Man2Man#4

A HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE RESOURCE FOR MEN IN2 MEN ISSUE #4 - MARCH 2010 FREE!

Fighting

Fit! Playing Safe In The Sun

Your say on Man2Man

New Youth Group

EDITORIAL

MAN2MAN welcomes you back with this summer edition. Firstly we would like to thank you all for contributing to our readership survey and for your ongoing support which no doubt helped MAN2MAN receive an award at the recent 2009 Rainbow Dinner & Awards. Without your support this would not be possible. Summer is well and truly here and in this issue we discuss the risks associated with outdoor sex as well as detail exactly what is involved in a sexual health check up. Syphilis infection has made a comeback in the last few years Australia wide and here we talk more about syphilis. Younger readers will also be pleased to read about a new GLBTI youth social group starting up in Tasmania called Outright Youth.

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 6234 1242 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 (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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Features of Syphilis in Men:

Syphilis Makes a Come Back Let’s face it syphilis to most of us brings visions of a disease of a pregone era. But the reality is that over the last few years most states in Australia have seen a resurgence in new cases of syphilis. Tasmania in this regard is not immune with significant increased numbers having been recorded over the last few years, and this is obviously of some concern.

Prior to 2006, new cases of syphilis in Tasmania were a rarity, however during 2007 Tasmania saw its first significant increase in syphilis notifications and this increase has been sustained each year since then.

The majority of syphilis notifications have been seen in gay and bisexual men although there have been some cases seen in females and heterosexual men as well.

Australia wide syphilis is predominantly seen in sexually adventurous men, men who have multiple sexual partners, and also in people living with HIV. Syphilis is a bacterial infection that infects the penis, throat or back passage spreading to different parts of the body through the bloodstream. Syphilis is transmitted through giving or receiving anal or oral sex, through anal play with an infected person, or via direct contact with sores or lesions that can pass on syphilis. When there are no symptoms, the infection can be passed on through contact with infected body fluids, like semen.

Some people never develop any symptoms and in others it’s easy for the early symptoms to go unnoticed.

Syphilis has infectious and noninfectious stages. In the infectious stage syphilis can produce a painless sore on the dick, in the rectum or in the mouth 10-90 days after infection. The sore usually turns into a scab and heals after two to six weeks but the infection still remains.

Only areas covered by condoms, gloves or dams are protected from infection. Seven to ten weeks after infection some people then develop

a rash on the torso (body), hands or feet. Symptoms may also include fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss, headaches, muscle aches and tiredness. The symptoms may last up to a few months and then disappear.

If left untreated, syphilis remains in the body. It stops being infectious to sexual partners after about 2 years.

During the non-infectious stage syphilis may begin to damage the body’s internal organs, which may include the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, liver, bones, joints and blood vessels. In some people this internal damage may not show up for years.

Damage to internal organs can occur after 10 to 25 years and may be serious enough to cause death in some.

If a sore (called a chancre) is present a swab can be taken of it, however, the usual test for syphilis is a blood test. It can take up to three months after exposure for the infection to show up in the blood test. Once someone has been infected with syphilis most future blood tests will show up as positive – even if they have been successfully treated. A particular test is used to identify a new infection, as well as to see if treatment has worked. Syphilis is well treated with injections of antibiotics. The duration of treatment depends on the stage of infection and ranges from between 1 and 30 days. Treatment is often provided if you have had contact with someone who has had syphilis to prevent it developing in you.

If you’re HIV positive co-infection with HIV and syphilis may result in the more rapid disease progression of both syphilis and HIV. There have also been cases of treatment failure in HIV positive patients. For some, syphilis can decrease the CD4 count (therefore causing damage to the immune system) as well as increase the viral load. In addition syphilis can increase the risk of HIV transmission to other sexual partners.

With regard to prevention, only areas covered by condoms, dams, or gloves are protected from infection.

Touching any sore or rash should be avoided Article by Brian Morris, MAN2MAN Program Coordinator, TasCAHRD Author acknowledges some information taken from “Stop the Drama Downunder – A Sexual Health Guide for Gay Men”

• No symptoms • Painless sore on penis, rectum or mouth • Skin rash on body, hands and feet • Fever • Swollen lymph glands • Sore throat • Patchy hair loss • Headaches, muscle aches & tiredness • Damage to the brain, nerves, heart, liver, bones & joints, and blood vessels

Useful References: • Drama Downunder Website on sexually transmitted infections in gay men www.thedramadownunder.info • Toolbox A Guide to Sexually Transmissible Infections in Men accessible at www.m2mtas. com/publications • MAN2MAN Program,TasCAHRD Tel 1800 005 900 or m2m@ tascahrd.org.au

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Useful References: • MAN2MAN Program & Website 1800 005 900 or m2m@tascahrd.org.au or www.m2mtas.com • Cruising resource by VAC/GMHC www.vicaids.asn.au • Tasmanian Legislation Online www.thelaw.tas.gov.au • Tasmania Police Gay & Lesbian Liaison Officers HOBART – 03 6230 2111 LAUNCESTON – 03 6336 7000 NORTH WEST – 03 6434 5211 www.police.tas.gov.au/community/ community-policing/lgbt_liaison_ officers • Sexual Assault Support Service www.sass.org.au

Playin’ Safe In The Sun - Outdoor Sex Whilst Summer has officially ended, we’re still enjoying some great weather.

Summertime in particular is a time of the year when most of us tend to get out and about more, go to parties, functions or barbeques and generally socialise more than any other time of the year. As a consequence sexual relationships tend to be on the rise during summertime both with casual and regular partners. Because of the good weather, longer days and festive season a lot more people end up having sex outdoors. This maybe in the backyard, bushland, park, reserve, at the local river or swimming hole, or at a beach amongst other places.

Sex outdoors although popular and fun can have its down sides, inherent dangers or risks that could land you in more trouble than ever. In this article we bring to your attention and focus on a few risks associated with having sex outdoors.

The term “beat” is defined, but not limited to, public places frequented by males with the intention of making contact with other males for social and/or sexual purposes. Some men especially those living in suburban and rural areas use beats to meet other gay and bisexual men for social contact.

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Beats attract a wide range of men, including out gay men, men coming out, men who identify as bi or straight and men who never thought about having a sexual identity. Many of the men that use beats may or may not consider themselves to be attached to the gay community.

Engaging in sexual activity in a public place is against the law in all States and Territories. The definition of “public place” varies from state to state but usually includes anywhere which is in sight of or to which the public have access (i.e. parks, public toilets, beaches, and changing rooms). In Tasmania Section 37 of the Criminal Code Act 1924 states that any person who wilfully (a) does any indecent act in any place to which the public have access or in the public view; or (b) does any such act in any place with intent to insult or offend any other person – is guilty of the crime of indecency. When am I breaking the law outdoors or at a beat you may ask? Basically if you are caught nude with someone else in public (this may include in a public toilet cubicle if the cubicle door is open or in a car). It is not offensive if the activity cannot be seen without the observer having to take abnormal or unusual action to observe it, such as looking un-

derneath a locked cubicle door. Having sex or showing any part of yourself to another behind the locked door of a cubicle does not constitute breaking the law.

Know your rights and what you would and wouldn’t say if you were ever questioned by the police. You only have to go to the police station if you are under arrest and you have the right to remain silent however you do have to give your name and you are allowed to ask to see a lawyer. Be discreet when you are having sex. Most police activity at beats is provoked by complaints from the public about obvious sex taking place in easy-to-view areas. Respect the fact police are fulfilling their role of patrolling known beat areas to ensure public safety and also can be responding to potential community complaints in the area.

Beats can be a very dangerous place because using beats opens those men that frequent them to be more likely subject to homophobic hate crimes and other general crimes as opposed to gay men who don’t use beats. Many beats are in secluded areas making them easy target areas for homophobic bashers. The fact that they are secluded makes it less likely that there will be

witnesses to observe the bashing and it will not be easy for those bashed to get help. If you do go to a beat, keep your guard up and be aware of who’s around. If you can, let someone know you’re going to the beat.

There have been some very serious bashings at beats. Police will treat a bashing at a beat as a serious incident. Even if you are at a beat you are entitled to get police help. Report all incidents of violence at beats, no matter how small you think they are, to the relevant Gay & Lesbian Liaison Police Officers in your local area. Remember that you may save others from becoming victims of violence and calls may be made anonymously if you wish. If you see someone being attacked, try to help them.

Beware of casual sex with a partner you hardly know. Although all might go well and you may have a great time, equally things could go horribly wrong. Be choosy as to who you have sex with and don’t feel at all pressured to have sex with someone you feel uncomfortable with or not 100% happy with. If you want to go somewhere with someone you meet at a beat, talk with them first. Stay away from anyone you think is suspicious – even if

they look like your ‘type’. Be especially wary of groups of people. If threatened, run away (if you can) and try to attract help by shouting.

Beats are also used because they provide the users with anonymity especially for those men not open about their sexuality and for those men who do not identify as gay. From a health perspective and due to the casual nature of the encounters, beats have been identified as areas of risk for the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Remember to always carry condoms and lube with you and to use them for anal or vaginal sex in particular. You never know if the person you meet has the same HIV status as you, or that he/ she even knows their HIV status. Remember having unprotected oral sex is low risk (but not zero risk) as far as getting HIV is concerned but you can still catch other STI’s this way.

If you find that in the past you have often got into trouble when you’ve been drunk or off your face on illicit drugs then the message is that you should avoid being on the lookout for sex when you are in a state like this, or get a close friend to keep an eye out for you when you are like this to avoid any

potential disasters. Instead rather call a chat line, escort, or use an internet chat room when you are in such states. Also remember if your sexual partner is in such a state that it’s important they’re able to consent to sex in order to avoid the ramifications of potential sexual assault. If you’ve been sexually assaulted remember there is help and support available.

Also remember the age of consent, which can vary with the state or territory you live in. In Tasmania the age of consent for gay and heterosexual sex is 17 years old.

Remember playing it safe during the summer months, especially when it comes to outdoor sex, can save heaps of potential problems you will wish you had never stumbled across - but don’t let this come in the way of having an enjoyable time over the summer period.

Article by Brian Morris, MAN2MAN Program Coordinator, TasCAHRD (Author acknowledges parts of article taken from VAC/GMHC Cruising resource)

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Outright Youth Group Outright Youth is a social group for teenagers and young adults who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex who are aged between 12 and 25 years. Our goal is to provide opportunities for the GLBTI youth of Tasmania to interact and socialize in a friendly and accepting environment.

To achieve this goal, we hope to hold several social events throughout the year that are youth-focused. Such events will include, for example, movie nights, barbecues and rock climbing amongst others.

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When someone joins Outright Youth, their name

and email address is stored in our confidential database which provides an easy way for announcing upcoming events. The database is only accessible by our coordinator to ensure members’ contact information remains totally confidential.

Many teenagers and young adults who are growing up gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex will run into difficulties in dealing with a wide range of issues related to their sexuality. By providing a safe and caring environment, we hope everyone will find it easier to talk about issues that affect them and learn skills to better cope with them. To assist with this, Out-

right Youth is establishing connections with at least one student counsellor in every school in Tasmania so that when someone comes to us seeking help or advice, we will be able to refer them to someone at their own school who we know to be GLBTIfriendly and is more suitable for providing this level of care needed.

Outright Youth aims at holding their first event early this year and welcome you to come along. For more details on Outright Youth or how to become a member contact Scott Ryan at scott@ logtas.org Article by Scott Ryan, Outright Youth Coordinator

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TASMANIAN GLBTI SERVICES AND GROUPS 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 w w w. c o u n t r y n e t w o r k . c o m . a u secretary@countrynetwork.com.au • Galstays Choices for the gay and lesbian traveler www.galstays.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 funded by GLC Centre 03 6234 8179

service

• GayTAS Website The leading gay online newspaper & information source for the Tasmanian GLBTI community at http:// gaytas.e-p.net.au • GAYunities New social networking site for the Tasmanian gay community www.gayunities.com • Indeed Supporting Tasmania’s relationship registry. Contact indeedrelationships@gmail.com or at www.relationshipstasmania.org.au/ indeed.html • League of Gentlefellows Regional social events for rainbow

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people in a safe and caring environment. Check www.logtas. org or contact Julian Punch on 03 6239 6606 or julian@logtas.org or John Perry on 03 6223 6003 • 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 Lesbian 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 • Tasmanian Council for Sexual and Gender Diverse People Inc Supporting GLBTI people to come out with pride and live in their communities as fully respected and participating members CONTACT: JO GOODMAN jo@logtas.org • 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 • 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 www.taspride.com • Working It Out Tasmania’s sexuality and gender support and education service which also provides counselling and support for LGBTI Tasmanians, their friends & family. Coordinate and implement anti-homophobia & diversity education & training programs in schools, workplaces, government & NGO’s SOUTH - 03 6231 1200 NORTH - 03 6334 4013 NORTH-WEST - 03 6432 3643 EMAIL: south@workingitout.org.au • 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 EMAIL: antidiscrimination@justice.tas.gov.au WEB: www.antidiscrimination.tas.gov.au

• Borderlines Hobart’s queer radio show every Monday at 2pm on Edge Radio 99.3FM • 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 nonthreatening environment. Located at 201 Liverpool Street, Hobart. Online at www.flamingosbar.com and www. myspace.com/flamingosbar • 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 • 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 • Tasmanian Council for Sexual and Gender Diverse People Inc Supporting GLBTI people to come out with pride and live in their communities as fully respected and participating members.

Contact

Brian Doran (Greater Hobart CLC) on brian@logtas.org or Jo Goodman (Kingborough/Huon CLC) on jo@ logtas.org • 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 • The Male Factory @ The Duke Hotel, Hobart Meet every Sunday afternoon 2pm till late • Wellington Wanderers GLBTIQ activity group which runs a year-round program of events.

CONTACT: 0447 225 682 OR 03 6223 2690 POST: GPO BOX 1872, HOBART TAS 7001 wellingtonwanderers@yahoo.com.au NORTHERN • Allsorts Queer youth group meeting regularly in Launceston & Burnie through Working It Out North. CONTACT: 03 6334 4013 OR north@workingitout.org.au • 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 • Tasmanian Council for Sexual and Gender Diverse People Inc Supporting GLBTI people to come out with pride and live in their communities as fully respected and participating members.

Contact Donald Mc Donald (Greater Launceston/East Coast CLC) on donmac@logtas.org • Tas Unity An ecumenical support and study group for LGBTI people, their friends, families and supporters. CONTACT: PAT ON 03 6344 2357

• The Mini Bar @ The Hub Regular Friday night club with shows hosted by Virginia Hamm.

AT THE MINI BAR @ THE HUB, 1 TAMAR STREET, LAUNCESTON • Transisters Community based social and support group for transgender women in Tasmania, meeting once a month in Launceston. Contact at 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 • 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 • Tasmanian Council for Sexual and Gender Diverse People Inc Supporting GLBTI people to come out with pride and live in their communities as fully respected and participating members.

Contact Wilfred Laycock (NW/West Coast CLC) on wilfred@logtas.org 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 GAY-FRIENDLY CAFES • Soak@Kaos, DS Coffee House, Red Velvet Lounge, Fleurty’s Café, Restaurant Waterloo, Mummy’s, Citrus Moon Café, Lebrina, Kusina, The Alley Cat, Republic Bar, Criterion Café, Sirens, Lansdowne Café, Retro Café, Machine Laundry Café, Jackman and McCross, Magnolia Café, Groovy Penguin, Fresh on Charles, Deloraine Deli, Kabuki by the Sea, Lucky Ducks Restaurant & Café in Nubeena

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Dr Glen Curran is a Clinical Nurse Consultant at the Devonport Sexual Health Service

It’s Good To Know About STIs! Many men think about having a screen for sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and some are reluctant for a variety of reasons. There are significant benefits for men to have a screen so this article introduces the screening process and my experience testing men who have sex with men (MSM) over the past 18 years in Tasmania.

It is better to know about an STI sooner rather than later as it is easier to manage! Chlamydia is a common infection with no symptoms and is easy to cure. Gonorrhoea and syphilis can be cured while warts, herpes and HIV can be successfully managed. HIV positive people can attend regular specialist clinics with free treatment and can access a range of national support services.

laws and clear security measures govern our service records, and all STI tests are coded, adding an additional layer of privacy. When I started HIV testing in 1992, some men were scared about providing their personal details, because they feared discrimination and it was not unusual for a man to use a pseudonym for a HIV test. It has been over 10 years since a man used a pseudonym with me, which suggests society is more relaxed about differing sexual practices, MSM are less fearful, clinical services are more professional and laws protecting people (privacy, anti-discrimination) are stronger.

A good STI screen will meet your need!

An STI screen may be the first health check a man has had, so we offer a comp rehen s ive service, which takes about 30 – 45 minutes to complete. A clinician will ask about allergies, reason for presenting, symptoms, medical history (recent medications, surgery, illness and family history) including a drug, vaccination and sexual history.

We will ask about your sexual history which helps identify the type of tests required and the site to be tested as it’s important to test all sites used in sexual activity. Specific education about sexual function, condom use and safe sexual practices will be offered and any questions answered.

“An STI screen at the Sexual Health Service is free of charge and totally confidential”

It is important for you to know your hepatitis A&B immune status as these infections are easily prevented by adequate vaccination. While ignorance is bliss for some the benefits of an STI screen far outweigh the problems of not knowing.

You can pass on an STI to your partner/s and their partner/s if you don’t know! We know condoms prevent Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, hepatitis and HIV infection, but they do break, slip and spill. Whilst condoms are effective in preventing most STIs, they reduce the risk of herpes, warts and syphilis infection. This is why it helps to know and treat these infections as it considerably lowers the risk of their transmission, which benefits everyone.

A men’s STI screen at a sexual health service is free and it is easy to make an appointment! On booking in you will see a clinical nurse consultant who is experienced at handling your personal and sensitive sexual health information in a respectful non-judgemental way. It’s our job!

Confidentiality is crucial in sexual health screening –– your information is held in confidence and no one can access your details without your written permission.

Strong privacy

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Sexual Health Service Contact Details:

After taking a comprehensive history, the clinician will offer detailed information about the tests so you can make an informed decision.

An STI screen for MSM usually involves taking a blood sample (HIV, syphilis, hepatitis A and B), a urine sample for chlamydia, an anal swab for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and a throat swab for gonorrhoea.

A physical examination also checks for itches, crabs, warts, rashes, penile discharge, swollen glands, testicular lumps, herpes and syphilis. This is a good time to answer any concerns about normal anatomy.

Increasingly, chaperones are being offered for any genital examination and

you can bring a friend if it makes it easier for you.

A sexual health clinician cares about your whole wellbeing! We don’t undertake an STI screen lightly and always check you have someone to support you during the testing process. While an STI screen is generally an easy process some guys worry and fear the results, so we encourage you to have a friend for support if this helps. A screen also offers an opportunity to talk about your general health and sexual wellbeing and we provide specialised information, education, resources, counselling and referral services if needed.

There is also a lot you can do to look after your own health! Exercise, good sex, eating well, reducing stress, smoking cessation and vaccination all help. We make sure you get good quality, impartial information to help you make good decisions regarding your health.

The most enjoyable part of STI screen is that it can make your life a whole lot better!

Glen Curran RN, PhD Clinical Nurse Consultant Sexual Health Service 23 Steele St, Devonport.

• HOBART 03 6233 3557

Components of an MSM STI Screen: • Blood sample for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis A & B

• LAUNCESTON 03 6336 2216 • DEVONPORT 03 6421 7759

• Urine sample for chlamydia

• BURNIE 03 6434 6315

• Anal swab for chlamydia & gonorrhoea

• FREECALL NUMBER 1800 675 859

• Throat swab for gonorrhoea

• EMAIL sexual.health@dhhs.tas.gov.au

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Overview of Man2Man Readership Survey Results In order to further improve the MAN2MAN magazine and to better understand the needs of its readers, the team at MAN2MAN decided to conduct an online readership survey.

The survey was accessible to readers through TasCAHRD’s newly launched MAN2MAN Online website www. m2mtas.com The team at MAN2MAN was thrilled by the response it got to its readership survey, which overwhelmingly demonstrated a positive community view of the resource. The results of the survey have been analysed and a full detailed survey report will be available on the m2mtas. com website soon.

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Overall 32 participants filled out the online survey 84% of which were male. The survey participants came from a reasonably even spread of age ranges with 71% identifying as gay men, 10% bisexual, 13% lesbian, 3% as other men who have sex with men (MSM), and 3% heterosexual.

Most readers (42%) stated they had accessed their copy of the magazine via email or through websites, and 68% had also accessed the new online version of the magazine on the MAN2MAN Online website www. m2mtas.com When asked to rate the most useful sections of the magazine most read-

ers (53% and 44% respectively) nominated the “Tasmanian GLBTI Services & Groups” and “Upcoming Tasmanian GLBTI Events” sections, followed in popularity by the editorial and sexual health articles.

The MAN2MAN team at TasCAHRD would like to congratulate the winner of the MAN2MAN Readership Survey, J.Curry from Launceston, on winning the iPod Nano. We would also like to thank all those who participated in this survey and you can be sure that future issues of the magazine will reflect feedback received through the Lucky survey results.

Article by Alistair Pinto, MAN2MAN

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16/11/2009 8:50:4

PAGE 13

MAN2MAN Acknowledged at 2009 Rainbow Dinner & Awards The 2009 Rainbow Dinner and Awards event was held on 5th December at the Mercure Hotel in Hobart. The Biennial event is sponsored by the League of Gentlefellows.

Article by John Perry, League of Gentlefellows

PAGE 14

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At the 2009 Rainbow Dinner, 12 Rainbow Awards were presented to individuals and organisations who have demonstrated courage, tenacity and passion in acting for change for the benefit of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender & intersex (GLBTI) community.

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The League of Gentlefellows is a statewide informal grouping of over 1000 Tasmanian gay (men’s space) & lesbian (women’s space) people and their friends who meet in a social setting on a regular basis to celebrate their lives and enjoy one another’s company. Proceeds for the evening were distributed to the Tasmanian Council for Sexual & Gender Diverse People Inc. to support their efforts in suicide prevention.

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Paul Thomas & Bob Brown – Outstanding Voices for Change Bob Lavis – Overseas Development Centrelink Financial Information Services – Government Services Division Ian Horncastle – Importance of Suicide Prevention Outright Youth Support Group – Voices for Change MAN2MAN Program – Brian Morris – Community Services Division DS Coffee Lounge – Steve Hollingsworth – Establishing a Harmonious and Creative Community Gay & Lesbian Switchboard – Community Services Division GLC Pride - Social Events for the Gay & Lesbian Community Michael O’Halloran – Outstanding Volunteer Support

UPCOMING TASMANIAN GLBTI EVENTS SATURDAY 6th MARCH

SATURDAY 21st MARCH

WEDNESDAY 7th APRIL

LALALAND’S SPECIAL MARDI GRAS

GLBTI FRIENDLY “PAWS, DOGS DAY

RAINBOW SUPPORT & DISCUSSION

CELEBRATORY PARTY AT HALO

OUT IN MOLE CREEK”

GROUP IN DEVONPORT

NIGHTCLUB

This popular GLBTI friendly event is

For more details contact Sharon on

For more information on this special

hosted by the Mole Creek Progress

6432 3643 or 0419 361 128 or

event, see www.clublala.net

Association and last year attracted

northwest@workingitout.org.au

up to 200 dogs and their owners. For

FRIDAY 12th MARCH

more details contact Sharon Jones

SATURDAY 24th APRIL

GLBTI FRIENDLY MEETUP FOR

from Working It Out on 6432 3643 or

ANZAC WEEKEND CAMOUFLAGE

DRINKS IN LAUNCESTON

0419 361 128 or

PARTY AT FLAMINGO’S

For more details contact Sharon on

northwest@workingitout.org.au

For more details go to www.flamingosbar.com

6334 4013 or 0419 361 128 or north@workingitout.org.au

FRIDAY 26th MARCH

or ring 6294 6173

GLBTI FRIENDLY DINNER IN BURNIE

SATURDAY 13th MARCH

For more details contact Sharon on

SUNDAY 25th APRIL

BODYHEAT AUSTRALIA AT FLAMIN-

6432 3643 or 0419 361 128 or

FAGUS WALK, TARN SHELF MT FIELD

GOS DANCE BAR

northwest@workingitout.org.au

NATIONAL PARK Hosted by Wellington Wanderers. For

Flamingos Dance Bar features 2 hours with the Men of Bodyheat in

SATURDAY 27th MARCH

more details contact Richard on

addition to prizes and giveaways.

GAY SOIREE & BBQ

6223 2690 or

More details go to www.flamingos-

Hosted by League of Gentlemen. For

wellingtonwanderers@yahoo.com.au

bar.com or ring 6294 6173

more details contact Julian on 6239 6606 or jpunch@tassie.net.au

TUESDAY 16th MARCH

SUNDAY 9th MAY WELLINGTON WANDERERS ACTIVITY

RAINBOW SUPPORT & DISCUSSION

SUNDAY 28th MARCH

Hosted by Wellington Wanderers. For

GROUP IN LAUNCESTON

MOUNT DROMEDARY WALK

more details contact Richard on

For more details contact Sharon on

Hosted by Wellington Wanderers. For

6223 2690 or

6334 4013 or 0419 361 128 or

info call Michael, 6223 2690

wellingtonwanderers@yahoo.com.au

north@workingitout.org.au

SATURDAY 3rd APRIL

SUNDAY 30th MAY

FRIDAY 19th MARCH

HALO NIGHTCLUB’S SPECIAL EASTER

TRIP TO MAYDENA FORESTS

WORKING IT OUT GLBTI FRIENDLY

WEEKEND DANCE PARTY

& JUNEE CAVE

BBQ IN DEVONPORT

Keep posted for more information on

Hosted by Wellington Wanderers. For

For more details contact Sharon on

this special event at www.clublala.net

more details contact Richard on 6223 2690 or

6432 3643 or 0419 361 128 or northwest@workingitout.org.au

SATURDAY 3rd APRIL FLAMINGO’S GREAT EASTER SHOW

MONDAYS: “BORDERLINES” QUEER RADIO, 2-3PM Hobart’s sexuality & gender issues radio show on Edge Radio 99.3 FM

Come along to Flamingo’s Dance Bar’s Great Easter Show with special guest Destiny Forbbiden and dancers Leigh & Kelly. For more details on this fun night go to www.flamingosbar. com or ring 6294 6173

wellingtonwanderers@yahoo.com.au