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A HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE RESOURCE FOR MEN IN2 MEN ISSUE #3 - OCTOBER 2009 FREE!

IN THIS ISSUE:

MAN2MAN’s New Web Site HIV & Tassie Youth Ecstasy & It’s Risks Coming Out in Tassie

EDITORIAL

Welcome back to MAN2MAN. Topics of interest to our younger readers will be the focus of this issue. Recently Tasmania saw its first significant rise in HIV cases affecting younger guys. Here we explore issues faced by young same sex attracted guys such as their coming out experiences, look at school support groups and look into sexuality counselling services available. In addition we touch on ecstasy use which often has a bearing on unsafe sex.

MAN2MAN also gives you a sneak preview of its newly launched MAN2MAN Online website which is an extension of this popular publication.

MAN2MAN will continue to be distributed on a quarterly basis and will be available in hard copy at numerous locations state wide.

It is also available online in a pdf downloadable format on our new website www.m2mtas.com If you would like to be on the mailing list or email distribution list then contact MAN2MAN at TasCAHRD on Tel 03 62341242 or email m2m@tascahrd.org.au or alternatively write to us Editor MAN2MAN, TasCAHRD, GPO Box 595, Hobart. Tasmania 7001 Happy reading and stay safe until next time Brian Morris Editor MAN2MAN Views expressed in MAN2MAN are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the (TasCAHRD)

The MAN2MAN magazine is produced

by Sauce Publishing on behalf of TasCAHRD. For production enquiries contact David Williams on 0400 940 699 or email david@sauce.net.au

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NEW MAN2MAN WEBSITE

Check it Out! The MAN2MAN Program was established in Tasmania to provide men who are in2 men with easy access to important and reliable health and lifestyle related matters. Previously known as the Gay Men’s Health Program, the Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis and Related Diseases acknowledged the importance of broadening this to encompass all men who are attracted to other men. This includes men who consider themselves as bisexual, curious or heterosexual but do have sex with guys from time-to-time.

The first component of this program rebranding was the MAN2MAN magazine you are currently reading, which is now successfully distributed through 2500 hard copies statewide as well as online on numerous websites. We are excited to introduce the new

MAN2MAN Online website. This site is an extension of the popular MAN2MAN magazine publication and provides even more health and lifestyle information as well as an opportunity for you to engage with us. The site features a discussion board where you can raise subjects for discussion.

Also included on the website is a full range of up to date resource publications, weblinks, as well as an up to date list of upcoming community events and a listing of Tasmanian GLBTI services and organisations. Over the next few months we will continue to build on the site so your feedback will be very valuable. So keep your eyes open for the launch of this exciting new website at: www.m2mtas.com

Advertising In Man2Man MAN2MAN is a health & lifestyle resource for men in2 men and is published quarterly with 2500 hard copies distributed statewide to cafes and coffee shops, LGBTI venues, community health centre’s, adult shops, bars & nightclubs, backpackers, hairdressers, laundromats, state libraries, social groups & cultural venues such as museums and art galleries. It is also available online on the MAN2MAN

Online as well as the TasCAHRD websites in addition to other websites via weblinks.

If you are interested in advertising in MAN2MAN check out our advertising rates at

www.tascahrd.org.au

or www.m2mtas.com or contact Brian Morris ON 6234 1242 or m2m@tascahrd.org.au for more details.

Sex Health And Tassie Youth Unfortunately being young doesn’t make you any less vulnerable to getting an STI. This very fact is reflected in the recent and concerning rise in the number of young same-sex attracted Tassie guys getting HIV. For the first time in many years there has been a significant rise in numbers of newly acquired HIV in young Tasmanian guys under the age of 25 years old.

Prior to 2008 most cases of HIV in Tasmania and nationwide have affected guys in their late 30’s to early 40’s so this recent change is worthy of concern. This fact has been the driving force behind this issue of MAN2MAN focusing on youth related issues.

Available treatment choices and options for HIV over the years have increased significantly. Medical research and treatment advances have dramatically improved the overall life expectancy and survival for many people living with HIV - which has been fantastic. However, this has changed what was once a disease which resulted in death in a few years after diagnosis into a more chronic long standing illness. Many people have now been living with HIV for 20-30 years after diagnosis.

It potentially puts HIV into a similar category to other chronic illnesses such as diabetes. This has also changed our perceptions.

Although this all sounds great, in relation to improved treatments and survival this doesn’t mean HIV should not be taken seriously anymore. The medications nowadays used to treat HIV are powerful and are not free of significant side effects. In some people these can be troublesome, sometimes quite debilitating, and in some cases serious. In addition, some of the treatments can affect

the blood vessels in the body putting people on treatment at higher risk of getting things like heart attacks or strokes which is not cool at all. Some of the medications also cause people on treatment to have high cholesterol and triglyceride levels which in turn can cause big problems. Also because people nowadays are living longer with HIV they are also experiencing the effects of HIV on other body systems such as the brain amongst others.

Just because treatment has improved the life expectancy for people living with HIV this hasn’t necessarily changed things in other areas of their lives. Some people with HIV still experience significant discrimination and stigmatization in the general community, workplace and in lots of other areas of their day to day lives. Such issues can impact significantly on the health & wellbeing of people with HIV. In addition some people with HIV due to their illness or treatment are no longer able to work and may have to be on a pension at an earlier age than they would have if they were not ill. And..of course people with HIV still have a need for sexual contact like everyone else. Legal requirements about notifying sexual partners of their HIV status also often makes it hard for people with HIV to form new relationships or negotiate their sexual relationships. Remember, if

Preventing HIV Transmission: • Always use condoms and water based lube for anal or vaginal sex • Remember that oral sex is low risk - not no risk • Don’t make assumptions about someone’s HIV status • Remember the ‘window period’ for HIV is three months • Think about other sexually transmitted infections (STI’s)

you are using condoms and other safe sex strategies HIV should not be a big issue.

Yeah, on one hand living longer with HIV is great but on the other hand some things aren’t that great. The take home message is that you should not overlook your risk of getting HIV just because of treatment advances and improved overall life expectancy.

For more information about living with HIV or how not to become infected with HIV contact TasCAHRD on Tel (03) 6234 1242, Freecall 1800 005 900 or check out our websites at www.tascahrd.org.au or www.m2mtas.com Article by Brian Morris, MAN2MAN Program Coordinator, TasCAHRD

Important Things To Consider: • Knowingly transmitting HIV can result in criminal charges • Condoms are still the best way to prevent HIV transmission • There is still no cure for HIV/AIDS

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ECSTASY (E’s, Pills, Eccies) Ecstasy (MDMA) is a stimulant drug with some hallucinogenic qualities. Being a stimulant it increases your heart rate and breathing and the hallucinogenic effects can result in feelings of altered reality through your various senses – sounds, sight and hearing.

Ecstasy pills have varying amounts of MDMA present within them and some are mixed with other drugs making them potentially dangerous. Ecstasy can enhance the aspects of a club or dance scene by causing a heightened sense of the music, the beats, and the colours, combined with lots of energy. Unfortunately this doesn’t always happen and people can end up very sick and people do die from taking ecstasy every year in Australia.

Often ecstasy causes increased compassion, empathy and feelings of love towards others including strangers, making people feel connected. By feeling attracted to strangers people can end up in dangerous situations both physically and sexually.

Serotonin is the natural brain chemical which makes us feel good and happy. E’s temporarily increase serotonin levels in the brain. When the pill effects wear off they leave you with no natural “feel good” feeling and often also feeling exhausted, depressed, irritable and anxious.

The more E you take the longer time it takes for your serotonin to recover and if you use regularly you run the risk of long term serotonin depletion and depression.

You just can’t tell what is in the tablet plus individual people can react differently to the same drug so not everyone will have the same experience when dropping an E

Things to remember if you do choose to take E: • Always look after your friends • Do not take a heap of E’s at once • Always try and use with friends or

have one person stay straight in case things go wrong

• Alcohol and E’s don’t mix well together – preferably choose one or the other.

• Always start with quarter or half a pill to check out its strength then later decide if you want to take more

• If you use regularily try and have a break from using to allow your body and mind some time to recover and rest.

•

If you think that you or your friend’s drug usage is getting out of control – do something about it. Know the signs of drug tolerance and dependency and listen if your friends tell you they are concerned about you.

• Know the signs of overheating, the recovery position and never leave anyone on their own if they are unwell or unresponsive

• Always call an ambulance if you are concerned about someone • Remember there are plenty of health services available for help & support if needed.

• Remember even in the regular user the effects of E can be unpredictable

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Biggest risks with taking E’s: • Pill content and effect - not knowing what is in the pill, nor knowing how your body will react to the drug because everyone reacts differently

• Overheating – E’s raise your body temperature and so

you risk overheating especially if you don’t drink enough water or rest enough. The brain overheats causing coma and occasionally death. Always get medical assistance if your friend is too hot, looks unwell, unresponsive, clammy, disoriented, vomiting, confused, and lethargic

• Water issues – such as not enough water (where the body and brain gets dehydrated), or too much water (where the brain gets flooded and swells up) – both of which can cause irreversible side-effects

For Further Information: Alcohol & Drug Service South 6230 7901 North 6336 5577 NW 6429 8555 Freecall: 24 hours alcohol and other drug information service 1800 811 994 http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/ mentalhealth/alcohol_and_drug Drug Education Network 1300 369 319 or www.den.org.au MAN2MAN Program at TasCAHRD 319 Liverpool Street, Hobart. Tasmania Freecall 1800 005 900 or 03 6234 1242 Email: m2m@tascahrd.org.au Web:www.m2mtas.com or www. tascahrd.org.au

Tips for coming off Ecstasy: • At home keep your fluids up • Avoid mixing E and other drugs • Avoid taking other drugs to help you come down • Drink the right amounts of water and sip it regularly • Allow your body time to recover - don’t take E’s every weekend • Eat well, drink lots of water and have plenty of rest to help your body recover • Eat a meal a few hours before going out to give your body energy to keep going • Be aware that you will be irritable so try to avoid people or situations that may irritate you • Don’t go home with people you don’t know as you may not be making the best decisions

plus people may take advantage of you whilst in this state. Plus when you come down in an unfamiliar place this can contribute to paranoia and anxiety.

• Taking a warm bath can help reduce comedown feelings and if stressed and agitated an aromatherapy bath may help in addition to soothing aching muscles

• Be aware that if you start feeling that you need the drug to have a good time, start to crave its effects, or if you start to experience problems associated with the drug and your life, talk to a good friend or seek professional assistance

• Having a massage or alternative relaxation techniques maybe useful for some • Don’t take more drugs to try and feel better • Eat something light when you get home • Vitamins and minerals may also help

Article by Susie Dewis - Counsellor, specializing in Alcohol and other drugs Northern Tasmania.

Author acknowledges some information taken from “Ecstasy: Facts and Fiction 2nd edition published by NDARC (National Drug & Alcohol Research Centre)

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Young & Out In Tasmania

Well just how tough is it to be a young guy living in Tasmania coming to grips with your sexuality together with the struggles associated with coming out both in the school environment and to your family and friends? MAN2MAN was keen to find out more so caught up with Ben a 22 year old young Tassie gay guy who gave us a personal insight into a few of these issues as well as others. This is what Ben had to say: Ben can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am 22 years old born in Tasmania and the third child of a family of five children. I went to school in Tasmania and I am currently working in the hospitality industry.

Going back to when you were at school how old do you think you were when you realized your own sexual identity?

Probably about grade seven when I was about 12 years old. I guess I always really knew but there is a big step between knowing and accepting it really. I might have known then but I never really accepted it until I was about 20 years old.

Going back to your years in high school were they difficult years for you?

Yeah they were. The girls all loved me but a lot of the guys, all except a few of my best friends, would say “oh you’re gay” or “faggot” I suppose it was back in the days before I had accepted it myself which made it awkward. Plus because I was still in denial I’d sort of say “oh whatever” and felt like I couldn’t express myself to anybody as I would be able to now. Back then I’d say “no I’m not” and I’d be worried that these other boys wouldn’t like me.

Why do you think other school kids were acting the way they did towards you back in your school years?

With school kids, anything they don’t like is “gay” but it’s because of lack of understanding or it seems to not be socially acceptable or socially cool to like a person of the same gender.

Do you think it’s because they don’t know many people who are gay and so can’t really comprehend what it’s like to be gay?

Well I guess you can’t really comprehend what it’s like to be gay unless you are. But I suppose with some people it empowers them to say “ha ha you’re this and I’m not” It’s hard to really know what they’re thinking Do you have any take home points for other school age kids and how can it be made easier for them to come out at school?

Coming out at school is going to be hard whatever but I think the most important thing is that if you accept yourself for who you are then once you have accepted yourself you sort of don’t worry about what other people think.

Why feel bad about yourself

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because you were born gay. It’s not as if you made a choice to be gay.

Where did you get most of your support from?

I didn’t really come out until I was about 20 years old when I came out to my family. So in high school I sort of blocked it all out and bundled it all in, always knowing but I never really told anyone. It was a hard time and I often thought about suicide.

I also had to keep my sexual preferences quiet and had to have girlfriend’s inbetween.

When I look back it’s really pathetic and it’s a shame I sort of had to stay hidden because I was worried about what other people thought.

If I had to go back and do it all again I guess I’d accept myself straight up and just not worry about people that didn’t want to accept me for who I am.

It’s a shame really that as teenagers we strive to fit in.

When you came out did you get much support from your family?

My Dad was gay friendly but my mother’s side had never really accepted gay people. I actually told my mother first because at the end of the day you just want your Mum to love you. Because she was religious it was really hard to tell her. I vividly remember it and she sort of froze for a bit when I told her. She basically said “well I still love you” and that was basically all I wanted to hear.

Then of course she said “are you sure” and “how do you know” My response to her was that it wasn’t a question of whether I was sure or not because I knew that I was. I sort of left as soon as I told her and didn’t hang around. Then I didn’t speak to her for about a

month, just because it was sort of hard and awkward for me. I also skipped Christmas that year.

Now that you have come out do you feel emotionally different in yourself having gone through that phase?

Yes I think it does make a difference.

Like it makes you more comfortable.

I can now walk down the street with my really camp friends and not worry sort of if people see me with them. Like I no longer feel “oh no they’ll think I’m gay or whatever” The people who wanna talk to me will talk to me because of who I am and not because of who I’m having sex with.

People in the gay community suffer from a higher incidence of psychological & emotional problems like anxiety, depression and suicide in addition to being at higher risk of drug or alcohol related use. Did you ever suffer from any psychological or emotional difficulties during these years?

Yeah a lot of anxiety and depression and a lot of emotional issues.

Do you think that would have been different had you been heterosexual?

Straight away it doesn’t matter who you speak or talk to - because you are straight you are automatically accepted. It makes a huge difference because when you make friends with someone the whole time you are thinking “if these guys knew that I was gay would they still want to hang around with me and would they still be friends with me” Plus suicide is a real issue I think. I always used to drink a lot of alcohol when I was in my high school years to try and forget about things. I definitely agree that they are real issues. The only reason I didn’t commit suicide was because I grew up religious.

Yeah I bottled a lot of stuff up back then.

Do you think drugs and alcohol are a major thing in young gay guys lives here in Tasmania?

I think that until people accept themselves, yeah you try and block it out. I used to smoke lots of dope to sort of try and block it out but it just caused other problems.

For young gay guys currently going through high school and going through similar experiences to yours what take home messages or things could you say to them that may help them?

Being yourself is probably the biggest and most important one I think. Because once you accept yourself, everything else and all the other doors just open up around you.

Also don’t try and drink or drug it up. Also just remember that it’s not a choice that you are gay – it’s who you are. So if it’s not a choice then you don’t have to feel bad about being gay.

Is it important for young people to be out to their doctor and is that a difficult thing to do and if so how could this be made easier?

Yes it is difficult to know whether to tell your doctor or what their reaction towards you will be like or whether they will tell your family. But I do think it is very important to be honest with your doctor. I suppose if beforehand you knew your doctor was going to be gay friendly that would make it easier to come out to them. Simple things like maybe having these MAN2MAN magazines in their waiting room would make me more likely to think ”well he must at least be gay friendly to have these in here” and so would make me more likely to try confiding in him.

What about the straight people reading this interview. What could they do to make it easier for young gay guys to come out?

By opening their minds really. Basically I feel it comes down to “do unto others as you have them do unto you”. Like what does it do – “does it make you feel tough to put somebody down” Plus what would they do if their own son grew up to be gay? They need to be more broad minded and to treat people equally.

From the MAN2MAN team we would like to thank you Ben for those personal insights and your various experiences.

We’re sure other young guys will benefit from your experiences and your advice, as well as giving heterosexual people an idea of what a difficult time coming out can be, and the ways in which they could maybe help make this easier.

Good luck and thanks Useful Places For More Information On Coming Out: Working It Out www.workingitout.org.au MAN2MAN Program at TasCAHRD www.m2mtas.com m2m@tascahrd.org.au

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TASMANIAN GLBTI SE STATEWIDE • Bi-Tasmania Social and support group for bisexual Tasmanians CONTACT: 0401 054 003 • Coming Out Proud Program (COPP) Provides strategies enabling GLBTI people to “come out with pride” and live in their community with dignity.

CONTACT: JULIAN PUNCH julian@logtas.org • Country Network Offers hospitality and friendship among rural GLBTI people to assist overcoming their social isolation.

CONTACT: DAVE ARNOLD 03 6228 4166 www.countrynetwork.com.au secretary@countrynetwork.com.au • GALTA Australia’s gay & lesbian tourism organisation www.galta.com.au • Gay & Lesbian Travel Association Tasmania (GALTAT) Representing the gay and lesbian travel accommodation providers in Tasmania www.galtat.com • Gay & Lesbian Switchboard Confidential peer-based telephone counselling, information and referral service specifically for the GLBTI communities of Victoria & Tasmania.

Contact for regional Victoria & Tasmania 1800 184 527 or www. switchboard.org.au • Gay Info Line 24hr recorded message service funded by GLC Centre 03 6234 8179 • GayTAS Website The leading gay online newspaper & information source for the Tasmanian GLBTI community with the latest news, entertainment, business & travel at http://gaytas.e-p.net.au • Indeed Supporting Tasmania’s relationship registry. Contact Peter Power & Ian Lawrence at indeedrelationships@ gmail.com or online at www. relationshipstasmania.org.au/indeed. html • League of Gentlefellows A state wide informal grouping of GLBTI people and their friends who meet socially. Check www.logtas.org or contact Julian Punch on 03 6239 6606 or julian@logtas.org or John Perry on 03 6223 6003

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• MAN2MAN Program Program run by TasCAHRD which aims to prevent the spread of HIV & STI’s among gay men and other men who have sex with men. This program incorporates the MAN2MAN magazine, MAN2MAN online outreach, volunteer program, venue outreach, as well as information & support. Contact Brian Morris, MAN2MAN Coordinator on 6234 1242, email m2m@tascahrd.org.au or visit www.m2mtas.com. You will also find us in your favourite chatroom.

• Outright Youth Group Group offering social events for young rainbow people in a safe and caring environment.

Contact Scott Ryan or Connie Lavicka at scott@logtas.org for more details • Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Currently do not have a Tasmanian representative but information is available at EMAIL: pflagtas@yahoo.com.au WEB: www.pflagaustralia.org.au • QueerTas Tasmania’s GLBTI Yahoo group.

SUBSCRIBE AT queertas-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com.au • Relationships Tasmania Info about the deed of relationships www.relationshipstasmania.org.au • S.A.F.E Spirituality and Faith Exploration meet fortnightly for LGBTI people who wish to explore their spirituality.

CONTACT: JOC - 03 6228 6715 EMAIL: safetas@gmail.com www.care2.com/c2c/group/safetas • Same Sex Travel A directory of same sex operated accommodation properties throughout Australia and New Zealand www.samesextravel.com • Sexual Health Service Offers counselling, support, referrals and STI & HIV testing.

HOBART - 03 6233 3557 DEVONPORT - 03 6421 7759 BURNIE - 03 6434 6315 LAUNCESTON - 03 6336 2216 FREECALL NUMBER - 1800 675 859 OR sexual.health@dhhs.tas.gov.au • TasCAHRD Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis & Related Diseases including the MAN2MAN Program CONTACT: 03 6234 1242 FREE CALL INFORMATION LINE 1800 005 900 FROM 9AM TO 5PM EMAIL: m2m@tascahrd.org.au WEB: www.tascahrd.org.au

• Tasmania Police LGBTI Liaison Officer’s HOBART - 03 6230 2111 LAUNCESTON - 03 6336 7000 NORTH WEST - 03 6434 5211 WEB: www.police.tas.gov.au/ community/community-policing/ lgbt_liaison_officers • Working It Out Tasmania’s peak support body for the LGBTI communities providing information, support and referral for people of all ages who are coming out or exploring their sexuality and gender.

SOUTH - 03 6231 1200 NORTH - 03 6334 4013 NORTH-WEST - 03 6432 3643 EMAIL: info@workingitout.org.au WEB: www.workingitout.org.au • TasPride An organisation dedicated to celebrating and uniting the Tasmanian GLBTI community as well as bringing you the annual TasPride Festival. See GLC Centre for contact details • Yahoo Tasmanian GLBTI Groups (Queertas, gayhobart, tassiecasualfun, womenupnorth, bitasmania, Allsortsqueeryouth, qsoc_tasmania, gaytassieguys, triplegtas, Tasgayguys, GayTasmania, taswomen2women) http://groups.yahoo.com

SOUTHERN • Antidiscrimination Commission Assist in pursuing claims of discrimination on grounds of sexuality, gender identity etc.

LEVEL 1, 54 VICTORIA STREET, HOBART. PHONE: 03 6233 4841 OR 1300 305 062 antidiscrimination@justice.tas.gov.au www.antidiscrimination.tas.gov.au • Borderlines Hobart’s queer radio show every Monday at 2pm on Edge Radio 99.3FM • Coming Out Proud Program (COPP) Provides strategies enabling GLBTI people to “come out with pride” and live in their community with dignity.

Contact Jenny Sallens (Greater Hobart CLC) on jenny@logtas.org or Jo Goodman (Kingborough/Huon CLC) on jo@logtas.org

ERVICES AND GROUPS • Flamingos Dance Bar Tasmania’s weekly club committed to providing a tolerant, safe, informative and fun environment for people of alternative sexualities and their friends to be able to enjoy themselves and socialize in a non-threatening environment. Newly located at 201 Liverpool Street, Hobart. Online at www.flamingosbar.com and www. myspace.com/flamingosbar

• Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group (TGLRG) Is a community-based organisation campaigning for LGBTI human rights in Tasmania.

CONTACT 03 6224 3556 OR EMAIL rodney.croome@tglrg.org OR ONLINE: www.tglrg.org OR www.rodneycroome.id.au OR AT THEIR STALL AT SALAMANCA MARKET ON SATURDAYS

• Gay and Lesbian Community Centre Inc (GLC Centre) GLC Centre or TasPride is Tasmania’s GLBTI social and community development group. A memberbased organisation, GLC produces the TasPride Festival, hosts regular events, provides the Gay Information Line, and publishes a regular bulletin.

Contact on info@taspride.com or online at www.taspride.com

• The Male Factory @ The Duke Hotel, Hobart Meet every Sunday afternoon 2pm till late

• Lalaland hosts a monthly dance party. First Saturday of every month at Halo Night Club, Purdy’s Mart, Hobart www.clublala.net • Les Girls (formerly Diva) Hobart GLBTI night club located at 101 Harrington Street, Hobart (formerly Mangoes Bar). With drag shows every weekend and strip shows. Open every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday night. For more information check http://www.myspace.com/ lesgirlshobart or be added to Les Girls Facebook page by emailing lesgirls101@live.com.au Free entry to all GLC members on display of membership card • QSOC The Queer Uni Students Society in Hobart contactable via email at queerep@yahoo.com.au • QSOC South UTAS Queer Students on Campus.

Contact on: qsoc_south@hotmail.com • Soak@Kaos Café and lounge bar 237 Elizabeth Street, Hobart. www.kaoscafe.com.au •Tasmania University Union (TUU) Sexuality Officer CONTACT: UTAS TUU ON 03 6226 2495

• Wellington Wanderers GLBTI activity group which runs a year-round program of events.

CONTACT: 0418 590 262 OR 03 6234 2946 POST: GPO BOX 1872, HOBART TAS 7001 wellingtonwanderers@yahoo.com.au

NORTHERN • The Beat Launceston’s newest and only GLBTI club open Friday nights 8pm-3am AT THE HUB BAR, 1 TAMAR STREET, LAUNCESTON. EMAIL: thebeat@dodo.com.au WEB: www.thebeatlaunceston.com • Allsorts Queer youth group meeting regularly in Launceston & Burnie through Working It Out North.

CONTACT: 03 6334 4013 OR north@workingitout.org.au • Coming Out Proud Program (COPP) Provides strategies enabling GLBTI people to “come out with pride” and live in their community with dignity.

Contact Donald Mc Donald (Northern CLC) on donmac@logtas.org • Fruity Bits Launceston based email newsgroup.

CONTACT: 03 6334 4013 OR north@workingitout.org.au • Northern Tasmanian Men’s Meetup Launceston based discreet social group of gay and bisexual men and their friends who meet regularly for meals, BBQ’s, drinks and other events.

CONTACT: northern.meetup@hotmail.com OR info@meetup.com POST: LAUNCESTON MEETUP, PO BOX 7666, LAUNCESTON TAS 7250

• Transisters community based social and support group for transgender women in Tasmania, meeting once a month in Launceston.

CONTACT: http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/transisters/

NORTH-WEST • Allsorts Queer youth group meeting regularly in Launceston & Burnie through Working It Out North West CONTACT: 03 6432 3643 OR northwest@workingitout.org.au • Coming Out Proud Program (COPP) Provides strategies enabling GLBTI people to “come out with pride” and live in their community with dignity.

Contact Dr Wilfred Laycock (North West/SW CLC) on 03 6424 4438 • Emesete Restaurant Holds GLBTI friendly functions located at 8 Alexander Street, Burnie.

CONTACT: ALISON - 03 6434 4322 EMAIL: abrotherton@mst.org.au for more details • North West GLBTI-Friendly Youth Group For under 25’s meets fortnightly in Burnie.

CONTACT: SHARON 03 6432 3643 OR 0419 361 128 northwest@workingitout.org.au • North West Same Sex Attracted Men’s Group Group for over 18’s meets monthly in Burnie. Contact Sharon at Working It Out, North West on 03 6432 3643 or 0419 361 128 or northwest@ workingitout.org.au or contact Layne at ramonshoebridge@live.com.au

EAST COAST • ECQLS East Coast Queer Life Support Is a support association in the NE to coordinate and provide services and social activities for GLBTI people.

EMAIL: ecqlstasmania@gmail.com OR CHECK OUT www.ecqls.org

• Tas Unity An ecumenical support and study group for LGBTI people, their friends, families and supporters.

CONTACT: PAT ON 03 6344 2357

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YOUTH & ADOLESCENT SERVICES WITHIN TASMANIA MAN2MAN recently checked out some of the various youth and adolescent services around the state and provides you here with a brief overview of a few of these services Outright Youth Group

This newly formed group offers social events for young rainbow people in a safe and caring environment.

Contact Scott Ryan or Connie Lavicka State Youth Coordinators at scott@logtas.org for more details

Allsorts

This queer youth group meets regularly in Launceston & Burnie through Working It Out North.

For more details contact Working It Out North on Tel 03 6334 4013 or north@workingitout.org.au

North West GLBTI-Friendly Youth Group

For under 25’s meets fortnightly in Burnie.

For more details contact Sharon at Working It Out, North West on 03 6432 3643 or 0419 361 128 or email northwest@workingitout.org.au

The Link Youth Health Service For young people aged between 12 & 24 years old. Then Link works with all young people but their primary focus is homeless young people or those at risk of homelessness

57 Liverpool Street, Hobart.

Tasmania 7000 Tel: 6231 2927 Email: healthhelp@thelink.org.au Web: www.thelink.org.au

Pulse Youth Health Centre

For young people aged between 12-24 years. The team comprises nurses, social workers, alcohol & drug worker, creative arts worker, and a youth worker Community & Health Services Centre, 2 Terry Street, Glenorchy Tasmania 7010 Tel: 6233 8900 Email: pulse@dhhs.tas.gov.au Web: www.beanbag.com.au/pulse

Youth Arc

Hobart City Council’s youth centre for all youth between the ages of 12-25 years old Contact details: 44 Collins Street, Hobart. Tasmania 7000 Tel: 6231 5150 Email: imberj@hobartcity.com.au Web: www.youtharc.org

Police & Community Youth Clubs (PCYC)

The PCYC have 13 clubs statewide including Hobart, Clarence, Bridgewater, Sorell, Rokeby, Launceston & Burnie. The PCYC provide a safe environment for youth and the community to participate in a wide range of sporting and recreational activities Other services offered by the PCYC include: - Outreach programs to outlying areas - Teen Vacation Program during school holidays - Mobile Activity Centre Contact details: Web: www.police.tas.gov.au/ community/pcyc

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Headspace Northern Tasmania Youth friendly health service for young people aged 12-25 years old Supported by youth friendly GP’s, psychologists, social workers, drug & alcohol workers and youth health nurses Contact details: Corner Brisbane & Wellington Street, Launceston Tel: 6336 4480 SMS: 0458 610 022 Email: headspace@gpnorth.com.au Web: www.headspace.org.au/ northerntasmania

The Zone – Youth Information & Access Centre

Service for youth between the ages of 12-25 years old Contact details: 64 Stewart Street, Devonport Tel: 6423 4099 Web: www.devonport.tas.gov.au

USEFUL YOUTH RELATED WEBSITES TO CHECKOUT LINKZONE www.linkzone.tas.gov.au Site designed for young people in Tasmania aged 12-25 years old to enable them to easily access a range of information including employment, recreation, environmental & social issues, housing, legal issues, plus transport.

WORKING IT OUT www.workingitout.org.au Working It Out is Tasmania’s gender and sexuality support and education service providing support to the GLBTI communities of Tasmania. Their website details services offered, upcoming events, youth group activities, and GLBTI resources including articles addressing homophobia.

YOUTH CENTRAL www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au Comprehensive website with sections covering news, jobs & careers, studying & training, money management, travel & transport, health & relationships, housing & accommodation, your rights, government assistance, games and much more. A separate section on health & relationships covers same sex relationships as well as relationships & sexual health.

COMING OUT AUSTRALIA www.comingout.com.au This community focused website provides information, resources and interactive activities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people about “coming out” The site is also for heterosexual people who are curious and want to understand more about coming out.

NOT SO STRAIGHT www.notsostraight.com.au Website specifically built to help young people find information and support about sex and sexuality. The website helps young people find plenty of information and shows them lots of other places (both online and in the real world) that they can go to for support, advice and information about being gay, lesbian or bisexual.

FREEDOM CENTRE www.freedom.org.au This website operated by The Western Australian AIDS Council’s Freedom Centre supports young people (under 26 years) to be happy and healthy about their sexuality and gender. There is a good selection of resources, information and links including a blog section.

ISTAYSAFE www.health.qld.gov.au/istaysafe A website run by Queensland Health which is a dedicated site on sexual health, HIV and Hepatitis C for teens.

Site covers topics relating to sexual health, safe sex, STI checks, STI’s, alcohol & drugs, sexual assault, same sex relationships, as well as a girls only & a guys only section.

REACHOUT.COM www.reachout.com Very well organized and comprehensive website aimed at young people offering information and help about tough times and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, suicide & eating disorders amongst others.

Sections covering topics on mental health issues, alcohol & drugs, family & relationships, independence, grief & loss, physical health, violence, school, sex, as well as sexuality & coming out QNET – CANBERRA’S QUEER YOUTH CYBERSPACE www.qnet.org.au Qnet is an online community for GLBTI people under the age of 25 years. It is also a place for their friends, family, teachers, supporters and peers to offer support, get information and make new contacts. The site offers a message board facility in addition to plenty of articles covering topics of relationships, sexual health, coming out, sexuality, legal rights, and a parents & teachers section LIKEITIS.ORG.AU www.likeitis.org.au Website for young people on sex issues explaining sex “like it is” exactly how it is, with no frills, no judgments and definitely no holds barred.

HEADSPACE www.headspace.org.au Extensive website providing mental and health wellbeing support, information and services to young people and their families across Australia.

BULLYING NO WAY! www.bullyingnoway.com.au A comprehensive Australian website for students and professionals of all ages to provide a nationwide resource of State and Territory approaches to minimizing bullying, harassment and violence. Includes a section on sexuality based prejudice.

Content sourced by Michael O’Halloran (Webmaster, Coming Out Proud Program) & Brian Morris (MAN2MAN Program Coordinator)

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delivery of programs focusing on anti-bullying, anti-homophobia and diversity.

working it out .org.au

• Out in the community Peer support programs and events, advocacy and policy development, through the WIO web site, library, as well as through resources and information.

Working It Out is Tasmania’s gender and sexuality support and education service and it operates in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie providing support to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender & intersex (GLBTI) communities of Tasmania. Our service is free and is totally confidential.

What young people have said about their time with Working It Out:

We work in four key areas:

Free and confidential support and information for community members, friends and family regarding sexual orientation and gender identity

“We want other young people to think “hey we should get into this too” and then they can be in the next project. We want more young people to get involved! We are part of the community too and we want people to know that”

• Out in schools Providing resources, counselling, education programs, and information sessions for staff, parents and students

“We want more “get togethers” with queer youth all over the state. Some of us want to do photography, others nude life painting or drawing”

• Out in the work place Providing support and training through the development and

Feelings of isolation is a fairly common experience for same sex attracted young people especially

• Direct support

“Young people need a say because otherwise we get frustrated. We want a voice and for people to know what we think and how we feel”

in rural areas. Meeting other GLBTI people benefits young people enormously by allowing them to make new social contacts as well as to talk to others experiencing similar issues to them.

What does Working It Out have coming up for youth?

Are you aged between 18 – 25?

• We are looking for young same sex attracted young people to participate in training to become public speakers on panels during diversity training • If you are interested text or ring Susan at WIO Hobart on 0429 346 122.

Are you aged between 14 – 25?

• We are planning on making diversity t-shirts & posters at an arts workshop • If you are interested ring Jane at WIO on 0438 346 122 or Susan on 0429 346 122 Where to find us?

Working It Out counsellors are based in all three WIO offices and are trained in the area of sexuality and gender issues and how these impact on relationships with family and friends. Check out our website for more details www.workingitout.org.au Article by Susan Ditter, Executive Officer, Working It Out Inc

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (GLBTI) Elizabeth College Network The Coming Out Proud Program (COPP) has endorsed the Elizabeth College (EC) GLBTI Network Group model as significant for implementation in high schools and colleges in Tasmania.

The GLBTI Support Group at Elizabeth College is a confidential, discreet, informal forum and support group for students that has been running at Elizabeth College for three years. The group started as an initiative of the Student Equity Group and teacher, Arlette Mercae at Elizabeth College three years ago. The group meets fortnightly for GLBTI students and their friends in a safe environment.

Sexual and gender diverse students are able to make new friends and discuss issues of relevance. The Network is promoted in the College newsletter and accessed through a confidential email address

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that is set up and managed by the coordinating teacher (Arlette Mercae) who also books rooms for meetings, arranges guest speakers, distributes relevant information and acts as community liaison.

The College Librarian stocking selected GLBTI literature that is of assistance and interest to the students also assists the Group.

The EC GLBTI Network Model is simple in its implementation without being personnel or resource intensive. It has the benefit of being discreet in an environment of not wanting to attract attention from fundamentalist groups on the fringe of school communities. The model also presents opportunities of ownership by group members and an opportunity to self determine the direction of the group while developing maturity and growth from the confidence

of ‘coming out’ in a positive and supportive environment.

The COPP endorsement is also built on the development of a GLBTI Tool Kit identifying local and state resources for high schools and colleges. The Tool Kit provides access to special counselling, educational, policing and health services, social opportunities, and engages mainstream resources that are appropriate for young people in an environment that can be challenging and sometimes hostile. It is intended that this will be loaded on the COPP Web Site www.comingoutproud.org For more details contact Julian Punch on 6239 6606 or julian@ logtas.org Article by: Julian Punch, Statewide Coordinator of Coming Out Proud Program

Hobart’s Newest Nightclub

The ever popular Flamingo’s Dance Bar over the last few months has been avidly looking for another location for its venue, and recently has secured one right in the heart of the CBD in Hobart. Full credit has to go to managers Gary & Anthony as well as the rest of the staff of Flamingo’s for their persistence and dedication in securing their new venue.

Sunray Apartment Hobart Private apartment in the city, 4 minutes walk to Salamanca, ground floor, private garden entrance.

Good value rates. Short and medium term stays.

Ph: 0402 098 632 www.sunrayhobart.com bookings@sunrayhobart.com

Their new club is in a double storey historic building located at 201 Liverpool Street in Hobart. The main ground floor area features an elevated dance floor and upstairs there is a discreet balcony-style mezzanine lounge area overlooking the dance floor below.

In addition there is a separate pool room on the first floor with four 8-ball tables and a large lounge area as well. Out of club hours Flamingos new space is also available for use as a GLBTI community centre to be booked out for any events by GLBTI community groups or the like.

Flamingos Dance Bar is planning on their grand opening night being Saturday 3rd October 2009. At this stage they plan to be open to the public on Friday and Saturday nights from 10pm until late. For more details and updates check out their website at www.flamingosbar.com Flamingos place importance on and value the health and wellbeing of the GLBTI community by continuing to be very supportive of the MAN2MAN Program at TasCAHRD Article by Brian Morris, MAN2MAN Program Coordinator, TasCAHRD

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HIV, You & The Law You may be aware in Australia there have been recent cases where people have allegedly passed on HIV deliberately. This is also a possibility here in Tasmania as in other places in Australia.

We believe this is an important time to remind you of the Tasmanian laws relating to HIV transmission. Did you know the laws about HIV transmission vary across Australian states and territories?

We must also remember new cases of HIV in Australia are continuing to increase each year. This is not a time to take risks!

We want people to be free to express themselves sexually. However, we must also remember HIV continues to mostly affect gay men and other men who have sex with men (eg. bisexual guys). Some states including Tasmania have also shown small increases among women recently.

It is important to know if you have HIV. If you do, this means you can access the best possible supports sooner and aim for better health outcomes.

Below is some important information about the law and what it could mean for you. So please - play safe and respect each other.

Article by Kevin Marriott, CEO TasCAHRD

What can this mean for you?

• Firstly, you should know what your HIV status is - consider when you last took a risk and when you last had an HIV test. (remember the 3 month ‘window period’) • If you have HIV - you must take reasonable measures and precautions to prevent the risk of transmitting HIV • You are required, by current Tasmania law, to tell a sexual partner about your HIV before you have sex (yes, including oral sex) or before you share injecting equipment • Recklessly or deliberately passing on HIV can result in criminal charges • Putting others at risk of transmission can result in legal action restricting your conduct and movements.

Tasmania’s HIV/AIDS Preventive Measures Act states the following: 1. A person who is and is aware of being infected with HIV or is carrying and is aware of carrying HIV antibodies must – a. take all reasonable measures and precautions to prevent the transmission of HIV to others; and b. Inform in advance any sexual contact or person with whom needles are shared of that fact.

2. A person who is and is aware of being infected with HIV or who is carrying and is aware of carrying HIV antibodies must not knowingly or recklessly place another person at risk of becoming infected with HIV unless that other person knew that fact and voluntarily accepted the risk of being infected.

Division 3 – Orders, Section 20.

Remember the Public Health Act and the Criminal Code Act are also relevant and should be consulted. For more information about Tasmanian Laws visit www.thelaw.tas.gov.au

Who can help? There are a number of ways to find out more information:

• If you do not have HIV– you should remember many people find it very difficult to tell you about their HIV, so don’t make any assumptions. Few people lie about it, but yes, some do!

• MAN2MAN Program at TasCAHRD: Tel: Freecall 1800 005 900 or 03 6234 1242 Email: m2m@tascahrd.org.au Web: www.m2mtas.com

• This does not mean you should not get tested for HIV – health-wise it is best to know.

• Sexual Health Services Hobart: 6233 3557 Launceston: 6336 2216 Devonport: 6421 7759 Burnie: 6434 6315 Freecall 1800 675 859

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We also encourage you to talk to your doctor about your overall sexual health, including HIV/AIDS.

Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations

UPCOMING TASMANIAN GLBTI EVENTS SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER FLAMINGO’S DANCE BAR GRAND OPENING NIGHT Definitely a must on everyone’s social calendar. For more details check out their website at www. flamingosbar.com SUNDAY 4TH OCTOBER BIVOUAC BAY, TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

Bushwalk with the Wellington Wanderers. Contact 6223 2690 for details or bookings WEDNESDAY 14TH OCTOBER WELLINGTON WANDERERS PLANNING MEETING To plan the upcoming summer program. Contact 6223 2690 for more details 22ND TO 25TH OCTOBER MARIA ISLAND NATIONAL PARK Hobart Show long weekend bushwalk with the Wellington Wanderers. Contact 6223 2690 for details or bookings.

30TH OCTOBER TO 15TH NOVEMBER TASPRIDE FESTIVAL TasPride Festival will be held from 30th October to 15th November.

Events will include the annual Halloween Party, the popular Drag Bingo and Queer Quiz Nights, Film Festival, Disco Bowling, Family & Friends Picnic Day, and many more events to be held around

Tasmania. For more details check out www.taspride.com or contact Dean Duggan on 0432 904 606 or email president@taspride.com SUNDAY 8TH NOVEMBER THE SPRINGS, MT WELLINGTON Walk with pride, part of the TasPride Festival. This bushwalk is hosted by the Wellington Wanderers. Contact 6223 2690 for details or bookings.

SUNDAY 15TH NOVEMBER TASPRIDE FESTIVAL BIG QUEER FAMILY PICNIC This popular event forms part of the TasPride Festival. For more details check out www.taspride.com or contact Dean Duggan on 0432 904 606 or email president@taspride. com SATURDAY 21ST NOVEMBER TASCAHRD AIDS AWARENESS WEEK SALAMANCA MARKET STALL Come and speak to TasCAHRD staff for information on HIV at their Salamanca Market stall, Hobart

For more details visit www.tascahrd.org.au or contact redribbon@tascahrd.org.au THURSDAY 26TH NOVEMBER TASCAHRD WORLD AIDS DAY RED RIBBON COLLECTION For more details or to volunteer to assist with red ribbon collection day contact Amanda Walker at redribbon@tascahrd.org.au or 6234 1242 SUNDAY 29TH NOVEMBER THE SENTINELS, SOUTH WEST NATIONAL PARK Bushwalk with the Wellington Wanderers. Contact 6223 2690 for details or bookings SATURDAY 5TH DECEMBER ANNUAL RAINBOW DINNER & AWARDS Hosted by the League of Gentlefellows this year’s function will be held at The Mecure Hotel, Hobart. Nominations for awards close on 1st November. Contact Julian Punch on 6239 6606 or julian@logtas.org for more details

WEDNESDAY 25TH NOVEMBER TASCAHRD AIDS AWARENESS WEEK – SONGS IN THE BLOOD Songs In The Blood is a recreated play of stories of women living with HIV/AIDS to be held at the Female Factory Historic Site, Hobart from 7.30-9.30pm.

Mondays: Borderlines Queer Radio - 2-3pm (Hobart’s sexuality & gender issues radio show on Edge Radio 99.3 FM)

Man2Man Readership Survey – Your Chance To Win An iPod Nano!

Want to be in the running to win a new iPod Nano? Why not have a go by spending just a few minutes to fill in a brief readership survey run by MAN2MAN. Thanks to you MAN2MAN has grown in its popularity and now also has a dedicated MAN2MAN website. It wouldn’t be possible without you and we are appreciative of this fact. The online readership survey will assist us in adapting future issues of MAN2MAN to meet your needs. We value your input so please take the time to fill out this short survey. All entrants that complete the survey will go into a draw to win a brand new iPod Nano and all entries will be treated with total confidentiality.

To access the survey go to www.m2mtas.com and follow the links. Thanks for taking the time and good luck!