Man2man issue22

ISSUE # 22: SPRING:2016 FREE

HUNTING HIV AN EQUAL F OOTING

WORLD AIDSDAY

T

hanks for picking up this copy of Man2Man. Spring brings relief from the long cold winter nights. The streets are alive with activity; take a moment to see what’s going on in this space in Tasmania.

World Aids Day takes place on December 1st every year and is a time to update ourselves about current trends in HIV care and prevention. See pages 4 and 5 to read about some of the activities happening locally to raise money and awareness for HIV causes, and on page 6 you can read Jack’s insightful delineation of the space in between HIV prevention and cure.

If you or people you know are inclined to donate spare pennies to worthwhile causes, consider giving in the name of World Aids Day, and offer encouragement to the TasCAHRD team who are walking up the mountain to raise funds for the Andrew Shaw Foundation, a charity that provides support to people living with HIV in Tasmania. See page 8.

In this edition, we give space to promote Matt’s equal footing campaign. Tracey and the three Matts are all wearing rainbow laces and you can get some too (for a small price), they look great, and promote a compelling message. Check out the article on Page 10 – 11.

Interested to find out where the hype is at re curing HIV? It’s not here yet, and it probably isn’t just around the corner either, but steps are being made, and Matt has provided a summary of some recent news.

Sneaky virus it is, but not bulletproof. See page 12 for more.

Participate in some local activities? The Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance are holding an event in January, and it’s time to register now! See page 9 for more details. Also, there is an LGBTIQ friendly group that meets semi-regularly at Ginger Brown on Elizabeth Street? You’ll find info about them on page 7. If you don’t want to commit to something so personal, you might like to take some time to participate in the next round of the Gay Community Periodic Survey.

It’s here to count how many gay men get up to what kind of stuff in Tasmania, see page 13.

As the weather improves, it is time to think about leaving the cosy corners of your safe haven and look for opportunities to get out and about.

What’s it going to be?

EDITOR - MATT ANNING A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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Lube: One water based lube Four Seasons water based lube 75 ml Four Seasons water based lube 500 ml

$17 $4 $10

tasCAHRD 319 Liverpool Street, HOBART OPEN 9am - 5pm

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

This publication is an initiative of the Health Promotion Program at the Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis and Related Diseases, (TasCAHRD).

Views expressed in Man2Man are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of TasCAHRD. Phone: 03 6234 1242 Email: projects@tascahrd.org.au Post: GPO Box 595 Hobart Tasmania 7001 Web: tascahrd.org.au Facebook: Man2ManTas

Editor: Matt Anning Contributors: Jack Southwell Charly Clare Hendry Lukman Matt Keane Matteo Senesi Martin Holt Vic Perri Rod Shadbolt Our colleagues at TasCAHRD

Design & Layout: TasCAHRD receives funding from the Ede Magnussen Crown, through Department of Health Printing courtesy of: and Human Services, to provide these Xerox Hobart services.

Would you like to see your business or service advertised in this mag?

Contact TasCAHRD for rates – projects@tascahrd.org.au.

WA R N IN G

some of the content of this magazine may be offensive to some readers

A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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World AIDS Day Breakfast Join Us TasCAHRD is thrilled to have discrimination experienced by people Australia’s new Human Rights Commissioner, Mr Edward Santow, as guest speaker, for the first time in Tasmania, to observe World AIDS Day 2016.

living with HIV, and the relevance of human rights to HIV/AIDS. The purpose of this breakfast is to help break down barriers and to raise funds for the Andrew Shaw Foundation, which supports the dignity and quality of life of Tasmanians living with HIV. Is there someone you know who would enjoy attending this event to show their support for people living with HIV? Let them know!

WHERE: The Terrace Room, Best Western, 156 Bathurst Street, Hobart WHEN: Friday, 2nd December, 6:45 for 7:00am COST: $50 per person; $325 per table of 7 BOOK: https://www.trybooking. com/236526

Commissioner Santow considers that promoting equality for LGBTI people and people living with HIV is a vital part of protecting human rights and the ‘fair go’ in modern Australia.

On Friday, 2nd December, he will address the ongoing stigma and 4

If you would like any further information about the breakfast or the Foundation, please contact tasCAHRD Fundraising Officer, Charly Clare on 6234 1242 or asf@tascahrd.org.au.

Charly Clare A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

World AIDS Day is held on the 1st of December each year.

It raises awareness across the world and in the community about the issues surrounding HIV and AIDS. It is a day for everyone to show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died.

HIV is still here, and it’s on the move Getting to Zero: Zero discrimination, Zero new HIV infections Zero AIDS related deaths

If you would like to make a difference for your community, we are seeking volunteers for the main streets and shopping centres in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie. To support this global event, we will be providing red ribbons to the public and raising funds for the Andrew Shaw Foundation.

The Andrew Shaw Foundation provides assistance to Tasmanians who are either living with HIV or who are affected by HIV. This fund survives solely on donations from the public.

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Reframing the Conversation Inewfound was recently having a conversation with a friend about my experiences as a

social work student at TasCAHRD. He, a gay man, said “HIV isn’t very common now” and “I’ve never met anyone with AIDS”. *Shudders* These assumptions are ones I have heard time and time again when raising the topic of my placement at TasCAHRD. To me, hearing someone say “I’ve never met anyone with AIDS” sounds ignorant. But is it ignorance or just an acceptance of the narrative that is currently being projected by our media?

In July of this year, researchers from the Kirby and Peter Doherty institutes declared that the “age of the fatal syndrome [is] over (ABC, 2016)”. This was on the back of statistics that mortality rates have dropped so significantly from its peak of around 1000 every year in the early 1990s, that Australia now has successfully beaten the epidemic.

In early October an article written by James May was published on The Huffington Post titled “As an HIV-Positive Person I Feel Exploited By Drug Companies”. The article referenced May’s current frustration with AIDS organisations in Australia which are spotlighting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PREP) and Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) as an end to HIV transmissions. The reality for May and the thousands of others living with HIV in Australia is that despite a reduction and possible eradication of transmissions, the challenges for them continue. May’s primary objection is of Big Pharma’s agenda to have “every gay man taking some kind of pill regardless of their HIV status”. May says he feels trapped by the pharmaceutical companies who are silencing the experiences of those living with HIV. “If Pharmaceutical companies can churn out a never-ending supply of antiviral medicines… surely they can extend themselves to find a cure.”

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The idea of taking daily medication as prophylaxis (as I acknowledge, many females my own age do) makes me feel uneasy.

Working at TasCAHRD however, I have been given the opportunity to see both sides of the coin – health promotion used to reduce transmissions on the one hand, and direct work with those living with HIV on the other.

The conversation about working towards zero transmissions needs to continue moving forward however should not be dictated by the current medication trends as pushed by pharmaceutical companies. Advocacy and support needs to continue to ensure sufficient care is provided for our friends living with HIV and the implications of zero transmission on them.

Huge steps, through PEP and PREP are being taken to reduce the likelihood of developing HIV however the fact remains that there are thousands of people living in Australia with the diseases and it is the collective responsibility of everyone working in the health sector to provide them with the same level of focus and care that the preventative procedures are receiving.

Jack Southwell For reference information call TasCAHRD. A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

HOBART 'FRIENDZ' SOCIAL This 'Group'

is purely an informal purely social group of LGBTI people that meets on a regular basis each month, holding monthly BBQs/meals at members homes or restaurant/hotel as well as weekly coffee mornings at Cafe's in both Hobart & Huonville. Fortnightly Quiz nights are also held.

All events are held in non-threatening & safe environments & allows people to mix with like minded people. 'FRIENDZ' is not associated with any other organisation although a lot of members were previous members of Rainbow Tasmania.

We do not have political views or fund-raising requirements. Most monthly lunches you byo food & drink, with BBQ facilities normally being available.

There are not any membership fees. Membership details are maintained by the Co-ordinator.

Forthcoming Events:- 30th October - BBQ., 19th November – Evening Dinner 25th November – Flamingo's, 7th December – Christmas Dinner If anyone is interested in joining, please send email to hobartfriendz@gmail.com with your name, address, email, & telephone contact.

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MEET THE ANDREW SHAW SHUFFLERS

The world's

toughest

half marathon, they say. The Point to Pinnacle. Pretty much every step of the 21.4 km course, with 1 270 m elevation, is upward, to the top of Mt Wellington!

The Shufflers are putting their bodies on the line to raise funds for the Andrew Shaw Foundation, which supports the dignity and quality of life of Tasmanians affected by HIV. One third of these people live below the poverty line. Many are socially isolated.

Reported transmissions in Tasmania are on the rise and requests for support are increasing. The ASF is the only emergency relief program for people with HIV and their carers in Tasmania.

With only 3 months to prepare, 8

physically and mentally, for their challenge, the team - Tracey, Sielito, Sarah, John and Charly vacillate between excitement and terror. They are going to need every dollar of your support for the ASF to urge them up that mountain!

A big thank you to all of you who have sponsored the Shufflers for the Point to Pinnacle so far. We're close to breaking through the 4 digit barrier – with your help we can crack that milestone! Donations are tax deductible and simple to make, online at https://www.givenow.com. au/pointtopinnacle​.

Help Tasmanians living with HIV to climb the mountains in their lives.

Every day.

Charly Clare A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

LOVE ALL

Tasmania will be holding its first GLTA-

sanctioned tennis doubles tournament held in Hobart at the Domain Tennis Centre on Friday 27th January 2017 evening and full day Saturday 28th January 2017. GLTA (Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance) is a worldwide organisation that co-ordinates a series of worldwide tennis events for the LGBT community although anyone can play, regardless of skill level, sexuality, age and race. You can find more info on www.hobartouttennis. weebly.com/ and www.glta.net/ There will also be a player party on Saturday after the tournament at Hotel SOHO from 7 p.m. Saturday 28th January 2017, where you can watch the Australian Open Women's Final night with fellow players all whilst getting a free glass of champagne and food! Entry to party for players is included in the tournament fee and additional tickets for non-players can be purchased.

Registration for the tournament is $50 per player and there are 5 divisions to cater for all levels of play. You can register as well as find the rules and regulations on the GLTA link: www.glta.tournamentsoftware.com/sport. Don't worry if you do not have a doubles partner yet. You can still register now and we will pair you together once you find a partner.

Please contact Hendry Lukman on 0433 329 845 or email hobartouttennis@ gmail.com should you require more information.

About the tournament director: Hendry moved to Hobart two and a half years ago from Sydney to be with his partner Chris after a couple of years of long distance romance.

In Sydney, Hendry was heavily involved with the gay tennis club there, Tennis Sydney.

Over the years, he made countless close friends from the club. Hence, when he moved to Hobart, he also wanted to start a gay tennis tournament where anyone, regardless of skill level, sexuality, age and race can come together as friends and eventually a family and enjoy a game of tennis!

You can also like our Facebook page to get updates! https://www.facebook.com/HobartOutTennis A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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AN EQUAL

When I was much younger, the grand final

edition of the AFL Footy Show was a spectacle in the week leading to the AFL Grand Final.

In particular, anticipation mounted for the ‘Players Review’. Players from each team would parade their bodies in minimal attire (as if football shorts aren’t skimpy enough) in ironically self-deprecating skits. Certainly no one watching expected theatrical genius.

Indeed, homoeroticism and B-grade crossdressing shows were common, and the players seemed to amplify their divine status in the football community by doing so. You could imagine my confusion when I would swan into our kitchen on a Sunday afternoon wearing clogs and a pleated skirt but not to applause, instead just confusion and even embarrassment in the audience. ‘Not my son/brother/nephew,’ were likely the words that wanted to fly out of the mouths of those present for my performance.

No doubt, it was hypocritical of people to curb my explorations of identity while celebrating AFL players who ‘did it for fun’. Beyond that though, it pointed to the attitude that underpinned the placement of LGBTIQ+ persons in the political, legal and religious institutions in Australia then and still today: we tolerate you, but we will not respect you. These are, of course, not the words used by opponents of marriage equality because they hide their prejudice behind crafted phrases such as ‘traditional’, ‘man and woman’, ‘sanctity of marriage’ and ‘institution’.

The LGBTIQ+ community is not immune to this attitude either. Take, for example, the proliferation of ‘masc’ and ‘gym’ culture among men who have sex with men. The ‘masc4masc’ tag on many online profiles does not make a simple statement of preference but one of judgment: resistance to the ‘fairy’ within and around. To me, it is a manifestation of a simple desire to be accepted – and I say that because, regrettably, I have relentlessly sought masculinity in the past precisely for that reason. But how does it relate to a broader culture of tolerance but not respect for LGBTIQ+ people?

Well, to me, ‘masc4masc’ is a rejection of the same stereotype that opponents of marriage equality invoke to legitimise their moves to cast the LGBTIQ+ community as ‘other’ (for which a different set of rules should then apply). In a sense then, the hypermasculine culture 10

A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

FOOTING panders to a broader social attitude of discomfort with effeminate and flamboyant behaviour.

Fitting in by pushing others out; whoever we are it is hard to reconcile this with the sensible idea that ‘thou shalt love thy neighbour’.

The impact of this attitude on children is more concerning still. I was resisted for wearing clogs and skirts, and learnt to resist my attraction to men then too. That is, I learnt to resist myself. Similarly, Australia, in its political, religious and legal institutions, resists my attraction to men too.

Indeed it is tolerated (that is, I will no longer be jailed for it) but it is not respected – because, should I want to, I cannot marry (a man). I have persevered against these internal and social resistances to my identity, and am well poised to enjoy life under the current law. Are all so blessed?

Marriage equality, to me, is not about my right to be married. It is about undoing a form authoritative discrimination. The current law legitimises the attitude of tolerance without respect for LGBTIQ+ people that is played out on television sets, in sporting clubs, workplaces, pubs, family homes and even gay clubs, because it enshrines it in law. In some circumstances expressions of this attitude are better described as homophobia.

I started wearing rainbow laces as resistance against this attitude. So wonderful has the response been that I opened the opportunity up for other people to do the same by distributing laces through a campaign called An Equal Footing (www.anequalfooting.com.au). The movement needs you to be involved, not for your sake or mine, but for ours.

Matt Keane A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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KICK OR KILL S

cientists may have just debunked one of the last challenges posed by HIV: clearing it from cells in the body where combined Anti-Retroviral Therapy (cART) cannot reach. Current cART stops the virus from replicating and prevents HIV/AIDS-related symptoms, and significantly decreases the chances of further HIV transmission when the viral load reaches an undetectable level in the bloodstream. Unfortunately, cART itself is not sufficient to completely clear the infection because HIV hides in particular “sleeping” cells (called reservoirs) and uses them as under-the-radar replication factories. To eradicate the virus from the reservoirs a new study employed a “Kick and Kill” approach, where the combined treatment of a vaccine and use of Vorinostat helps the immune system to recognise and destroy these infected reservoirs. The first participant from the study, one of 50 volunteers, tolerated the treatment and after two weeks his blood had still no detectable HIV virus. The “RIVER” study is conducted in collaboration with five leading British research medical institutes and tests are still ongoing. Professor Sarah Fidler from the Imperial College, London, says “it has worked in the laboratory and there is good evidence it will work in humans too”. Despite the promising early results, researchers highlighted that the study is only in a preliminary phase and all participants of the RIVER study are on cART and expected to have no HIV in their blood. For this reason, it is not possible at this stage to establish if the virus has been cleared from the body and if this new therapy has valid efficacy. The results from the RIVER study are expected to be published in 2018.

Dr. Matteo Senesi Menzies Institute for Medical Research University of Tasmania

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A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

Gay Community Periodic Survey Returns to Tasmania For the first time in Tasmania, The Gay Community Periodic Survey was conducted in 2014 and is returning to the Apple Isle in November 2016. The survey assesses sexual practices, relationships, HIV status and health service engagement among gay and bisexual men. The results are used to guide HIV prevention and health promotion services in Tasmania.

The 2014 survey revealed that a quarter of Tasmanian gay and bisexual men, particularly younger men, had never previously tested for HIV, and that condomless sex was relatively common, particularly within relationships. The results coincided with a push to promote HIV testing in Tasmania, including more intense promotion of rapid HIV testing through sexual health services. Now we’d like to find out what, if anything, has changed in the last two years, and to see what else needs to be done. We’ll be launching the 2016 version of the survey in the first week of November. The survey is delivered entirely online, and can be completed on your computer, tablet or smartphone. It’s completely confidential.

You can find out more about the survey or complete it at this website: http://gcpsonline.net The Tasmania Gay Community Periodic Survey is conducted by the Centre for Social Research in Health at UNSW Australia, supported by TasCAHRD and the Department of Health and Human Services, Tasmania.

Martin Holt Associate Professor, Research Coordinator Centre for Social Research in Health A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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What a fantastic weekend!

TasCAHRD Residential Workshop at Steeles Island

Steeles Island was a beautiful setting to have a weekend retreat and within such

an easy drive east from the TasCAHRD office. And it was balmy winter weather too. People came from all over Tasmania. Some from the Hobart area and some from up north and northwest.

After settling in, we started the off the weekend with some essential balancing of our mind and body with a mindfulness session kindly provided by TasCAHRD’s counsellor followed by a relaxing Yoga session provided by TasCAHRD’s fundraiser, Charlie. What a great start to our weekend.

We were so chilled that first night that even though the plan was to watch a film, most of us were simply sitting around and reclining on the big comfy couches in the large airy lounge just chatting till bed time.

On Saturday morning after a healthy and substantial breakfast (more about the amazing food later ), we started doing some workshop sessions.

We covered such a wide range of topics. Neil gave us a comprehensive run down on the latest research into HIV transmission involving undetectable viral load and PrEP. The take home message? For those of us living with HIV, on treatments and with a stable undetectable viral load it is almost impossible to pass on HIV. Very welcoming news to all of us as!

The next couple of sessions involved interesting discussions around sexual negotiating in various situations where we may potentially disclose our positive HIV status. We covered mainly the context of sexual encounters but also disclosure with family, health settings, etc.

One of the best things about the weekend was that the conversations not only happened within the structured workshop sessions but in casual conversations over meals and while people were enjoying their free time between organised program activities. Many issues in addition to the ones covered in the sessions included the latest in treatments including

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A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

injectable drugs, transgender, local HIV laws, local laws around sex on site venues and much more.

On Sunday morning we did a workshop session on HIV Stigma and Resilience. We brainstormed what we thought stigma actually was and where it can occur. Importantly we then explored the strategies that could be useful in building resilience which can go a long way in helping us deal with stigma and potential discrimination.

Oh, did I mention the food? Well, all I can say is that the food was 5 stars thanks to the culinary skills of Vincent and Ian who worked tirelessly to ensure that they weren’t just feeding us but made us feel like we were staying in a luxurious hotel resort.

A su m ptuous breakfast p rov i d ing a great start fo r th e d ay

Not only did we get beautiful meals but we also learnt a few things along the way. Ronnie, who in case you don’t know is a bee keeper, showed us a range of different honey and gave us an opportunity to taste an array of different types with a few tips on knowing how to pick a good quality honey.

Feeling like we were on Master Chef, we watched Wayne demonstrate how easy it was to make fresh Indian Paneer as well as yoghurt which we ate of course.

The Paneer getting made, easy!

The final product ready to be used in a salad or simply with some nice fresh bread

Of course it wasn’t all just delicious food, interesting conversations, and learning some new tricks in making Paneer and yoghurt but we even had the opportunity to take advantage of the place and its fabulous location with walks along the beach, billiards and even an outdoor spa.

What a great weekend TasCAHRD had put on and it seems that everyone is already keen on the next one!

Vic Perri Health Promotion Officer Living Positive Victoria A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

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Red Party Raises Fabulous Funds

W

hat do you get when you combine university students, an iconic independent brewing company, and an innovative high profile cosmetics brand on a Friday evening in Hobart?

The Red Party, held annually by IMPACT, the University of Tasmania's Global Health group, raises funds for HIV/AIDS causes as part of a nationwide Australian Medical Students' Association-run campaign.

This year they decided “to boldly go where no one has gone before” and trialled a new event model, which raised almost $2,000 for the Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis and Related Diseases’ Andrew Shaw Foundation - the only emergency relief program for people with HIV and their carers in Tasmania. A similar amount was raised for SASS, the Sexual Assault Support Service in Hobart.

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MAC Cosmetics Hobart staff generously volunteered their time to give fabulous lip makeovers to guests, and provided beautiful products as a prize for “Guess how many condoms in the jar”! The MAC AIDS Fund supports innovative programs that deal directly with the most marginalized, stigmatized and under-heard people affected by HIV and AIDS. What a successful event! TasCAHRD thanks everyone for their time and effort. These funds will help support the dignity and quality of life of Tasmanians affected by HIV. The Red Party was generously supported by The Hobart Brewing Company.

Charly Clare

A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

TasCAHRD in collaboration with Tasmanian Sexual Health Service

No medicare card required Rapid HIV testing Full STI screening PEP and PrEP (including help with access to PrEP)

Answer all your questions Thursdays from 4:00pm – 6:30pm (final appointment at 6:00pm) Free. Confidential.

For bookings call 6234 1242 319 Liverpool St Hobart

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Services Directory STATEWIDE

SOUTHERN

Antidiscrimination Commission Assists in pursuing claims of discrimination on grounds of sexuality, gender identity etc. www.antidiscrimination.tas.gov.au

Family Planning Tasmania 421Main Road, Glenorchy P: 03 6273 9117 Mon-Tue & Fri9:00am-5pm;Thur 9:00am-6:30pm http://www.fpt.asn.au Provides free and confidential sexual health care to people of all ages. Services include: contraception, pregnancy counselling, sexual health checks, pap smears, information and referral.

Gay & Lesbian Switchboard Confidential peer-based telephone counselling, information & referral service specifically for the GLBTI communities of Victoria & Tasmania. P: 1800 184 527 www.switchboard.org.au Scarlet Alliance Sex Worker Outreach Project. www.scarletalliance.org au Sexual Health Service Counselling, support, referrals & STI & HIV testing.

P: 1800 675 859 (Free call) E:sexual.health@dhhs.tas.gov.au TasCAHRD Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis & Related Diseases.

P: 1800 005 900 (FreecallInformation,9am - 5pm) www.tascahrd.org.au Tasmanian Gay & Lesbian Rights Group (TGLRG) A community-based organisation campaigning for LGBTI human rights in Tasmania. Stall at the Salamanca Market every Saturday. www.tglrg.org Tas Police LGBTI Liaison Officers P: (03) 6230 2111(Hobart) P: (03) 6336 7000 (Launceston) P: (03) 6434 5211(North West) www.police.tas.gov.au TasPride Dedicated to celebrating & uniting the Tasmanian GLBTI community as well as bringing you the annual TasPride Festival. www.taspride.com Working It Out Tasmania's sexuality & gender support & education service which also provides counselling & support for LGBTI Tasmanians, their friends & family. www.workingitout.org.au 18

Sexual Health Service 60 Collins St, Hobart P: 6166 0990 or Toll Free: 1800 675 859 Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm. Clinic times may vary. http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/ sexual health/sexuaI_health_ service_ tasmania Free and confidential counselling and medical appointments for any issues concerning sexual health.

Anglicare NSP Hobart 18 Watchorn St, Hobart P: 1800 243 232 Mon – Fri 12.30 am – 4.30 pm The NSP provides free clean, sterile equipment, information, education, support and referrals to people who access the service. A 24 hr vending machine is located at the lower section of the building. There is a $2 fee for this service.

Nufit (Anglicare NSP) Glenorchy 436 Main Rd Glenorchy P: 1800 243 232 Mon – Fri 10:00 am – 4:30 pm Nufit is an NSP which provides clean, sterile equipment, information, education, support and referrals.

The Link Youth Health Service and Head Space 57 Liverpool St, Hobart P: 03 6231 2927 Mon – Fri 9.:00 am - 5:00 pm www.thelink.org.au The Link offers free counselling. case management, support, information and referrals for young people aged 12-24 in regards to mental health, alcohol and drugs, sexual health and family planning. Outreach is also available. Free condoms and an NSP is also available for people aged 12-24.

A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

Hobart Community Legal Service Provides advice and representation to clients in areas such as: discrimination law, employment law, consumer credit, Centrelink disputes, and child support. They offer free evening information sessions at the Hobart office on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm, where volunteer solicitors give information on all legal areas.

Mon-Thur 9am-5pm; Fri 9am-lpm www.hobartlegal.org.au Appointments are required for some services, ring ahead to find out.

166 Macquarie Street, Hobart P: 03 6223 2500 7 Station Lane, Sorell P: 03 6265 1911 Shop 3, Covehill Fair, Bridgewater P: 03 6263 4755 Flamingos Dance Bar Tasmania's weekly dub committed to providing a tolerant, safe, informative and fun environment for people of alternative sexualities and their friends to be able to enjoy themselves and socialize in a non threatening environment. www.flamingosbar.com

NORTHERN Shield Uniting & Supporting Northern Tasmanian LGBTI youth www.shieldtasmania.org Launceston - Family Planning Tasmania 269 Wellington St, Launceston P: 03 6343 4566 Mon-Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm http://www.fpt.asn.au Provides free and confidential sexual health care to people of all ages. Services include: contraception, pregnancy counselling, sexual health checks, pap smears, information and referral.

Launceston - Sexual Health Service 34 Howick Street, Launceston 7250 P: 03 6777 1371 or Toll Free: 1800 675 859 Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5:00 pm. Clinic times may vary. www.dhhs.tas.gov.au Free and confidential counselling and medical appointments for any issues concerning sexual health.

A Health & Lifestyle Resource for Men in2 Men

Burnie - Family Planning Tasmania 1 Pine Ave, Upper Burnie P: 03 6431 7692 Mon, Wed & Thur 9:00 am-4:30 pm www.fpt.asn au Provides free and confidential sexual health care to people of all ages. Services include: contraception, pregnancy counselling, sexual health checks, pap smears, information and referral.

Devonport - Sexual Health Service P: 03 6777 1371 or Toll Free: 1800 675 859 Clinic times may vary.

Free and confidential counselling and medical appointments for any issues concerning sexual health.

NSP Salvation Army Building 111 Elizabeth St, Launceston P: 03 63316760 Mon-Fri 8:30am-3:00pm This is the only primary NSP in Northern Tasmania. The service provides non judgemental clean, ster access the service.

EAST COAST East Coast Queer life Support (ECQLS) North East support association coordinating & providing services & social activities for GLBTI people.

Call Peter on 0467 000 748, or email ecqls.tas@gmail.com.

GAY-FRIENDLY CAFES

DS Coffee House, Red Velvet Lounge, Fleurty's Cafe, Restaurant Waterloo, Lebrina, Kusinat, Republic Bar, Criterion cafe, Lansdowne cafe, Retro cafe, Machine Laundry Cafe, Jackman and McCross, Basket and Green, Deloraine Deli, O'Keefe's Hotel, Stonies Fifties cafe, Fitzpatrick's Inn, The King of Burnie Hotel, Tasmania Inn, Hotel SOHO, Restaurant Red, Pickled Evenings Indian Restaurant, Cafe Bozzey.

If you notice any details that are out of date in these listings or if you would like to add your details here, please call us on 03 6234 1242

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