FUSE60 : Special Lesbian & Gay Mardi Gras Issue

MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU APR / MAY 2019

fearlessly

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LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

fearlessly

FABULOUS SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS PRIDE PHOTO FEATURE

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OUT & LOUD FESTIVAL JOAN AS POLICEWOMAN DAMNED DEVOTION

> MARCHING FEARLESSLY INTO THE FUTURE

IS GLITTER COMING TO A SPARKLY END? TRAVEL MONEY & EASY ACCESS ‘GHOSTING’ IS NOT COOL EAT ME! ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN

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MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU APR / MAY 2019

fearlessly

fearlessly

OUT & LOUD FESTIVAL JOAN AS POLICEWOMAN DAMNED DEVOTION

> MARCHING FEARLESSLY INTO THE FUTURE

‘GHOSTING’ IS NOT COOL EAT ME! ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN

FREE

IS GLITTER COMING TO A SPARKLY END? TRAVEL MONEY & EASY ACCESS

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‘GHOSTING’ IS NOT COOL

OUT & LOUD FESTIVAL COULD DAILY PREP SOON BE A THING OF THE PAST?

EAT ME! ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN

> MARCHING FEARLESSLY INTO THE FUTURE

02 Editor’s Rant 04 What’s On : Movies 07 What’s On : Events & Shows

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Alexander Thatcher

SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS PRIDE PHOTO FEATURE

IS GLITTER COMING TO A SPARKLY END? TRAVEL MONEY & EASY ACCESS

FUSE REGULARS

FUSE MAGAZINE MADE IN AUSTRALIA APR / MAY 2019

FABULOUS

SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS PRIDE PHOTO FEATURE

LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

fearlessly

FABULOUS

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MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU APR / MAY 2019

LIFE LOVE EQUALITY

FREE

SPECIAL MARDI GRAS PRIDE PHOTO FEATURE P35

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & ASSOCIATE EDITOR Christopher Powell ASSISTANT EDITOR Maxwell Elliff CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Danny Corvini CONTRIBUTORS Dwayne Lennox Scott Malcolm Rose Pappalardo Chris Fonda

45 FUSE FEATURES 19 Going overseas? Find out the

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PHOTOGRAPHERS Christopher Powell Wayne C Style Jeffrey Feng CONTACT FUSE 0412 309 992 hello@fusemagazine.com.au fusemagazine.com.au PO Box 844 Belconnen ACT 2616 PUBLISHER Published + designed by Lithium Innovation Pty Ltd lithium.net.au ISSN 1836-8387 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.

04

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11 Round Up : News & Politics 17 Size Queen : Numbers, Statistics & Figures 28 Couch Potato : Film & TV

23 23 Glitter has been our friend for

as long as we can remember,

but is it time for a rethink?

27 27

Everyone needs to know that ‘ghosting’ is not cool and it can cause long-term emotional damage to the ghost-ee.

28 30 Eat Me : Getting Enough Protein 47 Stargazer : Your Horoscope 48 Dear Rose

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MARDI GRAS PHOTO FEATURE 35 This year’s Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras

theme was ‘Fearless’. Mission accomplished.

FUSECONTENTS

1

COMPASSION. CONNECTION. CLARITY. CONVICTION. I write this editorial with a heavy heart, but hope for the future.

The terrorist attack in New Zealand, which killed 50 people, was only the latest in right-wing violence that has been plaguing many countries around the world. It has brought much despair and pain to innocent people who were just trying to live their lives in peace.

Terrorism is a result of extreme views, fear and a need to exert power absolutely over others. Let’s be clear, no matter where you sit on the political, religious or social spectrum, actions that lead to violence or the persecution of others should never be tolerated — EVER!

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!

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SCAN ME!

There is no doubt that some people in positions of power and influence use fear and hate speech to fuel extreme views, often for their personal gain, without consideration of the consequences.

Read FUSE Magazine on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Over the past few years, conservative and religious groups have been gaining influence around the globe. Leaders like Trump put many people in grave danger as he pits one group against another, and uses fear tactics to vilify LGBT people and other communities that don’t fit into the right-wing, Christian model.

Trump is, of course, not the only offender — but most certainly one of the worst. Other leaders, like Prime Minister Hassanal Bolkiah of the tiny country of Brunei, also push and enable extreme agendas. In his case, the implementation and encouragement of Islamic laws that would allow public death by stoning for adultery and homosexuality.

With compassion and empathy absent, leaders like Trump, Bolkiah and others like them, are emboldening and normalising hateful and extreme views that foster unrest and violence.

With so much fear gripping our world, the need for compassionate leadership is essential, but seems increasingly rare — which brings me to the opposite end of the spectrum.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern seems to be the leader that has all the attributes of true greatness, and what the world needs right now.

She demonstrates all the qualities a good leader should have — compassion, connection, clarity and conviction. Jacinda Ardern is leading her country out of the dark forest with a light so bright that even the most vulnerable are feeling safer knowing their leader has a clear way forward, and it includes everyone.

Our world is filled with diversity and there is a place for everybody. The key elements are, of course, understanding, generosity, honesty and most of all kindness.

My partner Christopher suggested to me the other day that extremism is a bit like pulling an elastic band. The ends are stretched to their absolute limits until, eventually, it snaps and it’s those in the middle that get broken or are forced to choose a side.

It’s my hope that the example set by Jacinda Ardern demonstrates to others that empathy, consideration and the fierce resolve to be better, is the only way to move forward.

Warmly, Alexander.

2

EDITOR’SRANT

2018/19 LGBTIQ BUSINESS & COMMUNITY DIRECTORY GRAB YOUR COPY TODAY! The FUSE LGBTIQ Business & Community Directory is an easy way to find businesses and organisations who choose to support 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

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DID YOU KNOW? The first ever gay-themed film was produced in Germany 1919. ‘Different from the Others’ starred Conrad Veidt and was about two male musicians that fall in love.

MOVIES

1985 OPENS 25 APRIL Not too long ago, watching a queer film usually meant you could expect one of two narratives: the coming out experience or AIDS (sometimes both).

And although set during the height of the AIDS crisis, and with a closeted protagonist, co-writer and director Yen Tan’s 1985 can’t easily be dismissed as regressive. Escaping tragedy in New York, Adrian (Cory Michael Smith) returns to his Texas home town in hope of reconnecting with his adolescent brother and to navigate his relationship with his religious parents (Virginia Madsen and Michael Chiklis) in an intimate and affecting drama.

TOP END WEDDING OPENS 2 MAY

FUSE MOVIE PICK OF THE MONTH!

Romantic comedies aren’t necessarily the forte of Australian cinema, so how refreshing it is that not only do we get what looks like a fun piece of escapism (and an escape to the picturesque Top End no less) but one lead by an Indigenous woman.

Miranda Tapsell (The Sapphires), who also co-wrote the screenplay, plays Lauren who, upon being proposed to by her British beau (Bohemian Rhapsody’s Gwilym Lee), makes a return home to the north for a rushed wedding only to discover her mother has gone AWOL. The Sapphires director Wayne Blair is in charge of proceedings which, like in any wedding comedy, don’t go according to plan.

THE HUSTLE OPENS 9 MAY Some three years ago, men of a certain age lost their collective minds when an all-female reboot of Ghostbusters was made; childhoods were ruined, or so they’d have you believe. It’s doubtful there will be any such hullaballoo this year when Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson fill the roles previously played by Michael Caine and Steve Martin in this remake of sorts of the 1980s comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. After displaying her comic chops in last year’s Ocean’s 8, Hathaway plays the ‘straight man’ sophisticate to Wilson’s rough-edged bumbling pupil, with the Cote d’Azur as their classroom and playground.

ROCKETMAN OPENS 30 MAY It remains debatable how much of the final version of Bohemian Rhapsody Dexter Fletcher was responsible for once Bryan Singer left the film during its troubled production, but the studio behind Rocketman will be hoping that Fletcher can bring whatever magic he can to this Elton John biopic of sorts. Let’s hope he’s not as stingy with the queer content as that other film. The trailer certainly suggests that Elton (played by Taron Egerton, Kingsman) will be captured in all his flamboyant, hedonistic 1970s and ‘80s glory in what has been billed as a ‘musical fantasy’.

Richard Madden (Netflix’s Bodyguard) and Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot) also star.

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

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FREE-RAIN THEATRE PRODUCTION OF

Book by

Music and Lyrics by

HARVEY FIERSTEIN CYNDI LAUPER Original Broadway Production Directed and Choreographed by JERRY MITCHELL Based on the Miramax motion picture Kinky Boots written by GEOFF DEANE and TIM FIRTH

Follow us on Instagram For exclusIve kInky boots content

@FREERAINTHEATRE

9-28 July 2019 Box Office 02 6285 6290 Online www.theq.net.au

Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia).

All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.

5

PYT FAIRFIELD & FORCE MAJEURE’S

Jump First, Ask Later

A PERFORMING LINES TOUR

ONE NIGHT ONLY! 17 MAY A HIGH OCTANE MULTI AWARD WINNING URBAN PORTRAIT OF THE STREETS OF WESTERN SYDNEY.

PARKOUR

AND STORY TELLING AT ITS BEST!

This physically inspiring showcase of impressive strength and agility tells the stories of six young champions of Fairfield’s underground parkour and street style community.

2017 WINNER HELPMANN AWARD BEST PRESENTATION FOR CHILDREN

"…the performers dive, leap and tessellate in close quarters, inches from the faces in the front row. It’s high-calibre, heart-racing stuff "

2016 WINNER AUSTRALIAN DANCE AWARD OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN YOUTH DANCE

MAXIM BOON, DAILY REVIEW

CHOREOGRAPHED BY NATALIE WEIR

21 - 22 JUNE

“It is impossible to take one’s eyes off the guests at this dinner party.

A charming, relatable, hour long production”.

QT ENTERTAINMENT

ABSOLUTELY THRILLING! YOU’VE NEVER BEEN TO A DINNER PARTY LIKE THIS BEFORE! The Dinner Party exposes society’s insatiable desire for control and status!

BOOKINGS 6285 6290 • THEQ.NET.AU 6

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WHAT’S ON

LGBTIQ Business & Community Directory Head to the FUSE LGBTIQ directory where you’ll find LGBTIQ friendly and owned businesses, community groups, sporting, social and support services. directory.fusemagazine.com.au

KINKY BOOTS

9 – 28 JULY THE Q THEATRE

9-28 JUL

Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Kinky Boots features a joyous, Tony-winning score

by Cyndi Lauper and a hilarious, uplifting book by four-time Tony winner, Harvey Fierstein. ★★★★★

“Hilarious, heartwarming and a hell of a lot of fun” – Digital Spy

BIG GAY BREAKFAST 10TH ANNIVERSARY

5 MAY

SUNDAY 5 MAY 9.00AM UNTIL NOON TILLEY’S CAFÉ Join us for our special 10th Anniversary 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.

Details: fusemagazine.com.au

Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited his father’s shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy.

Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola. ★★★★★

“A glorious high-kicking romp” – Evening Standard A fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos, Lola turns out to be the one person who can help Charlie become the man that he is meant to be. As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair finds that they have more in common than they ever dreamed possible… and discovers that, when you change your mind about someone, you can change your whole world.

★★★★★

“Dazzling, fabulously sassy and uplifting” – Time Out Kinky Boots is full of opportunities for a theatre to flex its artistic muscles with elaborate costumes, exhilarating choreography, and a truly moving and powerful story. A surefire crowd pleaser, Kinky Boots will have your audiences dancing in the aisle and discovering why, sometimes, the best way to fit in… is to stand out!

Tickets: theq.net.au & freeraintheatre.com

QUEERS

5-20 APR

5 – 20 APRIL CANBERRA THEATRE COURTYARD STUDIO Everyman Theatre, producer of critically acclaimed productions of The History Boys and 12 Angry Men, are back at the Courtyard Studio for an unforgettable night of stories and songs from the last 100 years of our history.

Queers celebrates a century of evolving social attitudes and political milestones in gay history, as seen through the eyes of seven individuals, each of whom relives their stories within the familiar setting of a quintessential British Ale House ‘The Prince’s Arms’. Poignant and personal, funny, tragic and riotous, these seven pieces for male and female performers cover major events — such as the Wolfenden Report of 1957, the HIV/AIDS crisis, and the debate over the age of consent — through deeply affecting and personal rites-of-passage stories.

This is an Australian premiere not to be missed.

Tickets: canberratheatrecentre.com.au WHAT’SON

7

LIFE - THE SHOW

EXPOSING EDITH

THIS YEAR AT THE SPIEGELTENT CARLOTTA

MOJO JUJU

JORDAN RASKOPOULOS

DJUKI MALA

ALL THIS AND SO MUCH MORE AT

30 MAR - 21 APR 2019 BOOKINGS 6275 2700 CANBERRATHEATRECENTRE.COM.AU

8

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WHAT’S ON

LGBTIQ Business & Community Directory Head to the FUSE LGBTIQ directory where you’ll find LGBTIQ friendly and owned businesses, community groups, sporting, social and support services. directory.fusemagazine.com.au

UNTIL 21APR

JOAN AS POLICE WOMAN DAMNED DEVOTION TOUR

8 MAY

8 MAY THE STREET THEATRE

Extraordinary New York artist Joan As Police Woman (Joan Wasser) returns to Australia with her full band and highly acclaimed new album Damned Devotion.

Since the release of debut album Real Life in 2006 her sound has naturally evolved through six breath-taking studio albums, hundreds of collaborations and over a thousand live concert performances.

She has collaborated and performed with a host of incredible artists including John Cale, Lou Reed, David Sylvian, Antony & The Johnsons and Rufus Wainwright. Don’t miss this exceptional artist.

SPIEGELTENT CANBERRA: LIFE — THE SHOW 30 MARCH – 21 APRIL CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE FORECOURT

A spectacular new Spiegeltent corruption from the people who brought you BLANC de BLANC. A joyous cocktail of entertainment and enlightenment; let this cast of international prodigies and deviants lead you on an adventure of hedonistic theatrical anarchy.

Starring international clowning royalty Goos Meeuwsen and Helena Bittencourt (Cirque du Soleil ), powerhouse vocalist Lee Taylor, Blaise Garza (Violent Femmes), Rechelle Mansour (Velvet ), Tim Kriegler (La Clique) and Brooklyn’s drumming powerhouse Attis Clopton.

A word of warning, this show contains drug references, full frontal nudity, attempted pyrokinesis, and adult concepts.

Tickets: canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Tickets: thestreet.org.au

AIDS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SUNDAY 19 MAY

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves 19 as a community MAY mobilisation campaign to raise social consciousness about HIV and AIDS. The AIDS Action Council will join our community and other organisations around the world to remember the friends and family we have lost, and raise awareness with this year’s theme ‘Intensifying the fight for Health and Rights’.

ACT details: aidsaction.org.au NSW details: candlelight.org.au VIC details: livingpositivevictoria.org.au

OUT & LOUD CHORAL FESTIVAL

24 – 28 OCTOBER VARIOUS LOCATIONS, CANBERRA

24-28 OCT

Canberra’s Out & Loud Choral Festival will be a wonderful mixture of LGBTIQ choirs from all over Australia and New Zealand singing their hearts out at iconic Canberra venues. The festival will culminate in a gala concert where the specially commissioned massed choral work by Sally Whitwell will be performed. There will be a range of music workshops and social events, as well as some private tours of Canberra’s national institutions such as the National Gallery of Australia.

Full program at: outandloudcbr.org.au WHAT’SON

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By Maxwell Elliff

ROUND UP

DID YOU KNOW? Until the late 1400s the word ‘girl’ just meant a child of either sex. If you had to differentiate between them, male children were referred to as ‘knave girls’ and females were ‘gay girls‘.

AUDIT OF ACT LAWS TO ENSURE THEY ARE RAINBOW FRIENDLY Chief Minister of the ACT and Australia’s first openly gay head of government, Andrew Barr, has ordered an audit of the Territory’s law to identify any potentially harmful impacts on the queer community.

This comes following last year’s heated debate around the legal loophole that effectively allowed for religious schools to discriminate against queer teachers and students. Andrew Barr announced that his intention was to ensure that any other laws that could potentially cause damage to the rainbow community were identified and negated, as well as promoting Canberra’s reputation as a ‘human rights jurisdiction’. The audit is being conducted by the Office for LGBTIQ Affairs.

DISCRIMINATION LOOPHOLE IN ACT CHIEF MINISTER’S SIGHTS In related news, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr also announced he plans to crack down on the legal loophole that allows religious schools to discriminate against staff on the basis of sexuality.

The loophole is created by the conflicting views found in the Human Rights Act 2004 and the Discrimination Act 1991. Andrew Barr says his plans will go a step further than those of the Morrison government, which has promised to end discrimination of gay students but not discrimination of gay teachers and staff.

The proposed changes to ACT law were previously suggested by Labor backbencher Suzanne Orr. In an emotional debate, Orr argued, ‘whether a teacher works for a government, independent or private school they should be valued for their commitment to education, not degraded for their personal identity’. The proposed changes will likely prove controversial for advocates of religious freedoms.

OUT & LOUD COMING TO CANBERRA! The Out & Loud Choral Festival will be hitting Canberra this October, gracing the nation’s capital with hundreds of harmonic voices from across Australia and New Zealand.

The Canberra Gay and Lesbian Qwire will be hosting the festival, which will be a bustling jamboree of choral music, queer culture and, of course, rainbow pride. Occurring just once every three years, Out & Loud is the only assembly of queer choirs in all of Australasia and joyfully celebrates diversity and inclusion through song.

Choral performances will be free to the Canberra public and are to be held in some of the ACT’s most notable cultural institutions, including the National Gallery of Australia and Old Parliament House. The festival runs from 24 to 28 October 2019.

“I don’t think we have anything like that in our country.”

Malaysia’s tourism minister has denied the existence of gay people. Attending the ITB Berlin travel fair, Mohamaddin Ketapi told reporters that he wasn’t aware of any gay people in his country.

“I don’t think we have anything like that in our country,” he said, responding to a question as to whether Malaysia would welcome gay travellers.

He also sidestepped a question concerning the safety of LGBT and Jewish travellers while travelling within the country.

Gay rights campaigner Thilaga Sulathireh told reporters that the remarks were “outlandish and completely disconnected from reality” but not entirely surprising to hear.

NEWS&POLITICS

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ROUND UP

DID YOU KNOW? Nicholas Biddle, an early explorer in America, found in 1806 that among Minitarees (Native American tribe), ‘if a boy shows signs effeminacy or female inclinations, he is put among the girls, dressed in their way, brought up with them and even sometimes married to men’.

BRITS MOVE TO MAKE SCHOOL SEX-ED QUEER INCLUSIVE On the recommendations of the Department for Education, schools in the UK will be required to teach an LGBTIQ inclusive sex-ed program.

As of 2020 three new compulsory subjects will be introduced: Relationships Education (for primary schools), Relationships and Sex Education (for all secondary schools) and Health Education (for all state-funded schools) — each of which will include content specific for diverse sexualities and gender identities, and be age appropriate. The Department’s guidelines state that ‘all pupils should feel that the content is relevant to them and their developing sexuality’, while also taking into account the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of students and parents.

TONY ABBOTT, ONE OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST VILLAINS, IS NOW CLAIMING THE CREDIT Despite his role as one of the loudest and most public crusaders of the ‘vote no’ campaign, Tony Abbott has now made the outlandish claim that he deserves credit for the outcome. The former PM exclaimed that:

“When all is said and done, I helped to make the thing happen...”

Abbott said he also recognised that same-sex marriage is the law of the land as decided by the people. Such statements run in complete contradiction to his actions back in 2017, where he spruiked that SSM would “fundamentally change society” whilst calling homosexual relationships a different kind of love.

Abbott currently faces growing tension in his own electorate, with a recent poll finding that 78% of people that voted for him in the past would not do so again. Here’s hoping the good citizens of Warringah give this dinosaur a boot come May!

COULD DAILY PREP SOON BE A THING OF THE PAST? Several alternatives to the PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) pill are in the works, according to scientists. As it currently stands, PrEP, manufactured by pharmaceutical conglomerate Gilead, is the only available antiviral medication that prevents infection of the AIDS causing virus HIV — but to ensure its effectiveness, it must be taken daily. Thankfully this could soon change, as numerous alternatives are apparently being developed.

One such drug would be an injectable version that would be administered monthly at first, then gradually reduced to every two months and then every four to six months.

Another option could be an over-the-counter on-demand version, although this is potentially risky for consumers considering it is often difficult to predict exactly when you might next be doing the ‘horizontal tango’. While any future products are still years away, it is encouraging to see that the fight against HIV/AIDS carries on.

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NEWS&POLITICS

SOMETIMES ORDINARY PEOPLE SAY EXTRAORDINARY THINGS Brilliance, compassion and amazing words don’t always come from the rich and famous.

Sometimes ordinary people say extraordinary things on social media that can change the world or someone’s life forever. This guy rocks!

My gay friend just admitted his love for me and he thinks I hate him. I’m about to show up at his house with flowers, pizza and video games.

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Wake Up Wonderful

13

WE WELCOME THE LGBTIQ COMMUNITY TRY ONE OUR SIGNATURE COCKTAILS OR DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

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By Maxwell Elliff

ROUND UP

DID YOU KNOW? Early humans used shimmery mica flakes to add some primitive glitter. A 2013 study found that the ancient Maya even covered their temple in a sparkling mica-infused paint to likely herald a celebratory event or anniversary.

GLITTER IS TERRIBLE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

JUDGE AND BEAU TIE KNOT AFTER HALF A CENTURY OF LOVE

Glitter has been a welcome friend to the LGBTIQ community for as long as we can remember, but is it time to let it go?

Australian former High Court judge Michael Kirby has married his longtime partner Johan van Vloten, after being together for 50 years. Kirby, who served on the High Court from 1996 to 2009, married van Vloten in a civil ceremony in Sydney’s Bondi Junction. Marriage celebrant Michele Bailey exclaimed that their wedding signified “the capacity of love to prevail over obstacles, hostility, change and the passing of time”. The pair met in 1969 at the Rex Hotel — at the time one of Sydney’s only gay venues. For all the single fellows looking for love on the dance-floor, it seems there’s hope for you yet.

Most glitter you’re using to make yourself look fabulous is unfortunately made from plastic, which is a huge problem for our oceans and the creatures that live in them.

When glitter is washed down the drain it becomes part of the growing problem of “microplastics,” which are consumed by plankton, fish, birds and also us.

But don’t fret there are alternatives out there, it’s just a matter getting manufacturers to start making them more available.

BRITISH MAN BECOMES SECOND PERSON ‘CURED’ OF HIV A British man who was previously diagnosed as HIV positive has become the second known person to be cleared of the virus, following bone marrow transplants from an HIV-resistant donor.

Doctors have found no trace of the virus, three years after the patient received stem cells from a donor with a rare genetic mutation that resists HIV infection. Scientists have suggested the case is further proof that one day HIV/AIDS can be cured on a mass scale.

Some 37 million people globally are believed to be HIV-positive, while AIDS has claimed the lives of over 35 million people since the 1980s.

PASS THE GERBIL? THE SUPPOSED NEXT STEP IN REDEFINING MARRIAGE In a recent interview, Australian Conservatives Party leader Cory Bernardi has reinforced the supposed dangers of redefining marriage, chief among them being an open door for bestiality.

Bernardi told Sky News that with same-sex marriage passing, advocacy for polygamy, lowering the age for marriage, paedophilia and bestiality had all increased, and asked, “When will it end?” Despite similar comments forcing his 2012 resignation as parliamentary secretary to then PM Tony Abbott, it appears the Senator has still not learnt his lesson. Bernardi has also promised to reverse same-sex marriage should his party ever have sufficient power to do so.

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT REFUSES TO BACK U.N. WOMEN’S DAY SENTIMENTS While 57 UN member states signed off on the Human Rights Council International Women’s Day motion… Australia did not. The motion called, primarily, for better access to sexual health education and abortion for women and girls, as well as a call for greater accountability for violations against females. Australia, who was granted a seat on the council in 2017, as well as the Morrison government, was called out by the UNHRC for failing to live up to its pledge to make women’s rights a guiding principle. Abortion laws in Australia vary state-to-state, being technically illegal under current NSW law.

NEWS&POLITICS

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ROUND UP

IT'S ALL IN THE NUMBERS

6 BIL VIC GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT CONVERSION THERAPY SURVIVORS Victoria continues to make a case for being the nation’s most gay-friendly state with its government recently announcing $325,000 in funding to be spent on LGBTIQ+ initiatives.

Nearly half of that figure ($145,000) will be utilised on a project to provide support for conversion therapy survivors.

With a huge surge in popularity, it’s becoming increasingly essential to buy free range. Consumption of eggs has jumped more than 6 per cent to 6 billion per year, or 245 eggs for every woman, man and child, according to industry group Australian Eggs.

3 in 10

Minister for Equality, Martin Foley, announced that, “We’re going to work with those who know the harm it causes best to ensure we support victims of this bigoted quackery”.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews intends to criminalise the practice, which is well known to cause long-term psychological effects, and in doing so would make Victoria the first state to ban this barbaric practice.

DON’T RAIN ON OUR PARADE While Mardi Gras is our time of the year to fiercely and fearlessly celebrate pride, it can also be a reminder of the progress still to come. Unfortunately, this MG season saw a number of gay bashings in the lead-up to the parade, with four reported attacks on gay men. The assaults followed a similar pattern, with two individuals and one couple being pushed to the ground and repeatedly kicked by a number of assailants in the early hours on the morning of Mardi Gras.

Investigators for the NSW police stated that the crimes appeared to be opportunistic as opposed to hate-motivated, but queer rights groups have argued that incidents like these are commonplace this time of year. Speaking on behalf of the LGBTIQ law firm Dowson Turco, lawyer Nicholas Stewart stated that, “at Mardi Gras we are more visible… that means people who may not agree with us and our lifestyles have chosen to commit crimes against us”.

In a separate incident, two Sydney boys were forced out of an Uber after the driver saw the two displaying affection. On the Sunday after the parade, the boys were reportedly asked to leave the vehicle when one kissed the other on the forehead, apparently enraging the driver.

Uber refunded the pair for the journey, and offered to investigate the incident to ensure it would not happen in the future. It’s safe to say that driver gets zero stars!

41% A UNSW Kirby Institute report has revealed that Indigenous HIV rates have increased by a staggering 41% despite a decrease in the rest of the population.

Pantone

16-1546 Aussies getting tattooed has hit a record high, but with recent research showing that 3 in 10 people have some regret, it’s a reminder of why you should think long and hard before getting something permanently inked on your body. Experts are also urging people to remember that a tattoo of your lover’s name has never been a good idea!

Love it or hate it, ‘Living Coral’ has been chosen as the 2019 fashion and design colour of the year.

According to The Pantone Colour Institute, “Living Coral embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment”.

1.8 tn 62% 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic debris now occupy an area three times the size of France in what’s now known as the ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch’.

GPs now treat mental health issues more than any other condition with 62% of GP visits for psychological ailments.

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1300 772 643 OUR VALUES-BASED FINANCIAL PLANNING APPROACH BRINGS TOGETHER THE TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND HUMAN TOUCH TO CREATE A SOLUTION TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS.

WE WORK IN AREAS OF: • SUPERANNUATION INCLUDING SELF MANAGED AND PUBLIC SECTOR • WEALTH CREATION • SALARY SACRIFICE • REDUNDANCY • ESTATE PLANNING • RISK MANAGEMENT PLANNING

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SCOTT MALCOLM, DIRECTOR & FINANCIAL STRATEGIST B.Comm, Certified Financial Planner, SMSF Specialist Advisor Authorised Representative (No. 262368) Money Mechanics Pty Ltd (ABN 64 136 066 272) is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 336429) of Infocus Securities Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 097 797 049) AFSL and Australian Credit Licence No. 236523.

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By Scott Malcolm Director of Money Mechanics

travel MONEY FIND OUT THE BEST, EASIEST AND CHEAPEST WAY TO ACCESS YOUR MONEY WHILE OVER$EAS.

AS WE MOVE INTO THE CHANGE OF SEASONS HERE IN AUSTRALIA, YOU MIGHT FIND YOURSELF WANTING TO ESCAPE THE COLD AND FOLLOW THE SUMMER IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD, OR AS I HAVE SEEN SOME FRIENDS DO RECENTLY, HEAD OFF TO THE FABULOUS PRIDE CELEBRATIONS IN EUROPE WHERE THINGS ARE JUST STARTING TO HEAT UP. In this article, I’m going to let you in on some secrets (well, they’re not really secrets) on what is the best, easiest and cheapest way to access your hard-earned savings while overseas.

LET’S START WITH CA$H

TRU$TY DEBIT CARDS

It’s important to always have a small amount of local currency on arrival and for the duration of your stay, no matter where you go.

You might be desperate for that coffee when you land, have a cash-only fee to pay, or be at a funky market where paper money is your only option. Having a few hundred dollars with you is a good way to ensure you don’t get stuck without cash when you need it.

If you are travelling to a poorer county you might need more cash as cards are less accepted, but be aware that it does make you more vulnerable to theft. Use hotel safes where possible and don‘t carry too much with you when you’re out and about.

The trusty debit card is my favourite option as it’s your own money — you are not going into debt to fund your trip. Many banks are also aware people travel overseas and will rebate any overseas ATM fees, so check your bank’s policy on currency conversion fees and foreign transaction fees beforehand.

Although buying foreign currency is easier now, it’s still important to plan ahead. Don’t leave it until the last minute as airport exchanges are usually more expensive than your local bank.

Check with your bank before you depart as many have special deals and cheaper fees. Ask plenty of questions about the charges and compare a few options to get the best rate you can.

It’s also super important to let your bank know you’re travelling, as they may freeze your cards if they notice unusual foreign transactions they think may be fraudulent.

CONSIDERATIONS

GOOD: You may get a rebate on any overseas fees.

GOOD: Local currency can be very handy.

GOOD: Cash is good if you lose your cards or in an emergency.

GOOD: Cash is a simple method of making transactions.

BAD: Money exchanges can be expensive.

BAD: Cash, if stolen, is probably lost forever.

While you’re away the withdrawal of more substantial amounts at a time is cheapest, as you won’t pay as many fees as you will on multiple smaller transactions.

CONSIDERATIONS GOOD: An easy option, plus you are a using your

own money and not going into debt.

GOOD: Lost cards can be quickly frozen.

GOOD: Your money is better protected.

BAD: Not all businesses accept all types of debit cards.

BAD: Foreign transaction and overseas ATM fees

can be expensive.

MONEYSHOT

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travel MONEY THE CREDIT CARD

PREPAID TRAVEL CARD$ ARE GO!

You’ll probably need a credit card as a security deposit when you check into your hotel or if you hire a car.

If you’re using it to pay for your trip, the most important thing to remember is it’s not your money you’re spending, so make sure you have a plan to repay it as quickly as possible to avoid large amounts of interest.

Be wary if you need to withdraw any cash advances, as these can have higher interest rates without an interest-free period. It’s a good idea to read the terms and conditions, and if you don’t understand them contact your credit provider for clarification.

Travel cards have become popular as they are safer than cash and you can use them to move money into multiple foreign currencies easily at a set exchange rate. It’s almost like having a foreign bank account. There are charges attached, so shop around for the lowest conversion rates and transactions fees.

CONSIDERATIONS GOOD: Credit cards are convenient and widely accepted.

GOOD: Some credit cards include travel insurance.

GOOD: Some cards collect reward points.

Prepaid travel cards usually have a backup card which you can store away so if you lose one you can cancel it and still have access to your money. Make sure you check the travel card you choose has all the currencies you need as some are limited, and buy a product that allows overseas ATM withdrawals for free.

Be aware that if using a travel card for hotels or car rentals they may “hold” a deposit up to a few weeks.

CONSIDERATIONS GOOD: It’s all pre-paid.

GOOD: Banks usually cover unauthorised payments.

GOOD: You often get a backup card in case of loss or theft.

BAD: Conversion fees and cash advances can

be expensive.

GOOD: If stolen they are easily frozen.

GOOD: Some cards may include insurances.

BAD: Credit cards can be skimmed.

GOOD: You can top it up from your mobile or laptop.

BAD: You could find yourself in substantial debt.

BAD: Some cards have a monthly inactivity fee.

BAD: Late payment interest can quickly add up.

A BIT OF BOTH: Exchange rates are locked in.

MONEY AND WIRE TRAN$FERS

FINAL TIPS

These can be a good way to move large amounts of money to another currency if you are living overseas for longer periods.

It’s important to note that exchange rates might not be as competitive and fees are often higher than other options.

If you are travelling to a developing country, then this may be the only option, but most countries these days have ATM and global banking networks, however you’ll need to check this out depending on your destination.

1. Have several money options in place while you are overseas

as situations can quickly change when travelling and being prepared will make your holiday go so much smoother.

2. Always have a small amount of cold hard cash on hand so

if you lose or can’t use a card you still have access to money when you need it!

3. Use safes where possible and store different money items

CONSIDERATIONS

GOOD: Can transfer large amounts of cash.

4. Make sure you have the correct currency for your destinations

GOOD: Useful for longer overseas stays.

GOOD: Useful in emergencies or in developing countries.

BAD: High fees and poor exchange rates.

BAD: Time-consuming to organise.

BAD: It can take several days to get your money.

in more than one location, so if something happens you have a fallback squirrelled away somewhere. and find out if your cards are widely accepted.

5. Try your very best to keep to your budget as it can be easy

to overspend, especially if you’re using a credit card.

6. Lastly, enjoy the travel planning and remember to research the

local money situation and the best financial options for your trip.

Scott Malcolm has been awarded the internationally recognised Certified Financial Planner designation from the Financial Planning Association of Australia and is Director of Money Mechanics. Money Mechanics is a fee for service financial advice firm who partner with clients in Melbourne, Canberra, Newcastle and Sydney to achieve their life and wealth outcomes. Money Mechanics Pty Ltd (ABN 64 136 066 272) is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 336429) of Infocus Securities Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 097 797 049) AFSL and Australian Credit Licence No. 236523.

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

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

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MONEYSHOT

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RETHINKING

Glitter has been a very welcome friend to the LGBTIQ community for as long as we can all remember, but is it time to rethink its use or at least look for some new alternatives.

With Mardi Gras just finished in Australia and gay pride season about to begin in Europe, it seems timely to talk about our love for all things that glitter.

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RETHINKING

By Alexander Thatcher

GLITTERING PLASTIC

Is our love affair with glitter over?

Scientists are telling us that our adored glitter is terrible for the environment and they want us to stop using it or find alternatives.

The popularity of glitter within the LGBTIQ community is huge, and the sheer volume that it is used at events like Mardi Gras and pride celebrations around the world is mind-boggling.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras — now advocating a ban on glitter — have in past years imported up to three tonnes of glitter from China each year, and if we include our own personal stash and the hundreds of floats that shimmer their way up Oxford Street, the amount of sparkly plastic that we consume is massive. And where does it all end up? You’ll probably not be surprised when we say the ocean.

Microplastics like glitter are entering our oceans at a staggering estimated 8 million tonnes every day, which is the equivalent of one garbage truck of glitter every minute.

Maybe you’re not entirely convinced yet. We understand glitter is a big part of our queer identity and hard for some of us to give up, so read on.

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FUSEFEATURE

Let’s be clear; it’s not just pride celebrations that are responsible for filling our oceans and waterways with microplastics. Christmas is easily the worst offender, while literally millions of items adorned with glitter are manufactured daily.

We can thank an American farmer, Henry Ruschmann, when in 1934 he created a way of cutting mylar and coloured plastic sheets into tiny shapes. Ruschmann formed Meadowbrook Inventions, which today is still one of the leading global suppliers of glitter.

The majority of commercial products that contain glitter chiefly contain plastics such as polyethene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Glitter is also layered with other materials, such as aluminium, to provide extra sparkle.

Today over 20,000 varieties of glitter are manufactured in a vast number of different colours, sizes and materials. Underneath a microscope, it is possible to see the huge variety of shapes and sizes: hexagons, squares, rectangles and even hearts and stars, ranging from 6.25mm to a truly tiny 0.05mm.

Nearly all glitter ends up in our drains, waterways and oceans.

Like all plastics, glitter takes over a thousand years to biodegrade, plus glitter is pretty much impossible to recycle, and re-use can be difficult.

GLITTER IS NOT SO FABULOUS FOR OUR OCEANS Most people now understand that microplastics, such as fibres from clothes or microbeads in facial scrubs, are killing our marine life. Bad news for glitter lovers is that, being less than 5mm in size, it’s a microplastic too. Sorry kids.

We all know glitter gets everywhere. I often feel sorry for hotel cleaners the day after Mardi Gras, as cleaning up after our sparkly celebration cannot be easy.

When we’re done with our glittery fun, and it’s cleaned away, glitter enters our oceans and waterways via wastewater from our drains and via run-off from landfill sites. Although some microplastics are removed at treatment plants, the majority of microplastics still find their way into our oceans.

The size of these particles means they are easily consumed by marine life of all sizes, who cannot discriminate between particles of food and plastic.

Scientists say microplastic particles attract inorganic and organic chemicals to adhere to them, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB’s, which have been banned since 1979) and toxic heavy metals. Bioaccumulation (the gradual accumulation of toxins inside the bodies of living things) in the food chain creates a significant risk to wildlife and people.

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Glitter fills the air at almost all dance parties.

8 8 million tonnes of plastics enter our oceans every day

5 You are likely to consume up to 5 pieces of microplastics in a single piece of fish

1 1 million birds and 100,000 marine creatures die each year from plastic

FISH LOVE IT TOO!

GLITTER IS TOUGH TO DISPOSE OF

Glitter, like all plastics, breaks down into even smaller pieces, creating secondary sources of even tinier microplastic. So while you may only use it for single occasions, like Mardi Gras, Christmas or other celebrations, glitter will hang around in our oceans for thousands of years causing havoc with the ecosystem.

Disposing of glitter so it does not enter our ecosystems is pretty much impossible. What is important is that you try to avoid washing it down the drain and if you do need to discard it, place it in a sealed jar before you throw it into landfill. Of course, reusing your old glitter is also a good option. Ultimately the best solution is to stop buying plastic based glitter altogether. When people stop buying plastic glitter, companies will stop making it or be forced to find eco-alternatives.

The impact of these materials has become a huge concern to scientists. These particles of plastics have been found in seabirds, crustaceans, fish and whales, which swallow the materials but cannot digest them, leading to a build-up in their digestive tracts, often causing death or other serious complications.

As millions of tonnes of plastics enter our oceans every day, the food chain becomes increasingly contaminated until it eventually reaches your table.

Some fish have been found to prefer tiny particles of plastic to their natural food sources, effectively starving them before they can reproduce.

GOOD NEWS — THERE ARE ALTERNATIVES With the Australian government working with industry on a voluntary phase-out of microbeads, there has also been a call to ban glitter. This has been met with some resistance and accusations that scientists are humbugs and just want to kill the sparkle in our celebrations and parties. This, of course, is not true and there are already some alternatives.

Just as manufacturers of facial scrubs are looking at using natural exfoliating materials to replace microbeads, glitter manufacturers and start-ups have now begun producing biodegradable glitter.

GO FORTH AND SPARKLE RESPONSIBLY...

BIODEGRADABLE GLITTERS YOU CAN BUY NOW • Eco Glitter is made from eucalyptus cellulose, a renewable source and biodegradable. threemamas.com.au • Glitter Girl products are certified home compostable, biodegradable, vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. glittergirl.com.au • Glitter Haven specialise in biodegradable glitter and offers over twenty five options for all your sparkly needs. glitterhaven.com.au • Cosmetic Bio-glitter is produced from a biodegradable film that is certified compostable and sustainably sourced. theglittertribe.com.au • When it comes to skin products, glitter makeup, shower gels and bath bombs, our friends at Lush use environmentally friendly mica that is synthesised in a lab to mimic natural mica. lush.com FUSEFEATURE

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Ghosting

By Maxwell Elliff

LET’S GET SPOOKY BECAUSE IT’S TIME TO TALK ABOUT GHOSTING! Social media and online dating apps have made hooking up easy, but in many ways have made dating much harder and are most certainly the birthplace of ghosting.

Apps like Scruff, Grindr and Tinder, and addictive socials such as Instagram, Snapchat, or even Facebook, give us countless ways of connecting with potential partners.

Online dating is a place where things can happen quickly, if not instantly, and on the flip side end just as quickly. You may find that you strike up some banter and maybe even meet up once or twice, and then suddenly all communication ceases — seemingly out of the blue. You’ve just been ghosted.

I’m of course not referring to some kind of steamy Swayze-Demi arts and crafts involving the supernatural, but the growing trend in modern dating when one person, who previously expressed keen interest, ends any further contact without warning. It can leave the ‘ghost-ee’ upset, confused and wondering where it all went wrong.

From my own experience, I think it’s pretty safe to say that most people in the online dating scene — particularly younger people — have likely acted as ghost-er or ghost-ee.

Although I understand why we often take the easy way out, this phenomenon, especially within the queer community, is a little perplexing.

A staggering 50% of people who use dating apps admit to both ghosting someone or being ghosted. Many users say they are in constant fear of ghosting and become anxious when people don’t answer them.

LGBTIQ people have a history of rejection from a variety of sources and often know the feeling all too well, so the fact that we then turn around and do it to each other can seem more than a little disconcerting. Often the rejected partner is left feeling hurt and confused, with little or no clear reason for the sudden isolation they find themselves in.

Ghosting can appear rude, cowardly and heartless at its worst, but the simple fact is that sometimes it’s easier to end any contact abruptly than actually face somebody about not wanting to continue a relationship. In a mindfield of emotions, hook-ups and relationships, ghosting is an easy way out and it only takes a few clicks.

There are lots of reasons we might want out. Maybe that sexy lad you had been exchanging naughty pics with looks suspiciously different when you meet face to face, perhaps there just isn’t chemistry, maybe you meet someone new and merely decide *that* grass is greener, or maybe that potential match starts to show signs of being a little bit unhinged.

17% of dating app users say they’ve ghosted someone because they did not live up to their profile pics or they thought they were dishonest.

The online dating world offers wonderful opportunities for meeting the person of your dreams, but we are increasingly desensitised to the feelings of others, as people are reduced to profiles that can be instantly ‘swiped’ or ‘blocked’.

Often it feels easier to avoid confrontation altogether when things don’t seem to be going in the desired direction. No one likes possibly hurting someone, break up texts or crying, but still, I would argue that ghosting is ‘the coward’s way out’.

Truth can hurt for a short time, but having no closure can cause long-term emotional damage to the ghost-ee.

I would hope that as an already victimised and potentially isolated community we would not wish to extend that to our dating lives, but the more I hear from friends about their experiences on both sides of the ghosting fence, the less I’m convinced that we have each other’s backs. Maybe it’s a power thing, that in the dog-eat-dog world of online dating we know that sooner or later rejection will come our way, so we might as well get in on the action whenever we can to ‘balance things out’ in a way.

Will things change? It’s hard to say, considering our increasing dependence on our devices for making connections.

If you are ghosting someone, keep in mind it is emotionally hurtful and can easily be avoided with an open honest talk with someone. If you at once liked someone enough to chat, hookup, date or have a full-fledged relationship with them, you should respect them enough to tell them the truth.

Perhaps we can try to be friendlier ghosts. It worked for Casper.

FUSEOP.ED

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}potato

DID YOU KNOW? Actress Christine Jorgensen (30 May 1926–3 May 1989) — an American transgender woman — was the first working celebrity to become widely known for having sex reassignment surgery in 1951.

A KID LIKE JAKE

CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME?

Jake is a preschooler who likes to dress up as a princess, and neither his parents nor his teacher think that’s a bad thing. But when it comes time for Jake’s New Yorker parents (Claire Danes and Jim Parsons) to think about enrolling him in school, they’re faced with the prospect that Jake may not be your average boy. Is his dressing up just a phase that will pass before he starts school?

Or is it something more permanent? And if so, is anyone to blame? Silas Howard’s film is based on a 2013 stageplay

by Daniel Pearle. Octavia Spencer (Hidden Figures ) and Ann Dowd (The Handmaid’s Tale ) also star.

Forget Ocean’s Eight and Widows, the best caper film of 2018 was Marielle Heller’s Can You Ever Forgive Me? This early-90s set comedy-drama tells the true story of celebrity biographer Lee Israel (Melissa McCarthy) who turns to literary forgery to pay her mounting bills. Aided by Jack Hock (Richard E. Grant), Lee begins forging the personal correspondence of deceased literary giants when she stumbles onto the lucrative market for such memorabilia.

And while Lee has a knack for it, neither proves to be a criminal mastermind; however McCarthy and Grant, both Oscar nominated, prove to be the perfect double act.

NORMANDY NUDE

HOW TO TALK TO GIRLS AT PARTIES

In the vein of The Full Monty and Calendar Girls comes this Gaelic comedy where it literally takes a village to get the local economy back on track — by getting their gear off. Georges (Francois Cluzet, Intouchables) is a dairy farmer and mayor to a suffering small town whose plight is going ignored in Paris. But when Newman (Toby Jones), a Spencer Tunick-like celebrity photographer, stumbles upon the town, he decides he wants to capture the essence of the townsfolk — naked. Georges sees it as the perfect opportunity to promote his town, but his constituents will take a little more convincing.

When Enn falls for Zan, they become a pair of star-crossed lovers, literally. Worlds collide when Enn (Alex Sharp, also in The Hustle), a shy teenager in 1977 London, meets the beautiful and rebellious Zan (Elle Fanning) at a party, setting in motion the ultimate showdown between their rival worlds and testing the limits of how far they will go for true love.

Based on a short story by Neil Gaiman (American Gods), How to Talk to Girls at Parties, directed by John Cameron Mitchell (Hedwig and the Angry Inch and Shortbus ) and also starring Nicole Kidman, Ruth Wilson and Matt Lucas, is a film that seems destined to become a cult classic.

MADMAN ENTERTAINMENT

MADMAN ENTERTAINMENT

By Dwayne Lennox

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GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN

VEGETARIANISM IS ON THE RISE IN AUSTRALIA WITH MANY PEOPLE

By Robyn J. Whitaker MAKING THE SWITCH TO THIS PLANT-BASED LIFESTYLE FOR HEALTH, ETHICAL, SPIRITUAL OR ENVIRONMENTAL REASONS. Between 2012 and 2016, the number of Australians who have switched to a vegetarian lifestyle has risen from 1.7 million (9.7%) to 2.1 million (11.2%) according to a study by Roy Morgan Research.

By Chris Fonda Dietitian

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Regular, high-quality protein intake is important for cell growth and development, a healthy immune system and maintenance of muscle mass and function. Vegetarian diets can sometimes lack this vital nutrient; however with the right information and smart eating habits, consuming enough protein to keep you healthy and strong is not an issue for most vegetarians.

Vegetarians who consume animal products such as eggs and dairy are typically known as lacto-ovo vegetarians, those that consume only eggs (no dairy) are ovo-vegetarian, and those that consume only dairy (no eggs) are lacto-vegetarian. Strict vegans do not consume any flesh from animals or fish, or any other animal-based products, and can be at risk of nutrient deficiencies if their diet is not well planned. However it is possible to achieve all your nutrient needs on a plant-based diet.

Common nutrient deficiencies I see in clinic are in the minerals calcium, iron, zinc, vitamins B12 and D and omega-3 fatty acids. If you consume eggs and dairy, you will have more high-quality protein in your diet and it is less likely you will develop nutrient deficiencies.

PRE-PACKAGED For those starting out, there are plenty of pre-packaged plant-based protein options available. First up is Quorn. Quorn is relatively new to the vegetarian and vegan market in Australia, but has been around since 1985 in other countries including the UK. Quorn is made from a fungus found in the soil, which is then turned into a dough called mycoprotein using the age-old process of fermentation.

Quorn is naturally low in saturated fat, high in protein, and a good source of dietary fibre, iron and zinc. It contains all nine of the essential amino acids found in the flesh of animals and animal products — which makes it a high-quality vegetarian protein.

Quorn’s product range has expanded over the years, and you can find mince to make a Bolognese sauce, strips to make Fajita’s, patties for burgers, sausages to throw on the BBQ and much more!

Check out the product range: quorn.com.au Vegie Delights range are 100% meat-free, making them suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Most products in the range are made from vegetable protein (wheat, soy, etc), whilst others such as lentil patties contain real lentils. Vegie Delights are a good source of protein and are fortified with minerals zinc and iron and vitamins such as B12, making them a good meat alternative.

Check out the product range: vegiedelights.com.au Our editor at FUSE tells me that his favourite ‘go-to’ product is the Linda McCartney vegetarian range, which is apparently super delicious and packed full of taste and excellent ingredients. The brand has a huge range of items to choose from, with the sausages a stand out hit.

It can be found at your local Woolworths in the frozen food section.

Check out the product range: lindamccartneyfoods.co.uk

FRESH IS BEST Of course, when it comes down to it, fresh is always best — and there are many natural vegetarian foods that are high in protein. These include nuts, lentils, legumes (chickpeas and beans), eggs, milk, yoghurt, cheese and tofu, just to name a few. As a rule of thumb for most people, consuming 20-30 grams of protein at each meal is recommended for optimal functioning, and this can be easy to achieve on a vegetarian diet if you eat the right foods.

>

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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.

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TOP 10 HIGH PROTEIN VEGETARIAN FOODS GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN IS SUPER IMPORTANT.

BY INCLUDING THESE TOP 10 HIGH PROTEIN VEGETARIAN FOODS IN YOUR DIET, YOU’LL BE ON THE RIGHT PATH TO A HEALTHY BODY AND HEALTHY MIND.

EGGS

CHICKPEAS Chickpeas are incredibly versatile and just one cup has a whopping 15 grams of protein. For an easy and delicious meal or late night treat, whip up some falafels. Nom!

ALMONDS Almonds contain healthy fats as well as omega-3s and plenty of protein. 30 grams of almonds will give you 6 grams of protein and make for a satisfying, healthy snack.

One glorious egg has 6 grams of complete protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making them an excellent source of high-grade protein.

QUINOA One cup of cooked quinoa gives you 8 grams of protein and is an easy substitute for rice, pasta in a salad, or ground beef in a chilli recipe.

COTTAGE CHEESE Just half a cup of cottage cheese will give you 15 grams of protein. Add to your eggs, beans, salad or even as a snack with fruit and honey.

GREEN PEAS The star of the protein-rich vegetables has to be green peas. One cup of green peas will net you 8 grams of protein as well as loads of fibre.

GREEK YOGHURT

CHIA SEEDS

Half a cup of Greek yoghurt has 10 grams of protein, and adding it to your breakfast muesli, oats or smoothie can provide even more protein.

A nutrition powerhouse providing 4 grams of protein in just 30 grams of seeds, while also giving you 11 grams of fibre and 2/3 of the calcium content of a glass of milk.

LENTILS One and a half cups of lentils have 27 grams of protein, or as much as a regular 3 ounce serving of chicken breast.

Add them to soups, stews and salads — you’ll find lentils in many fantastic recipes.

EDAMAME A whopping 17 grams of protein in a one cup serving, edamame are soybeans still in the pod. They can be boiled, steamed or even roasted, and also provide 8 grams of fibre.

If you would like to know about diet or nutrition, Chris Fonda is a Canberra-based accredited sports dietitian who has a passion for helping his clients achieve peak health and performance. Having previously worked at the AIS, Chris now works part-time with Diabetes NSW & ACT, is the sports dietitian for Volleyball Australia’s integrated men’s and women’s beach/indoor centre of excellence teams, and sees clients one on one in person. You can find out more about Chris by heading to chrisfondadietitian.com.au or Twitter @chris_fonda 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.

EATME

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Canberra Sexual Health Centre TEST FOR CONFIDENCE We are a free, friendly, nonjudgemental and confidential specialist sexual health centre.

Both walk-in clinic and booked appointments available.

GET PEP PEP is available at Canberra Sexual Health Centre, Canberra Hospital and Calvary Hospital Emergency Departments.

PEP IN AN EMERGENCY If you think you have been exposed to HIV, PEP should be started as soon as possible, but may be taken up to 72 hours after the exposure.

re Cent h t l ea ual H x ! e S W rra NO anbe K C t U a O ions STIs onth inst cript DO Y a s e g r he m a t p f f l P o e y rE urs onda get P ct yo M n e s a t s c o e You o pr usin ms t rst b o Is fi d e n th co st ST n t o o e m g pm nst ’t for - 7.00 agai m Don n p o 0 i 4.3 ths ect en is prot mon t m 6 s r e o 3 ry inic f the b s eve still M-Cl k c d e n ol a TI ch re co der S i a s s n co om We are located at Building 5, Canberra Hospital ould Cond h s n e m e Call 6244 2184 or check our website for opening hours at v ti ly ac l a health.act.gov.au/canberrasexualhealthcentre u Sex health.act.gov.au | act.gov.au Enquiries: Canberra 13ACT1 or 132281

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FEARLESS 2019 SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS

This year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras theme was ‘Fearless’. Fearless does not mean we have no fear — everyone experiences fear, it’s a part of who we are. Fearless means living our lives in a courageous way, taking action despite your fears. If we can develop fearlessness there is no limit to what we can achieve. Just look at what has been accomplished

by LGBTIQ advocates, activists, individuals and groups that through fearlessness have stood up for who they are, who they want to be, for equality and inclusion, ensuring other LGBTIQ people feel supported, accepted and safe.

Mardi Gras 2019 Photographers: Christopher Powell, Wayne C Style & Jeffrey Feng

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FEARLESS 2019 SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS

Photographer: Christopher Powell

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2019 SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS FEARLESS

GET

PrEP To find out more or to make an appointment call SHFPACT on 6247 3077. We are located at Level,1 28 University Avenue Canberra City.

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SEXUAL HEALTH AND FAMILY PLANNING ACT

SHFPACT.ORG.AU

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FEARLESS 2019 SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS

Photographer: Wayne C Style

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M Clinic

FREE AFTER HOURS HIV/STI CHECKS for men who have sex with men

NO TIME TO GET AN STI CHECK? NOW IT’S EASIER MCLINIC IS 4.30PM - 7.00PM ON THE FIRST BUSINESS MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT CANBERRA SEXUAL HEALTH CENTRE BTW MClinic is walk-in.

No appointment needed.

Monday 6 May 2019 Monday 3 June 2019 Monday 1 July 2019 Monday 5 August 2019

Monday 2 September 2019 Monday 14 October 2019 Monday 4 November 2019 Monday 2 December 2019

BUILDING 5, CANBERRA HOSPITAL 5 GILMORE CRES, GARRAN ACT health.act.gov.au/CSHC • act.gov.au Enquiries: 13ACT1 or 132281 • MClinic 5124 2184

GET INVOLVED! THROUGHOUT THE YEAR THERE ARE SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT WITH YOUR COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT THE WORK OF THE COUNCIL:

Join in the fun and connect with others at any of our community events.

Become a member of the Council to keep up to date with what’s happening, and support the work we do with the community.

Become a volunteer.

Our amazing volunteer team supports the community and the work we do, across our organisation.

FIND OUT MORE BY GETTING IN TOUCH TODAY!

02 6257 2855 | contact@aidsaction.org.au www.aidsaction.org.au | @AIDSactionACT

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BOOK NO FOR OURW 2019/20 EDITION

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FREE LISTINGS FOR SOCIAL, SPORTING & COMMUNITY GROUPS

LGBTIQ Business & Community Directory CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY WITH BUSINESSES, SOCIAL GROUPS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

directory.fusemagazine.com.au

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AVAILABLE IN BOTH PRINT & DIGITALLY

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WE’LL HELP YOU

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD GOOD DESIGN IS GOOD BUSINESS GRAPHIC. WEBSITE. FILM. MULTIMEDIA.

LITHIUM.NET.AU 0412 309 992

A Little Laser

Cosmetic Laser Clinic Jennifer Dromgold is the owner of a boutique laser clinic A Little Laser in Manuka. She provides safe, fast, high end medical grade treatments at affordable prices. Hair removal and skin rejuvenation treatments for people of all skin types.

Jennifer’s experience spans over 10 years.

Jennifer has clients ranging from gay boys and girls who want to be ultra smooth to people in the trans community who need a professional clinic that understands their needs.

“As somebody that supports and understands the needs of GLBTI people I’m very keen to offer my services and help individuals look and feel better.

I am excited and proud to be able to offer my clients individual treatment plans and give them the time they deserve in a boutique style clinic.

I enjoy building an honest relationship with my clients and love having the opportunity to help people achieve results with their individual concerns.”

We believe it’s about more than just beauty... it’s about you!

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02 6232 6629 | alittlelaser.com.au New Studio: 42 Geils Court, Deakin ACT

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YOUR HOROSCOPE A SPECIAL SEVEN YEAR FORECAST : HOW URANUS IN TAURUS WILL AFFECT YOUR SIGN A pretty colossal event has just happened. Uranus, the planet of surprise and innovation, just moved into Taurus — a practical sign that rules money, assets, beauty and art. Over the next seven years we can expect some powerfully disruptive or even rebellious energy.

There will be major shifts in the way we value things, which will reshape our world along with our personal lives. Here’s what you can expect.

Aquarius

January 21 – February 18 You will see some big shifts around family and personal relationships.

As technology and social media grow to new and dizzying heights, privacy and security will become important for you. Tip: Surround yourself with freethinkers as they will bring you joy.

Taurus

April 21 – May 21 Uranus is really going to start pushing your buttons, and you might find your unwavering and steadfast opinions being tested. Expect some big shifts in your thinking and how you value things.

Tip: Embrace independence and the new rebel that may develop inside you.

Leo

July 23 – August 23 You will of course shine during this time as Taurus illuminates the sector of your chart that rules fame and popularity.

Be prepared, however, for the definition of fame to change in a big way. Tip: Prepare yourself for some surprising new life or career paths.

Scorpio

October 24 – November 22 New and unexpected people will be entering your life, so it will be important to quickly identify any negative energy and distance yourself from it immediately.

Tip: As social media evolves around us, reflect on how present you are when connecting with others.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20 Uranus’ move into Taurus will light up your mind as this union pushes you to develop new ways of being. Extraordinary strides in the way we communicate will have you rethinking what ‘connecting’ actually means. Tip: Prepare yourself for enourmous changes in your life.

Gemini

May 22 – June 21 You’re going to have to use your natural ability to be adaptable as Uranus brings many changes and surprises into your life. Tip: Work on being more decisive, as being unclear about your intentions and what you want will mean that you will miss some important opportunities.

Virgo

August 24 – September 23

Aries

March 21 – April 20 As augmented reality and social media evolve you may need to consider how much of your life you spend online. As technology becomes more enticing, you’ll need to keep your wits about you.

Tip: It will be important for you to stay connected with reality.

Cancer

June 22 – July 22 Uranus in Taurus may cause some unrest and disruptive energies, which means you may find yourself involved in revolutionary activism, even if that means from your own living room.

Tip: Try to connect with groups that are passionate about similar causes.

Libra

September 24 – October 23

You may find yourself taking some exciting new journeys as Uranus starts challenging your belief structures. New leaps in artificial intelligence will mean changes in your life and how you relate to the world. Tip: Seek work that relies on your tendency for perfection.

You will be encouraged to face your fears and make some important life changes.

You may also find an interesting shift occurring in your sex life. Advances in neural interfacing will make huge and positive impacts in your world. Tip: An authentic life is your path to happiness.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

November 23 – December 22 Big changes may shake up your daily routine, encouraging you to rethink your life and what makes you happy.

You may find medical science offers you a helping hand when it’s most needed.

Tip: Going offline will bring you a new sense of connectivity with the world.

December 23 – January 20 If you’re a gamer or a technology enthusiast you’re just going to love the next seven years, as things take huge leaps into total coolness. With the right mindset, you’ll find a whole new love for life. Tip: Go with the flow and give yourself permission to have fun.

STARGAZER

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EMAIL DEAR ROSE WITH YOUR PROBLEM

By Rose Pappalardo

Dear Rose, I have identified as a transgender man for almost ten years now. I think it’s time to tell my parents, so I don’t have to play dress-up when I go home to Queensland each Christmas.

They are pretty right-wing in their beliefs, and I know it will go bad and they may even disown me. I want to tell them, and I love them no matter what, but it will break my heart knowing what I will hear. I could really do with some advice. Vince

Dear Rose, My boyfriend of three years recently told me that he also has feelings for a girl a work — she knows he’s gay and that we are a couple.

Whenever we hang out with his workmates, they flirt constantly, and it leaves me feeling pretty yucky. He says it’s just harmless fun, but I’m not so sure. WG

Dear Vince, There comes a time in everyone’s life when we come to realise that being true to who we are is more important than ‘protecting’ the people we love with false ideas and lies.

Dear WG, It’s a well-known practice for straight girls to hang out with the ‘gay’ guys — for them it’s a safe environment to let loose and have a good time. What is concerning is that your BF has expressed he has feelings for this girl.

Regardless, if your relationship is based on a monogamous framework, this situation sounds concerning to me.

There are a few things you can do to make this path a little easier. It is important you ensure your safety during your disclosure. Sadly, sometimes things can go terribly badly, especially with family. Having a friend or supportive family member with you is something to consider.

A counsellor can assist you in preparing beforehand, and connecting with a peer support group is highly recommended.

Be empathic towards your parents, as they will need to go through their own emotions as they process this new information. Hopefully, they will allow you to guide them through this difficult but important process.

I suggest you have a discussion about how this makes you feel and whether he needs space to explore his feelings, and of course how that may affect your relationship.

It will be important that you allow him to be open about where he’s at. Remember, relationships are organic — they change and evolve — and the key to continuing a healthy, strong and respectful relationship is communication.

Dear Rose, I’m a young lesbian and I have a female ‘friend’ who is always telling me I look like a straight woman, and that being so girly is not helping achieve equal rights for women as she says I look weak. Do you think she’s right? Lipstick

Dear Lipstick, When I was first coming out, I was told that I wasn’t a ‘real’ lesbian until I had three dogs. At the time, I believed I had to go out and rescue three dogs to gain entry to the lesbian club. Whether you decide to wear doc martins or wear mini skirts (or both), it makes you no less or more of a lesbian than anyone else. BTW, there are also plenty of feminists that wear dresses and lipstick. As an LGBTIQ community, we are always talking about diversity and inclusion. I might suggest that your friend should walk the walk.

“The beauty of standing up for your rights is others see you standing and stand up as well.”

Cassandra Duffy, advice columnist.

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

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DEARROSE

If you need help or have a question email : dearrose@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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