Rainbow News AUTUMN 2012
Thursday 17 May is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO). The day is recognised in over 60 countries. It is held on 17 May, as 17 May 1990 was the day when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. There are many events happening for IDAHO. It’s a great opportunity to challenge homophobia and transphobia and to celebrate diversity. Anyone can get involved and any action, big or small, makes a difference.
IDAHO 2011
Rainbow News Autumn 2012 RAINBOW NEWS is a quarterly publication of ACON Northern Rivers Office 27 Uralba Street, Lismore PO Box 6063 South Lismore 2480 Phone: (02) 6622 1555 Fax: (02) 6622 1520 Freecall: 1800 633 637 Email: northernrivers@acon.org.au Tobin Saunders—Content editor/Layout Stacy Hughes—Proofing Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers who pack/distribute Rainbow News Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily the opinions of ACON, its associates, or the Editor. Publication of contributions will be at the discretion of the Editor. Any articles containing racist, sexist, homophobic or defamatory remarks will not be published. Contributions: Original contributions and letters are welcomed and encouraged. It is preferred that articles are submitted by email to tsaunders@acon.org.au Deadline for the Winter edition June/July/August is 1 May 2012 Articles in Rainbow News cannot be reproduced without permission.
Marie Reilly Acting Manager dryan@acon.org.au Tobin Saunders Community Health Promotion Officer tsaunders@acon.org.au Neil McKellar-Stewart HIV Health Promotion Officer nmckellar-stewart@acon.org.au Amber McBride Acting Community Health Promotion Officer Lesbian Health mreilly@acon.org.au Rose Hogan Lesbian Cancer Project officer rhogan@acon.org.au Roy Starkey Client Services Officer rstarkey@acon.org.au Sioux Harrison Admin/Volunteer Officer sioux@acon.org.au Renia Gryc Counselling Coordinator rgryc@acon.org.au
https://www.facebook.com/aconhealth ACON-NORTHERN RIVERS
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ACON Northern Rivers had an action packed 2011 including fantastic involvement with the local community during AIDS Awareness Week. ACON produced a wonderfully successful fundraising event on World AIDS Day and we can’t thank the YARN Guerrillas enough for their amazing contributions and fundraising on the night. A big shout out to ACON’s committed volunteers, who helped make Tantalizing Trivia such a success! In early December Treatments By The Sea, was well attended and had an excellent selection of presenters discussing issues affecting people living with HIV.
The “L” Word in Lismore As part of the International Women’s Day celebrations, lesbian and same sex attracted women and are invited to join us for a night of women, food and networking on 9 March 2012 at ACON, 27 Uralba Street Lismore. This get together will offer an opportunity to catch up with friends, reflect on the findings from the Pink LACE project and network with local cancer related health providers. Most importantly it will provide an opportunity for us all to consider strategies for
Speaking of the sea, ACON had three very beneficial beach outreach days at Tyagarah and Kings Beaches. The aim of this outreach was to distribute safe sex and health promotion materials and ensure beach users know their rights and responsibilities. And last but not least ACON had a visible and colourful presence at Tropical Fruits NYE party. This included a volunteer breakfast, health promotion and of course our fabulous ACON Rovers. For such a big party it really was a dream and was (almost) incident free. Thanks to all who helped make it such a memorable and safe end to 2011. Acting Manager - Marie Reilly
strengthening those relationships which support our health needs. Along with the local information and discussion there will be super, complimentary pamper pack and a lucky door prize! If you would like to join us or would like more information please contact Rose on 6622 1555 or rhogan@acon.org.au. We really look forward to seeing you. The Pink LACE project is an ACON Northern Rivers initiative with funding through Cancer Australia’s Building Better Cancer Networks.
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It has been 30 years since HIV was first identified. Today we know more about the disease, treatments and prevention than ever before. The big picture gives you a snapshot of HIV in New South Wales in 2011 and explains how the epidemic continues to impact gay men. Below is an extract from the Big Picture resources, for more info go to www.hivthebigpicture.org.au
IS HIV OUT OF CONTROL IN NSW? NO Over the last decade annual rate of new diagnoses of HIV in NSW have remained stable. In 2010, 234 gay men were diagnosed with HIV, this group has consistently made up approximately 75% of the total number of new cases over the past 10 years. While HIV rates amongst gay and bisexual men are steady in NSW, they have risen sharply in other places in Australia and around the world during this time. WHY HAVE HIV RATES REMAINED STABLE IN NSW OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS? Most gay men have continued to
use condoms most of the time. Most gay men limit the unprotected sex (that is sex without condoms) they have to one person - their boyfriend, partner or a regular fuck buddy. More HIV positive men are on effective treatment and as a result, most of them have undetectable viral loads (the viral load is the amount of HIV in the blood). 'Undetectable' means that the level of virus is so low in a test sample of blood that it can't be detected. It doesn't mean that HIV has disappeared entirely. It will still be present in other parts of the body, like the gut. While undetectable viral load doesn't mean there's zero risk, it does mean that it's much less likely for HIV to be transmitted.
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ARE THERE LESS GAY MEN LIVING WITH HIV IN NSW TODAY THAN 10 YEARS AGO? NO In NSW there are now approximately 8500 gay men living with HIV and this number has continued to increase over the years. Most of the HIV positive men in NSW live in inner Sydney. Up to 15% of gay men are HIV positive in some inner metro areas and around 10% of gay men elsewhere in Sydney. Populations of HIV positive gay men also live in regional NSW in areas like the Northern Rivers and Newcastle. DOES HIV STILL MATTER TO GAY MEN?
WHEN ARE HIV INFECTIONS MOST LIKELY TO HAPPEN? Infections are most likely to happen when guys who have recently been infected with HIV and are unaware they are HIV positive have unsafe sex. In the six months after infection occurs, viral load is at its highest, and infection is more likely. The sooner you know you are HIV positive, the sooner you can adapt your behaviour and seek treatment. WHICH GAY MEN ARE MOST AT RISK OF HIV INFECTION? Recent research suggests there are three broad categories of men who most commonly appear among recent diagnoses.
Most gay men agree that HIV is no longer a death sentence but a large majority of men still believe that HIV is a big deal and remain very concerned about HIV being transmitted. A small proportion of gay men (around 18%) occasionally have sex without condoms with casual partners. What do we know about the men who are being diagnosed with HIV? Virtually all HIV infections in gay men are the result of anal sex without condoms.
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25% of men recently diagnosed
with HIV were probably in S E R O D I S C O R D A N T RELATIONSHIPS (where one partner has HIV and the other doesn't) and usually avoid unprotected sex but may occasionally take a risk or experience a condom breakage. In other cases a partner may have been unaware he had HIV and inadvertently passed it on. 35% of men recently diagnosed with HIV were probably SEXUALLY ADVENTUROUS and play in networks where unprotected sex is more likely to occur including when men have many different sexual partners, have group sex and take drugs during sex. 35% of men recently diagnosed with HIV usually used condoms but were likely to have SLIPPED UP on this occasion for a variety of reasons. Note: There is overlap between groups as the boundaries are blurred. Men can also belong to two groups and often change from one group to another over time. WHAT CAN WE DO TO DRIVE INFECTIONS DOWN? Gay men in NSW have a unique opportunity right now to push HIV diagnoses down to record lows. Recent research has shown that small changes in a few areas can have a powerful effect on reducing the number of HIV diagnoses. There are a few things we can all do in order for this to happen:
Maintain condom use. A decline in condom use would result in a drastic rise in new HIV infections. Make sure you test for HIV and other STIs at least once a year and more often if you've been busy. Being diagnosed as early as possible means you can find out about your status and so avoid passing HIV on to your sexual partners. Disclose your HIV status So you and your partner can make the right decision about the type of sex you have. Restrict sex without condoms to men of the same HIV status To eliminate the risk of transmitting the virus. Use PEP* and act quickly if you think you've been exposed to HIV as it may prevent you from becoming infected. Aim to maintain an undetectable viral load if you are HIV positive as strong evidence shows that an undetectable viral load makes transmitting HIV less likely. *Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a course of HIV treatment that can prevent infection if it's started within 72 hours of exposure to HIV - and the earlier the better.
For more information about the Big Picture go to: www.hivthebigpicture.org.au
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calendar MARCH 2012
APRIL 2012
2
HUMAN LIBRARY Lismore Library 11am—1pm
1
FRIENDS OF DOROTHY Lismore Workers Club 6pm
4
FRIENDS OF DOROTHY Lismore Workers Club 6pm
3
FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
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FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
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LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
ACON CLOSED EASTER—GOOD FRIDAY
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ACON CLOSED EASTER—EASTER MONDAY
8 8 9
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The L-WORD Lismore 6622 1555, 6pm @ ACON
13 YOUTH WEEK 13-22 APRIL
BYRON BAY INTERNATION FILM FESTIVAL—ACON FUND-RAISER www.bbff.com.au
13 PLANET POZ—GOLD COAST (07) 3013 5504 17 FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
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FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
19 LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
21
ACON VOLUNTEERING INFORMATION SESSION 6622 1555/1800 633 637
21 DELICIOUS PARTY Lismore Bowls Club
24
DELICIOUS PARTY Lismore Bowls Club
25
ACON CLOSED ANZAC DAY
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MAY 2012 1
FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
3
LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
4
HUMAN LIBRARY Lismore Library 11am—1pm
6
FRIENDS OF DOROTHY Lismore Workers Club 6pm
ACON COUNSELLING SERVICE Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - during the day and evenings till 9pm 1800 633 637 (02) 6622 1555
15 FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com 17 LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
ROLLER DERBY Thursday nights 1800 633 637
GLADS DOG WALKING GROUP Saturdays 6621 4514
17 IDAHO—WORLDWIDE 29 FRESH FRUITS YOUTH GROUP freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
MOTOR BIKE RIDES Wednesdays 0412 341 976
31 LUNCHEON CLUB 6622 1555/1800 633 637
SHAIDS YOUTH DROP IN CLINIC Wednesdays 6620 2980
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FUNKY VOLUNTEER! Volunteers! We love volunteers at ACON. So anytime we get the chance to recognise the great work they do we jump at it.
about, ensuring that the 5 million people who volunteer in Australia are recognised, and counted for the contribution they make.
That’s what National Volunteer Week is all
ACON would thank all of our
like
volunteers. Thankyou for the valuable work you do with our organisation and our communities.
to
VOLUNTEERING in your community can CHANGE and improve peoples lives. It is a way to CONNECT to your community, a way to LEARN new skills and TEACH old ones. It ASSISTS others and helps you MEET new people. Volunteers PARTICIPATE in administration, counselling, events, education, health promotion as well as alcohol and other drugs work. If you have ever wondered what we do at ACON and how YOU can be INVOLVED, come along to one of our information sessions. Light snacks will be available. WHEN:
Wednesday 21 March 10am - 12pm
WHERE:
ACON’s lounge room 27 Uralba St Lismore
We are looking forward to meeting you.
OR
5.30pm – 7.00pm Ph: 6622 1555
Sioux, Volunteer Coordinator
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National Youth Week is an annual, week long celebration of young people (aged 12–25) throughout Australia. It gives young people an opportunity to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives and it’s also lots of fun. National Youth Week is 13 - 22 April 2012, this year’s theme is "Imagine. Create. Inspire."
National Talent Competition, Coming Soon! The National Talent Competition gives you the opportunity to showcase your talents in the areas of photography (SnapIT), short films (ShootIT), short stories (WriteIT), music (RockIT) and graphic design (DesignIT). You have the chance for your entry to be judged by a high profile industry professional in our Industry awards and may also be open to votes from the public through our People's Choice awards. There will be some fantastic prizes up for grabs! Keep an eye on youthweek.com for the National Talent Competition, coming early 2012!
Fresh Fruits is a fabulous youth group for people of diverse sexuality and gender identity, and with nearly 100 members it’s been growing like grass in summer! Socialising and meeting other like minded people is key to reducing isolation and helps develop and maintain solid friendships.
The group meets every second week and the first autumn date is Tuesday 6 March from 5:30 -7:30pm. For more information or assistance with travel please email freshfruitsgroup@gmail.com
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PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) is a course of anti-HIV medications taken over a four week period that can prevent you becoming infected. There can be a range of side effects during treatment but if there’s a possibility that it could prevent you becoming HIV positive, isn’t it worth it? If you think you need PEP, get onto it fast.
For PEP to work it needs to be started as soon as possible after exposure and definitely within 72 hours. PEP is NOT a substitute for safe sex – using condoms is always the best method of prevention. PEP Hotline If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, call the 24 -hour PEP Hotline as soon as
Rainbow News Autumn 2012
possible. You can find out if you’re eligible for PEP and where you can get it. Tel: 1800 PEP NOW or 1800 737 669 (in NSW). Generally you can get PEP from the sexual health clinic or Hospital Emergency Departments
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“Tara House” 4 Shepherd Lane, Lismore, NSW 2480 Please phone (02) 6620 2980 for an appointment.
YOUTH DROP IN CLINIC Every Wednesday from 2:00pm - 5:30pm For people 25 years and younger. No appointment necessary for this clinic.
Two brilliant forums are planned for the Northern Rivers GLBT community during autumn 2012. Where There’s a Will There’s a Way will delve into issues such as wills, enduring guardian and power of attorney and is offering vital tips around planning for end of life or unforeseen circumstances. Don’t let confusion or fear stop you from being well prepared! Heart Matters is not about cardiac health (although this is important too). This forum will explore how we can learn about healthy relationships and implement some practical steps to reduce unhealthy habits in our community and increase empowerment. To register interest or make an enquiry about transport or volunteer some time to this project please contact us here at ACON 1800 633 637
Alzheimer's Australia NSW’s (AANSW) Tweed Dementia Sector Development Project aims to raise community awareness about dementia, including risk reduction, improving coordination, availability and responsiveness of dementia care services and supports to people at risk of dementia and people living with dementia and their carers, including members of the GLBTI Community. Dementia is now the third leading cause of death in Australia. All the more reason why GLBTI people and people of any age living with HIV require appropriate dementia specific, community and/or aged care services. AANSW is collaborating with key stakeholders through the establishment of a GLBTI Advisory Committee made up of relevant service providers from the sector. A working party has been set up to develop a culturally appropriate education program for service providers about the needs of GLBTI people as they age. Four pilot education sessions will be held for service providers during March and April. Other goals of the advisory committee are to develop local community resources on ‘ H I V- a s s o c i a t e d neurocognitive disorders’ (HAND), dementia, risk reduction, services & support which target GLBTI people and a clear referral pathway from GLBTI services to dementia services. For more information contact : Chris Vannucci, AANSW 07 5523 0731.
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Contacts ACON Northern Rivers 27 Uralba St, Lismore 2480 Ph: (02) 6622 1555 Fax: (02) 6622 1520 Free call: 1800 633 637 Email: northernrivers@acon.org.au
SOCIAL Fresh Fruits Youth Social Group Contact Tropical Fruits 6622 6440 Feathers Women’s Social Club www.feathersgc.com info@feathersgc.com Tropical Fruits Social and support for GLBT
SUPPORT Australian Bisexual Network 1800 653 223 / ausbinet@optusnet.com.au Gender Centre 9569 2366 Fax: 9569 1176 GAMMA (Gay and Married Men’s Association) 1800 804 617 COAL (Coalition of Activist Lesbians) Lavender: 0448 251 348 PFLAG Shelley Argent (07) 3017 1739 pflagbrisbane@hotmail.com Gay Dads NSW Dominic 0400 296 253 nsw@gaydadsaustralia.com INTRA The Buttery’s Alcohol & Other Drugs Outreach Program PO Box 42 Bangalow 2479 6687 2835 The Freedom Transgender Support Group freedom.support@hotmail.com Meet 3rd Saturday of the month 10am –1pm Nerang
community and friends ph/fax 6622 6440 www.tropicalfruits.org.au Radical Faeries 130 acre land sanctuary, north of Nimbin. Come and visit, gatherings, rituals, communal workdays. Call us first 6689 7070. ozfaeries@yahoo.com www.ozfaeries.com Blues Sisters Softball Team Lesbian-bi-queer and queer-friendly. Contact Sheila 6624 6734.
SERVICES Sexual Health Clinics Lismore, Byron and Ballina Sexual Health & AIDS Service - 6620 2980 Clinic 145, Tweed Heads - 07 5506 6850
LEGAL HALC - HIV/AIDS Legal Centre NSW Free legal advice - 1800 063 060 / 9206 2000 Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre Free legal advice, information and referral. Women’s Outreach Court Support and Legal Education. 6621 1000 POLICE GAY & LESBIAN LIAISON OFFICERS Byron Bay Sgt. Murray Powell 6685 9499 Grafton Snr Constable Paul Johnston 6642 0222 Lismore/Ballina Insp Nicole Bruce 6623 1599 Tweed Heads Sergeant Leanne Edmonds 07 5536 0999
Clinic 229 Grafton - 6640 2229 North Coast Area Health Service Liver Clinic for Hepatitis C clients - 6620 7539 Lismore and District Women’s Health Centre Service 25 Uralba Street - 6621 9800 Women’s Health Matters Menopause, Osteoporosis and Incontinence 6620 2999 Mensline - 6622 6116 www.menandfamily.org.au Gay and Lesbian Counselling Services 1800 184 527 (5.30-10.30pm, 7 days) GayLine (Brisbane) - 1800 249 377
FREE CALL NUMBERS
Clarence River Women’s Refuge Resource Centre
ACON Sydney - 1800 063 060
6642 4955
24-hour HIV Treatment Support - 1800 454 510
Public Dental Health Call for locations of other public dental clinics or to make appointments for the Lismore area
AIDS Hotline - 1800 451 600 BGF - 1800 651 011 / Fax 9283 8732 Domestic Violence Crisis Line NSW - 1800 656 463
1300 651 625
Hep C Info & Support - 1800 803 990 Positive Life (NSW) - 1800 245 677
Tweed Shire Women’s Services PO Box 407, Murwillumbah 2484
Lifeline - 24 hour counselling - 13 11 14
6672 4188