FUSE61 : Pride and Travel Edition

MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU NOV / DEC 2019

61

20

Celebrating Years FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019

LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

YES MA’AM! CORSETS TO JACK BOOTS MS. LEATHER GOES HI-VIS AMSTERDAM PRIDE & GLORY CANBERRA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SPRINGOUT

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TROUBLE IN PARADISE PHUKET’S DARK SECRET

CANBERRA TOGETHER DRAG RACE IS HEADING DOWN UNDER LICK OF APPROVAL: MARRIAGE EQUALITY STAMPS RELEASED

> REMEMBER THE PAST, CREATE THE FUTURE

THE BEST AND WORST LGBTIQ WORLD TRAVEL SPOTS

FREE

JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL SPRINGOUT PRIDE EVENT

WINE TASTING ARVO

AT CONTENTIOUS CHARACTER

SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 12:00PM - 3:00PM

RAISE A GLASS AND RUFFLE SOME RAINBOW FEATHERS! Come join us at Contentious Character Winery for a relaxed and fun afternoon of wine tasting and wonderful food.

Contentious Character is a contemporary vineyard estate with winery, cellar-door and kitchen — situated in picturesque Wamboin just a short 15 minute drive from Canberra Airport.

Tickets are only $30 (pay on the day) and the price includes wine tasting, a delicious cheese board and winery tour.

Then buy by the glass or the bottle at the bar, plus their Every Day All Day menu will be available for further dining.

There will be rugs, milk crates, the odd table and chairs — but if you like to ‘have your own things’ bring them too!

Bring a game of Boules, cards or just relax on the lawn with our queer family — whatever takes your fancy!

This SpringOut event is hosted by Contentious Character and FUSE Magazine. More details fusemagazine.com.au

Contentious Character is a contemporary vineyard estate with winery, cellar door and kitchen, serving a shared, wine paired menu. We create magical weddings and events with character, for all our brothers and sisters.

CONTENTIOUS CHARACTER

VINEYARD. WINERY. CELLAR-DOOR. KITCHEN CONTENTIOUSCHARACTER.COM.AU

WE ARE JUST A 15 MINUTE DRIVE FROM CANBERRA AIRPORT AT 810 NORTON ROAD WAMBOIN NSW PH 02 6238 3830

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MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU NOV / DEC 2019

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61

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Celebrating Years FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019

YES MA’AM! CORSETS TO JACK BOOTS MS. LEATHER GOES HI-VIS

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

YES SIR!

20

Celebrating Years

MUIR CAPS TO JACK BOOTS MR. LEATHER GOES HI-VIS

FESTIVAL GUIDE

AMSTERDAM PRIDE & GLORY

CANBERRA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SPRINGOUT

CANBERRA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SPRINGOUT

TROUBLE IN PARADISE PHUKET’S DARK SECRET

TROUBLE IN PARADISE PHUKET’S DARK SECRET

+ CANBERRA TOGETHER

DRAG RACE IS HEADING DOWN UNDER LICK OF APPROVAL: MARRIAGE EQUALITY STAMPS RELEASED

> REMEMBER THE PAST, CREATE THE FUTURE

THE BEST AND WORST LGBTIQ WORLD TRAVEL SPOTS

FREE

DRAG RACE IS HEADING DOWN UNDER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & ASSOCIATE EDITOR Christopher Powell ASSISTANT EDITOR Maxwell Elliff

FREE

> REMEMBER THE PAST, CREATE THE FUTURE

02 Editor’s Rant 04 What’s On : Movies 07 SpringOUT Festival Guide

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Alexander Thatcher

THE BEST AND WORST LGBTIQ WORLD TRAVEL SPOTS

LICK OF APPROVAL: MARRIAGE EQUALITY STAMPS RELEASED

FUSE REGULARS

FUSE MAGAZINE MADE IN AUSTRALIA NOV / DEC 2019

2019 SPRINGOUT FESTIVAL GUIDE P7

23 FUSE FEATURES 23 As SpringOUT celebrates its

big anniversary, we revisit

20 years of pride in Canberra.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Christopher Powell Rene Zuiderveld Ellen Flanders Alina Krasieva Dennis Bouman Naomi Van Heck Douglas J Robinson

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18

17 Round Up : News & Politics 21 Travel : LGBTIQ Travel Destinations 29 Heath & Wellbeing : Trouble in Paradise

CONTACT FUSE 0412 309 992 hello@fusemagazine.com.au fusemagazine.com.au PO Box 844 Belconnen ACT 2616

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 FUSE publisher, editor or staff. Any health, fitness or dietary 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. Some articles in this publication may have first appeared on theconversation.com. Submissions of text, photographs or any other material will be taken as consent to publish said material.

LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

AMSTERDAM PRIDE & GLORY

CANBERRA TOGETHER

PUBLISHER Published + designed by Lithium Innovation Pty Ltd lithium.net.au ISSN 1836-8387

61

2019

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CONTRIBUTORS Dwayne Lennox Scott Malcolm Rose Pappalardo Joshua Anlezark Rob Edward Smith

MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU NOV / DEC 2019

LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

33 33

We travel to Amsterdam and discover a country where authenticity, freedom and respect reign free.

37 37 Enter the world of fetish and

discover why the Dutch leather

community is going full hi-vis.

29 42 45 47 48

Couch Potato : Film & TV CBR Community : Canberra Together Stargazer : Your Horoscope Dear Rose

21

42

FUSE Magazine is proud to be the Media Partner for this year’s SpringOUT Festival.

FUSECONTENTS

1

The 2019 UN World Happiness Report named the Dutch the fifth happiest people in the world.

Australia, which currently sits at number eleven, has dropped two spots since the last survey in 2016.

My first visit to the Netherlands, the country where my mother was born, was earlier this year. After spending the summer in Amsterdam, it felt good knowing that the Dutch people seem to have created a grown-up and egalitarian society, where the freedom to be yourself and respect for others are held up as important social norms.

This attitude, known by the Dutch as 'verdraagzaamheid' — respecting people's freedom of choice in their views, beliefs and individuality — has led to progressive stances on social and ethical issues. These include leading the way on LGBTIQ rights, notably being the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001, as well as having enlightened approaches concerning euthanasia, sex work, soft drugs and freedom of speech.

FUSE ONLINE Check out the FUSE Magazine website and our social media sites for daily news, videos, special online features, what’s on listings, the latest community updates on our popular message board, the LGBTIQ business & community directory and more!

fusemagazine.com.au facebook.com/fusemagazine twitter.com/fusemagazine instagram > @fusemagazine

ADVERTISE WITH FUSE Call us on 0412 309 992 during office hours or email hey@fusemagazine.com.au

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THIS RESOU

AVAILABLE

By Australian standards, some of these policies would be considered dangerous and excessive freedoms. Sadly, this is not something I see changing soon, considering the current conservative nanny-state agendas of our federal and some state governments.

I believe our right to self-determination is directly proportional to our happiness, which is probably why Australia has dropped two spots on the 2019 UN World Happiness Report. In order to be truly happy and authentic individuals, it's essential we have the opportunity to determine our own destinies, free from government control.

The Netherlands is of course not immune to the rise of right-wing populism and the conservative push for control of all aspects of our lives. Many Dutch LGBTIQ people I spoke to said they were becoming increasingly concerned that their liberty and way of life was under threat, believing that in this current political climate we need to be vigilant.

After spending time there, it's not hard to see why the people of Amsterdam are concerned about the cracks appearing in their way of life; it's a wonderfully free and safe city. As an LGBTIQ travel destination, I highly recommend you put it on your bucket list, and in this issue you'll quickly discover why.

Starting on p33, you'll find our feature article filled with joyful photos of Amsterdam Pride and the famous Milkshake Festival.

On p37 we have interviews with our cover models and leading members of the leather community who have been travelling throughout Europe to encourage LGBTIQ people to be visible and proud of who they are.

Closer to home, this year SpringOUT celebrates its 20th anniversary.

You'll find the full Festival Guide on p07 and our special photo feature looking back at 20 fabulous years of pride in Canberra on p23.

All this and more — there's a lot to discover in our spring issue of FUSE.

Enjoy and live free, Alexander.

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EDITOR’SRANT

2019/20

2019/20 LGBTIQ BUSINESS & COMMUNITY DIRECTORY GRABBusiness YOUR COPY TODAY! Directory LGBTIQ & Community

The FUSE LGBTIQ Business & Community Connecting our community with businesses, social groups and sup Directory is an easy way to find businesses and organisations who choose to support directory.fusemaga our community. The directory also includes an extensive range of essential community services and LGBTIQ social and sporting groups. directory.fusemagazine.com.au

Scan this QR code to jump straight to the directory online FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

VISIT OUR LUXAFLEX® WINDOW FASHIONS GALLERY SHOWROOM TODAY TO BOOK YOUR IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION RITEWAY CURTAINS & BLINDS FYSHWICK

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facebook.com/luxaflex.aus • luxaflex.com.au

3

MOVIES

DID YOU KNOW? “Friends of Dorothy” was a euphemism used by gay men in the 1940s, when homosexuality was illegal in the USA. Dorothy, of course, is a reference to Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” character.

JUDY OPENS 17 OCTOBER FUSE MOVIE PICK OF THE MONTH!

Sixteen years after her win for Cold Mountain, Renee Zellweger looks to return to the Oscars with her portrayal of movie and music legend — and gay icon — Judy Garland. Set during Garland’s late-career tour of England in 1968, and a year before her untimely death, Rupert Goold’s film sees Judy physically and emotionally drained by both competing forces and her own vices. It’s the kind of role an actor relishes, which is probably what brought Zellweger out of her self-imposed exile of sorts; she may not be Garland’s vocal match, but she gives her all.

PAIN AND GLORY OPENS 7 NOVEMBER More than 30 years ago, Spanish enfant terrible director Pedro Almodovar and countryman actor Antonio Banderas arrived on the world movie scene together. Banderas went on to Hollywood while Almodovar became universally acclaimed, the two reteaming for 2011’s The Skin I Live In, but it is for Pain and Glory that both men are receiving their best notices for quite some time. Indeed, Almodovar’s semi-autobiographical tale of a filmmaker reflecting on his life gifts Banderas his meatiest role in years, eliciting a career-best performance.

LAST CHRISTMAS OPENS 7 NOVEMBER A romantic Yuletide tale penned by Emma Thompson, directed by Paul Feig (Bridesmaids; The Heat ) and starring the very photogenic Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) and Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians )? We must definitely be on Santa’s nice list. Apparently inspired by the music of George Michael, this London-set story sees the down-on-her-luck Kate (Clarke) befriended by the optimistic Tom (Golding) as Christmas approaches. Thompson also stars (as Clarke’s mother), as does Michelle Yeoh, meaning there’s something for everyone in this Xmas bon bon.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE OPENS 26 DECEMBER On an isolated island during the eighteenth century, a female painter is obliged to paint a wedding portrait of a young woman. Since premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in May, the latest film by Celine Sciamma (Girlhood ) has been garnering unanimous praise wherever it has played. Set in Brittany in the late 18th century, Portrait sees artist Marianne (Noemie Merlant) hired to paint the portrait of Heloise (Adele Haenel), a young woman whose family wish to marry her off. Heloise, however, would rather not be married, so Marianne conducts her work by stealth disguised as a maid, setting in motion a slow burn romance.

By Dwayne Lennox

FREE DENDY MOVIE TICKETS : Email us and tell us what you think of FUSE, comment on an article or sign up to the FUSE eNews and you could win free tickets to these fantastic movies. hello@fusemagazine.com.au

FREE MOVIE PASSES KINDLY SUPPLIED BY DENDY CINEMAS CANBERRA LEVEL 2, NORTH QUARTER CANBERRA CENTRE, BUNDA STREET, CANBERRA CITY 261-263 KING STREET, NEWTOWN • SHOP 9, 2 EAST CIRCULAR QUAY, SYDNEY PORTSIDE WHARF, REMORA ROAD, HAMILTON DENDY.COM.AU

Follow Dwayne on Twitter @TheLennoXFiles 4

WHAT’SON

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

THE DIVINE MISS BETTE IS BACK AND SHE’S READY TO SLEIGH!

"Her show is uplifting and life affirming. A force to be reckoned with, bombarding us with irreverent humour and dazzling talent." — Canberra Critics Circle "Absolutely hilarious! There’s a knowing wink in her show — she’s not trying to fool us into thinking we’re watching the real Miss M, but a star in her own right playing a character." — Time Out Sydney

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS PARTY ENTERTAINMENT

IT’S THE PARTY OF THE SEASON AND EVERYONE IS INVITED! Direct from her USA debut, Catherine Alcorn returns to The Q as The Divine Miss Bette just in time for Christmas. Polish off your ornamental balls folks and spend this holiday season with Australia’s favourite chanteuse Catherine Alcorn in her fabulous homage to Bette Midler. The Divine Miss Bette is back, bigger and Bette-r than ever with a Christmas special guaranteed to warm the coldest of Christmas nuts.

SHOW ONLY | TICKETS $65 • CONC. GROUPS 8+ $60 SHOW+DINNER | TICKETS $95 • CONC. GROUPS 8+ $90 18 - 21 DEC | TICKETS 02 6285 6290 | THEQ.NET.AU 5

Brave conversations start here.

centrally located, inclusive and welcoming room hire | meeting space | community resources

You belong here

Book online today www.aidsaction.org.au/pridehubcanberra contact@aidsaction.org.au 02 6257 2855 6

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CANBERRA’S VERY OWN PRIDE FESTIVAL

20

Celebrating Years

FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019 MAJOR PARTNER

RAINBOW PARTNER

COMMUNITY PARTNER

SpringOUT is supported by The ACT Government through EventsACT and The City Activation Unit.

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

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SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

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FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019 springout.com.au

CBR FAIR DAY

BIG GAY BREAKFAST OFFICIALEVENT

SATURDAY 2 NOVEMBER 11:00AM - 4:00PM GORMAN ARTS CENTRE FREE ENTRY

SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER 9:00AM - 12:00PM TILLEY’S DEVINE CAFE, LYNEHAM FREE CHAMPAGNE, BUY OWN BREAKFAST

Celebrating 20 years, the AIDS Action Council will launch SpringOUT 2019 with their signature event CBR Fair Day. Showcasing all of the performances, music, food, stalls and experiences you’ve come to know and love over the years, this year’s. This year’s Fair Day will be extra special!

It’s our tenth year and we are excited to invite you all to the FUSE Big Gay Champagne Breakfast. It’s an LGBTIQ and everyone-in-between event! Eat, drink and be merry on a beautiful Spring morning with all your fabulous friends at Tilley’s in Lyneham. Free champers kindly supplied by Tilley’s.

CBR FAIR DAY RAINBOW PET PARADE MAIN COURTYARD 12:30PM

Details: fusemagazine.com.au & page 20

QUEER ASIAN CREATIVES

Brought to you by Northside Community Service, the CBR Fair Day Rainbow Pet Parade is back in 2019, and blingier than ever! Prepared to be dazzled by the coolest, cutest and cheekiest fur babies in Canberra!

TUGGERSPRIDE

Details: aidsaction.org.au/fairday

ANIMAL SANCTUARY TOUR SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER 3:00PM - 5:00PM TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE, GREENWAY RESERVE TICKETS FOR FREE What does it mean to be both LGBTIQ and Asian in Australia and how can these identities intersect in arts practice? Come and hear contemporary creatives (including author and editor Benjamin Law) explore and unpack these intersections in their work, on a panel hosted as part of TuggersPRIDE.

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SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER FROM 11:00AM LUCKY STARS SANCTUARY, BYWONG ADULTS $10. CHILDREN 16 & BELOW FREE

Details: tuggeranongarts.com

Have you ever rubbed a pigglie’s belly? Want to? Then bring a rainbow of fruit and vegetables and meet all the wonderful rescued animals at Lucky Stars Sanctuary in Bywong — just a 30 minute drive from Canberra CBD.

THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER

Details: facebook.com/luckystarssanctuary

Details: genderrights.org.au

SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

INTERSEX DAY OF SOLIDARITY An internationally observed civil awareness day designed to highlight issues faced by intersex people.

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

COMEDY NIGHT

LGBTQI+ & ALLIES PROM TUGGERSPRIDE

FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 6:30PM - 10:00PM AINSLIE FOOTBALL CLUB FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER @ 8:00PM TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE, GREENWAY TICKETS FROM $10 Celebrate pride with some of the best queer comedians from the ACT, Australia and the world. Headlined by Kiwi comedian Jake Howie, who got his start in the thriving comedy scene of London and was winner of the 2015 Reading Comedy Festival New Act of the Year. The evening will be MC’d by fabulous local talent Laura Campbell and feature supports by Cleo, Madeleine Stewart, Kathryn Thomas, and Tuggeranong local Garrett Kelly.

Details: tuggeranongarts.com

CANBERRA FRONTRUNNERS SPORTINGEVENT

SATURDAY 9, 16 & 23 NOVEMBER FROM 9:00AM AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS FREE Canberra Frontrunners is a group who get together each Saturday for a run/walk/amble/dog-assisted amble around Canberra before having brunch at a local cafe. All welcome.

An opportunity for young people to experience a formal style event and express their identity in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. This event is drug and alcohol free. You can also sponsor a young person’s attendance.

Details: ywca-canberra.org.au

WINE TASTING ARVO

SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 12:00PM - 3:00PM CONTENTIOUS CHARACTER WINERY 810 NORTON ROAD, WAMBOIN NSW TASTING & WINERY TOUR FROM $30 Come join us at Contentious Character Winery for a relaxed and fun afternoon of wine tasting and wonderful food. Just a 15min drive from Canberra Airport, Contentious Character is a contemporary vineyard estate with winery, cellar-door and kitchen. There will be rugs, milk crates, the odd table and chairs — but if you like to ‘have your own things’ bring them too! Relax on the lawn with some wine and our queer family.

Details: fusemagazine.com.au & inside front cover

SPRINGOUT 20TH ANNIVERSARY MASKED BALL OFFICIALEVENT

Details: frontrunners.org

RAISING THE FLAG: PRIDE PIECES WORKSHOP

SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2:00PM - 4:00PM AT CIVIC LIBRARY FREE

SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 7:00PM - 12:30AM THE ABBEY, NICHOLLS TICKETS FROM $30

Pride Pieces is a new mixed media artwork by local LGBTIQ artists Jane Duong and Victoria Firth-Smith. Supported by the ACT Government Capital of Equality program and produced by PhotoAccess, this striking installation tells the stories of Canberran LGBTIQ advocates and creates a brand new Canberra Pride flag.

This is a dress-up event, so come as your authentic self.

Constantina Bush and Dani Boi will take you on a journey of love, laughter and music, with Qwire, burlesque, drag and live music.

Join Chief Minister Andrew Barr and his partner Anthony in a special wedding rehearsal, to prepare for their upcoming nuptials (who will catch the bouquet, who will toss it?). Dance the night away with DJ Radar playing 20 years of queer dance tunes.

Details: photoaccess.org.au

Details: springout.com.au & page 10 SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

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20TH ANNIVERSARY MASKED BALL

SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 7:00PM - 12:30AM THE ABBEY, NICHOLLS This is a dress-up event, so come as your authentic self.

Constantina Bush and Dani Boi will take you on a journey of love, laughter and music, with Qwire, burlesque, drag and live music.

Join Chief Minister Andrew Barr and his partner Anthony in a special wedding rehearsal, to prepare for their upcoming nuptials (who will catch the bouquet, who will toss it?).

Dance the night away with DJ Radar playing 20 years of queer dance tunes.

PLEASE GET THOSE TIX ASAP $50 + BOOKING FEE $30 + BOOKING FEE SpringOUT members & concession holders.

MORE DETAILS

SPRINGOUT.COM.AU

MAJOR PARTNER

RAINBOW PARTNER

COMMUNITY PARTNER

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

SpringOUT is supported by The ACT Government through EventsACT and The City Activation Unit.

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FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019

QUEER DISPLACEMENTS

springout.com.au

ERASURE, SILENCING & HETERONORMATIVITY

WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER @ 5:30PM HUMANITIES RESEARCH CENTRE, ANU FREE LGBTIQ People Seeking Asylum and Refugees: Erasure, Silencing and Heteronormativity is a free panel discussion that will precede the Queer Displacements conference.

Details: springout.com.au

OUT FOR AUSTRALIA NETWORKING EVENT MENTORS & CHAMPIONS

WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER @ 6:00PM PWC CANBERRA, FORREST FREE Learn how you can help the next generation of LGBTIQ people starting their careers, or how you can link with an LGBTIQ mentor to kick goals in your professional and personal life.

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER STARTS 9:00AM HUMANITIES RESEARCH CENTRE, ANU TICKETS FROM $50 Presented by the Humanities Research Centre and supported by the ANU Gender Institute, the ANU Research School of Humanities and the Arts and the ACT Government Office for LGBTIQ+ Affairs. Questions of sexuality and refugee or migration status remain on the margins of queer and refugee movements, policy and support services.

This two-day conference aims to bring together academics, practitioners and LGBTIQ+ people seeking asylum and refugees to discuss pertinent issues of queer forced displacement, and foster dialogue between official and unofficial groups invested in research and practice for coordinated solutions and better support of affected populations.

Details: springout.com.au

ACTING OUT: CANBERRA’S VERY QUEER HISTORY

Details: outforaustralia.org

TUGGERSPRIDE TINA TALK TUGGERSPRIDE

WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER @ 6:00PM TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE, GREENWAY FREE Nic Holas is an activist, writer, and co-founder of The Institute of Many (TIM) — an advocacy platform for People Living with HIV. In conversation with Ginger Gorman — the investigative journalist with heart, Holas will discuss ice use amongst men who have sex with men, particularly men living with HIV, and the development of TIM’s Turning Tina harm minimisation resource.

Details: tuggeranongarts.com

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER @ 6:00PM HARRY HARTOG BOOKSELLERS, ACTON FREE Join us in reflecting on the 50th anniversary of LGBTIQ activism in reform in Canberra at the launch of ACTing Out, a new book on Canberra’s queer history by Graham Willett.

This is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come as a city, but more importantly to look to the future and how we will continue to advance LGBTIQ+ equality and support our diverse community. There is so much to be proud of, but much more work to do.

Details: springout.com.au SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

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FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019

QUIZZING THE VELVET

springout.com.au

ALGA HISTORY CONFERENCE: BEFORE MARDI GRAS

FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 6:00PM - 11:30PM POLISH CLUB, 38 DAVID STREET, TURNER TICKETS FROM $22 15 - 16 NOVEMBER ANU SCHOOL OF HISTORY, ANU FREE ENTRY This year’s conference takes place shortly after the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Homosexual Law Reform Society of the ACT, the first organisation to campaign for homosexual rights in Australia.

2019-2020 also sees the anniversaries of the Daughters of Bilitis / Australasian Lesbian Movement (Melbourne, January 1970) and the Campaign Against Moral Persecution (Sydney, mid-1970).

Quizzing the Velvet brings you The L Word Trivia Night at the Polish Club: a night to be a Lez Girl and bat for your own team! Test your L Word knowledge and dress as your favourite character. With special guest Glitoris and many prizes to be won. BYO team of 10 or join a new tribe.

Details: springout.com.au

QUEER STAGE TUGGERSPRIDE

The HomoHistories conference has been held annually since 1998 and brings together a diverse range of academics, professional and independent scholars, students, activists and community organisers — and we hope to see that diversity repeated in 2019.

Details: springout.com.au

GENDER NEUTRAL TOY WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN

FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER @ 11:00AM GORMAN ARTS CENTRE, BRADDON FREE TOY is a workshop that allows children to build alternative toys of their dreams, providing a creative space to explore fluidity and multiplicity against the backdrop of traditional gendered roles and responsibilities. Brought to you by AGAC. Details: springout.com.au 12

SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 12:00PM - 3:00PM TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE, GREENWAY RESERVE TICKETS FOR FREE As part of Tuggeranong’s newest annual celebration SouthFest, Tuggeranong Arts Centre presents Queer Stage — a main stage line up of LGBTIQ performers, including some of Australia’s best First Nations queer artists. This stellar line up will feature local stars, yodeling drag queen LayDee KinMee, Australia’s favourite showgirl Constantina Bush, Indigenous electro tribal pop duo The Merindas, and headline act, multi-award winning electronic duo Electric Fields Music, all hosted by hilarious comedian Sean Choolburra.

Come on down to Cowlishaw Street and join the party!

Details: tuggeranongarts.com Details: facebook.com/tuggeranongarts FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

WRITING QUEER HISTORY

YES!FEST

TUGGERSPRIDE

OFFICIALEVENT

TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 6:00PM - 8:00PM TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE, GREENWAY

SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 3:00PM ‘TIL LATE LONSDALE STREET, BRADDON FREE YES!Fest is returning to Lonsdale Street. The day stage will kick off at the Rainbow Roundabout with a brand-new competition, Rainbow Runway, hosted by Felicia Foxx and with judges Electric Fields. There will be two night stages with performers including The Huxleys, Ellen Reed, House of Luna, Sheba Williams, Sarah Moany, Etcetera Etcetera and the Homecoming Queens, Zapp Backagain, Guy Alias, Queen B, Rih Anna, Ty Zahn, Faux Nee Phish, Toni Kola, Jye Gray, Charlie Chapstik, DJs Raydar, Brodie Grealish, Tuxido Masc and Brittany De Marco, and more!

Details: facebook.com/yesfestcbr Details: springout.com.au

ACT LGBTQI+ MINISTERIAL ADVISORY COUNCIL INCLUSIVE THINK TANK

A night of discussion and poetry exploring queer history.

Join historian Graham Willett, author of Canberra’s LGBTIQ history Acting Out, in conversation with Nigel Featherstone, author of Bodies of Men, discussing queer history in both fiction and non-fiction. The night will also feature a special poetry performance by local poet Sandra Renew.

Details: tuggeranongarts.com

TRANS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER A day to memorialise trans people who have been tragically lost.

Details: genderrights.org.au

OUTBIZ NETWORKING & COMMITTEE CALLOUT

WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 6:30PM - 8:30PM, VENUE TBA The Canberra Gay and Lesbian Business Association (OUTBIZ) is looking for community members who would like to be part of a ‘Working Committee’ which would put together events and other social activities to help promote and build awareness, network, connect, expand and support Canberra LGBTIQ businesses, professionals, public servants and allies. Come along for a chat, some socialising and networking to find out more.

Details: facebook.com/OutBiz

TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 6:00PM - 8:30PM ACT LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY, CITY FREE The ACT Ministerial Advisory Council is proud to present an annual SpringOUT festival event. Come along and share your ideas for creating a more LGBTIQ inclusive Canberra.

A light supper and drinks will be served. Numbers are strictly limited, so get your free tickets quick!

Details: springout.com.au

SERVING IN SILENCE & RAISING THE FLAG FROM 24 OCTOBER – 16 DECEMBER CIVIC LIBRARY, CANBERRA The Serving in Silence exhibition recounts the history of Australia’s LGBT service personnel from 1945 to the present.

Raising the Flag: Matter of Pride celebrates contemporary pride through the collected stories of local LGBTIQ+ people.

Details: springout.com.au SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

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Y T I N U M M O C G I B

C I N PIC

K LEBE PAR G • M P 6:00 11:00AM • R E B M 4 NOVE SUNDAY 2

JOIN US AT THE 2019 FESTIVAL’S FINALE CELEBRATION. IT WAS A BLAST LAST YEAR WITH OVER 450+ PEOPLE CONVERGING ON GLEBE PARK FOR A FABULOUS DAY OF FUN IN THE SUN WITH OUR LGBTIQ COMMUNITY!

SPRINGOUT.COM.AU MAJOR PARTNER

RAINBOW PARTNER

COMMUNITY PARTNER

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

SpringOUT is supported by The ACT Government through EventsACT and The City Activation Unit.

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FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

FESTIVAL GUIDE 2019

FRUIT TINGLES OFFICIALEVENT

springout.com.au

AHEAD OF THE GAME

FRIDAY 22 NOVEMBER @ 10:00AM GORMAN ARTS CENTRE, BRADDON FREE Join the artists in residence from Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centres in a panel discussion about their latest work.

Visitors can drop in to the residency and watch what’s happening and even be treated with a showing or performance.

Brought to you by AGAC. Details: springout.com.au

ELDERS DANCE CLUB

SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER STARTS 7:00PM MAJURA COMMUNITY HALL, DICKSON TICKETS FROM $25 Wear your comfy shoes for this one! Held at the Majura Community Centre in Dickson, Fruit Tingles brings women together from all ages and all walks of life. It provides a safe space to celebrate our pride. The event includes live music and DJs, door prizes, games, community stalls, massages and a cash bar. Yummo BBQ with a vegan twist will help fuel your night of dancing, plus surprises throughout the evening!

Details: springout.com.au & page 16

SPRINGOUT BIG COMMUNITY PICNIC OFFICIALEVENT

SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2:00PM - 4:00PM RALPH WILSON THEATRE GORMAN ARTS CENTRE, BRADDON FREE Brought to you by AGAC, this is a chance for senior members of our community to shake their tail feathers with Bec and Tristan at Gorman Arts Centre.

SUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER 11:00AM - 6:00PM GLEBE PARK, CANBERRA FREE Join us at the 2019 festival’s finale celebration. It was a blast last year with over 450+ people converging on Glebe Park for a fabulous day of fun in the sun with our LGBTIQ community!

Details: springout.com.au

BUSHDANCE OFFICIALEVENT

Details: springout.com.au & page 14

EASY WOMEN’S BUSHWALK SPORTINGEVENT

T! SOLD OU

SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER 7:30PM - 1:00AM YARRALUMLA WOOLSHED, WESTON CREEK Brough to you by the Canberra Gay & Lesbian Tennis Club ‘Pink Tennis’, Bushdance is a night full of crazy fun and non-stop dancing. Just ask the 600-odd people that come along every year from around the country. There is a bar, BBQ and a live band to lead you through the dances.

Details: pinktennis.org.au

SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER @ 9:00AM NAMADGI NATIONAL PARK, THARWA TICKETS FROM $3.50 Join Women’s Adventure ACT for an easy bushwalk through the Namadgi National Park. You’ll do a gentle 9.5 km walk at an easy pace, visiting three historic huts, plus morning tea along the way.

Details: womensadventure.net SPRINGOUTFESTIVALGUIDE

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dance event

Saturday 23 November 2019

7pm – midnight Tickets $25 Majura Hall, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson DJ Live music Drummers Bar and snacks Door prizes BBQ All proceeds to Beryl Women’s Refuge and LGBTIQ youth Further info: 0438 785 131 Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fruit-tingles-dance-event-tickets-75075866939 We promote the safety of all women or femme identifying individuals This is an event for you to come as you are.

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delene.com.au

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By Maxwell Elliff DID YOU KNOW? Cher turned down the part of Thelma in Thelma & Louise. She wanted, instead, to appear in the 1990 film Mermaids and had so much powers she appaently had the director replaced – twice.

ROUND UP

QUEER EU LEADERS TAKE HISTORIC SNAP

NEPAL’S RAINBOW COMMUNITY CALL FOR GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION

The photographed meeting between two European Prime Ministers — Luxembourg’s Xavier Bettel and Serbia’s Ana Brnabic — has landed a spot in the history books. Why? Because they are both out and proud! Pictured next to their spouses, the photo op was taken on September 8 ahead of a state visit to discuss Serbia’s accession to the European Union. Bettel became Luxembourg’s first gay PM in 2013 and married his architect boyfriend shortly after same-sex marriage became nationally recognised in 2015. Brnabic’s partner gave birth to the couple’s first child in February — but she has taken criticism for failing to introduce hate crime legislation to Serbia despite urging from the UN. In any case, more rainbow leaders, please!

Queer advocates in Nepal have called for greater recognition in the form of a government Census. Pahichan, a local gay publication, explained that the last Census from a decade ago identified only 4,000 LGBTI+ citizens in a country of over 30 million — and argued the number is at least 500,000. They suggested community groups should assist the government so that collection of data could be conducted in a sensitive manner while also encouraging gay citizens to take part.

Activists see the collection of such data as a key way for the government to develop improved services for its rainbow citizens — who currently face discriminatory barriers to citizenship, marriage, adoption and access to health and education. The UK and Hong Kong governments have recently announced similar plans for their upcoming Census.

A QUARTER OF GAY EMPLOYEES BULLIED AT WORK As if the regular stress of work wasn’t bad enough, a new report has found that employees of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities face a range of added pressures. The Kantar Inclusion Index polled 18,000 LGBTIQ workers from 14 countries and 24 different industries about their workplace experiences. The study found that 24% felt bullied at work, 36% felt they faced obstacles due to their personal identity, and more than half experienced high stress, anxiety or mental illness while clocked on. The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries were found to be the most inclusive, with Canada and the US being named the nations with the most inclusive workplaces.

Global director for the Index, Mandy Rico, stated, “Our findings illustrate that a significant amount of work remains to be done to make workplaces more inclusive, diverse and equal, especially around the subject of bullying”.

CHER ANNOUNCES DANCING QUEEN 2 Cher fans have gone into a frenzy after the iconic singer announced on Twitter that a second album of ABBA cover songs is in the works. Her legendary vocals combined with ABBA’s timeless discography proved to be a juggernaut success the first time around, with Dancing Queen reaching top 5 on the US and UK charts. The ageless singer, who is now 73, announced that on the followup album she will be taking a chance on such hits as “Voulez Vous”, “I Do I Do I Do I Do I Do”, “Right This Second”, “Super Trooper” and many others — so if your favourite ABBA jam missed the cut last time, there’s a safe bet you will be rewarded in the sequel.

No doubt this one will rock the pop world once again, and make plenty of that money, money, money!

NEWS&POLITICS

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ROUND UP

DID YOU KNOW? The fabulous RuPaul has won four consecutive Emmys (2016 to 2019) for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program. You go girl!

DRAG RACE IS HEADING DOWN UNDER IN 2020 Aussie fans of the ever-entertaining RuPaul’s Drag Race have been left gagging after it was announced that a local version is set to hit our screens next year. The mega-successful US reality competition, which features drag queens duking it out for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar”, has turned the art of female impersonation into a worldwide phenomenon.

Having already garnered 11 seasons, 4 All-Star iterations and as of October, Drag Race UK, it was only a matter of time before it would spread to our shores. There’s no word yet on whether RuPaul will be hosting, but the rumour mill speculates that if not the superstar herself, comedy queen Bianca Del Rio (and Season 6 winner) could be the next candidate.

Gentlemen, start your engines and may the best woman win!

SYDNEY LOCKOUTS AXED — BUT IS THERE A GREATER THREAT TO GAY NIGHTLIFE? NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has recently announced that the controversial (a.k.a. nightlife killing) lockout laws are soon to be ditched, but late night entertainment precincts, such as gay hub Oxford Street, are under fire on another front — gentrification. The temptation of venue owners to sell up valuable inner city space to developers remains a looming threat to any city’s nightlife culture. For instance, Melbourne’s gay flagship venue Greyhound closed its doors in 2017 to be converted into luxury apartments, while London’s biggest gay club, XXL at Pulse is due to shut in September. Perhaps Sydney can be the exception to the rule. Super-club ARQ has faced persistent rumours of selling, but is now celebrating 20 years of trading. Another positive sign came with the revival of iconic venue the Midnight Shift, which shut in 2017 but reopened last year as the dazzling new club, Universal.

RELIGIOUS DEBATE MORE DISTRESSING THAN POSTAL SURVEY A recent survey of LGBTIQ Australians has found that the current debate around religious organisations’ freedom to discriminate on the grounds of sexuality and gender identity is taking a greater toll on our community than the marriage equality debate of 2017. The polls, conducted by gay rights organisation just.equal, surveyed 4,500 queer and allied Australians and gathered some worrying data. Almost 71% of respondents felt that religious freedom laws existed to diminish queer rights, 43.5% felt that Australia is unaccepting of queerness (nearly double what it was prior to marriage equality passing). The overwhelming majority (98%) felt that religious organisations such as schools and hospitals should not be legally allowed to discriminate, despite this still being the reality in most Aussie states.

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NEWS&POLITICS

LICK OF APPROVAL: MARRIAGE EQUALITY STAMPS RELEASED In celebration of almost 2 years (WOW!) since the historic “Yes” vote passed, Australia Post has unveiled two commemorative stamps. The first stamp depicts a rainbow with the phrase, “love is love” — words that became an iconic slogan during the divisive postal survey. The second shows two queer couples, Bec and Paula from Melbourne and David and Nick from Sydney, as they rejoiced upon hearing the historic announcement on November 15th 2017.

Australia Post Executive General Manager Gary Starr commented that the stamps celebrate “a change that has impacted many Australians”.

You can find them at Australia Post for all of October.

MP FIONA PATTEN PUSHING FOR AMENDED ‘ANTI-TROLLING’ LAWS Victorian MP Fiona Patten is behind a push for updated anti-vilification laws to combat hate-speech and trolling in online arenas. Patten is arguing that our current laws, which only cover racial and religious hate-speech, should be broadened to include vilification due to gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and disability. The leader of the Reason Party (formerly the Sex Party), stated “Hate speech lives and breeds in social media feeds… it is time that we take personal responsibility for what we say online” — and that our current laws do not do enough to deter harmful perpetrators. As someone who spends way too much time scrolling online through comment sections, I would say she raises a fair point!

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By Maxwell Elliff DID YOU KNOW? In Indonesia — the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation — homosexuality is actually legal, however the current conservative government and religious groups have urged police to find other ways to crack down on LGBT communities.

NORTHERN IRELAND MARRIAGE EQUALITY BILL GETS THE GO-AHEAD

BILLY PORTER STRIKES VICTORY POSE AT THE EMMYS

Northern Ireland is set to join the rest of the United Kingdom in passing marriage equality into law. Assuming the devolved government does not regroup before 21 October, the only pit-stop left will be to the Queen for the royal tick of approval. MP Nick Herbert, chair of the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Global LGBT+ Rights announced, “Today we celebrate another step towards full equality for all LGBT+ people in the UK”. Welcome to the rainbow family Northern Ireland, and ‘top o’the morning to ya’!

Billy Porter has become the first openly gay black man to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his work on the FX series Pose. After his historic triumph at the awards’ 71st ceremony, the half-centenarian said ‘It took many years of vomiting up all the filth that I had been taught about myself… before I could walk around this earth like I had the right to be here’. Pose, another brainchild of Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk (of Glee and American Horror Story fame) follows members of New York City’s flamboyant drag ballroom scene of the 1980’s and 90’s.

The series, recently renewed for a third season, features the largest cast of queer and trans performers in the history of scripted television, and Porter described his experience working on set as ‘really life-altering’.

ConDRAGulations Billy!

“There’s nothing wrong with you. There’s a lot wrong with the world you live in.”

INDONESIAN GAY SEX BAN With thousands of students protesting across Indonesia and global backlash, Indonesian President Joko Widodo has delayed passing a bill that would see extramarital sex carry a penalty of up to one year in prison. As gay marriage is illegal in the Muslim majority nation, the proposed penal code would include all homosexual acts — as well as punishments for extramarital heterosexual sex, the promotion of birth control and abortion. The law will now go under review, and proceed in an amended version at the next government sitting on 1 October. Aussie gay rights campaigner Rodney Croome AM has urged the Australian government and business community to take action, especially considering the island nation is one of our largest trade partners and tourist destinations.

Chris Colfer — Actor, singer and author.

SOUTH KOREA’S QUEER YOUTH CRISIS Alarming results from a recent survey have shown that nearly half of South Korean LGBTQ+ youth have attempted suicide. The survey, conducted by queer rights organisation Chingusai, has revealed that 45% of rainbow youth under 18 years old have attempted suicide, while 53% have self-harmed. In response, Chingusai has launched a youth hotline, aiming to provide support to vulnerable teens. Despite homosexuality being decriminalised in 2003, homophobic attitudes remain widespread in the East Asian nation, with ‘outness’ commonly leading to alienation from ones family and workplace.

NEWS&POLITICS

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A lesbian, gay, trans, bi, intersex and everyone inbetween event!

Eat, drink and be merry on a beautiful Spring morning with all your fabulous friends.

You’ll find us on the undercover terrace. Complimentary Champagne, buy your own breakfast.

SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER @ 9AM TIL 12 NOON SERVING YOU BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS Monday to Saturday 7.30am – 10.30pm • Sundays & Public Holidays 8.00am – 5.00pm

CORNER WATTLE AND BRIGALOW STREETS, LYNEHAM EVENT HOSTED BY FUSE MAGAZINE & TILLEY’S DEVINE CAFE 20

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

PORTUGAL, SWEDEN AND CANADA SCORE TOP LGBTIQ WORLD TRAVEL DESTINATIONS EACH YEAR THE TEAM FROM SPARTACUS PUT TOGETHER A GAY TRAVEL INDEX TO INFORM TRAVELLERS ABOUT THE SITUATION OF LGBTIQ PEOPLE IN 197 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD. The SPARTACUS Gay Travel Index (SGTI) is put together using fourteen criteria in three categories.

The first category is civil rights, the second, discrimination, and the third looks at threats to individuals by persecution.

This year there have been some interesting developments that have made some major effects on where LGBTIQ people may choose to spend their vacation.

Portugal (pictured above), Sweden and Canada are currently the most LGBTIQ friendly countries, while Chechnya is again the most dangerous country for LGBTIQ people — a clear ‘no go zone’ for queer travellers.

Thanks to legal improvements for transgender and intersex people — as well as anti-hate crime initiatives — Portugal jumped from 27th place to the top of the SGTI, and now shares 1st place with Sweden and Canada.

Australia has dropped one spot from 28 to 27, only a small move, but nevertheless still concerning considering the rise of conservative and right-wing politics throughout the world and here at home.

One of this year’s rising stars was India, which, thanks to the decriminalisation of homosexuality and an improved social climate, has risen from 104 to 57 on the Travel Index. On a side note, in the criminalisation of homosexual acts was also abolished in Trinidad and Tobago and Angola.

With the legal recognition of same-sex marriage, Austria and Malta were also able to secure a place in the top five queer holiday destinaitons.

Sadly the situation for LGBTIQ people in Brazil and the USA has worsened, where right-wing conservative governments have introduced initiatives that actually revoke LGBTIQ rights achieved in the past. These actions have led to an increase in homophobic and transphobic violence in both countries.

The Netherlands continues to be one of the most friendly places for LGBTIQ travellers.

Inadequate legislation to protect against renewed homophobic violence has caused Germany — where ‘Folsom', Europe’s biggest BDSM and leather street fair, is held — to drop from 3rd to 23rd place.

Countries such as Thailand, Taiwan, Japan and Switzerland are under special observation as a result of the discussions on the introduction of same-sex marriage :-) Thailand has moved up 20 places to rank 47 thanks to a new campaign against homophobia and the introduction of laws to recognise same-sex civil partnerships. If this trajectory continues, Thailand could become the most LGBTIQ friendly travel destination in Asia very soon.

In Latin America, the decision by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to require nearly all Latin American countries to recognise same-sex marriage has caused a sensation. So far, same-sex marriage is legal in Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay and in some parts of Mexico.

Some of the most dangerous countries for LGBTIQ people include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Somalia, and as already mentioned Chechnya, where gay people are regularly persecuted and threatened with death.

FUSETRAVEL

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FIRST ACTION PLAN

act.gov.au/lgbtiq Produced by the Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate

CANBERRA MENOPAUSE CENTRE

SEXUAL HEALTH AND FAMILY PLANNING ACT

shfpact.org.au

22

Based at Sexual Health & Family Planning ACT the Canberra Menopause Centre is a specialist service for women seeking information, support and/or medical management of menopause symptoms.

Appointments call 02 6247 3077 FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By AJ Birchall

20 YE ARS ON FAIR DAY 2014

CUE PRINCE’S 1999.

WHO KNEW THAT A CHAT AMONGST FRIENDS CHILLING OUT IN THEIR LIVING ROOM WOULD TURN INTO THE CELEBRATION OF CANBERRA’S LGBTIQ COMMUNITY THAT WE ALL KNOW AND LOVE AS SPRINGOUT?

FAIR DAY 2015

PURPLE PARTY 2009

FAIR DAY 2009

It became apparent that Canberra wanted its very own Pride Festival.

We wanted to party like it was 1999. In fact, the idea of formalising a Canberra Pride Festival was formed in that year.

What began as a simple gathering of like-minded family and friends, grew into a month-long celebration of music, performance, art, sport, theatre, and dancing. All those wonderful things that enrich our community.

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2009

BUSHDANCE 1988

Thanks to the then President of the AIDS Action Council Steve Erskine, Siobhan Leyne and some of their friends, SpringOUT sprang out.

“SpringOUT was started by the community for the community and evolved from Fair Day,” states Philippa Moss, the Executive Director of the AIDS Action Council. “First there was Fair Day, then there was SpringOUT.”

FAIR DAY 2013 FUSEFEATURE

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Fair Day was, of course, not the only LGBTIQ community event that was happening way back then. Ever since 1984, Bushdance had us stomping the floors to “Strip the Willow” and “The Waves of Bondi”.

20 YEARS ON

PURPLE PARTY 2009

FAIR DAY 2010

It was Mike Howard, his partner Tom Hughes, and a group of their friends, who had an idea to have a dance that would raise money for their Monday night tennis group — Pink Tennis.

The first ever Bushdance saw over 250 people turn up at the Yarralumla Woolshed and was so successful that they were able to donate surplus funds to other LGBTIQ community groups.

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2009

PRIDE AWARDS 2010

FAIR DAY 2010

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2012

FAIR DAY 2010

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FUSEFEATURE

Alongside Bushdance there has also been a long tradition of women’s only dances in Canberra. These events have been an important factor in creating ‘safe spaces’ for women to relax and have fun. Events like ‘Purple Parties’ and ‘Fruit Tingles’ brought people together and raised funds for local and overseas charities.

In 2011 — after several tragic suicide deaths in our community — ‘Fruit Tingles’ was born to foster a greater sense of community and belonging.

The event also raises money for the Beryl Women’s Inc refuge and other local LGBTIQ charities.

FAIR DAY 2011

BUSHDANCE 2011

Now Canberra’s largest LGBTIQ event, Bushdance, which attracts people from all over Australia, is a major highlight of the SpringOUT Festival. Bushdance has become so successful, tickets sell out within days of their release. In fact, it is such a popular event that “even the waitlist is now too long,” jokes Pink Tennis President, Fenkil Abraha. Bushdance’s success has allowed Pink Tennis to become a significant financial contributor to many Canberra LGBTIQ community groups.

BUSHDANCE 2012

Sponsored by Canberra’s Northside Community Service, Fruit Tingles — now another of SpringOUT’s key events — has gone from a simple dance evening to an event with local DJs, stalls, games and even massages.

Fruit Tingles has also been active in supporting some fantastic live acts like drag, comedy and everyone’s favourites the Hit ‘n’ Miss drummers.

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

“With Fruit Tingles, the intention is and always will be, to have a safe space for women and femme-identifying individuals, to have fun, not necessarily to dance,” the dance’s organiser, Krishna Sadhana explains. “To feel welcome. To have a laugh. To feel that we are part of something.”

We asked, Leanne Staggard, former SpringOUT committee member, Catherine Laverty of Hit ‘n’ Miss, and Saige from ‘Trans Fam @ ANU’, if they would share some of their favourite festival memories.

GLAMARAMA 2012

“The highlight for me was meeting Stephen Fry in 2015,” Leanne recalls.

“We even tried to get him to Bushdance and almost made it. He really wanted to, but security concerns halted that.

Instead, we had a lovely meet and greet and got some tickets to his show to give away.

“My favourite memory is being the first group of ‘Dykes on Bikes’ to bring in the drag queens to start off proceedings,” says Catherine. “I’m looking forward to doing it again this year and hopefully for many years to come.”

Saige told us, “It was when we mustered our chosen Canberra family for the inaugural SpringOUT Community Picnic.

For us, it was a celebration of diversity and freedom, not just of our queer and trans identities, but also of our rainbow family and disabled autonomy, too.

We brought delicious cake, and one of us gave free haircuts on the day.”

From its humble beginnings, SpringOUT has come a long way and extends its gratitude to everyone who has contributed so much over the past 20 years. Without the efforts of so many dedicated community members, SpringOUT would not be what it is today, so a BIG thank you to you all.

As well as Fair Day, Bushdance and Fruit Tingles, SpringOUT now includes a swag of fabulous and fun events.

Some highlights include The FUSE Big Gay Breakfast, which has its 10th anniversary this year. YES!Fest, a rock’n street party in Braddon. The all-new Big Community Picnic, which was a great hit last year with more than 450 people spending a fabulous day in the park.

FAIR DAY 2012

BUSHDANCE 2013

FRUIT TINGLES 2013

FAIR DAY 2013

BUSHDANCE 2013

FAIR DAY 2014

FAIR DAY 2014

BUSHDANCE 2014

BAKE 2013 FUSEFEATURE

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BUSHDANCE 2014

20 YEARS ON

PRIDE MOVIE NIGHT 2014

OUTBIZ 2014

FAIR DAY 2014

FRUIT TINGLES 2015

FAIR DAY 2015

FAIR DAY AFTER PARTY 2015 26

FUSEFEATURE

FAIR DAY 2014

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2015

FAIR DAY 2015

FAIR DAY AFTER PARTY 2015

FAIR DAY AFTER PARTY 2015 FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Plus of course, there is a whole bunch of popup and smaller festival events throughout the month covering, music, sports, theatre, movies, queer talks, wine tasting, and so much more.

This year SpingOUT is also excited about the inclusion of TuggersPRIDE. Aidan Delaney, the Creative Producer of TuggersPRIDE, told us: “TuggersPRIDE follows on from a number of projects at Tuggeranong Arts Centre (TAC) over the last few years designed to celebrate LGBTIQ arts and culture in Tuggeranong.

By connecting the TuggersPRIDE program to other projects and events, such as the SouthFest community festival, we hope to promote queer artists and communities as an essential part of, not distinct from, the broader cultural life of southern Canberra. The program has also been developed to highlight the diversity of the LGBTIQ community with a focus on First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse queer artists.

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2015

FAIR DAY 2016

BUSHDANCE 2016

We are excited to have major national artists such as Electric Fields, Constantina Bush, Benjamin Law, and Mama Alto appearing alongside local performers and artists including, Shoeb Ahmad, Florin Risley, MadB, and Yen Eriksen just to name a few.�

SpringOUT is grateful for all the support it has enjoyed over many years, as well as the continuing commitment from our key partners including the ACT government, AIDS Action Council, Northside Community Service and our very own local LGBTIQ publication, FUSE Magazine.

BAKE 2015

BAKE 2016

BUSHDANCE 2018

BUSHDANCE 2016

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 2017

SPRINGOUT NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT!

You can do your bit to support SpringOUT by becoming a financial member, joining the committee, volunteering, buying some of our fabulous merch, or in the most obvious way by attending any of the great events on offer. Check out the full festival guide on page 7, online at springout.com.au and Facebook @springoutcbr.

FAIR DAY 2018

STEPHEN FRY 2018

BIG COMMUNITY PICNIC 2018 FUSEFEATURE

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2019

WORLD AIDS DAY morning tea

The AIDS Action Council INVITE YOU to MORNING TEA in the AIDS Garden of Reflection at the National Arboretum on Sunday 1 December.

Join us to show your support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS.

FREE EVENT

SUN 1 DEC 10AM-12PM

AIDS GARDEN OF REFLECTION AT THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM FOREST DR, MOLONGLO VALLEY ACT

WORLD AIDS DAY IS MARKED ANNUALLY ON 1 DECEMBER AND RAISES AWARENESS ACROSS THE WORLD AND IN OUR COMMUNITIES ABOUT THE ISSUES SURROUNDING HIV AND AIDS.

RSVPs are essential for catering. Please RSVP with any dietary requirements to events@aidsaction.org.au or call 6257 2855 by Thursday 28 November.

For other World AIDS Day events in Canberra please go to: 28

aidsaction.org.au/WAD

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By Rob Edward Smith

Trouble in Paradise

IDYLLIC PHUKET HARBOURS A DARK OPEN SECRET

It’s a tropical paradise, a sun-soaked region of Thailand home to some of the most lavish resorts, nightclubs and pristine beach coves in all of South-East Asia.

Yet the tourist-tinged gloss of Kata, Phi Phi, Chalong and in particular Patong (the ‘party capital’ on the isle of Phuket), wears thin once the proverbial surface is scratched. It’s a chilling haven for PrEP-resistant strains among men who have sex with men (MSM), strains which could well be surging at an unprecedented rate, unbeknownst to us all.

The lions share of my experiences are laid bare in Patong, where male escorts (or ‘moneyboys’ as they’re referred to in Thailand) line the most popular esplanades and greet male foreigners with an over-enthusiastic glee as they peruse the GLBTI-friendly bars and massage parlours. I’ve forged genuine friendships with many of the moneyboys, and as a speaker of the native tongue, I’ve gleaned insight into their world and the sadness plaguing almost every single one of them.

In the seemingly never-ending dance of clamouring for the approval of the ‘farang’ (well-dressed westerners with deep pockets and even deeper desires), the Patong moneyboy hustles the streets with fervent regularity, using their physical attributes as a form of currency to negotiate terms as the farang simultaneously barters them down to the lowest price based on their perceived worth.

Prostitution, the world’s oldest profession on full display, yet in Thailand the twist is this — PrEP is available sans prescription at almost any pharmacy (yes, really) and every single moneyboy I befriended in Patong was utilising it as a frontline defence against HIV infection.

Unfortunately, of the *hundreds* of working males I spoke with, only a dozen or so tested regularly for HIV and other blood-borne viruses, and only a mere handful had attended one of the pricey local clinics for a full STI check-up prior to commencing PrEP. The vast majority are like Chok*, who works and lives in one of the most prestigious male-only massage parlours dotting the streets of the ‘Paradise Complex’ (the GLBTI district of Patong), offering the infamous ‘happy ending’ rubdowns for a few hundred Baht and penetrative sex for a few thousand (roughly $60 AUD).

He began his escorting career in Patong when he was just 16, travelling North and escaping the limited opportunities of his small in-land village for the bustling scene of the Paradise Complex, he began taking a Thai generic form of Truvada for two years.

He’s been escorting in Patong for five years and says he has never had an HIV test. He looks perfectly fit and healthy to me, he’s braided with muscle, with bright eyes and a cherubic face.

If it weren’t for the cigarette he chugs on as he talks to me at the cobblestoned entrance to his place of work I’d say he’s the picture of perfect health.

HEATH&WELLBEING

29

Indeed, even to the naked eye, certain moneyboys appear to be hampered by tell-tale signs of the infection. Their sexual stocks have plummeted and thus so too have their rates for sex and the number of customers they attract per week.

As the virus ravages their body, early retirement from this competitive and cutthroat line of work beckons.

Anuput* is one such fellow. He tells me he’s in his late twenties and has only been escorting for a few years. He is 6 feet tall yet weighs less than 60 kilograms. I ask him if he will seek urgent testing and treatment. He speaks no English so we converse in Thai with several of his co-workers nodding in agreement along the way.

“It is expensive, to see a Doctor and to get a test, to get medicine to fix me,” he lamented. “Hardly any foreigners want to buy me, and that makes me sad, but I have no money saved to help me unless I get more customers. That’s why I am still here and when I have money I will get help and become a Tuk-Tuk driver or work in a hotel. That is my dream as it is awful to do what I do”.

“I AM VERY SCARED OF TAKING A TEST, AND IT COSTS A LOT OF MONEY TO VISIT A CLINIC, THE LOCAL HOSPITAL HAS LONG WAITING TIMES AND ISN’T FREE EITHER.” “My shop does not require me to have a test, we are given bottles of PrEP to take by the owner and that is the only requirement we have, as long as we take the pills we will be fine,” he said.

Indeed, the owners of the parlours and bars (mostly expat retirees and a handful of local Thai ‘businessmen’) require their employees to simply take PrEP to protect themselves and their customers.

Truvada is not approved for the management of HIV infection on its own — taking the drug if you’re HIV-positive can cause the virus to ‘mutate’, thus you can then pass on the infection to others even if they’re taking PrEP correctly and consistently. We’re well-versed on this in the West.

This methodology of madness in Patong is just that, and according to local doctor Watthana Singkrittaya who splits his time between the Patong Inter Medical and Siam Medical Clinics, there are circumspect moneyboys with visible symptoms of advanced HIV working the strip and taking PrEP. “I see them if I walk to work along Patong Beach Road sometimes, they have visible signs of wastage and papular lesions on their bodies, I cannot treat them as they never come to ask for help and it is their way of life to do what they please”.

“I think they spend their money on other things like alcohol and drugs — to come and see me, would be wasting their money if they’re hooked on illegal methamphetamines,” he says with a shrug of his shoulders.

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HEATH&WELLBEING

The cruel coalface of what I’ve witnessed is arguably a result of poor policy implementation at a national level, and somehow this region of the world has become a ‘blindspot’ for international researchers in the sexual health field.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn has ruled the three executive branches of the Thai political system since the 2014 coup. Despite Thailand being a ‘mecca’ for GLBTI acceptance and diversity, his reign has failed to unearth positive health policies for preventing the spread of HIV, particularly among at-risk population groups like gay and bisexual males.

At the time of writing, there are no peer-reviewed international studies into PrEP-resistant strains of HIV in Thailand. How many tourists flocking to Patong from countries such as Russia (1.7 million of whom visited the country last year) have become infected by these sinister strains?

PrEP data regarding usage and follow-up testing does not form any part of the 2016-2020 Harm Reduction Strategy scheme from the Soviet Government. Last year the Moscow Regional Centre for HIV Care announced they would be commencing a trial with 100 men who have sex with men in order to shape future policy around the preventive treatment.

Talk about too little, too late — and they are one of many nations with sub-par or non-existent PrEP programs whose citizens make up a sizeable chunk of the 38 million international visitors to Thailand each year. How many of them are taking PrEP unmonitored? How many of them buy the pills at a Thai pharmacy (as easily as purchasing Aspirin mind you) thinking it’ll protect them against HIV during their holiday?

One of the most popular holiday destinations on Earth is in dire need of a solution to this scourge no matter how complex.

I hold hope in my heart, yet our world is so globalised, is it only a matter of time until these strains begin to erode the efficacy of the greatest HIV-prevention tool closer to home?

Rob Edward Smith is a Melbourne-based Healthcare worker and Communications specialist with extensive travel experience in the region of South-East Asia. Instagram: @robby_edward

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WESTLUND EXCHANGE

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ABOUT THE SPACE The space was custom-designed by LGBTIQ+ people to create a safe, positive environment for LGBTIQ+ communities to access psychosocial care. The space includes three counselling rooms and a multipurpose clinic/treatment room with new medical facilities, including a phlebotomy chair, supply storage and counter space with a sink.

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WESTLUND COUNSELLING low or no cost safe and inclusive psychosocial support for LGBTIQ+ people, their families and allies

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THE FRIDAY CENTRE peer navigation services for the trans community provided

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A SAFE PLACE FOR GUYS WHO LIKE GUYS Meet new people or hangout with friends at the ‘Ranch’ Our facilities include: Comfortable lounge area Big screen TV & FOXTEL Free internet cafe Free coffee & tea New cinema lounge Modern facilities Play & fantasy rooms Private rooms In our shop at Fantasy Lane we also have a fantastic range of the latest DVDs, magazines, toys, lubes, condoms, leather and more.

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AMSTERDAM

pride & glory

By Alexander Thatcher

GIRLS WHO ARE BOYS WHO LIKE BOYS TO BE GIRLS WHO DO BOYS LIKE THEY’RE GIRLS WHO DO GIRLS LIKE THEY’RE BOYS ALWAYS SHOULD BE SOMEONE YOU REALLY LOVE BLUR After spending the European summer in Amsterdam, if I were given just one word to describe Dutch culture, I would probably use ‘Respect’. Dutch directness aside, being a gay man in Amsterdam was absolutely no issue — we felt welcomed and respected by everyone we met.

Ranked number four in the 2019 Spartacus Gay Travel Index, the Netherlands is considered to be one of the most culturally liberal and egalitarian countries in the world. Recent polls show that more than 90% of Dutch citizens believe that LGBTIQ people should be allowed to live as they wish. It’s a pretty impressive statistic considering the current right-wing conservative insurgence blundering its way across our planet.

Amsterdam, regarded as one of the most LGBTIQ friendly cities in the world, is famous for its liberal culture, vibrant nightlife and queer festivals like Milkshake and Amsterdam Pride. The city has a thriving and rich LGBTIQ scene, filled with creativity and what seems like a national drive to encourage people to be truly authentic.

Being truly free to be ourselves is something we talk about here in Australia, but after being in Europe, I can't help but wonder if as a country we are really up for what this actually means. I discovered that as colourful as our LGBTIQ community is here, we are still very conservative. I’ll let the photos of Milkshake Festival and Amsterdam Pride explain what I mean here — you’ll get the picture (...otherwise google PiG Party Berlin.... actually, *don’t* google PiG Party Berlin!!!).

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Milkshake Festival, which stared in 2012, was like nothing we had ever experienced before.

It was like entering a nuclear explosion of self-expression, where pretty much anything goes. It’s a vibrant, fun and often provocative celebration of queer and alternative cultures.

I think the thing I personally loved most about Milkshake was it was space where those living on the fringes could just let it all out. It was a place that was not only completely safe, but also celebrated and applauded their uniqueness.

On the afternoon of day one, we found ourselves on top of a Ferris wheel chatting to Milkshake Founder & Creative Director Marieke Samallo (pictured below).

Marieke told us she wanted to create a totally free and safe festival filled with diversity.

“Thick, thin, small, large, gay, straight, trans, black or white — people are the salt of the earth, and this is what we celebrate!”

Marieke and her team had organised many super cool activities and spaces throughout Westerpark where the festival is held.

See our video interview with Marieke Samallo, Milkshake Founder & Creative Director on the FUSE website.

Interactive erotic art installations, a blow-up wedding chappel for those who wanted to get hitched, and over a 1000 individual performers.

We were treated to non-stop music, dancers, parades and round the clock drag shows.

There were theme park rides, and even a giant c*ck ride (I’ve never been thrown off a phallis so fast before). In past years the festival included a dildo-making workshop (for both boys and girls) and ring-tossing with sex toys of all shapes and sizes.

Yep, there does seem to be a bit of a theme here.

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FUSETRAVEL

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When we asked Marieke what one thing she wished everyone would do in this world, she said, “Be kind”.

It’s not surprising then that with the support of Milkshake revellers, in 2018 she and her team decided to go full tilt vego. From personal experience, I tell you that the food at Milkshake was diverse and exceptionally delicious — just like the way we want most things :-) The festival takes its social and environmental responsibilities seriously with a number of measures to make it more sustainable. There is a hard plastic cup ‘pay and swap system’, all cutlery, plates and napkins are biodegradable, all waste is separated for recycling, and the toilets are environmentally friendly.

It’s a pretty impressive effort, and in this writer’s humble option, should be a standard for all festivals.

Two days seemed barely enough time to take it all in.

The weekend after Milkshake, we headed downtown to take part in the Amsterdam Canal Pride Parade.

Our own Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is a hard act to beat, but the Canal Parade was certainly one of the most unique LGBTIQ celebrations we have ever been a part of.

This year’s parade saw over 80 boats representing everything from LGBTIQ social, sporting and fetish groups through to large foundations and multinationals. The floating parade brings a whole new meaning to the term cruising. Lavishly decorated boats and colourful barges filled with people from all walks of life celebrated diversity along with the past, present and future of the LGBTIQ community.

Photographers: Alina Krasieva, Dennis Bouman, Naomi Van Heck & Christopher Powell

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By Alexander Thatcher

LEATHER PRIDE

"Don’t be afraid of what other people think of you. Wear what you want to wear and be who you want to be!"

As a proud Army veteran Axe Leito is a man that has worn his fair share of uniforms. From khaki to leather was a seamless transition for Axe, and there’s no doubt in this writer’s mind why he was chosen to be Mr. Leather Netherlands 2019.

I spoke to him about his love for things leather.

How did leather come into your life?

At 18, my first job was as a bartender in a fetish bar in the Hague called ‘The Boss’, which actually still exists.

This was probably the first time that I came into contact with leather. I didn’t do much with it at the time, but somehow though it kept simmering in the back of my mind. As I got older and started going out more, I went to different kinds of parties, some of which had strict dress codes. I discovered that the parties with a fetish theme, such as Wasteland in Amsterdam, always turned out to be my favourites.

When I met my partner Robin a few years ago, my passion for leather really took off. He is a leatherman as well, and our collection is growing by the day.

Have uniforms always been a thing for you?

I am a Dutch army veteran and served in Iraq once and in Afghanistan twice. This has made uniforms an important and often defining part of my life. From a young age, I have always liked uniforms, they radiate a look of power and authority. Going from the military uniform to the leather uniform was a seamless transition for me. So whereas leather may not have played a huge part in my youth, it certainly has as an adult. Especially this last year, of course.

What kind of responsibilities do you have as Mr. Leather?

There are no official responsibilities, but a lot is expected from you, especially being proud and visible in leather.

I appeared on TV shows, and I was the first representative of the Dutch leather and fetish community allowed to lay a wreath during the national Remembrance Day of the Dead ceremony. Together with my partner and some friends, I also created Ms. Leather Netherlands, which I’m very proud of.

It must be great that Robin shares your passion.

Absolutely, and my boyfriend is a total gearnut. Fun fact, we have exactly the same size, so we get to share pretty much everything. Very handy! Although Robin’s not a competitor, he does all my PR (I’m Dyslexic) and was one of the presenters in the Inaugural Ms. Leather Netherlands 2019 competition.

I’ve found that people in the kink and BDSM community seem more at ease with themselves. Do you think that fetish can improve peoples lives?

Yes, I do. In the leather and kink community, most of us know what we like and aren’t afraid to show it or bring it into practice. We live our passion, and many of us are highly visible from the clothes we wear. I guess it takes courage to do this. Fetish, kink and BDSM can help to open you up and be more comfortable with yourself and others.

What advice do you have for an aspiring leatherman?

Don’t be afraid of what other people think of you. Wear what you want to wear and be who you want to be!

So what’s next then?

In January we plan to organise the Ms. Latex competition, in May I want to compete at International Mr. Leather in Chicago. Then the highlight of 2020 — Robin and I will get married. Probably in leather :-)

Axe and his partner Robin | Photos by Rene Zuiderveld

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By Alexander Thatcher

LEATHER PRIDE

"When you wear a corset, it’s constantly exerting pressure on your body. I love that, it’s very sexy."

Suzanne (Suus) Van de Laar is a passionate leather and fetish photographer with a style that’s best described as soft and playful. Driven by a creative hunger to experiment and explore, Suus has dived deep into the world of leather, becoming the first-ever Ms. Leather Netherlands.

I was surprised to find out that 2019 was the first time there has ever been a Ms. Leather in the Netherlands.

Why do you think it took so long to happen?

I think women in leather have always been around. Unlike the men we’ve not been as visible, so I don’t think we have really gotten much attention on that front. I suppose the time was just right. As the first Ms. Leather Netherlands, it’s exciting to be encouraging other women in leather to be strong, visible and proud of who they are.

Are there any differences between the Ms. and the Mr. Leather competitions?

There are a few differences between the two competitions when it comes to presentation, but otherwise, it mainly focuses on the individual, their passion for leather and the community. As this was our first year, I’m pretty sure that as we learn more, the competition will also grow and change.

What kind of things have you done as Ms. Leather?

What is it you love about the leather and fetish the most?

I’ve attended and judged other leather competitions around Europe. I’ve also organised a pride walk and set up two safe places called RainbowPad and TransPad — TransPad being the first of its kind in Europe. I recently also started doing some LGBTIQ wellbeing training in schools.

I really love all the gear, the way it smells, and how it feels when I’m wearing it. When I step out in leather, I always feel like a strong female, who is feminine, sexy and protected.

Do you remember when you first discovered kink?

I discovered kink when I was just 17. I had started playing with handcuffs cuffs. It was inevitable that I found my way to bondage, kink, and of course, leather.

How do you think it has affected your life?

Kink has definitely made me a stronger and more confident woman. It has also given me many opportunities to really find myself and live authentically with pride.

What’s your favourite piece of kit?

Oh, that’s easy. My corset. When you wear a corset, it’s constantly exerting pressure on your body. I love that, it’s very sexy.

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Be proud of who you are. Don’t judge others and don’t let others’ opinions stop you being your authentic self.

Be respectful, be kind.

Photos by Ellen Flanders @ EGW Photography

INTERVIEW

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By Alexander Thatcher

LEATHER PRIDE

"The biggest obstructions preventing you from living your life authentically, and being who you want to be, are all in our own heads."

Evert Leerson cuts an impressive figure — tall, muscular and well let’s face it, pretty damn handsome. The kind of man that can make this ‘boy’ feel pretty intimidated... but to be fair, I was just about to talk to Mr. Leather Europe. All these feelings of apprehension were, of course, in my own head as I discovered a guy that was warm, friendly and ultimately sensitive to the world and others around him.

After a non-stop year of official Mr. Leather engagements and Pride events all over Europe, I was lucky enough to grab some time to ask Evert about his journey.

Beginnings are always important in how a person is shaped — what was the spark that led you to leather?

Coming from a conservative family, when I grew up, I didn’t really know any gay guys and the gay men I did see were on TV — the Mr. Humphries of Are You Being Served? type.

I struggled to identify with them. While at University my first boyfriend came home with a Tom of Finland book, full of images of (although exaggerated) masculine men. Some in uniforms, some in jeans and tight T-shirts and some in leather. That inspired us to buy our first leather. Later on, when we moved to Amsterdam, we started to explore more, and here I am today.

How did you feel the day you won your first Mr. Leather title?

I felt great. I won the first Mr. Leather Netherlands title after an exciting race between five candidates. The thing I remember most is how warm the community was. I did not know that many people in the leather community in the Netherlands as I had just moved back after a long period abroad. I felt accepted and completely welcome. We have a Dutch saying that something feels like a warm bath. That’s the feeling I had.

Do leather and kink go hand in hand?

No, leather and kink don’t necessarily have to go together.

In the US they often do, and I suspect it has that image in Australia as well, but in Europe it’s less so. There are many European men who just like to wear it and hang out with other like-minded guys — it’s not something I would describe as kinky. I suppose I am more European — I like the look and feel, the smell, and to feel sexy in it.

If you could give just one piece of advice to someone interested in the leather scene, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid to contact leather men — these guys don’t bite, well... unless you want them too. There are many leather groups all over the world and getting involved is a great way of meeting people. Which brings me to another important point — it’s not only about sex.

Photo by Rene Zuiderveld

So what’s your favourite piece of leather gear?

It would have to be a leather Muir cap. It has become a bit of my trademark. I think they look really hot on the right guy.

What do you think was your biggest accomplishment while being Mr. Leather Europe 2019?

Visibility. With the emergence of conservatism and right-wing politics, the world has become a less safe place or LGBTIQ people. The Netherlands is one of the most tolerant countries in the world, but even here, this is under threat. I wanted to help change that again. I knew that tolerance often starts with visibility and figured that in leather one is very noticeable.

I tried to encourage people to become visible by being it myself.

I wore leather in places where you normally would not expect it, like a plane, the theatre, I even wore leather to a church.

I have been more visible that most titleholders, and I know that has helped others to find the same courage. That’s the thing I am most proud of.

Anything else you would like to tell the masses?

If there is one thing I have learned, it’s that the biggest obstructions preventing you from living your life authentically, and being who you want to be, are all our in own heads. We do not know what others are thinking and often project our own negative thoughts and feelings of unease onto others. I kept the leather side of me secret, afraid of negative reactions.

How wrong was I? Now I know that, I’m much more relaxed.

Treat people with respect, smile, be visible and be yourself.

INTERVIEW

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DID YOU KNOW? Avengers: Endgame featured the first openly gay character in a Marvel film. The man ‘Joe’ is not a superhero but rather a civilian, who appears as a member of a support group for those whose loved ones have died when Thanos wiped out half of the galaxy.

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME

THE LION KING

In the wake of the events of Avengers: Endgame, Peter Parker (Tom Holland) must come to terms with a world still reeling from the Thanos snap — and, on a more personal level, one without his mentor, Tony Stark. But life goes on, as does school, which is why the teen superhero and his friends are on an excursion to Europe. But it’s not long before Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) calls Spider-Man into action and introduces him to Mysterio (Jake Gyllenhaal).

Far From Home probably seems rather lightweight after Endgame, but Marvel fans — and the world in general — could probably do with some levity.

When Disney announced a live-action remake of their animated 1994 masterpiece The Lion King, many asked “why?” But $1.6 billion later, Jon Favreau’s shot-for-shot remake is now king of both the jungle and the global box office. The photorealistic CGI advances even further than Favreau’s The Jungle Book (2016) as Simba (voiced by Donald Glover) once again undertakes his ascendancy to the Pride Lands throne by way of tragedy (the death of his father) and banishment by his uncle Scar (Chiwetel Ejiofor).

Beyonce, Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner also feature among the impressive voice cast.

THE KEEPER

MY BIG GAY ITALIAN WEDDING

Based on actual events, The Keeper is both a sports story and a love story: the tale of how German Bert Trautmann (David Kross, The Reader ) went from PoW in a British internment camp to became one of the most successful goalkeepers in English football, playing for Manchester City Football Club in post-WWII Britain, and falling in love with a local woman, Margaret in the process. Trautmann faced prejudice on and off the pitch, as well as serious injury and heartbreaking tragedy, and while German director Marcus H. Rosenmuller’s story no doubt plays loosely with the facts, there’s no denying that, in its emotional sincerity, The Keeper scores a winning goal.

Coming out to your family and friends is never easy, but we’re not sure if doing so by way of a wedding announcement makes it easier or that much harder?

Not-yet-out but newly-engaged Antonio (Cristiano Caccamo) and partner Paolo (Salvatore Esposito) head from Berlin to Antonio’s home in Italy to do just that; mum’s (Monica Guerritore) accepting but dad (Diego Abatantuono), also the mayor of Antonio’s small home town, is very much the opposite. Well-meaning friends and locals only add to the humorous complications in this cannoli-light romcom.

USPHE

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By Joshua Anlezark

Canberra Together THERE WAS SOMETHING INCREDIBLY UNIQUE AND POWERFUL ABOUT OUR LGBTIQA+ COMMUNITY AND ALLIES COMING TOGETHER FOR THE INAUGURAL CANBERRA TOGETHER; IT SHOWED THE BEST OF WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE ARE CAPABLE OF WHEN WE MAKE SPACE FOR EACH OTHER AND WORK TOGETHER.

Other plenaries had a distinct focus on particular issues including those faced by the intersex and asexual communities and queer people with a refugee or migrant experience. These talks provided insight into the important issues facing these community members and highlighted what meaningful allyship looks like.

Over the next two days, the breakout sessions, panel events and presentations covered a diverse range of LGBTIQA+ topics and included the health needs of trans and gender diverse people, the importance of queer research and public thinking, and the impacts of minority stress in public discourse.

Held on Ngunnawal land, Canberra Together was a community symposium for LGBTIQA+ people and allies at Ainslie Arts Centre on 23 and 24 September.

The community-led, two day program included plenary sessions, participatory workshops, panel events and presentations. Thanks to the generous support of the Office for LGBTIQ+ Affairs a number of sponsored places were provided to ensure that financial means were not a barrier to participation. This meant that over 45% of Canberra Together attendees were able to attend at no cost.

Domestic and family violence and the issues faced by LGBTIQA+ people with disability were another two highly relevant issues which were discussed. These sessions were led by local community members who shared their lived experience and expertise and provided valuable insight into the challenges they face and solutions to overcome these challenges. It was a privilege to hear so many personal narratives throughout the event and have the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of issues across our communities.

Centred on a diversity of voices and the theme of celebrating respect and difference, Canberra Together provided a valuable opportunity for our community to come together, connect with each other and discuss issues of importance.

To paraphrase one of the opening plenary speakers, “we were there to learn together and unlearn together.”

The symposium was opened by Selina Walker, a local Ngunnawal woman, who delivered a moving Welcome to Country. This was followed by our exceptional MCs, Sue Webeck and Andrew Bell, who framed the conversation by encouraging us to be brave and fearless in our approach and make sure we bring others along with us. Additionally, we acknowledged those who were missing and what we can do to make and hold space for them, and ensure that their experience and needs are part of ongoing engagement.

The symposium was both a new and highly relevant experience for me. It has initiated a very powerful conversation within Canberra’s LGBTIQA+ communities about how we can work together by celebrating our diversity and respecting our differences. Canberra Together was notable for the collective willingness of participants to be vulnerable, to speak their truths and foster the courage of others to join the conversation.

We shared ideas and challenged concepts, we listened and learnt but most importantly, we connected.

We were also fortunate to hear from two guest speakers, Victorian Commissioner for Gender and Sexuality, Ro Allen and Churchill Fellow and Project Manager of the Victorian Trans and Gender Diverse in Community Health initiative, Jeremy Wiggins as part of the opening plenary.

Canberra Together is an initiative of The Equality Project in partnership with ACT Government Office for LGBTIQ+ Affairs, the AIDS Action Council, A Gender Agenda and Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centres. The symposium would not have been possible without the sponsorship of EY.

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YOUR HOROSCOPE NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2019 BE KIND AS EMOTIONAL WELLBEING WILL BE IN FOCUS As we head into the holiday season, family interests and emotional wellbeing will be in focus. Even though the next two months are busy, it seems it will be pretty calm sailing — at least from the astrological point of view. If you can stay relaxed and remain aware that others can sometimes be difficult, things should go smoothly. Enjoy the holidays, and above all be kind.

Aquarius

January 21 – February 18 Social and family activities will be a focus during November and December.

You may find yourself making new friends that will play a significant role in both your professional and personal development. Tip: Keep an eye out for career and educational advances.

Taurus

April 21 – May 21 Compatibility may either make or break a significant relationship, and it may be vital that you use your social skills to navigate a tricky situation. Tip: Being honest with your needs is something that will be extremely important in any existing or new relationships.

Leo

July 23 – August 23 You may have recently been obsessed with an artist or the need to be creative.

This may be an important signpost for your future, so take heed. Tip: With Venus aligned in your favour, it’s the perfect time to use your charms to attract new lovers or seduce your current lover.

Scorpio

October 24 – November 22 If you trust your intuition and use your natural ability to be passionate about life: a lot of luck, love and happiness will be rushing your way during November. Tip: Make sure you check in with a friend, lover or workmate if something does not feel right.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20 You may find yourself more focused on future ambitions as the year draws to an end. Your family and friends will play an essential part in any new directions you decide to take. Tip: If you want your dreams to become a reality, they will require meaningful actions.

Gemini

May 22 – June 21 Get yourself out and about over the next couple of months as there will be numerous relationship opportunities — love and friendship — waiting for you. Tip: Don’t be afraid to rely on other people if things become difficult during December.

Virgo

August 24 – September 23 This an excellent time to break an unhealthy habit that’s been dragging you down. Have faith in yourself and don’t be afraid to ask others for help if you need it. Tip: If you eat a little too much over the Christmas period, remember it’s okay to indulge once in a while.

Sagittarius

November 23 – December 22 The next few months will be the perfect time to start exploring for new and exciting life adventures. If you have been feeling trapped by relationships that don’t work, it may be time to move on. Tip: Always be kind to others, and if you can’t — walk away until another day.

Aries

March 21 – April 20 It’s an excellent time to break out those romantic moves for any potential lovers or that special person in your life.

Be passionate, and magic will follow.

Tip: Finding a balance between work and your private life will be imperative as the new year draws closer.

Cancer

June 22 – July 22 Focusing on feelings and strengthening bonds will help you calm down any emotional turmoil with loved ones that may arise during December. Tip: Respecting the feelings of others and being honest with yourself will ensure harmony and bring love into your life.

Libra

September 24 – October 23 Your ability to see the silver lining may be needed during November to help a friend get through a difficult moment.

Tip: Remember to always express your deepest hopes, dreams and desires; and remember that Librans are always happier if they live with a light heart.

Capricorn

December 23 – January 20 In professional and personal matters the next two months will be a time of progress.

The influence of Jupiter and Venus will make it a great time for love, and expect some exceptional days if you have an open heart. Tip: Taking care of yourself will restore strength and energy for action.

STARGAZER

47

EMAIL DEAR ROSE WITH YOUR PROBLEM

By Rose Pappalardo

Dear Rose, I’m a 24-year-old guy, and I decided some time ago that PrEP was not for me. Unfortunately, I currently find myself experiencing a lot of peer pressure and knockbacks online from other guys who don’t want to use condoms. I’m not sure what to do as it seems I’m missing a lot of opportunities. JT

Dear JT, It’s smart being cautious with your body when it comes to keeping yourself safe. While PrEP is a fantastic breakthrough in the prevention of HIV, it can still have side effects for some people. There are also many sexually transmitted diseases that PreP does not protect against that can have serious impacts on your health. PreP or not, condoms are an important part of keeping yourself safe during sex.

Peer pressure and the fear of missing out can make sticking to our principals difficult sometimes, and yes you might miss opportunities, but I would be more concerned about the consequences of unsafe sex. The fact is having a strong sense of self and owning your own life decisions is pretty damn sexy, so I’d stick to my guns if I were you.

Dear Rose, My girlfriend and I are having a baby. We are concerned that after the father initially said he did not want involvement, that now he does. Do we have any legal standing to stop him seeing the baby once it’s born? Kim

Dear Rose, I recently moved into a new house.

After being here only a month, someone in my neighbourhood has started leaving abusive notes on my door. I’m not sure what to do as it seems the police can’t really do anything about it. Worried

Dear Worried, It’s very sad that someone has infringed on your enjoyment and safety in your new home.

Unfortunately, police can not do much unless they know who is involved and if a crime is committed — however, continue to report any events as this serves as a record for them later if something more serious was to happen.

Keep in mind that people tend to react when they are ignorant or have beliefs that cause them to hate instead of love. Your neighbour — whoever they are — might never have had any real interactions with queer folks before.

This may be an opportunity for you to educate them that there is nothing to be afraid of. Be a good neighbour, get involved with your local community, be polite and perhaps this person will see that there is nothing to fear.

Dear Kim, Bringing a new life into the world is a wonderful thing, and it should help soften our hearts as we prepare to build a family.

I’m not aware of your agreement, but like I always say, clear and open communication is key. You just might find the father wanting involvement may be a good thing, and in the future, your child may want to know their father. You first need to establish precisely what “involvement” the father would like to have so you can all discuss what's best for everyone involved, including your new baby.

I suggest you try and sort this out with a kind heart, but if this is not possible, then there are family lawyers that can help you navigate this situation.

“My brother is gay and my parents don’t care, as long as he marries a doctor.”

Elayne Boosler Comedian, writer and animal activist.

Need help or someone to talk to? Support is available for anyone in distress by phoning (24 Hours) QLife 1800 184 527, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or AAC counselling services on 02 6257 2855. If you require relationship support or services call Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277

ASK DEAR ROSE 48

DEARROSE

If you need help or have a question email : dearrose@fusemagazine.com.au

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

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YOUR SEXUAL HEALTH MATTERS

• • • • •

FEMALE DOCTORS AND NURSES ARE AVAILABLE

APPOINTMENTS 02 6247 3077 INFORMATION SHFPACT.ORG.AU

Cervical Screening and HPV Vaccine Breast checks and breast awareness education STI and HIV screening, checks and advice Reproductive and sexual health services IUDs and other long acting contraceptive options

SEXUAL HEALTH AND FAMILY PLANNING ACT

LESBIAN BISEXUAL TRANS QUEER STRAIGHT OR EVEN SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN?

• Canberra Menopause Centre • Sexual difficulties and contraception services • Services for people with disabilities • Fertility issues and pre-conception advice • Emergency contraception / Morning After Pill

The SHFPACT clinic is located at Level 1, 28 University Ave, Canberra City. We offer an all inclusive, holistic, confidential and respectful service. Call 02 6247 3077 for more details or to make appointment. Visit us online at shfpact.org.au SHFPACT is a health promotion charity (HPC) assisted with funding from the ACT Government.

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Call us today to find out how you can change the life of a child in our ACT community.

Call us today:

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