, Jane Marsden's speech accepting on behalf of John Marsden, Sandy Bottom accepting Sexiest Male for Neal Crawford...there's too many moments to mention that were shared on a very special occasion.

Thank you to all the wonderful presenters, nominees, voters, performers, volunteers, hosts and pride week participants. We can never forget our sponsors - City of Sydney Council, Tempus Two, Leather PRIDE, The Pink Sofa, Stonewall Hotel and our major partner, SX News. PRIDE Week would not be the success it is without the fantastic support of SX News.

Those gorgeous awards were proudly provided by Cydonia - The Glass House.

PRIDE Week Awards:

Hall of Fame - John Marsden
Quite Achiever - Peter Brennan
Young Achiever - Megan Carrigy
Outstanding Community Member - Joyce Maynge
Outstanding Contribution by a Community Group - Bingay
Most Innovative Community Event - Big Queer Nation
Community Supporter – Metro/East Regions - Her Excellency Marie Bashir AC, Governor of New South Wales
Community Supporter (North)- Hornsby Council supporting GALAH (Gays and Lesbians at Hornsby)
Community Supporter (South/West)- Michael Organ
Villain of the Year - Prime Minister John Howard
Sexiest Male - Neal Crawford
Sexiest Female - Katrina Fox

New Mardi Gras Awards:

Volunteer of the Year - Ryan McMahon
Spirit of Mardi Gras - Tony Butler of Butlers Hire

Check out this week's SX for all the glitz and glamour…

Sydney PRIDE Board

Its Crystal clear why Neal won. More points than anyone else. Its a done deal! The best package wins.

Can anyone tell me who the lesbian host was at the Pride Awards, not the blonde the other one? Damn funny and cute as well!

shelly silberman was the shorter funnier one.

The awards night was the best fun ever! It was a night packed with loads of great performances and hosts. A very special night indeed...

Well done pride for providing a strong community event. Can't wait for next year.

BAH !! Neal Crawford is butt ugly. You people have no taste.

The Lesbian & Gay Anti-Violence Project (ACON) is currently developing a series of factsheets designed to assist people who are experiencing ongoing homophobic harassment in range of settings.

The factsheets provide information, referral and support for gay men and lesbians experiencing homophobic harassment in educational settings, in their workplace or from their neighbours. The factsheets also provide detailed information on making reports to police and where to find legal information.

We are currently seeking some people to focus test these resources. If you are currently experiencing harassment in these situations or have experienced it in the past we would greatly appreciate it if you are able contact the AVP and participate in these focus tests.

The focus test will consist of a small group interview taking no longer than an hour. The factsheets will be sent out prior to the interview.

All participants will receive a $20 Myer Gift voucher for their participation.

Please contact the AVP on 9206 2066 or email scerise@acon.org.au if you are interested in participating.

Please feel free to forward this on to friends who may also be interested.

Somali Cerise
AVP Coordinator

The SX PRIDE Week Awards saw Prime Minister John Howard take out the award for 'Villain of the Year', a highly contested category in which he trumped fellow nominees Amanda Vanstone and Pope Benedict XVI. Mr. Howard was unavailable to collect his accolade on the night. So he can appreciate the stunning glass and solid sandstone award in person, Amanda Vanstone (drag impersonator) will personally deliver the award to Mr Howard at home, which should be very convenient for him.

The Prime Minister will be presented with his Villain of the Year Award on Thursday the 7th of July at 4:00pm at Kirribilli House in Kirribilli. The community are invited to attend what will most certainly be an entertaining presentation. This event will also be attended by the media. You may even be on Rove Live!

We look forward to seeing you there.

www.pridecentre.com.au

The Gay Ski Week at Perisher Blue is now in its 10th year. Over a metre of snow has fallen already and more is on the way. Join over 40 guys, all levels of skier and boarder are welcome.

Ski lessons for the group are available and a ski race day, just for fun! Apres activities include the famous 'party night' as well as a trivia night and a joke night.

Staying at Chalet Sonnenhof, ski out, just 200 metres from the Perisher Quad. Seven nights dinner, bed and breakfast $1395. Organised by the Southern Cross Outdoors Group (SCOG).

info at www.scog.asn.au/skifree2005.htm
email skifree@scog.asn.au

It was great to see so many people thronging the gates of Kirribilli House on Thursday, nice to know this is such an important issue to so many.
Actually I could count the attendees on the fingers of my wanking hand, and that doesn't include the thumb.
There was an expression of interest from a guard who took down our details and no doubt added them to our ASIO files

THe real villains of the year were the Crystal Meth and ghb dealers. Why didnt they get an award?? Or did they ........?

sorry but the entire idea of this is juvenille at best and embarassment to most. I think it IS a good thing a lot didn't show up for it. Just goes to show there are some sensible people in the community afterall.

Rome gay pride in the SMH snapshot section. Love the flowers
http://www.smh.com.au/ftimages/2005/07/10/1120934122330.html

Actually, humour has been shown to be an effective weapon in the past, and it certainly seems to work better than all the tireless lobbying from our "community leaders"
it gave me a chuckle

The Gay Ski Week at Perisher Blue is now in its 10th year. Over a metre of snow has fallen already and more is on the way. Join over 40 guys, all levels of skier and boarder are welcome.

Ski lessons for the group are available and a ski race day, just for fun! Apres activities include the famous 'party night' as well as a trivia night and a joke night.

Staying at Chalet Sonnenhof, ski out, just 200 metres from the Perisher Quad. Seven nights dinner, bed and breakfast $1395. Organised by the Southern Cross Outdoors Group (SCOG).

info at: www.scog.asn.au/skifree2005.htm
email: skifree@scog.asn.au

I received this via email:

Following the disaster in London

East Anglian Ambulance Service have launched a national "In case of Emergency (ICE)" campaign.

The idea is that you store the word " I C E " in your mobile phone address book, and against it enter the number of the person you would want to be contacted "In Case of Emergency".

In an emergency situation ambulance and hospital staff will then be able to quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them. It's so simple that everyone can do it.

It really could help the emergency services in doing their job.

For more than one contact name ICE1, ICE2, ICE3 etc.

Interestingly, "The idea follows research carried out by Vodafone that shows more than 75 per cent of people carry no details of who they would like telephoned following a serious accident."

For more information go to: http://www.eastanglianambulance.com/content/ice/default.asp

Hi, I would like to get a group of girls together to go to Oran Park Raceway for the V8 Supercars on Sunday 14th August 2005.(and/or the Friday & Saturday if you're a hard core fan like me!)
Both Holden and Ford fans welcome but must be friendly rivalry.
Ticket prices are $45 general admission, if you would like to go into the pit area add $25. It's a bit cheaper if you pre-pay. There are also 2/3 day passes available. Parking is free.
Bring an esky or buy lunch at the track.
Early start for a good fenceline position, I will be arriving approx 6.30am and racing usually finishes by 4.30pm.
For more info see the website www.v8supercar.com.au
Anyone interested please email me jenelle_ss8@hotmail.com
Hope to hear from all you V8 girls out there!

2ser's annual Radiothon started yesterday and the phones are already starting to melt. However we still need your money. Community radio doesn't pay for itself, you know. If you've ever enjoyed TheQueernoise or any other fab shows then why not show your support. And you get your money back with all the giveaways and stuff. Ring 95149514, go to www,2ser.com or just tune in to 107.3fm for details.

University of Sydney Union invites you to...

inVersion
- queer party -

Wednesday 31 August
6:30pm - 11:30pm

Manning Bar, Manning Rd
(Top floor, Manning House)
University of Sydney


black and white theme.
prize for best costume.


featuring:

"The Hidden History of Homosexual Australia" screening @ 6:30pm

live jazz band @ 8pm

projection art

music including lounge, dance, camp classics, r'n'b, jazz, disco and 80s.


This is a queer and queer-friendly party.
FREE for USU Members. $5 Conc/$10 Full.

- USU Queer Convenors

ACON are starting a community E-List

If you want to hear about the Hot Topics affecting our community go to www.acon.org.au/taking_action/ for details, and sign up!

The Metropolitan Community Church-Sydney is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Nancy Wilson, Reverend Elder and newly elected international Moderator of UFMCC, arrives from the US to join our celebrations. She'll be speaking at the church's two Sunday services, at 10am and 7.30pm. There'll also be live music. Refreshments are provided after the service.

Time: 10am and 7.30pm services, Sunday September 4th
Venue: Metropolitan Community Church-Sydney
96 Crystal St, Petersham NSW 2049

Metropolitan Community Churches around Australia and the world welcome parishioners from all backgrounds. They cater predominantly, though not exclusively, to the LGBTIQ community.

More information can be found at the following URL: http://www.mccsydney.org.au

i would love to get back into softball but would like to join a mostly or completely lesbian side if any one has any info it would be great

Sick of being trivialised? invisibilised? exoticised? marginalised?

Angry about racism in the GLBTQ community?

Want to contribute to some solutions?

A public forum has been organised to address and challenge racism that exists within our gay, lesbian, bi, trans, queer communities.

There will be a few speakers, but the focus of the meeting will be on how racism is experienced and understood and what we can do as a community to make changes.

Everyone is welcome to join in this historical event! Tell your friends, family, lovers, supporters...

WHEN? Saturday 24 September 2005 at 1.00pm

WHERE? LHMU (Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers Union) Auditorium
Level 1, 187 Thomas St
Haymarket (nearest cross St is Quay St & it's a 2 min. walk from Railway Square)

For more info, you can contact John 9206 2080 or Somali 9206 2066 or visit www.acon.org.au

The forum is organised by the Racial Harmony Working Group at ACON - a group of community activists and ACON representatives and people from other GLBTQ organisations.

It is supported by: Beit el Hob, Queer Asian Racial Harmony Collective, Indigenous Queer Women's Network, Asian Marching Boys, Slit Magazine, Club Arak, Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, Pride, New Mardi Gras, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Business Association.

Hi,

Older Tees are holding regular social groups meetings at 7.00pm on Wednesdays at the ACON building 9 Commonwealth Street Surry Hills.

Social group meetings are for trans women living full time as women. Women living normal lives, yet lives perhaps tinged with loneliness and isolation because of their history.

For more info visit our website at www.oldertees.net

Hugs

Hi Everyone!

Come and meet the people behind Sleaze. As a fundraiser for Sleaze the New Mardi Gras Party Working Group are holding a Glutton's BBQ this weekend:

DATE: Sunday 25th September!!!
TIME: 2pm till 6pm
LOCATION: The Oxford Hotel - 143 Oxford Street (in the Taylor square precinct)

Just a reminder Sleaze is on the night of Saturday 1st October (next weekend) If you haven't bought your ticket yet then do so NOW!
They are available to purchase at Ticketek - - - http://www.ticketek.com.au

There is really no need to confirm your attendance.... If you wake up famished on Sunday and just couldn't do without some sausage or you have neglected your weekly fix of meat....Come along and snack on a sausage in the sunshine, with others that also can't resist the sumptuous, mouth watering, sausage.

Look forward to seeing you there.

The end is coming I predict it's only a matter of time from the calculations around the planet

check your weather reports globally and all the viral outbreaks etc

Do you know how fragile the mantle or crust of the planet is and how weakened it has become from constant underground detonations and suiciding of this planet? Natures web is broken beyond repair.

Read the Fellowship by Brad Steiger asap and form your own opinion.

There will be no fatican or popes surviving in the days ahead like the religious in southern US states that parished.

Wake up it's only a dream!...or a nightmare

Are there many ufo sightings out at richmond air base like back in early 1990s?

the spirit world knows you inside out... no matter who you
are and it's all about love and that is all

Older Tees will be holding another social group meeting at 7.00pm on Wednesday the 5th October at the ACON building 9 Commonwealth Street Surry Hills (opp. Museum Station).

Older Tees social group meetings are for trans women living full time as women. Women living normal lives, yet lives perhaps tinged with loneliness and isolation because of their history.

For more info visit our website at www.oldertees.net

Hugs Alison

Hi,

if anyone knows of any trans women who may not read the PinkBoard, would they please pass on the above. Thank You

Hugs Alison

The iRIS Stakeholder Board today announced that the iRIS Fund calls for applications for donations from its lead event Azure.

The iRIS Fund is a sub fund of the Community Foundation Network and funds our communities.

Donations of upto $5,000 are available for community based organizations for funding of leading GLBT community projects. All donations are project based and must demonstrate how they best meet the needs of our community. Community organizations may apply for funding for more than one project.

All applications will be reviewed by the iRIS Stakeholder Board. All funded projects will be reviewed annually. Applicants may indicate that they intend to apply for donations over a period of more than one year.

Donations to will be paid commencing in April 2006. Donations to any one organisation greater than $10,000 in aggregate will be paid in 5 equal installments until 30 June 2006. Donations for 2007 will commence on a quarterly basis from 1 July 2007.

Applications for 2006 grants close at 5pm on 26 October 2005. Please email info@irisgroup.com.au for an application form and a detailed selection criterion.

Homophobia is happening at Courthouse Hotel on Taylor Square (Oxford Street). Not sure how many people read SX but last week there was a story about a hugely homophobic incident occurring at the Courthouse Hotel.

Basically a guy was there on a date with another guy. One guy leant in to kiss the other and was set upon by three burly bouncers who physically picked him up and threw him out of the venue. When the guy objected to being thrown out the reply to his anger was a simple response "If you want to pash poofs you can go to ARQ or the Oxford. We don't want any of that stuff here."

I have also been told there have been incidents at this same hotel previously. Once 2 men walking past the Courthouse began kissing...a security gaurd filled a bucket with water and threw it over them.

ACON's anti-violence project was notified and have been in consultation with management and staff of the Courthouse urging them to get some training on the impacts of homophobia and how to stop it.

No luck. So me thinks it's about time community took some action. Time for a good old kiss in..... unless someone else has a better more original idea?

I think considering that both acts of homophobia stemmed from kisses makes a kiss in definitely relevant though. Kiss ins are also simple. We go there we clog the place. we kiss. We don't make any money for them by buying drinks. We get some media. Then we all go out and drink somewhere that is not homophobic.....and we can continue to kiss if need be. No need to twist my arm.

Okay

THE POLLYS CLUB PROUDLY PRESENTS

“F E V E R”

STARRING
Jessica - Judy Burnett - Kitty – LuLu - Mel – Paige – Stella - Sue Pernatural
Produced by: Stella

ON

Saturday 15th October 2005 @ 7.00 PM
Marrickville Town Hall
Marrickville road - cnr. Petersham road.
(next to the fire station)

TICKETS: $20.00 concession $15.00

BOOKINGS Garry 9799 5507

We are licensed and also BYO – hot food, tea & coffee is available

THE NIGHTS RAFFLE WILL BE DONATED TO “ NORTHAIDS ”

NEXT FUNCTION – OUR CHRISTMAS SHOW
SATURDAY 3rd of DECEMBER

P.S. the Pollys website for info is www.thepollysclub.com.au

Thanks

If you have never been to a Pollys dance you should definately give the one this saturday a look. It really is one of the most unique events held in the Gay community - and its a lot of fun - Ive had more fun at a Polly's for $20 than I have had at some of the major party's. A really friendly and eclectic mix of older & younger people. And you can bring your own grog if you want!

BTW - pollys is the oldest continually running gay Social club apparently!

If Any POZ guys wanna meet other POZ guys and looking for site that does not have to make you pay just to meet someone go to this site..

http://www.pozcircle.com/

Actors Anonymous is a biting comedy about a group of friends linked to each other from the years they spent training together at drama school. It's about the trials and tribulations of being an out of work actor; as the close knit group of six experience the harsh reality of the entertainment industry. Despite the fact that all the characters are actors, the play is essentially about friendship and the dynamics between a group of highly
strung, yet lovable individuals.

Judas Tree Productions is an exciting new young production team with offices in London and Sydney. Last year they produced and directed the original Sydney season of the Hit Off-Broadway comedy “Matt and Ben”. Recently they produced and directed the Hit
Sell-out comedy cabaret show of this years Sydney Mardi Gras and Melbourne International Comedy Festival “Aunty Mavis Tea and Timeless Advice”.

Actors Anonymous has had a highly successful season in London, and recently Newcastle, “a dark comedy that is bound to gain cult status.”



The Judas Tree in Association with The Key Hole Project Present
Actors Anonymous
Written and Directed by Claire Fitzgerald
With Nicholas Cooper, Maya Kumar, Jessica Manuel, Rhys Robinson,Georgia Thorne & Andrew Threlfall

The East Village Hotel 234 Palmer Street, East Sydney
Sunday 23rd October 2005 – Thursday 27th October 2005 @ 8pm

5 SHOWS ONLY!!!

Tickets: $10 Flat rate (dinner and show deals available)
Bookings: 0412 155 950

Every 2nd and 4th Saturday Nights at the Parramatta Club the homosexuals of the West come to meet and have some fun. Your hostess and promoter of the night Ms Melicious D'amage will be there to greet you and make you feel at home with assistance from her Drag Queen Apprentice Ms Tru-Lee Scrumptious. Shows with the girls at 10.30, 11.30 and 12.30 in the Diamond Showroom. Special Guest this weekend Sat 12th November is Sydney Drag King HUGO RETRO. Cover charge is $5.00 and fundraising Rafffle for the Western Suburbs Haven - charity organisation helping people with HIV and Aids. Off Street Parking, Pokies and resonably priced drinks. DJ's Joal and Matt are there to provide the tunes.

For more info contact pashentertainment@hotmail.com or Steven on 0407 894 220.

THE POLLYS CLUB PROUDLY PRESENTS
“Desperate Drag Queens”
Produced by: Sue- Ellen
Christmas Show & Dance
SATURDAY 3rd DECEMBER

7.00 PM - Midnight
Marrickville Town Hall
Marrickville Road cnr. Petersham Road - Next to the fire station

TICKETS: $20.00 concession $15.00
BOOKINGS: Garry 9799 5507- Margaret 9588 0400

We are licensed and also BYO – hot snacks, tea & coffee available.
Charity Raffle on the night - THANKS FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT

For info see www.thepollysclub.com.au

PASH Nightclub in Parramatta is hosting New Years Eve in Sydney's West at the Parramatta Club - 37 Hunter St.
Ticket Prices for the night is $10.00 with $2.00 from every ticket being donated to The Western Suburbs Haven...
Entertainment for the night will be PASH's regular Hostess legs almighty Melicious D'amage and her new apprentice Ms Tru-Lee Scrumptious. Joining the girls for the night will be Special Guests Ms Ida Slapda and Full Force (Marcia Monterey returning to her old stomping ground along with her sisters in crime Ms Tina Swallows (Apparently) and Ms Stella Roid.) DJ JB will be in the house to keep the place rockin and rollin. Plus there will be lucky door prizes to be won as well as the Major Raffle prize.
Doors open at 9.00pm. Drinks at Club prices, Pokies and off-street parking and Public Transport close by and Taxi's to the door.
We will also be making a special announcement about Pash for 2006 on NYE just after the Midnight countdown you will have to be there to hear the exciting news.
For more information please email to pashentertainment@hotmail.com or call Steven on 0407 894 220.

Gay and lesbian history project in Britain. Looks like a good one.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/entertainment/gay-history-out-of-the-closets/2005/12/12/1134236001894.html

Metropolitan Community Church Sydney will share Christmas with an expected two thousand Lesbians, Gays and their families at the 2005 Christmas Eve service at the Sydney Town Hall. The event has grown to become the largest Gay and Lesbian Christmas gathering in the southern hemisphere and is now a major event on the Sydney Queer calendar. Previous years have seen a large and growing contingent of women at the service.

The Rev. Dorothy McRae-McMahon will deliver this year’s Christmas message. Carols will be led by the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir. The MCC Singers plus alternative ministry Crave musicians and soloists, who provided some of the memorable moments of the 2004 event, promise to move Town Hall yet again. In addition, renowned playwright Alana Valentine has authored and will direct a short Christmas drama.

The Metropolitan Community Church is now the largest Gay and Lesbian organisation in the world, with 43,000 members and with a growing congregation and membership. The MCC embraces and affirms the goodness of Gay and Lesbian sexuality.

While attendance at the service is complimentary, reserved seating can be arranged at a cost of ten dollars.

Service time is 8 p.m. on December 24 and doors will open at 7.30 p.m.

For further information or to reserve seating, contact MCC Sydney on (02) 9569-5122

www.mccsydney.org.au

Ever wanted to be an actor? Singer? Dancer? Performer?
Have you ever wanted to show off your talents in a safe space surrounded by your friends and peers?
Are you under the age of 25 and queer friendly?
If you were finding yourself nodding your head and agreeing, then come along to Roundabout and show us what you’re made of!

Influence is currently presenting Roundabout, a queer friendly event for Sydney’s youth during Mardi Gras season.
Roundabout intends to be a fun-filled space for queer individuals and their friends to have a laugh, enjoy some light entertainment, and dance the night away.

Influence is currently recruiting performers for the night, and have already managed to snag the talents of Bec Hill and other numerous competitors.

Don’t want to perform on the night?
Then come along and watch the show. It’s only $5 entry.

Where? Newtown Community Hall
When? Friday 24th Feb 6.30-11pm
Who? Everyone under the age of 25
What? Drug and Alcohol free event

Want to know more??
Contact ashleycharlton@hotmail.com or dial 0401306914.

Please be aware that for some weird astrological reason the rangers in Centennial park are trying to close the beats at Lachlan Swamp and on the Oxford Street edge of the park. This started with the standard drive bys with flashing lights and now has now ramped up to, in your face "legal" threatening and semi-abusive behaviour.

You rights at a beat are detailed at

http://avp.acon.org.au/pickingup.htm#4

and can be summarised as, you cannot be forced to give identification, you are under no obligation to explain yourself and (at the very worst) you can be fined. Being at a beat is only illegal if you leave a (fenced) path and/or are caught actually having sex. "Loitering" is perfectly legal. be very aware, it is completely illegal for parklands rangers to attempt to get cash from you "on the spot" - that is extortion.

Be safe, be awake, and have fun.

THE POLLYS CLUB PROUDLY PRESENTS
“Advance Australia Fair”

Show Guests: Chelsea Bun; Hillary Eternity; Mitzi Macintosh; Farren Height; Wyness Mongrel Bitch;
Maxine Du Barry + The Pollys cast
Produced by : Patty

SATURDAY 28th JANUARY
7.00 PM
Tickets: $20 - concession $15
Marrickville Town Hall
Marrickville Road cnr. Petersham Road - Next to the fire station
BOOKINGS: Garry 9799 5507 Margaret 9558 0400

We are licensed and also BYO – hot snacks, tea & coffee available
Charity Raffle

WE APPRECIATE YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT
for info see www.thepollysclub.com.au

Hi everyone,

You're invited to a fundraising concert for Metropolitan Community Church Welfare Services. 'We Are Family' showcases the rich talents and the wide range of facilities offered at MCC Sydney (host of the hugely popular Christmas Eve service at Sydney Town Hall). Music ranging from pop, folk, country, and jazz will be provided by our women's spirituality group (SWAG), our contemporary worship group (Crave), and our MCC Men's Chorus. Our celebrated solo artists include Justin Standley and Natasha Holmes.

We Are Family at MCC Sydney. Join us for an afternoon of community, friendship, and family, and support MCC Welfare Services.

Cost: $5. Free for children 12 and under.
Time: 2pm on 22nd January
Venue:Metropolitan Community Church Sydney
96 Crystal St,
Petersham 2049

MCC Sydney has opened its doors to the GLBTI community and its friends for over 30 years.

For further information, please contact MCC Sydney on (02) 9569-5122

www.mccsydney.org.au

Following on from the Successful PROUD party held in 2005

The Sydney PRiDE Centre Presents

TOO PROUD @ ARQ on the

Friday 20th January, 2006
10pm – 6am

Shows include Body Painting, performance art, an evening of musical journey, Shauna Jenson just to name a few of the surprises we have in store.

DJ’s include David Hiscock, SVETA, Luke Leal & Ruby

Cost - $15 general/$10 PRiDE Members

Come and join us for a fun Trivia and 70s/80s disco night on Sat 4 Feb. This is a Mardi Gras event and details are on page 35 of the Mardi Gras Guide. Acceptance is a group of gay catholics (yes, we do exist!) and their friends and families. We have been going for over 30 years in Sydney. The trivia and dance night is at Bexley Golf Club (yeah, we know this seems a long way away but truly, it isn't!). Starts at 7pm. Drinks at club prices and prizes. Sandy Toggs is our MC. Tickets are $20 or $15 for NMG members. No sermons, bibles or religion - promise! A fun night for all. PFLAG has booked a table as have other groups. More details from the Acceptance website www.gaycatholic.com.au. Look forward to seeing you there.

Have you ever wondered if a Bill of Rights would protect rights and fundamental freedoms in Australia? What rights should be protected? How would a bill of rights impact on the way the law treats LGBT Australians?

Australia is the only Western country without a national Bill of Rights. For lesbians and gay men, this means our rights and fundamental freedoms are not always protected by law. New Matilda, a recently-launched independent voice in Australian media, is aiming to change this by pushing for the enactment of an Australian Human Rights Act. As a part of the campaign, you are invited to join the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, alongside New Matilda and ACON, at a community forum to find out what a Bill of Rights might mean for the LGBT community and what the proposed Human Rights Act contains.

At the forum you can discuss your views with speakers and other community members.

Where: ACON Building, 9 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills
When: 2pm – 4pm, Sunday 5 February, 2006

Guest Speakers will include:
= David Marr, Journalist & Author, Sydney Morning Herald
David will be speaking about the Act and a Bill of the Rights more generally

= David Scamell, Co-Convenor of the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby
David will talk about how GLBT activists in other countries have used a Bill of Rights to gain important rights and freedoms

= Kate Connors, Vice President of the AIDS Council of NSW (ACON)
Kate will discuss the implications of a Bill of Rights on health, in particular HIV/AIDS

= Nicholas Carney, Campaign Coordinator from New Matilda
Nicholas will give an overview of the New Matilda Act and the consultation process

For more information on New Matilda and the Human Rights Act campaign, visit: www.newmatilda.com.

A workshop run by ACON

If you are the negative partner of a positive man then there are opportunities to talk to other guys in similar relationships.

This 6 – 8 week discussion group will include information on:
• Communication
• Treatments
• Legal Issues
• Healthy Choices
• Safe Sex Information and information on PEP
• Plus lots more...

Starts February 7th

To book a space call Baden 9206 2034.

Just a quick heads up for anyone interested in some kitsch, sexually overt art. Dennis Ropar, bad boy of the Melbourne Pop-Art scene is 'coming' to Adelaide with 100 of his works. These will be exhibited at FAD gallery, 30 Waymouth street, from 16th-19th Feb. All pieces will be put on EBay with no reserve at the end of March.

visit www.dennisropar.com for more information.

Ciao sweeties.

the webmistress at SLPA has let me know there are a heap of coming events at Sydney Leather Pride
check out the website for details on Fair Day, Harbour Cruise, Education and more
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/
Calendar to download and pop on the fridge
http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/Pdfs/SLPA_LPW_06.pdf

Acceptance (a group for gay catholics, their families and friends) is holding its annual Mardi Gras mass this Friday 3 March at Newtown. Mass is at 8pm at St Joseph's Catholic Church Lennox Street Newtown ( just a short walk on the northern side of the railway line from Newtown Station or catch a 423, 426 or 428). Everyone is welcome.

This Wednesday is the annual SLPA twilight harbour cruise
it's just about my favourite event of the year
- an evening cruise on the beautiful Sydney harbour, watching the sun go down & the twinkling of the city lights while drinking a cold beer, grooving to some retro tunes, chatting with friends and visitors and snacking on the fine catered supper. (This is not poofy nibblies but yum and substantial!)
Come along, bring your Mardi Gras friends and have a fine night. Info here http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/harbourcruise.html
tix from Froots store Newtown and Sax on Oxford St

Buses meet the cruise at the end (around 10.30pm) to deliver you back to Oxford St and the UnderBear party
Parking under the Opera House or on Macquarie St, or take a bus/ train direct to Circular Quay (recommended)

All SLPA events are for women and men unless otherwise stated, in which case SLPA runs 1 event for each. Check out the calendar for coming events. http://www.sydneyleatherpride.org/Pdfs/SLPA_LPW_06.pdf

Debate during MQFF: Session 79: Pursuit of Equality

MASS DEBATE ON GAY MARRIAGE - Sunday March 12

“I do” or “I don’t”? Where do you stand on same-sex marriage, one of the most controversial issues of our times?

Almost every western country has adopted some form of gay marriage or civil union scheme for same-sex couples. But during the 2004 federal election, the Howard government and the ALP banned same-sex marriage.

Do same sex attracted people want marriage? Is fighting for the principle of equality misguided? Is it politically impossible? What are the alternatives?

The Melbourne Queer Film Festival, and the Victorian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby’s ‘Equal Love’ campaign for relationship recognition, presents a debate that will entertain, inform, engage and stimulate you on an essential issue with a great sense of fun.

Whether you’d say “I do” or “I don’t” to gay marriage, chairperson and timekeeper Addam Stobbs from Joy FM will present:

* National and international gay activist Rodney Croome
* Rainbow Sash spokesperson Michael Kelly
* Barrister Kris Walker from Melbourne University Law School
* Radical Women spokesperson Alison Thorne
* Anarchist queer activist Tallace Bissett; and
* MCV newspaper editor Troy Gurr

as they square up to win over your hearts, mind and laughter.

The debate will follow:

Film screening: Pursuit of Equality
Dirs: Geoff Callan & Mike Shaw, USA, 2005, video, 75 mins

On February 12, 2004, the City of San Francisco made history by issuing same-sex marriage licenses. Led by Mayor Gavin Newsom, the city continued to marry gay and lesbian couples until the California Supreme Court issued an immediate halt on March 11, 2004. Over 3,900 couples were married, the inevitable national debate began to rage, and directors Geoff Callan and Mike Shaw were there to record the entire affair in this groundbreaking and award winning documentary.

Whether you’re thinking about getting hitched, or you think marriage sucks, whether you’re conservative, radical, religious or sacreligious; Equal Love’s mass debate @ MQFF is guaranteed to give you pleasure!

DATE: Sunday 12 March 2006
TIME: 2pm - 4pm
VENUE: ACMI Cinema spaces, Federation Square
COST: $11 concession, $14 waged (includes film screening and debate)
TICKETS: www.melbournequeerfilm.com.au

ALSO ON THE EQUAL LOVE CALENDAR:

NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION

To commemorate two years since the Coalition and Labor ban on same-sex marriage, we will target the Victorian Parliament to recognise civil unions and call for federal action.

DATE: Sunday August 13 2006. Time TBC
LOCATION: Parliament House, Melbourne
FURTHER INFORMATION: check www.equallove.org.au closer to the event or subscribe to our e-list by sending an email to: VGLRL_Equal_Love-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.au

POSTCARD CAMPAIGN

Help us send 5,000 postcards to State and Federal members of Parliament encouraging them to formally recognise same-sex couples in law. Contact us to find out more.

If you have a kink or twist this may be the event for you!
Threshold has now moved to the metro hotel on st pauls tce
and gipps street Brisbane. The theme for the night is medical fetish, so come dressed up and enjoy the bar, music and our play areas. So enjoy a night of fun and fetish. It is open to all genders or transgenders, with tickets at the door for $15.00 B4 10.00pm OR $25.00 after.
Running time will be 9.00PM to 2.00AM. C U THERE.

Thanks to the SLPA members and friends enjoying many Mardi Gras entertainments this season including Fair Day, Yum Cha, Harbour Cruise and parading as usual as well as fun with the Harbour City Bears at BearX and meeting many of our vistors at Manacle.
Look here for some parade highlights from our favourite MC Maynard who we look forward to seeing at the Leather Fair, launching Leather Pride Week 2006 on Sunday 14 May
http://www.abc.net.au/newcastle/stories/s1580038.htm

The next Education workshop will be on Uniforms, 18th March 6pm at Manacle bar rsvp for a place
www.sydneyleatherpride.org

Candi Stratton (AKA - MISS GAY UNIVERSE 2006) Presents her
Tribute to CHER SHOW
Friday - March 31st, Burwood RSL
Stunning costumes, dancers and productions!

details at..
http://www.ozchershow.com

Book online @ www.ozchershow.com
or Ph Book : 0422 369 608

THE POLLYS CLUB PRESENTS

Dusty Who ! Dance and show

Guest Starring Ms Marcia Monteray

With the cast of Pollys

This Saturday April 29 7pm to Midnight

Marrickville Town Hall
Cnr Marrickville & Petersham Rds

Bookings Garry 9799 5507 or Margaret 9558 0400

We are licensed and also BYO – hot snacks, tea & coffee available

for club info see www.thepollysclub.com

Film Night

Fetish movie night - a night of film and discussion with your leather friends. One of the movies being shown is Cruising, that classic Al Pacino film in which a police detective goes undercover in the sleazy and underground gay subculture of New York City to catch a serial killer
whom is murdering numerous gay men with S&M tactics.
Supper provided - 7pm Aurora Gallery at GLCS 43 Bedford Street, Newtown.

Fair Day

Fair Day will be held indoors this year, with market stalls, prizes and daytime fun upstairs at the Midnight Shift. A chance to party during the day with two of our finest DJs, the showstopping Sveta and Rob Gilbert,
Fair Day will be going hard and heavy regardless of rain. Anyone on a leash is allowed, human dogs and seeing-eye dogs are very welcome but because it's a licensed venue no kids or pets.
12 noon-5pm, Midnight Shift, 85 Oxford St, Darlinghurst. Donation entry

Fair Day Recovery
It is what it says, folks. Those Magnificent Men from MANACLE are keeping us up at night with the high-octane music of DJ Rob Davis for the Leather Pride Fair Day Recovery.
Come along and join the revelry that comes with being the home of the Sydney Leather Community.

www.greekandgay.com Contact details on web site

Confidential discussion and support group for Gay and Bi sexual Men and Women of GREEK Background. We hold discussion meetings (e.g. Family, religion, coming out, sexuality etc.) and also offer social events for group members or anyone interested to attend. For events you don’t need to be Greek, open to all, Family friends welcome. Groups in Melbourne, *Sydney and Adelaide. * Sydney male only.
Group meetings and events are open to anyone traveling to Australia as well.

does anybody know of any gay groups that have meditation meets? thanks.

hi pixguy, there are a few, depends which area you want. Petersham, Darlinghurst, Surrey Hills, check the SSO and google and you'll find plenty, also most local gyms.

handsonguy - http://www.geocities.com/bodycare4men/

www.rebellion.org.au
Winter Rebellion
Saturday 3rd June
Marrickville Golf Club
8.00pm till 2.00pm
Entry $10.00 OR $7.00 Concession
2 Live Bands, other entertainment plus DJ Chance.
100% of Door and raffles plus 10% of Bar
Donated to non-profit community organisations.

Rural Rebellion
Rebellion is proud to announce the launch of a new branch for our organisation, based at Parkes in the NSW Central West. We are calling it Rural Rebellion.
Rebellion is an increasingly nationwide organisation which aims to support and initiate projects across Australia around lgbtiq issues. We are committed to Community Development, Networking, Fund-raising, Activism, Providing Opportunities, Initiatives & Support for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender & queer community
Rebellion Central West will be launched with a discussion and lunch on Saturday 17th June 2006 commencing at 2.00pm at Sweat Success Fitness, Level 2, 195 Clarinda St Parkes. Followed by social drinks at a local establishment!
If you have any enquiries regarding Rebellion Central West contact Brett 02-6862-6161 or Ian 02-6864-1077, email centralwest@rebellion.org.au or visit the website www.rebellion.org.au
For all other Rebellion queeries: Alex Day, Public Relations Officer, on 0418-699-170

Dark Events, in association with Misconduct Touring, are pleased to announce the Sydney debut of what is, arguably, Melbourne’s biggest alternative + fetish scene event: Cyberball

Now into it’s sixth year without interruption, Cyberball Melbourne is proudly home to a cast of some of the most deliciously deviant performers and dj’s around - and a core of devoted fetishistas and fashionistas, who have always ensured that the show not only has the kinkiest of crowds, but the most amazingly attired. Cyberball, you see, isn’t just about getting down and dirty on the dancefloor or in the cage. No, it’ s also about the fashion. Leather, latex and PVC are only the beginning - big boots, corsets, hair extensions, boys and girls in extravagant amounts of make-up, chromed accessories or even not a lot at all.

Coming up from Melbourne are - the CYBERBURLESQUE, who will be doing 2 performances on the night, FREYA & MANX , whose aerial suspension and BDSM performances are not only technically sublime, but also downright sensual. And you’re going to love it. Sydney will be providing a number of performers, ranging from
burlesque dancers, to indoor fire-light displays, BDSM play and kinky caged dancers.

Of course, a club is nothing without music - and thanks to our friends at The Hellfire Club, we have none other than LANNY K, who will be unleashing an awesome dark, hard and dirty electro-technorock set over 2 hours in the basement. Melbourne’s BROTHER PIERCE, resident of Pharmacy and well-known to Sydney from his hard + dark sets at Vortex Vs. Psychonaut, will also be performing for two hours downstairs, with his blend of electronic body music + hard electro, perfect for getting close on the dancefloor to with some of the exquisitely dressed patrons. Also making his Sydney debut is MAX TRAUMA (of Corruption & Cabaret Nocturne). On the top floor, the HORROR DJ’S (VENUS, ETTIENE & GUESTS) will be playing their mix of EBM, electro and rocktronica in
tandem with the DARK EVENTS DJ’S (DR. D & DISSOLVED), meaning that there’s going to be a mix of music you’ll want to move to, whether you’re a leather-clad dom or a pvc-clad cybergoth.

Just talking about Cyberball simply won’t do it justice. It’s such a multi-faceted event, for queer, kinky or just plain dirty n’ deviant people who like to dress up and let loose. Cyberball staff will be walking through the venue to ensure that you have a fantastic time, and that any difficulties you may be having (whether it be needing your corset relaced or something or someone making you feel uncomfortable) are taken care of quickly.

This is about getting dressed up. It’s about letting loose. It’s about being with like-minded people in a comfortable environment. And most of all, it’s about getting kinky with a bunch of lusciously dressed deviants.

Cyberball is making it’s debut on June the 2nd, at Rogues, 16-18 Oxford Square, Darlinghurst. Tickets are $25 for HELLFIRE patrons (at the May meeting of the club) or $35 from Sax + The Wild One.

4PLAY NIGHTCLUB AND PINK FINANCIAL SERVICES PRESENTS
"DRAG WARS...A NEW HOPE" Western Sydney's Drag Talent Quest.....

Have you wanted to see what life is like for a performing Drag Queen, have a bit of fun and a chance to win great prizes.

Starts July 8th at the 4Play Nightclub in Parramatta every 2nd and 4th Saturday nights.

Each entrant will be required to do a different task each fortnight, winner of the fortnightly task will receive a $100.00 cash prize. Major Prizes include Gold Coast Weekend Holiday for 2 (Airfares and Accom), Cash, Vouchers and other prizes. The highest scorer at the end of the Competition will win the major prize, also a runner up prize and an encouragement award given away by Queer Out West 89.3FM radio show.

All interested entrants please contact Steven at
pashentertainment@hotmail.com.

4Play Nightclub Western Sydney's Premier Gay Venue every 2nd and 4th Saturday at The Parramatta Club 37 Hunter St Parramatta www.4playparra.com.au (under construction)
www.pinkfinancialservices www.queeroutwest.zoomshare.com

The Pollys Club proudly presents

Our 42nd birthday Dance & Show

"Royal Command Performance"

Saturday July 1st 2006

The Roundhouse - UNSW - Kingsford

at 730PM

Kings and Queens will abound - not the mention the odd Princess or two!

So, throw on your glad-rags and watch the Queens of the Pollys really perform!

Pre-sales $25 - or $20 concession

At the door $35 (no concessions)

Bookings Highly Recommended - Call Margaret 9558 0400

This is a licensed Venue - no BYOG - purchase at Bar

www.thepollysclub.com.au

If your planning a trip to the Blue Mountains this Long weekend, call in to see Australia's largest Gay and Lesbian art exhibition in Katoomba.
Opening night Friday 9th June 6-9pm. Drinks, Prizes, special guests!!
Exhibition runs thru to Monday 12th June. 10am-4pm
Where?: Katoomba Civic Centre (Main street Katoomba)
contact Anne 02 4782 7589

Is 4 play an event for a community organisation or a commercial venture? Where do the takings go?
I'm just wondering if its in the right forum.

Rebellion Central West will be launched with an informal discussion and light lunch on Saturday 17th June 2006 commencing 2.00pm at Sweat Success Fitness, Level 2, 195 Clarinda St Parkes. Followed by social drinks at the Broadway Hotel.
Our contacts at this stage are Brett Patten 02-6862-6161 or Ian McCue call 02-6864-1077, email centralwest@rebellion.org.au our website address is www.rebellion.org.au/centralwest.html

"How do same-sex attracted Arab Australians negotiate their sexual identities with their familial, religious and cultural lives?"

If you are a same-sex attracted Arab-Australian, you are invited to participate in a study on your experiences. Participants will take part in a 60 - 90 minute nterview and will be asked questions about their personal experiences and their sexual and cultural identities. Interviews will be recorded for transcribing purposes. However, all participant details will be kept confidential and no identifying information will be published.

A smaller group of participants will be invited to participate in a follow-up interview if they would like to.

This project is being undertaken as a part of an Honours program at the University of Sydney. If you would like to express an interest in participating or would like more information, please contact Ghassan Kassisieh by emailing gkas8748@mail.usyd.edu.au or phoning 0405 757 214.

Billy Bumhappy has just launched the Gay Parramatta group at Yahoo. He has several indoor and outdoor social and sexual activities planned. It's http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GayParramatta

Outstanding Community Member Award
Mitzi Macintosh

Community Supporter Award – Metro / Eastern Regions
Stuart & Andrew – Manacle

Community Supporter Award – Northern Region
Macquarie University Queer Space

Community Supporter Award – Southern / Western Region
Cronulla Gay Group Inc

Award For Outstanding Contribution By A Community Group
Luncheon Club

Award For The Most Innovative Community Event
Community Bike Ride – Sydney Leather Pride Association (or SLPA)

Sexiest Female
Eva Karagiannis

Sexiest Male
Justin Standley

Villain Of The Year
John Howard

Young Achiever Award
Ashley Charlton

Quiet Achiever Award
Ruby

Hall Of Fame
Justice Michael Kirby

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_LGBT_history

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polari

"How do same-sex attracted Arab Australians negotiate their sexual identities with their familial, religious and cultural lives?"

If you are a same-sex attracted Arab-Australian, you are invited to participate in a study on your experiences. Participants will take part in a 60 - 90 minute interview and will be asked questions about their personal experiences and their sexual and cultural identities. Interviews will be recorded for transcribing purposes. However, all participant details will be kept confidential and no identifying information will be published.

If participants are concerned about revealing their identity to the researcher, the interview can be conducted anonymously online. Online interviews will be recorded in the chat program's history. All information will be completely confidential and no identifying information will be published.

A smaller group of participants will be invited to participate in a follow-up interview if they would like to.

This project is being undertaken as a part of an Honours program at the University of Sydney. If you would like to express an interest in participating or would like more information, please contact Ghassan by emailing gkas8748@mail.usyd.edu.au or visit http://ssaarab.blogspot.com.

Im about seeking feedback and support for a Gay Men and Lesbian Woman War Memorial,for those that have died at war.
The Memorial is not entirely devoted too war victims as it also represents Minority groups and Individuals.
Minority Groups: eg.early Chinese settlers and on-going DISCRIMINATION,Pacific Islanders and our own Indigenous people Gay & Lesbian.
Individuals: Those living that have been bashed/abused either as a free person or in prison and have been changed by there experience then this memorial is for them.
Those that have suicided.
Foreigners who have died in our country this memorial has a place for them,and so that a Lover Friend and Family can connect with should they ever come here.
FOR all the Gay&Lesbian people who have died by any means,disease or illness.

Im hoping to have this memorial Placed in an area between the Oxford Hotel and the Courthouse Darlinghurst.
I wish for it to be taller enough to be seen from the Palative Care Ward at St Vincents and that it be created by two Lesbian Woman, Two Gay men and one young Bi-sexual person.

In order for me to move further with this dream I am required by council to have community support,so I ask of you to share in this dream, and email me,in support of this proposal to be submitted to council.
The R.S.L. Board of NSW have thanked me for this proposal and recommended I apply for a grant from The minister for Office of Veterans Affairs. It requires community support not one individuals dream.

All comments for or against wellcomed.

Doug Callaghan email dwc806@hotmail.com

Dear Doug,

I commend you on your vision for a Memorial for fallen G & L Comrades and hope you succeed with your quest. However from what you have written, it seems as though the proposed memorial is trying to be too many things to a diverse demographic. I would concentrate on only being a gay and lesbian memorial to those who have died in service of thier country. There are many other memorials that cater for other minority groups. You may find likely support from the RSL and indeed the G & L Defence Association if it was too focus on this area.

Best of luck.

R

Thankyou R, RSL had suggested that but still encouraged me to apply for a grant "Saluting Their Service Commemorations Grant" in support of this with me just the same as my proposal to them was diverse ,I want it diverse,I want it to be our everything why should we leave anyone out,its for everybody at anytime for whatever ever reason. its 24/7 365. This is Not a one day once a year thing its our community shrine and its totaly uniting of all of us at all levels. Open the mind wider enough and your heart will follow.

Regards

Doug Callaghan

ps i will check out G&L defence Association

Dry clean those suits and polish the shoes or put on those dazzling dresses, it's time to get chic. Once again Dykes on Bikes are holding their Black & White Ball with all proceeds going to charity. This fantastic event includes a line up of Naomi Palmer, Bec Hill, Ruth Filewood (Lesbian Icon 2005), DJ Sveta, DJ Sandi Hotrod + more. There is prizes on the night for mini competitions and best dressed. This years event will be held at The Marquee, 128 Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Camperdown.
Get your tickets early from Succulent Cafe, 534 King St, Newtown OR
Webby - 0412 028 906 or Neddy - 0418 272 936
Tickets - $20 ($25 @ Door)
Members: $15 (DOB/SLPA/HC BEARS) Please show members card on purchase.

Lesbian Icon is returning to @Newtown RSL (Enmore Rd, Newtown) on Saturday 22 July.

Have some fun on the Open Mike, dance to the amazing sounds of special guests Pretty Bionic and watch Sydney's unfound stars battle it out for the Lesbian Icon crown.

There is still time to enter the Icon competition, with a first prize of $2000, or register to be a competition judge. We have also introduced a new segment called Gay Duets so the boys can join in the fun.

Get your presale tickets for $17 from moshtix or $20 at the door.

2 Sydney/Australasia pages have for some time established on Life or Meth's website. The background report with up to date statistics is at: http://www.lifeormeth.com/australiasiapacific

Then the current news re local demand for campaign action is at:
http://www.lifeormeth.com/sydneybacklash

The Sydney Pride Centre is hosting the first of a series of Community Group Forums at ARQ Sydney next month. Scheduled for Sunday 20 August 3pm to 5pm at ARQ Sydney, the forum will provide a stage for community groups to meet and discuss issues. The forum has already received overwhelming support from a large number of community group representatives, already confirming their attendance.

The aims of the forum include recreating a cohesive GLBT community by bringing all of the groups in our community into contact and increasing understanding and awareness of each other. The forum will provide an open line of communication between all groups, and will assist in uncovering how groups can help each other with their needs, problems and aims.

Popular drag performer Portia Turbo, Co-President of Sydney Pride Centre, explains that the outcomes will likely include community groups with very similar objectives forming alliances on projects including fundraising, and other operations.

“We want to encourage community groups to form alliances to work together on fundraising events, projects, and to assist with issues and problem solving that they may be facing to ensure success for all” says Turbo.

It has been noted that while the forum may possibly attract politics, that it will not be welcome at the forum.

“This is not a political event,” adds Turbo, “but a coming together of our diverse and fractured community to see how we can learn from and help each other grow.”

The forum will also be used to introduce a brand new community initiative by Fag Tag’s Tim Duggan.

“I feel the need for a web portal with information about all areas of our community to build and strengthen our connection,” states Mitzi Macintosh, a strong supporter of the forum, “this is about who needs help, who can help and informing people how they can help. This is a chance for all members of our community to join together in a huge push towards cohesion.”

i am very concerned about 2 friends of myne - i think they have a big problem with crystal. They are not daily users, but they take it a few times a week and they are starting to lie to me about their usage. Whenever i question about them they get very angry...i found needles at their place last time i was there. I know them both very well and have known them for years. I am noticing increasingly odd behaviour. Though they probably take it weekly, they have been doing so for a year now. Friends are starting to comment on how heavy their usage is. I don't know what to do. I have asked my friends to stage an intervention and tell them our concerns but i feel completely out of my league here.

Are there any crystal support groups...or is there any literature i can get to show them the damage they are doing to themselves. I am not a saint - i have used it before and have taken enough e and k to kill a small elephant...but something different is going on here. It is so very sad to watch...what is sadder is that i feel powerless and hopeless trying to help them.

What is ‘Les De-Luxe’? (pronounced lady luxe)

Want some sophistication and class, ladies? Les De-Luxe is for you!

The Flinders Hotel is proud to present its first of new nights catering for the professional and mature gay women in a luscious and classy space. Burlesque shows with a twist, gorgeous women mingling, two for one cocktails flowing and great DJs spinning a fusion of house and funk. All this for no entry fee! What more could a woman want on a Friday night? You will even be greeted with a smile from the Les De-Luxe beautiful hosts.

Les De-Luxe will be a stunning FREE EVENT on the first Friday of each month from 9:30pm. Come along earlier and taste the Flinders delights with the upstairs restaurant open from 6:00pm to 11:00pm. Great bar food is also available during this time. A personal recommendation, the antipasto platter as it's just divine with a glass of red.

Les De-Luxe is a night for the ladies and their friends to relax, mix/mingle & have a groove. Bring your business cards along, as there are great prizes to be won each month with VIP specials.

We look forward to you joining us. The launch night on Friday 4 August was a huge success and we are looking forward to another great night on Friday Sept 1st with great new shows & Scott Pullen as the special guest DJ

See you there!

Les De-Luxe team x

The Pollys Club presents

"Flights of Fantasy"

Our next dance & show

Saturday August 26th 2006

Marrickville Town Hall at 7pm

For Bookings call David 9557 6739

or Margaret 9558 0400

BYOG or purchase at the Bar. Hot Snacks, Water, Tea, and Coffee available.

Our raffle at this dance is being run by the Pride History Group.

Hi Patsy, yes there is a community support site for Sydney crystal use called CAAMA (Community Against Crystal Methamphetamine) which is a big resource and has hundreds of links, some to national and international information bases, others to local crystal-specific recovery groups and services. CAAMA have their own domain address but are currently on a temporary one while the permanent one undergoes work briefly, so you can currently find them on www.geocities.com/camasydney
Once their main online site takes over from this site address, a redirection link will be put there so you will still be able to find them.

they have a new site opened here: http://www.caama.net/
good to see some grassroots action in this cynical old town, and great to see someone standing up to crystal instead of the wishy washy responses I've seen in the papers lately.

Rebellion started as the Canterbury Bankstown District Gay & Lesbian Community Group (CBD), Seven years ago come Friday 1st September.
We invite everyone to come along to the rather informal launch the celebrations with us.

Friday 1st September.
Rebellion 7th Anniversary Dinner & Drinks at the Erko.
Erskineville Hotel 102 Erskineville Road, Erskineville (Cnr Septimus Street... kinda opposite the Imperial)
Come celebrate the 7th Anniversary of our community organisation.
Meet us at the Erskineville Hotel from 7.30pm onwards.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO ANYONE AND EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER BEEN A PART OF CBD or REBELLION.

This is a very good grassroots initiative which deserves our full support.
Whilst many consider Sydney to be cynical and uncaring, the truth is that Sydney and indeed NSW people organise community based projects, probably a lot better than anywhere else in the country.

Hello All

The sixth annual Rainbow Picnic will be held at Gregson Park in Newcastle on Sunday, 15 October and we are having a display of old and unusual cars and bikes. We already have a Citroen 2cv, 2 Rolls Royces and 2 others cars from Sydney and we welcome others from around Australia who want to be involved.

If you have a car or bike you would like to display, or want more information about the Picnic please do not hesitate to contact me at treasurer@rainbowvisions.org.au

More information about the Picnic and the Rainbow Festival (which runs in Newcastle from 6-15 October) is on our website at www.rainbowvisions.org.au/rainbowFestival/RF2006.htm


Regards
Proud 2cv owner

If you went to Kings School Parramatta and are a gay guy, you might be interested in our annual get together held in Sydney in October each year. We have over 70 members from a huge range of age groups.
Contact me for details or to be added to the mailing list with your year of leaving etc

~~

Why not celebrate your Sleaze Recovery at Odyssey House Sundays and support Twenty10 this long weekend. The crew from Odyssey are donating 10% of the door to Twenty10. Twenty10 provide support to young GLBT people who are homeless or experiencing other forms of marginalisation. So this Sleaze Recovery pop into Odyssey House Sundays and support Twenty10.

Doors open at 2pm with DJ Gruso & Darren Mason. Then at 5pm the main event with Eddie Coulter, GI Jode & Kate Monroe.

FREE entry before 5pm
$10, $5 members

Odyssey House Sundays
=========================
Flinders Hotel 63 Flinders St Darlo
5pm - midnight
2-4-1 cocktails 5pm -7pm

See you Sunday!

~

4Play Nightclub at The Parramatta Club 37 Hunter St every 2nd and 4th Saturdays.......
$7.00 cover charge (this is to cover the cost of running the night - no profit made).
Shows with Ditzi Diva's - Melicious D'Amage, Tora Hymen & Crystal Clear (our new Drag Lineup) at 11.00 & 12.30.

Various DJ's to spin the discs

Cheap drinks and off street parking or public transport nearby and taxis to the door

We support the Western Suburbs Haven with a fortnightly raffle - Helping people living with HIV/AIDS in Western Sydney.

more info check out www.4playparra.com.au or email pashentertainment@hotmail.com

The Pollys Club presents

"SPOOKED" - dance & show

Produced by Sue Pernatural
With the Polly’s cast

Saturday 14th October 2006, 7pm

Marrickville Town Hall
Cnr Marrickville & Petersham Rds
Marrickville (next to Fire Station)

Tickets: $20, concession $15
Bookings: Call David 9557 6739 - Margaret 9558 0400
or email booking to: info@thepollysclub.com.au

We are licensed and also BYO – hot snacks, tea & coffee available - Charity Raffle tickets on sale

www.thepollysclub.com.au

Drummond Street Relationship Centre would like to invite you to attend our 3 week parenting skills to help you work on any aspect of your parenting - Come alone or with a parnter.

When: Tues 17th Oct, 24th Oct and 31st Oct
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm

We will cover some of the same sex issues that can arise with single and same sex parenting.
Some childcare places are available but get in quick.

The cost is $25 for the three weeks or free to health care card holders.

Call us: 96636733 to book you place
Address: 195 Drummond Street Carlton Vic 3053
Visit our Web site: www.dsrc.org.au
We would love to see you there!

Kind regards Helen Rimmington

4Play and Pash Entertainment Group are holding an Annual Fundraiser event for The Western Surburbs Haven - service for people living with HIV/Aids in Western Sydney.

Saturday 11th November at 4Play Nightclub at The Parramatta Club - 37 Hunter St Parramatta

Shows with Melicious D'amage, Tora Hymen, Beverly Buttercup, Celeste, Candy Cum Bum, Lola Delarte, Ophelia Shaft, Shelly Chanel, Shima and Others at 11.00, 12.00 & 1.ooam

Various DJs to spin the discs and keep the dance floor pumping....

Entry Charge is $10.00 with all funds to be donated to the The Haven

Prizes to be won

For more details please contact pashentertainment@hotmail.com or call Steven on 0433 603 365.

Calling for assistance - We are looking for donation of prizes to be raffled off to raise additional funds. If you can help us out please contact Steven on 0433 603 365. See earlier post for details on the Fundraiser night.

C'Zers Grand Opening Night @ Souths Leagues Club Saturday 09 December 7pm tix $10.00 at the door...Bring ID

Sydney's newest & sexiest Sunday event, iCandy, will be launching on Sunday 26th November 4pm - 10pm at the Vibe Hotel in Rushcutters Bay.

The venue features a large balcany that overlooks picturesque Rushcutters Bay Park & the harbour, the perfect setting for a Sunday afternoon event.

The launch is a fundraiser for the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation to raise much needed money to assist people living with HIV/AIDS. 100% of the $5 entry fee goes direct to BGF.

A star-studded line-up of 7 of Sydney's favourite DJs, all of whom have donated their time on the day, will be performing, along with 2 very special 'live' performances.

DJs:

Stephen Allkins (Love Tattoo)
Scott Pullen (Queer Nation / MN2S)
Bob Frisky (DTPM / Manumission)
Renae Stanton (Arq / Colombian)
Rennee Kennett (The Flinders Hotel)
Peter Farris (Arq / Colombian)
& Jeff Rosenthal



Live performances by:

Shauna Jensen
Kyla



There will also be $5 raffle tickets with all proceeds going to BGF.

Prizes include:

2 nights accommodattion at any Vibe Hotel in Australia
2 tickets to 'Priscilla the Musical'
2 Queerdoc memberships
3 Beauty Room treatments
1 haircut by Hairdresser of The Year - Andrew Ngata
1 voucher for Nick Brown Menswear
& much, much more.

Come and enjoy a delicious Caprioska, Long Island Iced Tea, or one of our many tempting cocktails. You can even pick up a local beer for under $5.

What: BGF Fundraiser @ iCandy Launch

When: Sunday 26th November 4pm - 10pm

Who: Stephen Allkins, Scott Pullen, Bob Frisky,
Renae Stanton, Rennee Kennett, Peter Farris,
Jeff Rosenthal & special performances by
Shauna Jensen &
Kyla

Where: Curve Bar & Terrace
Vibe Hotel Rushcutters Bay

Cost: $5 Donation

All proceeds of admission price & raffle tickets go directly to the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation.

In the tradition of Milk 'n' 2 Sugars, iCandy is set to become your favourite Sunday afternoon event in the perfect surrounds of the sexy Vibe Hotel.

All welcome.

Bring your friends - come & party with iCandy.

The Pollys Club proudly presents
"The Party" - A Christmas celebration

Saturday 2nd December 2006, 7pm
Marrickville Town Hall
Cnr Marrickville & Petersham Rds Marrickville
Tickets: $20, concession $15

Bookings: Call David 9557 6739 - Margaret 9558 0400
or email booking to: info@thepollysclub.com.au

We are licensed and also BYO
Charity Raffle - We appreciate your continuing support
www.thepollysclub.com.au

What a night!!!

We would like to thank the 300 or so people that attended the iCandy launch / BGF fundraiser on Sunday night.

A fabulous mix of people enjoying the great music & the beautiful Vibe Hotel in Rushcutters Bay.

Well over $2,000 was raised for the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, so congratulations to each & every one who attended.

A big THANK YOU to all of the DJs, Stephen Allkins, Scott Pullen, Peter Farris, Bob Frisky, Renee Kennett, Renae Stanton & Jeff Rosenthal who created the perfect soundtrack for our Sunday afternoon soiree.

How cool was it to be dancing on the balcony at sunset & see all the trees light up!

A big THANK YOU also to Shauna Jensen (a true Diva) & Kyla Sexton (the rising star) who blew away the crowd with their performances.

A big THANK YOU to all of the businesses in the community who donated prizes to the BGF raffle.

The Beauty Room
Queer Screen
Brad Ngata Hairdressers
Priscilla the Musical
Azure V (the IRIS Group)
DTPM / Fagtag
Nick Brown Menswear
The Vibe Hotel
Ministry Of Sound

Also, many thanks to Peter Farris of Bump Productions who very generously donated all the audio equipment for the day.

Thanks to Dimitra 'doorbitch', Kathy Pavolic & Mel on security & Katie & the BGF staff who very generously donated their time.

The iCandy launch was a HUGE success & we hope to see all your smiling faces back again next Sunday when special guest DJ Alex Taylor, joins Scott Pullen & Renee Kennett for another funky night under the stars.

4Play Parramatta's "A Very Norti Xmas Party"

Saturday 9th December 2006

4Play Night club - @ The Parramatta Club
37 Hunter Street

Have you been Norti or Nice either way we are inviting you to our Annual Xmas Party..........

Our "Ditzy Divas" Melicious D'amage & Tora Hymen will be joined by Sydney's Favourite Drag King HANS SPARROW at 11.00pm and 12.30am in the Diamond Showroom.

Our DJ Charles will be pumping out the tracks to keep our dance floor pumping.

Our night starts at 9.00pm when you burst through the door hand over your $7.00 entry fee and have pre-night drinks in the main bar or a flutter on the pokies.

10.00 pm our show room opens for our patrons to "Strike a Pose" and have a bop with our DJ.

11.00pm Colour and movement is added with our Girls as they strut their stuff on the 4Play stage and then again at 12.30 with the "Very Norti Xmas Show".

If Costume parties are your thing then now is the night to let yourself go a Prize will be awarded to the best dressed.

All enquiries to Steven on 0433 603 365

www.4playparra.com.au

The 13th annual Christmas Eve Carols and worship service at the Sydney Town Hall presented by Metropolitan Community Church Sydney for GLBTQI community. Starts at 8pm, doors open at 7.30pm, admission is free.
Come and join in an evening of carol singing featuring the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir, Mr Justin Standley aka Mr Manacle and Ms Natasha Holmes with CRAVE Band. Guest speaker is Ms Julie McCrossin. Celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with us on Christmas Eve at Sydney Town Hall.

what sort of music does he play?

The Pollys Club proudly presents
"First Fleet" - Australia Day Weekend Dance & Show

Saturday 27th January 2006, 7pm
Marrickville Town Hall
Cnr Marrickville & Petersham Rds Marrickville
Tickets: $20, concession $15

Bookings: Call David 9557 6739 - Margaret 9558 0400
or email booking to: info@thepollysclub.com.au

We are licensed and also BYO
Charity Raffle - We appreciate your continuing support
www.thepollysclub.com.au

4Play Parramatta is back for 2007 only every 2nd Saturday of the month.

The Parramatta Club
37 Hunter Street

Our "Ditzy Divas" Melicious D'amage & Tora Hymen will be joined by Luke Browne to sing for us at 11.00pm and 12.30am in the Diamond Showroom.

DJ Charles on the decks to pump out the tunes

Night starts at 9.00pm till late $7.00 Entry Fee
All enquiries to Steven on 0433 603 365

www.4playparra.com.au or email pashentertainment@hotmail.com