FUSE20 Every time gay girls kiss (Girl Cover)

YEAR IN REVIEW

THE EVENTS, VICTORIES + LOSSES

GAY GAMES THE JOURNEY TO COLOGNE

SCIENCE OF SHOPPING PLUS NAUGHTY BUT NICE GIFT IDEAS

ULTIMATE CAMP XMAS PLAYLIST SAVE BIG BUCKS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

MY JOB SUCKS

TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR PROFESSIONAL HAPPINESS

EVERY TIME GAY GIRLS KISS, AN ANGEL GETS HER WINGS

Canberra Theatre Centre presents a Belvoir and Black Swan State Theatre Company production

FEATURING THE HITS:

Baby Love, Chain of Foo ls Stop! In the N a me of Love and more‌

ON SALE NOW! 9-12 FEBRUARY

20

44

16

A queer year in review — we look at the major events, victories, losses and changes to GLBTI rights in Australia and throughout the world in 2010.

28

Christmas is a time of celebration, music and song. Check out our fab festive playlist and make sure your season celebrations are a hit!

FUSE OP.ED 14 The Xmas shopping orgy is upon

us again — is there science behind

this crazy spending spree?

30

40

32

So your job sucks! What are you going to do now? Yvonne Wigman gives some advice on how to take control of your professional life.

FUSE REGULARS 14

10

PUBLISHER & DESIGN Lithium Innovation Pty Ltd {www.lithium.net.au} EDITOR Alexander Thatcher {editor@fusemagazine.com.au}

{

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Yasmin Element

PRODUCTION & EDITORIAL Christopher Powell

CONTRIBUTORS Tony Hamlyn Simon Copland Brendan Farnhill Rose Pappalardo Robert Henderson

Scott Malcolm Damien Pratt Zara Jackson-Martin Chad Wijayatilake Hilary Caldwell

Andrew Burry Stuart Poole Helen Stevens Yvonne Wigman Lucy Jane

PHOTOGRAPHERS Douglas Robinson

Snez Saravovska

Fenkil Abraha

CONTACT Advertising, editorial enquiries or letters Telephone: 0412 309 992 • Email: editor@fusemagazine.com.au Mail: PO Box 3577 Manuka ACT 2603 • ISSN 1836-8387

02 04 07 08 10 18 20 22

Editor’s Rant At the Movies What’s On Out & About : FUSE Readers The Buzz : Entertainment & Gossip Grooming & Fashion : Label Junkies Money Shot : Money, Mortgage & Coffee Body Shape : Shirts Off Boys!

26 28 30 34 38 42 44 46 47 48

Sex Talk : Naughty Xmas Gifts Ear Candy : Special Playlist Feature Out & About : Canberra Pride Awards Out & About : Canberra’s Night Life Health : Who’s Calling the Shots?

Top Queer : Going Bush Out & About : Canberra Bushdance FUSE Community Directory FUSE Business Directory Dear Rose

FUSE20 DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

40 Fitness, friends and full-on fun!

Helen Stevens reflects on her

journey to the Cologne Gay Games.

CONTENTS

FUSE FEATURES

www.fusemagazine.com.au All rights reserved. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. The appearance, mention or likeness of any person or organisation in editorial or advertising in no way suggests sexual or political orientation. Photographs used to illustrate editorial do not depict the real lives, behaviour or sexuality of the models. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or FUSE staff.

Any health, fitness or dietry advice contained in this magazine is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician and a fitness/health professional before changing your diet, doing any exercise program, or taking any supplements or remedies of any kind. Submissions of text, photographs or any other material will be taken as consent to publish said material.

FUSE 1

EDITOR’S RANT

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! So here we are at the end of another year. Most of us are looking forward to a small break and hopefully some long summer days when we can just hang with our friends.

It’s been a good year and FUSE magazine has flourished.

Last month FUSE was nominated in three categories at the SpringOut Pride Awards — and won Outstanding Business 2010 for “our significant contribution to the Canberra GLBTI community” :-) I’d like to thank all our regular contributors (pictured) for all their hard work, love and commitment throughout the year — you’re truly fantastic guys!

We were of course only one winner amongst some really awesome community members who definitely deserve a mention here — so congratulations to: • Fenkil Abraha : Youth Achievement Award • A Gender Agenda : Outstanding Community Organisation • Jarrad West : Arts, Entertainment and Media Award • Megan Munro : Outstanding Community Achievement The awards were presented by Andrew Barr MLA at the Hush Lounge, and it was really great to see so many people at the awards night this year. Photos p30.

This month we have some fab reading lined up for you.

We look at the year in review — the major events, victories, losses and changes to GLBTI rights during 2010. p16.

Our favourite entertainment guy Tony Hamlyn gives us his list of 15 songs you just have to play on Xmas day — with artists like Madonna, Wham and of course Barbra Streisand, it’s the Xmas playlist not to be missed! p28. Plus we look at the shopping orgy that takes place this time of year and find out if there’s any science behind the madness. p14.

Just a small snapshot to get you all warmed up.

If you would like to make sure you never miss a copy of FUSE or just want it delivered directly to you, we’re now taking subscriptions for next year — just visit us at: www.fusemagazine.com.au and click on subscribe!

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday season.

We’ll be taking a short break over January (woohoooo!!!), so we’ll see you all again in February 2011.

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Until then, enjoy. Alex

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FUSE 3

At the Movies WHAT’S ON

THE KING’S SPEECH : OPENS 26 DECEMBER

CHRONICLES OF NARNIA — VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER : OPENS 2 DECEMBER Return to the magic and wonder of C.S. Lewis’ beloved world – via the fantastic Narnian ship, the Dawn Treader.

In this new instalment of the blockbuster The Chronicles of Narnia motion picture franchise, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their cousin Eustace and their royal friend King Caspian, find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to the Dawn Treader. As they embark on an incredible adventure of destiny and discovery, they confront obstacles beyond imagination.

Living in his brother’s shadow, nervous-mannered George ‘Bertie’ VI is suddenly thrust into power and the spotlight when his elder brother abdicates the throne. Plagued by a dreaded stutter and considered unfit to be king, Bertie engages the help of an unorthodox speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush).

Through a set of unexpected techniques, and as a result of an unlikely friendship, Bertie is able to find his voice and boldly lead the country through war.

THE TOURIST : OPENS 26 DECEMBER Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie make an unlikely pair in this tale of intrigue and espionage, where nothing is as it first seems. Depp is Frank, a bumbling American tourist travelling through Europe. When he has a chance encounter with the stunning Elise (Jolie), it seems almost too good to be true. And perhaps it is. As the pair find themselves dodging bullets on the streets of Paris and the canals of Venice, Frank finds himself both in love, and in way over his head.

MORNING GLORY : OPENS 6 JANUARY 2011 TRON LEGACY 3D : OPENS 16 DECEMBER TRON is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund) — the savvy 27-year-old techo and son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) — looks into his father’s disappearance and finds himself pulled into the same world of fierce programs and gladiatorial games where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin’s loyal confidant (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous.

The false pleasantries of breakfast TV form the backdrop for this biting comedy, pitting Dianne Keaton against Harrison Ford in a battle of wills. Failing at life, hard working TV producer Becky (Rachel McAdams) comes on board a sinking ship when she begins at ‘Daybreak’— the last place national morning show. Her bright idea for turning the show around is to hire legendary TV anchor Mike Pomeroy (Ford), whose distaste for gossip, weather, fashion and his co-host threaten to unravel Becky’s best-laid plans.

FREE MOVIE TICKETS FUSE has double passes to give away to Dendy Theatre in Canberra.

Write in and tell us what you think of FUSE, comment on an article or sign up to the FUSE website and you could win these great Dendy movie tickets • email: hello@fusemagazine.com.au • www.fusemagazine.com.au

Free movie passes kindly supplied by Dendy Cinemas Canberra Level 2, North Quarter Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra City

www.dendy.com.au

FUSE 4

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The Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service is a NSW Health Live Life Well Initiative

FUSE 6

WHAT’S ON! {

WHAT’S ON

Check out fusemagazine.com.au for a full list of what’s happening in Canberra including local and national gay and lesbian events.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

JOHN WATERS — LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION Friday 5 February 2011 8.00pm Canberra Theatre Centre John Waters returns in his critically acclaimed production Looking Through A Glass Onion — a homage to the music, mystery and memory of John Lennon. Wednesday 8th December 2010 marks the 30th anniversary since he was tragically gunned down outside his New York City apartment.

John Lennon would have been 70-years of age in October 2010. “Glass Onion” was created by Waters and D’Arrietta back in January 1992 with a five week run in a small cabaret room at the Tilbury Hotel in Sydney’s Woolloomooloo as a two-man show and was an instant success. Since then, including more musicians it has toured London’s West End and a further two sold out Australian tours.

“A stirring celebration of genius” SYDNEY MORNING HERALD BOOKINGS 02 6275 2700 or canberratheatrecentre.com.au

CANBERRA’S 66TH CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Wednesday 15 December 7.00pm-9.00pm — Free entry Stage 88 Commonwealth Park Canberra Pack a picnic dinner, light your candles and sing-along to your favourite Christmas carols with Woden Valley Youth Choir, accompanied by the Canberra City Band. Carols by Candlelight at Stage 88 has been bringing the joy of Christmas for decades.

Carol sheets and candles will be available at the venue.

Check out www.visitcanberra.com.au for more info.

CITY CONCERT & DANCE PARTY Friday 31 December 7.00pm til late London Circuit and Garema Place, Canberra City Two prominent sites in the city will again play host to New Year’s Eve celebrations, with a concert in Civic Square, a dance party in Garema Place, and two fireworks displays at 9pm and midnight.

From 9pm, Garema Place will feature top local DJs counting down to midnight with all the dance hits of 2010. One of Canberra’s most state-of-theart pyrotechnic displays will then top off the night, with the fireworks set to a soundtrack that will herald in the New Year.

CUBE NIGHTCLUB Friday 31 December 10.00pm til late This New Year’s Eve celebrate in style with Cube’s NYE Black White & Pink Party with DJs Matt and Pete. Only $25 Cover at the door. More info p.34 THE HUSH LOUNGE Friday 31 December 7.30pm til late HUSH is bringing you one massive NYE bash that will have everyone celebrating in debauchery and pleasure. Party and dance the night away at HUSH. $15 ($10 pre-purchase). More info p.36 TROPICAL FRUITS NEW YEAR’S FESTIVAL Friday 31 December 8.00pm til 6.00am The Tropical Fruits New Year’s Festival is a massive four-day queer celebration held in the city of Lismore in sub-tropical northern NSW, an area known suitably as the Rainbow Region.

More info at: www.tropicalfruits.org.au

CHECK OUT THE FUSE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY ON PAGE 46 FUSE 7

FUSE READERS FUSE 8

HAPPY NEW YEAR A BIG THANK YOU &

TO ALL OUR

S R E D A E R E S FU

HAVE FUSE MAGAZINE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR BOX!

2011 FUSE SUBSCRIPTIONS NOW OPEN!

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT

www.fusemagazine.com.au

FUSE 9

THE

ENTERTAINMENT & GOSSIP

BUZZ

The ULTIMATE Christmas gift for any homosexual this year, no matter how highbrow they purport to being, is advance sale tickets to Burlesque.

I’m not by any means condoning acts of terrorism, but it has to be said: If you were wanting to rid the world of all gay men it would be as easy as targeting cinemas on December 26, because that’s the release date for this modern-day masterpiece starring Cher and Christina Aguilera. For those of you who don’t know what I’m on about, this rags-to-riches movie musical is the tawdry tale of a small-town girl who arrives in the big city with nothing but her talent, determination and blonde in a bottle.

The film is directed by music video maker Steve Antin, whose biggest claims to fame are being the bad guy in The Goonies and playing Jessie in the clip for Rick Springfield’s ‘Jessie’s Girl’ (both of which score him major cred points as far as I’m concerned).

10

{

By Tony Hamlyn

HAIRSPRAY RULES ~ HOT BURLESQUE ~ JACKO LIVES ~ HOMO HERITAGE

BOXING DAY BURLESQUE!

FUSE

* ❄

Burlesque is written by none other than Diablo Cody, the creator of both Juno and TV’s United States of Tara.

The supporting cast ranges from stellar (Stanley Tucci, Alan Cumming), to sexy (Kristen Bell, Eric Dane), to silly (Julianne Hough, Peter Gallagher).

I mean the whole thing looks suspiciously like Mariah Carey’s Glitter but with snappier dialogue and costuming! Say it with me: Ah-MAZING! Cher is fabulous at everything she tries her hand at, and even though her face no longer moves she still somehow manages to deliver with conviction. Christina might be woefully fabulous, or maybe fabulously woeful. But really, who cares? If you’ve seen the trailer you already know there’s enough glitz, tits and feathers in this thing to ensure a rollicking camp old time.

I’ll see you all Boxing Day…

Christina Aguilera stars in Screen Gems’ BURLESQUE

YOU CAN’T STOP THE BEAT! Melbourne. It’s got it all: great restaurants, infinite shopping and terrific musical theatre.

And if you want to do that extra something for a Chrissy gift this year might I suggest you and your pals get tickets to go see Hairspray in Melbourne?

The show’s run at the Princess Theatre has just been extended, which means good seats are available, and believe me when I tell you Hairspray is easily the hottest ticket in town.

This kitsch and kooky 60s romp is nothing short of extraordinary, with the best costuming, the best set design and easily the best ensemble cast I have ever seen on any stage in Australia. You’ll have probably seen the recent movie version and no doubt be aware that the music is fun and infectious. And as fabulous as the movie was, the truth is that the stage show is a hundred times better!

It has electrifying energy from start to finish, it’s funny, and it has at its core a really significant social message.

I went with my BFF who is a huge fan and a bit of a purist for the original 1988 John Waters film, and even he thought it completely brilliant. By the end of the show he was jumping out of his seat and dancing around with the rest of the crowd, and he doesn’t even like musical theatre for god’s sake! So this Christmas call a meeting of all your gayest and grooviest friends and starting organising that camp weekend away. You’ll have the time of your life!

HAIRSPRAY, the smash-hit musical that has won thirty major awards worldwide. Be swept away to 1960s Baltimore where we follow Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and big dreams as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular dance show. Can this ordinary girl realise her dreams, inspire her mum and still have time to win the boy she loves?

Tickets at: www.marrinertheatres.com.au and at www.showbiz.com.au

MILKING MICHAEL Like a Christmas miracle Michael Jackson is back from the dead. Or so it would seem…

An album of previously unreleased material is out mid-December, just in time for Christmas. The album is called Michael and will feature ten songs, including collaborations with 50 Cent and Lenny Kravitz. You would have more than likely heard the album’s first single, ‘Hold My Hand’, a duet with Akon that radio started flogging last month. It’s pretty good and will no doubt get you back into the MJ headspace. But if you still want more, how about the Michael Jackson video game? Michael Jackson: The Experience came out on Wii last month and enables you to dance like the man himself. Playstation formats should be out soon, and the game even comes with a single sequined glove. Not enough? Well don’t fret, ‘cos there’s also a film based on the song ‘Thriller’ currently in the pipeline, the brainchild of Kenny Ortega who directed This Is It. And Cirque Du Soleil announced they are working on a Michael Jackson project called Immortal which will of course combine fabulous trapeze work with a ‘Dirty Diana’ soundtrack, or something. The show is still only in preproduction, but tickets are currently available online – you guessed it! – Just in time for Christmas.

I love Michael Jackson, and I’m excited that his legend continues posthumously, but I have real issues with Sony capitalising so relentlessly on him after they treated him so callously prior to his death. Let’s not forget that Michael believed Sony had sabotaged his last studio album, 2001’s Invincible. He had publicly called former label boss Tommy Mottola a racist and “evil” and was embroiled in conflict regarding his back catalogue and publishing rights with Sony Music right up ‘til his death last year. They wouldn’t touch him then; now they can’t get enough Michael Jackson product out on the shelves… and just in time for Christmas!

I loved Invincible – it is a fantastic album! – So I am curious to hear the quality of these new(ish) tracks. And I’m going to be seriously fabulous dancing round my lounge room with my single sequined glove. Maybe I should just stop being a Grinch and get more into the Christmas spirit.

Michael would probably want it that way.

FUSE 11

MORE BUZZ

HOMO HERITAGE

A NEW REGULAR FEATURE OF THE BUZZ, WE LOOK BACK AT A SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL PHENOMENON FROM OUR BIG GAY PAST… Can it really be twenty-five years since the film version of A Chorus Line was released into cinemas and into the hearts of millions of gays everywhere?

Directed by filmmaking giant Richard Attenborough (Gandhi, Shadowlands, Chaplin), this movie was met with critical savaging when it was unleashed to the world in December 1985, but became somewhat of a cult classic for queers the world over who love dance, and who love dancers, and who love how those dancers look in fitted polyester dance-pants.

Based on the musical theatre sensation, at the time the longest running show on Broadway, A Chorus Line contains some of the most amazing moments of group choreography ever put to film.

From opening scenes of a scantily-clad troupe of wannabes throwing their toned bodies around in fits and starts, right up to the last moments of triumphant fan kicks on the Broadway stage, this film grips you tight and doesn’t let go.

When you watch it today, oh the spirit and the emotion will enslave you, regardless of how much the aesthetic of the film might have dated. And goodness, has it dated! High-cut leotards with shiny stockings, more spiral perms than one should ever have to endure.

FUSE 12

And the wigs they make Cassie wear in the flashback scenes are criminal. But it’s the collection of touching Ed Klaban lyrics matched with the brilliance of Marvin Hamlisch’s piano-based score that drives the heart of this film, all as fresh and poignant as they were twentyfive years ago.

A Chorus Line is quite a masterful telling of the joy and the heartache of the audition process. Some even say it was the pre-cursor to all of the Idol and So You Think You Can Dance franchises. It was cutting edge for its time, with a number of gay characters talking frankly and honestly about their sexuality. And regardless of it being centred around dancers, it is essentially about anyone who puts themselves on the line to be the best they can be.

If you remember it from years ago, or if you’re a dance fan and you’ve haven’t yet seen it, or if you’re just a big old Nelly with an afternoon spare, do yourself a huge favour and rent this film. Twenty-five years later, and it’s still a big, gay masterpiece!

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FUSE 13

FEATURE OP.ED

Xmas ShOpping Orgy

It’s that time of year again, when we all get into the spirit of gift buying and gift giving even for people we rarely see or don’t even like. Spending money we don’t have on things we probably don’t need. So why do we do it? Is there a science to this orgy of giving and spending?

Let’s start at the beginning of the chain: Spending.

Shopping as it turns out can be equally as addictive as smoking, alcohol or even recreational drugs according to researches into compulsive shopping at Iowa University. Compulsive shoppers become addicted to the neurotransmitter dopamine which is released into their brains when they make a particularly pleasing purchase. Dopamine is also commonly associated with chocolate and sex. It is estimated that between one and six per cent of the Australian population suffer from a shopping “addiction”, in other words up to 1.2 billion people.

Most are women, however proportionately within the population gay men are also highly susceptible (if only because lesbians have yet to discover that the mall sells flannel — just kidding).

So how do shopaholics cope with Christmas in our materialistic society? Scientists from the University of New York found that many compulsive shoppers will justify their obsessive spending by buying for others. It is not, after all, possessing their purchases which give them satisfaction, but rather the act of buying. Perhaps scariest of all is that one in ten addicts describe shopping as a source of meaning in their lives, an existential “mission” to find beautiful, possess-able objects.

Other important factors include reciprocation (I scratch your back, you scratch mine) and self-other mergence. The later of these being the idea that members of a group who share common goals and interests tend to undergo a process of psychological merging. Meaning you give to others because you perceive the act of giving as helping yourself as a part of a broader group. For example you may give your sister a Wii this Christmas under the assumption that because you live and play together it will essentially be your Wii too.

On a more pessimistic note (if that’s possible) is ‘negative state relief theory’. We give because we will be made to feel uncomfortable until we do. Imagine showing up to Christmas lunch having bought everyone a gift except for your Great Aunt Ally, who rarely remembers who you are and has an unpleasant habit of pinching your cheeks. The entire family will, inevitably, shun you for having failed to bring her a gift and so in anticipation you buy her something else she probably doesn’t need, after all, what do you buy for an eighty-year-old suffering from dementia?

This is negative state relief in all its glory.

Interestingly, while the research on sexuality and giving is sparse, it would seem that in general people who identify as queer or homosexual overall volunteer and behave more altruistically than their heterosexual counterparts. This is thought to be due to our status as a persecuted minority group, we know what it feels like to be turned away and discriminated against, so we are less likely to act this way toward others.

So as I leave you today, I hope you all have a good Christmas, one about love and family but not obligatory giving or materialism.

But what about giving? Why do we gift things to others? Selfless giving seems to transcend basic survival instincts because natural selection favours those who better their competitors. What if I told you giving wasn’t really selfless at all?

FUSE 14

The first and most overtly visible reason for giving is Kinship. We favour and help our relatives because of an archaic, instinctive desire to preserve our own genes. This can be observed in studies into grandparents and grandchildren. A study conducted in 2004 at university of Sydney (just one of many) found that the the amount of time and money grandparents are willing to spend on grandchildren comes down to how certain they are of their genetic link to their progeny.

Maternal grandmothers therefore spent the greatest amounts of any grandparent with their granddaughters. After all a mother always knows a child is hers, but a father can rarely be certain.

So look to your mother’s mother this Christmas if you want a worthwhile gift.

{

By Zara Jackson-Martin. Check out her blog at: http://idburnthecitydowntoshowyouthelights.blogspot.com

From 9 December 2010, all outdoor eating and drinking places at restaurants, cafes, pubs, taverns and licensed clubs can be enjoyed without exposure to tobacco smoke.

This is an important step in improving the health of the ACT community. Smoke-free environments can encourage people to quit smoking and reduce the likelihood of young people taking up the habit. ACT Health continues to work towards reducing the community’s exposure to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke.

For more information visit health.act.gov.au/smokefree or call the Office of Regulatory Services on 02 6207 3000 (Fair Trading).

FUSE 15

2010

With a Federal Election in August, 2010 brought with it dramatic changes to the shape of Australian politics. In late 2009 Tony Abbott was elected as the leader of the opposition in a somewhat unprecedented coup. That was until June, when Julia Gillard swiftly knifed Kevin Rudd for the leadership of the ALP. Three weeks later, Gillard called the Federal Election. These dramatic changes brought with them a dramatic result, as Australians elected the second hung parliament in our history — leading to the ALP forming a minority Government.

This election was also historic for the efforts of many in the queer movement, in particular those working for marriage equality. The 2010 federal election saw queer activists mobilise around marriage equality in a targeted and effective manner. In particular, Marriage Equality Australia targeted the inner city seats such as those held by ALP members Anthony Albanese, Tanya Plibersek and Lindsay Tanner in order to get marriage equality onto the national agenda. This saw the activists mobilise within friendly areas to demand change; something which added to the momentum around the country of those demanding change.

There were also two other elections in Australia this year. In South Australia, the Labor Government was returned with a reduced majority.

In Tasmania, the ALP was also re-elected, but only with the support of the Greens, who took two cabinet positions.

2010 ALSO BROUGHT SOME SIGNIFICANT INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES In March the New South Wales Government set an international precedent by officially recognising Norrie May-Welby (pictured left) as neither male nor female.

The success was short lived however; as May-Welby was forced to take the case to Human Rights Commissioner after the decision was revoked by the registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. There has yet to be a resolution to May-Welby’s challenge.

Concurrently, the chief Defence Force of Australia ordered that the ban on transgender people serving in the Defence Force be lifted.

On the 29th of September, Tasmania passed a bill recognising all legal same-sex marriages performed outside Tasmania.

Issues around coming out made it into the headlines in the middle of 2010 as two major stories stirred debate around the difficulties queer people face when coming out.

FUSE 16

{

By Simon Copland

REVIEW

OZ

A UNIQUE YEAR IN AUSTRALIAN POLITICAL HISTORY

A YEAR IN

FEATURE

IT IS THE END OF ANOTHER YEAR. WITH A FEDERAL ELECTION, GROWING MOMENTUM FROM THE QUEER MOVEMENT AND POLITICAL AND LEGAL CHANGES AROUND THE WORLD, 2010 HAS BEEN MOMENTOUS. AS THE YEAR COMES TO THE END, IT IS WORTH LOOKING BACK ON SOME OF THE MAJOR EVENTS, VICTORIES, LOSSES AND CHANGES OF 2010. SO, HERE IT GOES; A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE QUEER YEAR OF 2010.

It all began when AFL player Jason Akermanis wrote a newspaper column arguing that any gay players should refrain from coming out as the league wasn’t ready for it.

This was followed a few days later by the public outing of NSW Transport Minister David Campbell, when Seven News showed footage of him leaving a gay sex club.

OS

LANDMARK POLITICAL AND COMMUNITY CHANGES AROUND THE WORLD

Both the UK and US saw significant changes in 2010 as elections took their countries back to the right. In the UK, elections in May brought a Coalition comprising of the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats to power. In November, Republicans took control of the US House of Representatives and gained extra seats in the Senate to create a significantly different new political climate for the next two years.

There have also been some major changes on many legal fronts for GLBTI people. The most important of these has been the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Fiji. This move brings the number of countries where homosexuality is illegal down to 76.

On the marriage front, Portugal, Argentina, Mexico City and Iceland all passed same sex marriage legislation. Iceland was particularly momentous, as the countries Prime Minister, Jóhanna Sigurardóttir, became one of the first to utilise the legislation marrying her partner Jónína Leósdóttir.

Whilst it technically didn’t happen in 2010, Pakistan made headlines early in the year by legally recognising *hijra as an official third gender. This occurred after a Supreme Court challenge was upheld, making Pakistan one of only a few nations to recognise more than two genders.

In the US, two major court cases saw momentum build around Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and marriage equality. In September a judge ordered that DADT was unconstitutional. Whilst this has yet to be acted on, it has brought with it significant momentum that could easily result in the overturning of the policy. Almost simultaneously, a judge in California declared that Proposition 8, the legislation that made same-sex marriage illegal in the United States was unconstitutional. This is a move that could result in the overturning of all same-sex marriage bans in the United States.

IT WAS NOT ALL GOOD IN KANSAS These positive results however, were still unfortunately matched by some serious negative issues.

Gay mental health was brought to our attention in the US with the suicide of Tyler Clementi after two of his roommates streamed footage of him having sex with another man on the Internet. This was the most high profile of a string of suicides from young gay people who had been bullied in one way or another. Following these tragedies, columnist Dan Savage and his partner Terry launched the “It Gets Better Project” a YouTube channel designed to help young queer people get through difficult times.

Check it out at www.youtube.com/user/itgetsbetterproject

Last June the International LGBTI Association (ILGA) released the fourth edition of it’s massive ‘State Sponsored Homophobia’ report. Compared to last year’s report, where ILGA listed the 77 countries prosecuting people on ground of their sexual orientation, this year you will find ’only’ 76 in the same list, including the infamous 5 which put people to death for their sexual orientation: Iran, Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Yemen [plus some parts of Nigeria and Somalia]. One country less compared to the 2009 list may seem little progress, until one realises that it hosts one-sixth of the human population, as the country in question is India.

So as we approach 2011, many nations still criminalise, consensual sexual acts between persons of the same sex. Just one example of this, was the recent arrest of two Malawi men after they held an engagement ceremony. After a well-publicised trial, which was strongly condemned around the world, the two men were eventually sentenced to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour.

So, there it is. Whilst I’ve missed plenty of activity that’s happening around the world I hope this story paints a picture of a movement that is growing stronger, but still has lots to do. I must acknowledge that we cannot look at these changes in isolation. Changes to legislation or advances in debate are only useful if they are met with other changes around the world. For example, there’s no point to having marriage equality when our gay friends in Uganda face the death penalty for being out; while our trans* friends lack access to appropriate healthcare and other services because their government doesn’t recognise their gender; or while kids in schools all across the world are bullied for not living up to sex/gender stereotypes.

As we look back at these victories therefore, let’s remember that issues such as marriage equality are only one part of the significant changes needed in our society to create a fair and more just world.

What to expect in 2011? Who knows, but as the queer movement gets stronger, more changes to our society can only follow in the years to come.

LAWS REGARDING SAME-SEX SEXUALITY No information HOMOSEXUALITY LEGAL Same-sex marriage Other type of partnership Foreign same-sex marriages recognized No recognition of same-sex couples HOMOSEXUALITY ILLEGAL Minimal penalty Large penalty Life in prison Death penalty

May include recent laws or court decisions which have created legal recognition of same sex relationships, but which have not entered into effect yet.

MANY NATIONS STILL CRIMINALISE, CONSENSUAL SEXUAL ACTS BETWEEN PERSONS OF THE SAME SEX.

FUSE 17

GROOMING

LABEL

WHORES & JUNKIES

I HAVE CONFESSION TO MAKE: I’M A MAJOR JUNKIE — A LABEL JUNKIE TO BE EXACT. I love fashion and designer labels like a fat kid loves cake.

And I often get called a label whore just because I happen to appreciate well tailored, beautifully lined, soft-to-touch pieces of clothing. But I have come to realise I’m not a label whore but a label junkie and so are some of my friends.

So my friends and I got talking and tried to figure out what makes a label whore and what makes a label junkie? The way I see it, a label whore will wear anything that has a label attached, whether it’s fake, ugly or the wrong colour. Even if it is the wrong size, just because it’s got a designer label attached to it, they will wear it. A label junkie on the other hand is someone who needs to have the good stuff, who will do anything to get it and will search high and low ‘til we get what we are looking for.

The latest off the runway, not a knock-off pair of Gucci loafers in lime green with tassels — well that is my must have for summer footwear this year... any-whooo, that’s another story.

SO HERE’S MY GUIDE TO BECOMING A LABEL JUNKIE AND NOT A LABEL WHORE: First things first, if you can’t afford the real deal just don’t bother; if you want to get the look it’s going to cost you. No matter how real you think your Louis bag that you got from Thailand may look, it will never look or feel like the real thing. Not only are you supporting an illegal trade, you are making yourself look cheap.

Being a designer junkie myself, I save up till I can afford it or ‘til the Gucci loafers go on sale. To get the real deal there are some great websites now that you can pretty much order the latest collection straight off the runway and get it delivered straight to your doorstep (particularly now the Aussie dollar is so strong).

Secondly, how not to look like a label whore: do not wear labels from head to toe, not only does it look tacky but you look like you’re trying too hard. Try to keep the label count to about two to three different labels per outfit, or if you are lucky enough to have a wardrobe full of labels, try to wear understated pieces that do not advertise the brand loud and clear. Let me give you an example: try not to do a Dolce & Gabbana T- shirt with a Burberry skirt, Prada shoes, Chanel sunglasses and Gucci bag. That many labels on one outfit are never a good look. If you must do labels from head to toe try and keep it to one label and one label only.

Thirdly, I’m sorry to tell you, but just because you happen to wear designer labels does NOT make you fashionable.

It’s how you wear it. Look at Paris Hilton, she’s got all the money in the world yet she never looks good. It doesn’t matter if you’re carrying around the latest Prada bag — if you’re wearing it with a pair of tracksuit pants, what’s the point of the Prada bag? It’s going to look fake and you’re going to look cheap. If you’re going to spend all of your money on something, make sure you finish off the rest of your look.

FUSE 18

And finally if someone were to give you a compliment on your amazing new Prada bag, no need to let them know that it’s Prada.

Just say thank you, flick the hair and keep on walking honey.

{

By Chad W ijayatilake from Form

Haircutters

FUSE 19

money&

MONEY SHOT

A LONG-TERM COFFEE HABIT

In light of the first interest rate rise occurring in six months on 2nd November, as I write this sitting at my local café enjoying my $4.00 latte, I was thinking about the longer-term effect of my coffee habit — not from a health perspective but from a financial wellbeing perspective.

If I have two coffees out each work day, that totals about $40 per week, which is on average, using forty work weeks, around $1,600 per annum. The same can be said for drinks out or lunches at work every day or eating out for dinner. Focusing on your priorities and what is important to you around having financial security can help keep you focused on getting a better outcome!

Now I must disclose that I feel coffee is an essential lifestyle item and there are plenty of other ways to have it in your life!

However here are some money mechanics that are pretty powerful for anyone with debt — particularly a mortgage.

If you have a $400,000 mortgage paying an interest rate of 7.25% over 25 years, your monthly repayment will be $2,891.23. The total interest you will pay over the lifetime of the loan would be $467,368.24 and remember you also have to pay back the $400,000 principle amount. I have put together the following table to show you what an extra repayment each month, fortnight or week can do to your mortgage and the amount of interest you pay.

NOW FOR THE FUN PART

EXTRA REPAYMENT AMOUNT

TIME SAVED ON YOUR MORTGAGE

INTEREST SAVED ON YOUR MORTGAGE

$100 PER MONTH

1 YEAR 5 MONTHS

$27,139.16

$100 PER FORTNIGHT

2 YEARS 9 MONTHS

$53,328.52

$100 PER WEEK

4 YEARS 10 MONTHS

$90,913.29

This is based on a mortgage at a 7.25% interest rate, if you look at your credit card which has a 16% – 20% interest rate, the interest saving can be just as impressive if you only make the minimum repayment each month.

My challenge to you this month, in light of the interest rate rise, is to get creative about the ways you can get together an extra $100 per month to start paying down your mortgage or other debts to get more in your pocket long term. This saved money can be used for other things such as purchasing some investments, saving for your retirement or focusing on your longer-term retirement or holiday plans.

If you need assistance in exploring these, further talk to a professional but most importantly start your journey to being free around your money and creating wealth with understanding.

Scott Malcolm (scott@money-mechanics.com.au) is Director of Money Mechanics (ph: 6257 5557) who are authorised to provide financial advice through PATRON Financial Advice AFSL 307379.

FUSE 20

The information provided on this document is of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.

Before acting on this information you should consider its appropriateness having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

}

FUSE 21

BODY SHAPE

{

By Brendan Farnhill — Alive! Health & Fitness

SO THE END OF THE YEAR IS HERE, WHICH MEANS SUMMER IS NOW UPON US. WITH SUMMER COMES ALL THE PARTIES, FESTIVITIES AND TRIPS TO THE BEACH. NOW WE ALL KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS... IT’S SHIRTS OFF...

IN FACT, IT USUALLY MEANS NOT WEARING MANY CLOTHES AT ALL! We all know that we need to exercise to lose weight and tone up. The hard part about this is knowing exactly what to do and what muscles to work. Your best option here is to get in contact with a Personal Trainer and have them give you a program that is going to help you achieve your goals and make sure you are doing exercises correctly.

Just to help you out a little bit though, I thought I’d give you the heads up on what’s going to make up that hot summer bod!

LEGS

I think this would have to be one of my favourite body parts; nicely toned quads and calf muscles. Top that off with a nice tan (and hey, it’s Canberra, so we all know our tans are sprayed on) and a pair of footy shorts. Before you do this though, you need to make sure you have got the legs to show off.

I love jumping in and doing a few Group Step and Group Ride classes to help tone my legs, while jumping in to do some squats and lunges to build the size.

SHOULDERS

Nice broad shoulders are definitely a hot look and there were plenty of these on show at Bushdance last month. Whether it’s on a guy or a girl, you’ve got it going on if you can have the definition through the shoulders. But make sure you’re not just focusing on one area of the shoulders. You need to ensure that you work the front, middle and the back of the shoulders, to get that nice rounded look.

BACK

There are a number of muscles in the back, and whether you’re ripping it up on the dance floor, or hanging out on the beach, these muscles look fantastic. An added benefit to working the muscles in the back is improved posture, which generally helps to bring along an increased confidence as well.

And girls, if you’ve got a strong back and good posture, the shoulders are back and the twins will stand out even more.

CORE

Now when we say ‘the core’, most people are generally going to think straight away about the ‘abs.’ Let me tell you, it’s so not all about the six pack look any more. Improved core strength is going to help again with your posture and prevent lower back pain, but if you want to look really hot this summer, make sure you also have a focus on the obliques. That’s those muscles on the side of your body that, when worked properly, help to give you that nice V shape on the front. This combined with not necessarily a six pack, but at least a flat stomach (so no beer bellies), is going to give you the ultimate look this summer. For me, it’s all about aiming for that swimmers body.

FUSE SE FU 22 22

So there you have it, the main muscles that are going to help you look and feel better this summer, and give you the confidence to rip off that shirt and strut your stuff.

FUSE 23

Oh what a

SEASON 2011 Tuesdays with

An Ensemble Theatre production

Choreographed by Leigh Warren

a Comedy

by Ray Cooney

Morrie

30 April

By Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom, based on the book by Mitch Albom

15-17 September

10-12 March

In 2011 The Q is excited to present you with a season of drama, comedy, musical theatre, dance and music. Featuring national and international touring companies as well as local artists, all chosen to have you leaving the theatre thinking “Oh what a night...”

To receive your copy of the comprehensive season brochure call 02 6285 6290 Further info: www.theq.net.au SE

FU 24

6-16 April

Get Back

BLood Brothers The Musical

Book, Music and Lyrics by Willy Russell

6-23 July

cNally John Ma

28 & 29 å & e Lov oses July zR amrock uch of Sh With a To

night...

6 & 7 May 23 & 24 May

17-21 May Proudly supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation

Created by shake & stir theatre co.

Tim Sekuless

Sophie Benassi

Jenna Roberts

Jim Adamik

OH WHAT

A NIGHT! a Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Shortis and Simpson in

a witty wander through the world of wordsmiths

LOVE SONG

2-4 December

A Centrepiece Theatre Production

by John Kolvenbach

If happiness is a state of mind, then life’s just a silly love song

5-15 October

19-23 September

cer. y Mer Jo hn n rhy m es ica ted sop hist Porter n Cole L en no n he lism -- Su rrea : Dyla n, Co y Ima g er . g n li el l Kel ly Storyt Bog le, Pa u ch el l Eric ni Mit Jo : n a tio Ima gin re .. . o and m

FUSE 25

SEX TALK

20

Naughty

{

By Hilary Caldwell (MHSc – Sexual Health) Sexuality Counsellor : Call 0430 855 739

but nice gift ideas

However you celebrate (or not) this season, it is hard to deny the exhilarating feeling of summer.

Just like the birds and the bees, there is a good reason why our birth rate is highest in September!

Fertility jokes aside, some of us feel a bit sluggish coming out of colder months, so a spring clean of your relationship might be in order.

Far from a religious celebration, Christmas time has become a time of stress in relationships where we expect to give and receive romantic presents and have hot sex in return. But it can be hard to ‘perform’ when expected and especially if you have both been working overtime for that expensive expression of love. As time has become our most precious commodity — spending time enjoying your relationship can be a deeper expression of love and an investment into the future.

The following gift ideas are mostly free and are really nice to give to friends. You can present the ideas for these gifts in a handmade card, a custom coupon, or send it in an email or text message — be sure to add emoticons to emphasise your sincerity!

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20

Offer to be a slave for a period of time, either in the bedroom or out of it.

A hot sensual massage — strings or no strings.

A romantic bubble bath together with champagne or beer.

A shopping trip to Fyshwick for some ‘Toys’.

A romantic dinner out or in — either way no washing dishes.

Write a love letter, song or poem for someone special.

A picnic — perhaps within walking distance of the home to remind you of how easy it is to ‘get away’.

A striptease — don’t forget to practice a bit, maybe even get some naughty props.

A date in a bar, both wearing clothes the other would not expect and pretending not to know each other.

A promise NOT to do something that matters to you for a whole day e.g. not doing housework, turning on the computer, going to the gym/golf etc.

A romantic breakfast in bed.

In the middle of summer, close all the curtains and have a ‘nude’ day at home.

A day of pampering — manicure, pedicure, facial, massage, etc.

Make a piece of jewellery from nature i.e. shells, stones.

Make biscuits, cake or fudge and wrap it beautifully.

Leave a ‘suggestion’ on the bathroom mirror.

Find an old photo — print and frame it.

Cultivate their interests — print out information about something they like, start a scrap book or a journal for them, keep relevant newspaper articles to start a collection.

Cultivate a plant cutting for someone you love.

A treasure hunt to find a present — using cryptic or logic clues.

Wishing you all happy holidays and many erotic passionate interludes for the coming year!

With love, Hilary

FUSE 26

Would you know what to do if the Don’t wait! Information about PEP (PostExposureProphylaxis) is available from the Canberra Sexual Health Centre, your GP or the AIDS Action Council aidsaction.org.au/pep

FUSE 27

EAR CANDY XMAS

1

All I Want For Christmas is You : Mariah Carey Undoubtedly the benchmark in modern Christmas tunes, Mariah’s 94 tribute to reindeer and romance bounces along with a 60s downbeat that’s impossible to resist. And who cares if Mariah’s kind of a ho ho ho?

This modern-day masterpiece twinkles brighter than tinsel on the tree.

2

Up on the Housetop : The Jackson 5

In 1970 The Jackson 5 released a Christmas album creatively titled The Jackson 5 Christmas Album, which is where this little gem of a track comes from. A ten-year-old Michael Jackson belts out the Christmas wishes of himself and his brothers with the passion and conviction of, well, a ten-year-old.

Fun and fabulous, this Motown-esque melody is the perfect soundtrack for opening pressies.

3

TIRED OF THE TRADITIONAL? SICK OF THE SAME-OLD?

Twelve Days of Christmas : The Muppets featuring John Denver With the help of the late, great John Denver, this version of the popular carol manages to craft some real Christmas cheer, and create the perfect drunken singalong. All your favourite Muppet friends each gets a verse in this side-splitting rendition of the Yuletide classic, but ultimately it’s all about Miss Piggy’s bit.

The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) : Michael Bublé

4

As corny as it is, it’s hard to go past this much-loved standard, especially when it’s crooned by a babe like Bublé. Of the many, many artists who’ve done this song, his is the definitive version.

This man oozes sex, even when it’ wrapped up in schmaltz, and this track just makes you want to tug on his bon-bon Yummers!

6

5 Run Run Rudolph : Hanson People always laugh when I tell them how much I love Hanson.

If you’re old enough to remember the cute teenage brothers who had an enormous hit with ‘MMMBop’ in the late 90s then you might also remember they had their very own Christmas album brilliantly titled Snowed In. This particular song is jam-packed with glorious piano licks, punchy tambourine and gorgeous soulful harmonies. I defy anyone who can listen to this without tapping their toes. Superb!

FUSE 28

7

CHRISTMAS IS A CELEBRATION, SO WHY DOES THE MUSIC HAVE NO SPIRIT? WELL HERE’S A CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST THAT’S SURE TO HELP MAKE YOUR NATIVITY A KNOCKOUT!

15 TONY HAMLYN PRESENTS…

Winter Wonderland : Macy Gray

There’s something very appealing and almost magical in Macy’s version of ‘Winter Wonderland’. Her lazy, raspy tones give it a dreamy effect, probably due to the fact that she seems to be perennially stoned. Whatever the reason, this is a favourite for any time over the course of Christmas Day, but probably best later in the night when you’re onto those Irish Coffees.

Last Christmas : Wham!

The sad story of a fair-weather Christmas whore, who dumps George and goes out with his best mate, resulting in a very awkward Christmas Day lunch the following year. Cheesier than melted Camembert, this 1984 classic stands the test of time and is sure to get the entire dinner table singing along. Listen out for the relentless jingle bell percussion in the background, and download the cover artwork for the single because it’s a riot!

8

Christmas Conga : Cyndi Lauper

Feliz Navidad : Celine Dion (and family)

In 1998 the legendary Cyndi Lauper released a Christmas album with the wonderful title Merry Christmas…

Have A Nice Life. From it comes this outrageous toe-tapper that never fails to both surprise and impress.

“Bonga Bonga Bonga, do the Christmas Conga”... Genius!

True story: Celine is the youngest of fourteen children. And for the recording she brought the whole family into the studio to help her redo this Spanishflavoured Christmas treat. A joyous, upbeat track that will prove impossible to not sing along to. Even if you hate her, you will love this song!

9

Eight Days of Christmas : Destiny’s Child

10

A funky Noel, as only Destiny’s Child knows how.

The gals put together a Christmas album in 2001 with mainly covers of your more traditional Chrissy tunes, and featuring this corker of a track that Beyonce penned herself. It’s a sassy spin on the old ‘Twelve Days’ we all know and love, but with references to bling and pimped out rides. Very urban, and a must after a few champagnes.

11

SONGS FOR A CAMP XMAS DAY

Now before you get all worked up into some anti-Streisand seizure let me tell you about this track: It. Is. BRILLIANT! Recorded for her 1967 Christmas album, the lyrics and tempo were completely changed up to reflect the quirky, comedic artist Barbra Streisand was known as back then (she wasn’t always so serious, you know?).

Trust me, after one listen you’ll be putting this one on repeat.

River : Sarah McLachlan

12

You’d never guess that someone like Canadian warbler Sarah McLachlan would have a Christmas album, would you? But in 2005 she released Wintersong, which featured this beautiful, melancholy interpretation of one of Joni Mitchell’s most endearing songs.

A rare moment when the cover outshines the original. Just make sure you’re not too fragile or pissy by the time you get to this track!

13 14

Santa Baby : Madonna

Generally not renowned for her sense of humour, Madonna pulls off this flirtatious ode to old St Nick brilliantly. She brings more than a little Marilyn Monroe to the table, managing sexy and adorable in equal measure, and cementing her version of this particular standard (which has seriously been covered by EVERYONE!) as one of the all-time best.

Jingle Bells : Barbra Streisand

Mistletoe and Wine : Cliff Richard It’s pompous and pretentious, but ya know what? I love it! Sir Cliff’s 1988 ode to Baby Jesus might be a bit heavy on the religious overtones, but it’s got a corker chorus and a kitsch kind of grandiosity about it. Call me old fashioned, but whilst I’m carving the turkey or gazing at the tree lights I just cannot get enough of this track.

Mele Kalikimaka : The Hawaiian Christmas Song by Bette Midler And from the ridiculous to the sublime, the Divine Miss M explores her Hawaiian heritage (she was born there, you know?) and brings us this dazzling little Honolulu lilt that no Chrissy drinks should be without. Featured on her Cool Yule album, this track will lead to a Hula round the tree and make for a completely camp Christmas.

15

FUSE 29

OUT & ABOUT

SPRINGOUT PRIDE AWARDS

THE SPRINGOUT PRIDE AWARDS 2010 WERE HELD AT THE HUSH LOUNGE AT THE END OF NOVEMBER.

FUSE 30

Love, Life, Sexuality, Community...

The AIDS Action Council has FREE workshops for everyone

For young guys (25

Out There!

now Book e for th y ar Febru Out of round re!

The

and under) attracte d to other guys

Looking Out

For guys (26+ years old) attracted

to other guys

Stepping Out

For women of all a ges attracted to oth

er women

Together

(single, couple and en m y ga r fo s ip sh on ti la Re more) of all ages Call Nick on 6257 2855 or email nick.nguyen@aidsaction.org.au to find out more or get on the waiting list for the next workshop FUSE 31

OP.ED

MY JOB

SUCKS!

SO YOUR JOB SUCKS...

EXCUSE ME, WHOSE FAULT IS THAT?

Oh, it’s your boss’... or your co-workers’... or your parents’ ‘cos they didn’t make you do your homework, therefore, do better academically, therefore, be a highly-qualified whatever. Somebody else’s fault, not yours, huh?

You sound like a victim — you know that, don’t you?

Maybe, but you can’t control everything... or can you?

Physicists have consistently proven that experimental results are affected by the expectations of the experimenter.

Everything is made of energy, in one form or another at a sub-atomic level, whether it is Mt. Kosciuszko, your eyes, or this page you’re reading. Interchange between energy forms allows infinite possibilities, including you being an agent of change, able to control your own unique circumstances.

{

By Yvonne Wigman — Prosperalot Coaching

That’s all very well in theory, but your job still sucks, right? Let’s stop being a victim for a moment and imagine you’re the boss. No, not the boss at work — the Boss of Your Life. Let’s split you into two characters wearing different hats. The first hat is labelled “Employment Agent” and the second is labelled “Employee”.

Let’s ask Employee, ‘Is your Agent doing a great job for you, finding terrific, highly paid, rewarding employment?’

Employee says, ‘Seriously? I didn’t know I had an Agent.’

Let’s ask Employment Agent, ‘Why isn’t Employee enjoying fulfilling, well paid, valuable work?’

The Agent says, ‘Employee thinks the Employer is the boss, not me. What am I — chopped liver?!’

Viewed with your Employment Agent hat on, you the Employee are a marketable product for sale to a prospective employer. Every time you take a job, your time, skills, experience and talent are sold to an employer for an agreed price. How well you negotiate the terms is up to the Employment Agent part of you — the part that’s in charge, i.e. The Boss of Your Life. Every time you leave a job because you’re dissatisfied, you sack your employer. How good is that?!

When you go looking for a new job, put on your Employment Agent (a.k.a. The Boss) hat and negotiate hard for the client — you, the Employee. You work for The Boss (a.k.a. You) — no-one else. Remember you’re selling your time, skills and expertise to an employer — not your soul. At the end of the day, you have a life outside of work. Every day, you choose to go to a particular place and exchange your time and expertise for money. If the terms and conditions of the job don’t stack up to what was agreed, sack that employer.

As an Employee with a top-notch Employment Agent, you can make you more marketable by becoming trained, qualified, and professional. That way, your personal employment agent has the leverage to negotiate what’s best for you. Of course, being The Boss has its downside: You are responsible. If your job sucks, it’s your fault.

But you are The Boss, and can expect to get better at securing top jobs or ones you love — you’re in control.

Yvonne Wigman is the queer community’s favourite personal coach — www.prosperalot.com.au . See p21

FUSE 32

Tilley’s

Devine Café Gallery

TILLEY’S IS NESTLED IN TREE LINED LYNEHAM JUST 4KM FROM THE CITY For over 26 years Tilley’s has been famous for its breakfasts, lunches, and dinners... and of course its fabulous coffees. Tilley’s attracts not only ‘regulars’ but visitors from overseas and interstate who enjoy the all-day menu specials, and oh such lovely cake!

Internationally renowned for legendary blues, jazz and classical concerts, Tilley’s continues to attract artists of international calibre who prefer the intimacy of a warm theatre atmosphere clad in red velvet, brass and dark timber booths.

With a fully licensed bar, one can enjoy champagne with breakfast, or in the evening savour our broad range of wines, spirits or boutique beers on tap.

OPENING HOURS Serving you breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days.

Monday to Saturday : 9am – 10pm Sundays : 9am – 6pm

THE CALL IS YOURS! TILLEY’S CAN DO IT FOR YOU...

To reserve your favourite table or booth phone us on 6247 7753 Corner of Wattle & Brigalow Streets, Lyneham • www.tilleys.com.au FUSE 33

NEW YEAR’S EVE @ CUBE NIGHTCLUB 10PM TIL 5AM OUT & ABOUT

DRESS TO IMPRESS! BLACK, WHITE & PINK DJ’S MATT & PETE ONLY $25 COVER AT THE DOOR

33 Petrie Plaza Civic, Canberra City www.cubenightclub.com.au

}

New Year’ s at Cube!

Cube is...

Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday night until 11pm you’ll get FREE entry & 2 for 1 drinks @ Cube Nightclub.

FUSE 34

This New Year’s Eve celebrate in style with Cube’s NYE Black White & Pink Party. Black & White Balls have long been a favourite on the party scene with the most notable being that of author Truman Capote’s (Breakfast at Tiffany’s anyone?) legendary 1966 masked affair at New York’s Plaza Hotel.

With an eclectic mix of New York socialites, Hollywood idols, artists, authors, writers and political powerhouses, it was not only the event of the year but the event of a decade. Join us at Cube as we recreate this most fabulously memorable night ‘Cube style’, with a dash of Pink!

FUSE 35

@

OUT & ABOUT

THIS MONTH

HUSH

THE HUSH LOUNGE PRESENTS

Jingle Belles FRIDAY 17 DECEMBER AT 9:00PM Enjoy the exceptional talent and diversity of Canberra’s drag artists — TRIXIE VAN CARTIER, DEANNE AYE, CHLAMYDIA TURPENTYNE, MISS T. KNICKERS and TEQUILA MOCKINGBIRD. Plus see the return to the stage for one of Canberra’s legendary drag queens MISTY MEANOR. She will be gracing our stage for one night only! What better way to celebrate Christmas than with The Hush Lounge!

Hosted by the glamorous Jacqueline Hyde

SAINTS + SINNERS

NEW YEAR’S EVE @ HUSH Friday 31 December 7.30pm til late This year, we’re bringing you one massive New Year’s Eve bash that will have everyone celebrating in debauchery and pleasure. Join us for the sexiest party of the year!

Saints & Sinners at HUSH DJ, dancing, shows, best costume prizes and more! $15.00 / $10 pre-purchase

CHILL OUT EVERY WEDNESDAY AT HUSH WITH LIVE MUSIC AND $10 PIZZAS!!!

DINE AT HUSH THURSDAYS THREE-COURSE MEAL $35 Come by and enjoy a fine wine and dine in with HUSH on Thursday evenings with our exclusive new menu options for both meat lovers or vegetarians. Something delicious for everyone. The menu is a set menu with a vegetarian option and changes each week.

Bookings call Joel on 0433 858 467 Crn of Launceston & Irving Streets Phillip www.hushlounge.com.au ~ 02 6282 1944

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WWW.HUSHLOUNGE.COM.AU CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR THE FULL LINE UP OF LIVE MUSIC, KARAOKE NIGHTS, SPECIAL EVENTS, PARTIES & MORE!

Lesbians have the same risk of cervical cancer as heterosexual women.

Genital HPV is spread through genital skin contact during sexual activity. Over time an abnormality can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.

Having a Pap test is not always easy for lesbians, as community acceptance and recognition of lesbians and lesbian relationships can vary. Finding access to a practitioner who is knowledgeable and understanding of lesbian health issues may be difficult.

SHFPACT’s all female doctors & nurses have been providing sensitive health care to our community for almost 40 years.

The choice to disclose information about your sexuality is yours, so don’t feel that you have to. It may, however, result in a better and more informed health care experience.

For info phone 6247 3077 or visit www.shfpact.org.au

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HEALTH

For decades gay men have been urged, or maybe told to get a sexual health check including an HIV test at least once a year.

If we have lots of casual partners or don’t always use condoms, we are told to test more frequently and new guidelines say that some gay men should test every three months.

WHO’S CALLING THE SHOTS ON GAY MEN’S

HEALTH?

Most of us know what being tested involves; A lot of waiting, answering questions, having blood drawn, going back to get results and possibly a bit of a lecture. Is it convenient? Not especially. Is it important? Yes, it’s very important that gay men are regularly tested. So, what is happening with testing rates in Australia? The evidence points to something of a decline over recent years. In fact, a full two thirds of gay men diagnosed with HIV in 2009 acquired the virus more than 12 months prior to the diagnosis. This means that the majority of gay men vulnerable to HIV infection simply are not testing often enough. It also means that there are more men unaware of their HIV positive status than there would be if testing rates were increased.

We actually already know why gay men don’t get tested. Research shows that the single biggest reason is that it is inconvenient. A clear majority of survey respondents give this as the primary reason for delaying accessing a testing service. So, imagine being able to drop in to a convenient location when you feel like it, and be out again in 20 minutes or so with your result. Imagine only a thumb prick instead of having blood drawn. It would be great, wouldn’t it?

You might be surprised to know that this is precisely what gay men in most of the rest of the western world can do. In countries like the US, Canada, Germany, Britain, Holland, Austria, France, Switzerland and New Zealand gay men can access what is called ‘rapid testing’, and have been able to do so for five years or more. It should be of no surprise that rapid testing is very popular and has produced increased rates of testing and particularly amongst those more at risk of HIV. So how come Aussie gay men are being denied this proven technology?

Why is it, that despite the introduction of rapid testing being an identified priority in the new national HIV strategy, we may be waiting another two years before we can manage our health in the way that our friends in other countries can? And, where are gay men in this discussion? Why is it that some gay men, impatient with this ludicrous inactivity, have taken to purchasing home testing kits via the Internet?

The answer is fairly complicated, but seems to include two sets of factors. The first is the peculiarly Australian habit of ignoring the evidence of common sense as well as incontrovertible proof generated internationally, in favour of endless discussion, debate and never-ending trials and pilot programs (Remember the number of gay men that died because they were denied access to AZT in the early 90s for example).

The second is a continuing denial of the rights of gay men to determine their own health needs. Some that urge caution claim that gay men might use the rapid test inappropriately, such as using a negative result as an excuse to have unprotected sex. Not only is this insulting, but it’s also dumb. How can knowledge of HIV status be worse than being ignorant of it? In any event, there is not a shred of evidence that gay men anywhere in the world have acted this way. It’s also well worth remembering that it was gay men that arrested the early explosive growth in HIV infections, and not clinicians or bureaucrats. There is no reason that rapid testing can’t be made available to gay men with no further delay. A continuing prevarication is, in effect, an abuse of human rights. So what can we do to hurry things along a little?

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Firstly, go and get tested if you haven’t done so recently. Developing a testing habit is a really important way that we can take control of our own health. And when you do, ask about rapid testing and why it isn’t available.

Tell us about your experience. It’s our health, we’re in charge and it’s about time that we called the shots.

{

By Andrew Burry — AIDS Action Council

The AIDS Action Council offers regular community based sexual health testing at Westlund House and Champions Mustang Ranch. It’s not ‘rapid’ (yet!!), but it’s free, easy and fun. Check aidsaction.org.au or call 6257 2855 to find out when it’s next available.

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SPORTS FEATURE

GETTING AN INVITE TO THE GAY GAMES IS ONE OF THE MOST RANDOM AND AWESOME THINGS THAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME. I searched high and low to find a women’s softball team in Australia. I got in touch with people in Sydney and Melbourne and to my surprise; no women’s softball team was travelling to Cologne. So keen to go, I even spammed the Flying Bats queer chick’s soccer team in Sydney for a chance to go. I have never played soccer. They spammed back saying, ‘You need to get more skills. Besides, the team is full. Go away.’ Typical Sydneysiders, I thought.

Gritting my teeth, I put a line through ‘must go to gay games’ on my 2010 bucket list and pondered the existence of ants crawling up my wall. God, I’ll be over forty when the next Gay Games is held. Will I still be able to run at that age? With a deep sigh, I went back to watching The L Word sex scenes for the fourth time.

Three months later, with the games well out of my mind, a random email pinged into my inbox.

‘Hello, we are a female softball team from Paris and we are still looking for players to join our team. Get in touch if you are interested. Greetings from Paris, Susanne.’

Would I be interested? Hmm, let me think about it — a week of sport, European women, summer, parties, and German food — no, couldn’t possibly be interested!

I was so shocked, I jumped out of my chair fast and high, and I hit my head on the ceiling of my apartment.

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The Gay Games are one of the biggest lesbian, gay, transgender events held in the world and like the Olympic Games are held every four years in world-class cities.

Some 10 000 participants across the globe compete in 35 different sporting events. Three other Canberrans and I hooked up with ‘Team Sydney’ to march in the inspiring and moving opening ceremony. Tears of pride and joy rolled down my face and many others when German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwalle called for an end to discrimination to same-sex people across the world. We carried that pride and energetic spirit into the following week of games and parties.

I MET INSPIRING WOMEN ATHLETES, MADE NEW FRIENDS AND IT’S ONE OF THE FEW OPPORTUNITIES ANYONE WILL HAVE TO SEE ME WEARING AUSSIE FLAG CLOTHES. Over six days, I competed in fast pitch and slow-pitch softball with the team, BK (Black Knights) Paris International. Managed and coached out of Paris, the team consisted of local, ex-pat and indigenous women from France, Germany, United Kingdom, Canada, USA, the Netherlands and South Africa. It truly was an international team. Lucky for me we decided to use English as the language of choice.

Five teams competed in the fast pitch competition and four in the slow-pitch. We played sixteen games of softball over the week. It was definitely a test of resilience, stamina and teamwork. Facing tough competition against the Cologne and Amsterdam teams, we held strong to win bronze in the fast-pitch competition.

I was shaking in my Easton’s when I first faced elite level pitchers from the Rhine Sliders and the Amsterdam Angels teams.

HELEN STEVENS REFLECTS ON HER JOURNEY TO

GAY GAMES COLOGNE 2010

The Rhine Sliders ladies kept us all focused on the sideline with their lovely black skirt uniform. CC our war cry Londoner with the South African accent kept the spirit alive with our game chant ‘ready on three, BK Paree’. And Trouble (Kat) from Holland, encouraged solid batting performance with her ‘hits for tits’ policy.

With four games to play on our last day, we had to dig deep to keep up energy and ignore the injuries that each of us were carrying. After getting through the heckling from the London Raiders we moved on to play the skilled Taiwanese team, Morele’. Unfortunately, the Moreles pitcher had an injury and called game over. We won gold in the slow-pitch competition with an 11-0 victory in the grand final.

I met inspiring women athletes, made new international friends and it’s one of the few opportunities anyone will have to see me wearing Aussie flag clothes — but I can see why people do. The week finished with women dancing and celebrating at three levels of dance-floor action at the ‘Triumph and Tribulations’ party.

For a week of fitness, making new friends, partying and injuries, the Gay Games is definitely something to be part of.

The Southern Hemisphere’s version, the Asia Pacific Outgames is being held in Wellington, New Zealand next year. For more information, check out www.wellington2011.com The good news is you don’t have to be a sporto to compete.

To all FUSE readers and the community, have a super Christmas and holiday season — I hope in 2011 you too can cross things off your ‘must-do’ list. Party safe. Haych #8.

FUSE 41

c a m pin g it u p!

bU SH

~

TOP QUEER

G O I NG

Car camping trips are becoming an increasingly popular way to have an adventure on a budget. I love nothing more than sitting down by the river with a few good friends enjoying a coldy or two — yep, us queers love beer and camping too… go figure!

So how do we get to that point? And how does one do it without compromising ones style too much? First let’s think about where we would like to go; will you want to take your dog? That will put the national parks out of reach. Do you have a four wheel drive?

And more importantly, do you know how to use it safely? Or are you just keen to set up a tent in a caravan park or campground?

Is there water where you are going? Will you need your own?

OK, so how does one maintain one’s comfort in your nylon home away from home?

You can now buy sophisticated shower set-ups that run off gas cylinders and an electric pump, that helps you to keep your bits smelling fresh even when you are in the middle of nowhere.

I have used them and a warm shower is a nice way to end a mucky day of mucking ‘round down caves or whatever other hole you’ve managed to find yourself in! Do not use soap in rivers for a cleanup — if you don’t have a shower, have a wash without soap, or use some baby wipes to wash yourself, they are surprisingly effective.

I use an airbed in my tent. When you aren’t hiking in and out it makes sense to be comfortable, so don’t worry about excess weight. Live it up! Twenty-years-ago when I was just a young boy roughing it with two-minute noodles and a tent, one of the old guys from my 4WD club said, ‘Any idiot can rough it; I prefer to go with a little style and comfort’. I have lived by that ever since! So I also use a high quality sleeping bag, especially for camping in the hills around here in the winter.

So a good quality tent would be the next thing on the list. You can’t predict the weather, but you can mitigate the risk of getting you and all your camping gear soaked. Tents come in all shapes and forms. Some even mount to the roof of your car, in case you get scared of creepy crawleys, or worse still, wriggly things! But check your car’s maximum roof load before parting with your cash. Most will say 60kg max, or thereabouts. Now I am not sure what the tent weighs, but I would exceed that on my own, let alone a tent and my partner thrown into the equation! I have seen roofs crack on 4WDs when they have been way overloaded.

FUSE 42

A fridge is a great idea. I use a three-way fridge, which runs on the car’s battery, mains power or LPG. Great for extended stays, as a standard car battery won’t run a fridge forever and there is nothing worse than a hot Bolli Stolli and a car that won’t go either! There are some very good quality ice boxes too. The ice lasts much longer than a conventional esky and they are a lot cheaper to buy than a fridge.

{

By Stuart Poole

Cooking can be done on an LPG powered stove or “au naturel” over some hot coals or a fire. Nothing tastes better than a roast cooked in a camp oven, a big cast iron pot that you bury in hot coals. I like lamb and veggies, but vegetarians can skip the meat if they please.

There are portable toilets available, but don’t forget someone will have to “process” the contents at the end of the holiday. Therefore I prefer the good old shovel and a walk, well away from the water source or other campers. So take it as rough or smooth as you like it.

Camping is great fun, and the only true way to “get away from it all” in a true sense of the word. You can even rent a campervan or caravan if a tent is not for you.

Our friends at Camping World Phillip can help you with everything you need, from maps to great advice on what would best suit your needs and budget.

So get out and enjoy what nature has to offer this holidays. And don’t forget the deck chair, the most important part of the whole trip — see you in the bush!

AUNT DOROTHY’S

MOTORING SANTA TIP

Many of us often leave things to the last minute. This year make sure you are ready for the Chrissy break by getting your car serviced before the 24th of December. Lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency for your mechanic!

FUSE 43

FUSE

44

OUT & ABOUT

2010

FUSE 45

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Thank you!

The AIDS Action Council of the ACT would like to thank all of our incredible members, volunteers, sponsors, partners and supporters for such a fantastic year.

With your help we were able to do so much incredible work for the community and will continue our work with HIV affected communities.

We look forward to our work with you all and more in 2011.

REGULAR QUEER EVENTS

GLBTQ COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

HANGOUTS

Q RADIO ON 2XX FM98.3 Canberra Queer Radio Show.

Saturdays 7pm – 9pm 2XX, 98.3FM Canberra’s own GLBTQ radio show.

CUBE NIGHTCLUB Canberra’s premier gay night club venue along with ARIA accredited resident DJs playing a mix of music beyond the charts.

DYKE DINNER & MOVIE GROUP More info on FUSE website or see Canberra Lesbians on Facebook.

GAY & LESBIAN TENNIS Mondays 6pm – 9pm. Turner Tennis Club, Cnr McCaughey and Condamine Streets. Bring a tennis racquet, shoes and $5.

GAY ACT SQUASH GROUP Wednesdays 6.30pm – 7.30pm.

National Sports Club, Mouat St, Lyneham. More info see: groups. google.com/group/gayactsquash

COMMUNITY GROUPS FUSE 46

aidsaction.org.au

BENT LENSES Canberra’s very own Queer screen culture group. www.bentlenses.org GIRL THING ON RAW FM 87.6 Wednesdays & Sundays from 7pm For girls who like girls. Presented

by Tori Mac, an hour of sexy house and electro served up girly style.

QWIRE WANTS YOU! Want to be involved with Canberra’s own gay and lesbian choir? Singers and non-singers encouraged. More info: canberraqwire@yahoo.com.au RAINBOW BOWLERS Meet new people on ‘Gay Bowling’ Sunday nights at Belconnen Bowling Alley. 1 Emu Bank from 7pm.

RAINBOW BUBS A playgroup for same sex parents and their kids. Email Michelle at hoogied@yahoo. com for info.

ACTQUEER A free email list for LGBTI people in Canberra and surrounding region. groups.yahoo.com/group/actqueer

AIDS ACTION COUNCIL The AIDS Action Council provides information, support and services.

More info: www.aidsaction.org.au

BIT BENT YOUTH GROUP Meet other young people, get support or just hang out. Mondays at Belconnen Youth Centre 6pm – 8pm and Thursdays at the Woden Youth Centre 5pm – 6.30pm. For more info email: bit_bent@hotmail.com

UNI OF CANBERRA LGBTI GROUP A social group for all LGBTI students staff at the University of Canberra.

Queer Space is located at the UCSA building 1 Uni of Canberra. Info email: sexuality@theucsa.org.au LONG YANG CLUB ACT A social club for Asian and nonAsian gays and their friends. More info: lyccanberra@gmail.com

CANBERRA BEARS Bears at the Bar is held at 4pm, first Sunday of each month HUSH. For the bear facts: www.bearscanberra.com

33 Petrie Plaza Civic, Canberra City. www.cubenightclub.com.au More p34 THE HUSH LOUNGE Hush is a unique and stylish gay and lesbian (GLBTI) lounge bar. It has a friendly, relaxed and chilled feel about it with regular live music, shows and great food.

Cnr Launceston & Irving Streets, Phillip. www.hushlounge.com.au More p36 TILLEY’S DEVINE CAFE For over 26 years Tilley’s has been a gathering place for the gay and lesbian community. Warm and sumptuous, it’s famous for its food and fabulous coffees and cake. Tilley’s is a place for everyone.

With a fully licensed bar, you can enjoy champagne with breakfast, or in the evening savour a broad range of wines, spirits or boutique beers.

Corner of Wattle & Brigalow Streets, Lyneham. To reserve your favourite table or booth call us on 6247 7753. More p33 BAR32 Bar32 is gay friendly bar and nightclub with a mixed younger crowd. Indy and alternative dance music and bands.

32 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City. www.bar32.com

FRUITS IN BOOTS A social and support network for rural GLBTI members outside the ACT. Email: fruitsinboots@gmail.com

RAINBOW BUBS Rainbow Bubs and IVF Support Group is a playgroup for same sex parents and their kids as well as a support group for GLBTQ people who are thinking about starting a family.

More info: hoogied@yahoo. com

CHAMPIONS MEN’S LOUNGE Canberra’s men’s space. Champions Lounge is located within Mustang Ranch and is a venue for men who want to meet men. More p47

SAME WAY RAINBOW NETWORK ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander GLB and Sister Girl community network. For more info email: lespur77@hotmail.com

CANBERRA GAP GROUP Gap group is a monthly coffee/drinks group for same sex attracted women and gender diverse people. Contact: meganmunro2001@yahoo.com.au

Want to know ‘What’s On’ or be listed here, then visit us at www.fusemagazine.com.au

lithium helping your business bloom

graphic design corporate identity branding print advertising website design email newsletters call 0412 309 992 www.lithium.net.au

FUSE 47

DEAR ROSE

Dear Rose, My dad loves joking around and he buys me a subscription to Playboy every Christmas.

He thinks it’s hilarious, me being gay and all... but it’s getting a bit embarrassing. I’ve told him not to, but still every year the same.

What can I do?

PS: I know he’ll just think this makes it even funnier.

Jay Dear Jay, Your dad sounds like a riot! Being his son, it seems to me that you too have inherited some of his wicked humour. That in mind, I would suggest you follow his lead and generously send him a yearly subscription of your own. Let me see… there is Australian Creative Knitting or maybe The Flower Arranger Magazine. Or if you are feeling particularly bold, you could always subscribe to FUSE magazine or DNA. I would also suggest that you send a little note with your gift:

Dear Dad, Thought that I would send a yearly subscription, so that you too could broaden your horizons — it has terrific articles! Love ya Dad and have a Merry Christmas! — Your devoted Son. Just imagine the look every month when it arrives!

Dear Rose, I really like this lady at work (my boss actually). Do you think I’m playing with fire asking her out?

SJ Dear SJ, Take it from me; everyone has fantasies about their hot looking boss or co-workers. I myself have had bizarre dreams about my boss’ from the past and have come into work with that guilty look written all over my face.

What you need to work out is, whether these feelings are real or a fantasy? Be brave, be bold SJ, ask the question, see if your cute boss thinks you’re cute as well. Remember though, if she isn’t interested, don’t take it personally and chalk it up to experience — no harm, no fowl.

But if your lady boss thinks you’re “a bit alright”, you need to proceed with caution. Go out on a few casual dates; see if it is a relationship that is going somewhere and most importantly keep it to yourself and discuss how it may effect work relationships.

FUSE 48

Remember, it’s tough being the boss and going out with someone who works for you. If her other employees found out, she would risk being undermined by them. No boss wants their life to be gossiped and discussed at work.

Merry Christmas from

Rose

Dear

If you would like to write to Dear Rose please email her at dearrose@fusemagazine.com.au ~ letters are placed either here or on the Fuse website fusemagazine.com.au

Dear Rose, I’m an 18-year-old student about to leave college and head off to Uni. I have this friend who’s 15 who I see everyday and we chat quite a bit, but the problem is I’m developing a crush on him, one that I would like to act on. I’m pretty sure he’s gay and that he likes me — that’s not the problem — the point is I’m 18 and he’s younger than me. I’m not sure if it’s right for me to like someone this much younger, not only because of my view but also my friends and his friends views. I wouldn’t want it to have to be kept secret, but it almost feels like it’d be necessary. Any advice would be great :) Kezza Dear Kezza, It can be a wonderful thing when you start to fall in love with another person. The problem is that he is very young and quite simply underage; you cannot in all good conscience act on your developing feelings for this young man in anyway.

Having said that, the first thing you need to do is ask this young man if he is indeed gay or not.

He might just like you because you’re a nice guy.

If by chance this young man does identify as gay, you are in a unique position to be a guide and mentor for some of the situations that you know he will be facing in the future.

My Dear Rose advice is: be this young fellow’s friend and his confidante, but wait until he is at a legal age of consent before you act upon your feelings, so that if romance blossoms down the track, in time he will be free to choose you.

For more advice on this subject call Westlund House on 02 6257 2855 or visit www.afao.org.au for details on age of consent in Australia.

‘‘

DEAR ROSE’S

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

‘Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.’

Dr. Seuss Acclaimed Children’s Author

}

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Weber Q 120 with high lid and electronic ignition $329 LPG only

Weber Q 220 $449 LPG (also available in NG $479)

Weber Big Family Q Plus $839 LPG (also available in NG $869)

Weber Q’s also come with a great range of accessories Prices are for BBQ’s only and do not include any accessories or Trolley’s pictured. All models are exclusive to The Burning Log Megastore

call 6280 6021 or visit www.burninglog.com.au See our showroom corner Wollongong and Maryborough Streets Fyshwick ACT 2609 or email us at office@burninglog.com.au

“

“

It’s not just about keeping us safe, it’s about others as well

Shaun & Joel, 26 & 30 Managers Hush Lounge

Photography by

aidsaction.org.au