FUSE33 : TRUE LOVE KNOWS ONLY EQUALITY (Girl Cover) by FUSE Magazine

FUSE STEFANIA FERRARIO TELLS US WHY

BALD IS BEAUTIFUL REALITY BITES IN THE REAL L WORD ELLEN DEGENERES DOWN UNDER 100 YEARS OF RAINBOWS

+ MARDI GRAS FAIRDAY PHOTOS

PLUS MEDITATION OFF THE CUSHION A SIMPLE PATH TO HAPPINESS

> > > TRUE LOVE KNOWS ONLY EQUALITY

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LIFE LOVE 33 24 EQUALITY

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LIFE LOVE 33 EQUALITY EDITOR Alexander Thatcher ASSOCIATE EDITOR Yasmin Element

POLITICAL EDITOR Simon Copland CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christopher Powell PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Linda Djumlija CONTRIBUTORS Scott Malcolm Andrew Barr Elizabeth Gorrell Keiran Rossteuscher Clancy Atkinson Rose Pappalardo Bebe Backhouse May Garrett Davey Wavey Melisa Paz PHOTOGRAPHERS MiLo800 Peter Coulson Lily Chen Doug Robinson

36 K OUT CHEC 2013 R OU I GRAS MARDIRDAY FA TOS PHO

Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Aussie local and Arrested Development babe Portia de Rossi, will arrive on Australian shores in March. Elizabeth Gorrell follows Ellen’s humble beginnings from a stand-up comic in Louisiana to the mega-star she is today.

Meditation becomes more popular as each year passes, but it’s not always easy to fit it into our busy lifestyles. We explore meditation off the cushion and how a simple practice can bring more joy and happiness to everyday life.

Love it or hate it, The Real L Word has become an iconic reality TV show. FUSE caught up with the starlets of the show, Kiyomi McCloskey & Lauren Bedford Russell, who are currently on tour in Australia.

Happy birthday Canberra. Yes it’s true, our National Capital is turning 100 this year and she intends to party in a big way! Canberra is now a truly gay friendly city and she wants to tell the world!

FUSE REGULARS

WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU 43 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 dietry advice contained in this magazine is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician and a fitness/health professional before changing your diet, doing any exercise program, or taking any supplements or remedies of any kind. Submissions of text, photographs or any other material will be taken as consent to publish said material.

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FUSE FEATURES

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Editor’s Rant What’s On Round Up : News & Politics Talent : Bald is Beautiful Ear Candy : Music Reviews Eat Me : Pickling Food Out & About : Cube Nightclub Couch Potato : Film & TV Money Shot : Queeretirement Fitness : Gender Segregation Health : Testing Times Out & About : Qwire Turns 20 Out & About : Mardi Gras Fair Day Stargazer : Your Horoscope FUSE Community Directory Dear Rose FUSE33CONTENTS

❂ HAPPY BIRTHDAY Alexander Thatcher Editor

As FUSE enters its 5th year of production, our National Capital turns 100 — we have a long way to go before we catch up! It’s going to be a pretty exciting 2013 in Canberra with hundreds of amazing events planned. As part of the celebrations, FUSE partnered with ACT Tourism, Centenary, SpringOUT and CUBE at this year’s Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Fair Day to let the rest of Australia know what a fantastic place Canberra is to visit. It was a really fun day and a special thankyou goes out to all the volunteers who made the day possible. See all the photos. p42. And as we go to press, Canberra is also strutting its stuff at this year’s glittering Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. Campberra is leading the procession with the Parliament House flag pole; followed by the Centenary float; Capital Queers — from Canberra with Love; the Australian Federal Police with Centenary Kenny Koala; and ACT PFLAG. Look out for all the photos in our next issue of FUSE. 2013 will also see Ellen DeGeneres and her Aussie wife — Arrested Development babe, Portia de Rossi — arrive on Australian shores. To celebrate her visit in March we take a look at how it all started for Ellen, from humble stand-up comic to the mega-star and gay icon she is today. p16.

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EDITOR’SRANT

Talking about popular lesbians, the girls from ShowTime’s hit TV reality series The Real L Word are also touring Australia in March. Elizabeth Gorrell caught up with starlets Kiyomi McCloskey and Lauren Bedford Russell to ask them about their plans for the trip, fame and their lives outside The Real L Word. p36. If there’s one certainty in life, it’s that we will all get older (in spite of how much we may resist it) and will eventually have to start making decisions about planning for our life after work. So our resident money mechanic, Scott Malcolm, looks at the best ways to prepare for a fabulous, fun and financially free retirement. p33. And for this issue I’ve written about my own personal journey to bring more joy and happiness into my life. Although I’m very blessed in so many ways, like most people I often struggle with day-to-day stuff. Over the past few years I have discovered that meditation brings me the calm and clarity to help see the world as it really is. It can be difficult to find the time to fit meditation into our busy lives, so I’m sharing some personal tips that have helped me incorporate mindfulness into everyday activities. p24. Enjoy, Alex

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MOVIES

CULT CLASSICS COME TO DENDY From March through May Dendy will be showcasing some of the best CULT CLASSIC films over the last 40 years. The season will kick off on March 4 with the 1976 film Taxi Driver starring Robert Di Niro and Jodie Foster. About a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran — with insomnia — who works as a night time taxi driver in New York City, Taxi Driver has regularly been cited by critics and audiences alike as one of the greatest films of all time. Quentin Tarantino has been one of the most talked about directors this year and Dendy will bring some of his best films back to the big screen. Tarantino’s line up will include Reservoir Dogs (1992), Pulp Fiction (1994), Grindhouse Double Feature (1994) and Natural Born Killers (1994) Other films will include Scorsese’s Goodfellas (1990), Francis Coppola’s The Godfather Part I & II (1972-74). Director Steven Spielberg’s epic Jaws (1975), Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), E.T. (1982) and Indiana Jones (1984) Dendy Cult Classics will commence every Monday with a session at 10am and 6pm. Check out dendy.com.au for the full line-up and film synopses.

CLOUD ATLAS OPENS 28 FEBRUARY

FUSE MOVIE PICK OF THE MONTH!

Cloud Atlas begins by introducing us to its many protagonists whose stories take place decades and even centuries apart. We meet naïve 18th century lawyer Adam Ewing (Jim Sturgess), a handsome young composer named Robert Frobisher (Ben Whishaw) living in the 1930s, hippie journalist Luisa Rey (Halle Berry) reporting in the 1970s, publisher Timothy Cavendish (Jim Broadbent) living in the present day, Korean clone worker Somni-451 in the distant future and finally a tribesman named Zachary (Tom Hanks) in post-apocalyptic Hawaii. The lives of these seemingly unrelated characters are inexplicably linked through fate, chance and emotion. As each character faces dilemmas — whether issues of life or death or establishing liberation from a life of slavery or servitude — Cloud Atlas arches on the belief that our actions and destinies may not always be our own and the sometimes unexplainable feelings of reincarnation and déjà vu that humans experience have actual meaning.

OZ : THE GREAT AND POWERFUL OPENS 7 MARCH

Don’t miss Jaws, a 1975 thriller film directed by Steven Spielberg. The prototypical blockbuster was a watershed moment in motion picture history. In the story, a giant man-eating shark attacks beachgoers on Amity Island — a fictional summer resort town — prompting the local police chief to hunt it with the help of a marine biologist and a professional shark hunter.

When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a smalltime circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot until he meets three witches, who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late.

✔ FREE 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 fantasitc 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 • 108 JONSON STREET, BYRON BAY WWW.DENDY.COM.AU

WHAT’SON

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RUTHIE FOSTER ON TOUR

JOIN IN CANBERRA’S 100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS MONDAY 11 MARCH 2013 Happening from midday until late, around Lake Burley Griffin, this is a free event with something for everyone! Here’s a snapshot of what is happening on the day. THE LONGEST BUBBLY BARS IN THE WORLD Stretching out along the lake, the bars will offer glasses of Centenary bubbly, specially created by local winemakers and served with locally grown tapas. GOURMET FOOD AND WINE STALLS Gourmet food and wine stalls will showcase Canberra’s fantasic local food and wine producers. REGATTA POINT STAGE FROM 9PM We’ll pay tribute to perhaps an unexpected aspect of our nation’s capital: a rich history of original contemporary music. The program includes reformed Canberra bands such as The Church, The Gadflys, Falling Joys, and Salvation Jane with special guests and collaborations with ‘old rockers’. ASPEN ISLAND FOLK GATHERING The National Folk Festival team presents a savvy and sweet mix of folk and roots music. Fresh and vibrant, Battler’s Ballard will present striking arrangements of Australian and contemporary music. THE SYMPHONY STAGE A dedicated stage at the Old Parliament House will feature a brilliant line up of Canberra community groups, including the Canberra Gay and Lesbian Qwire, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The Canberra Symphony Orchestra and local choirs will present the commissioned Centenary Symphony by internationally renowned composer Andrew Schultz. CANBERRA IN SO MANY WORDS Create giant words on the north side of the lake and be entertained by interactive events, roving acts and marching bands. For the full program visit oneverybigday.com.au

MORE RUTHIE FOSTER PAGE 23

SYDNEY : THE FACTORY THEATRE 21 MARCH CANBERRA : THE STREET THEATRE 22 MARCH PENRITH : THE JOAN 23 MARCH If you have not heard of Grammy nominated singer Ruthie Foster, it’s time to start living a bit, because Ruthie and her band will be powering onto Australian stages in March. Her latest album “Let it Burn” is a captivating blend of soul, blues, gospel, New Orleans funk. She’s a gutsy singer and the house is gonna burn, so don’t miss out. More details p23.

WHAT’S ON! WANT TO KNOW WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING, CHECK OUT OUR ‘WHAT’S ON’ SECTION AT WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

ACTION TO THE WORD’S ALL MALE A CLOCKWORK ORANGE ON TOUR SYDNEY : THE SEYMOUR CENTRE 23 APRIL – 5 MAY CANBERRA : THE CANBERRA THEATRE 22 – 25 MAY The critically acclaimed, all-male theatrical production of the ground-breaking novel, A Clockwork Orange is coming to Australia direct from the UK. This production is a testosterone fuelled, electrifying theatrical adaptation of the best selling novel, which was adapted into Stanley Kubrick’s cult film in 1971. Both the original literary source and film adaptation of A Clockwork Orange have become seminal icons in popular culture and remain as relevant today as when they first entered the cultural psyche.

‘An outstanding all-male ensemble. The pure physicality and energy is astonishing. This is a show that everyone should experience.’ ~ What’s On Stage. WHAT’SON

100YEARSOF

By Andrew Barr ACT Deputy Chief Minister

RAINBOWS

The Centenary of Canberra is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our city’s unique history, and what the future holds in our second century. Looking back at Canberra in 1913, our home was nothing more than a few sheep stations. But from this has come a wonderful city — a place that is home to the best educated, best paid and healthiest people in the country.

This is an achievement of which we should all be proud, and is due to the committed work of the many people who have advocated and strived in the name of tolerance and diversity over the years.

There is a jam-packed calendar of events and activities, and there really is something for everyone: from things that are sheer fun, to serious cultural pursuits, from world-class music, art and sport, to exhibitions and explorations of our indigenous and multicultural roots, and from community gatherings to special events that explore and celebrate our past.

To help spread the word about our quest to make Canberra the most LGBTQI inclusive city in Australia, the Centenary team partnered up with ACT Tourism, FUSE Magazine and local community groups to hold a stall at Mardi Gras Fair Day in Sydney, and distributed the Centenary Program and the Canberra Gay & Lesbian Visitors Guide. Photos p42.

Last but not least is Canberra’s birthday — March 12 — when there is a massive day of events, including the world’s longest bubbly bars, where you can sip on a tasty concoction specially created by local winemakers and take part in a synchronised toast at 11.00am.

Our stunning Canberra floats also marched together in the Mardi Gras parade this year — Campberra lead with the Parliament House flag pole, followed by a Centenary float, then Capital Queers — from Canberra with Love, the AFP with Centenary Kenny Koala, and PFLAG. Watch out for photos in the next issue of FUSE.

I encourage all Canberrans to make the most of our Centenary year and enjoy the many and varied events on offer. And invite your interstate and overseas family and friends, and tell them about the rich history on offer here, and the pride that we have in the great city we call our home.

Closer to home, Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT distributed condoms with a Centenary wrapper for National Condom Day, and of course there is the Spring Out festival in November, which will be included in Volume 2 of the Centenary program. There are also a couple of other exciting events in the works — stay tuned for details.

For more information on Canberra’s Centenary and all the fantastic events visit Canberra100.com.au If you are one of our interstate readers, be sure to check out the Canberra Gay & Lesbian Visitors Guide at fusemagazine.com.au

But the reasons we love our city are far more than just statistics on jobs and pay — it’s embodied in our community spirit, and in the fact that we are a wonderfully tolerant and diverse community.

Although most Canberrans are proud of our modern, progressive and thriving city, it is disappointing that lazy stereotypes about the National Capital still exist. I’m sure most of us have stories of interstate counterparts having a whinge about Canberra. Our Centenary is a great chance to challenge these views.

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By Simon Copland

ROUND UP) ELLEN DEGENERES IS COMING TO AUSTRALIA If you love the Ellen DeGeneres show, then your chance to experience it live may be coming soon. Ellen has announced that she will be touring Australia in March. Her show will be somewhat ‘Oprah-like’. She’s bringing 400 fans to our shores to shoot a few episodes from Sydney and Melbourne. Read our special feature on p16.

BARACK OBAMA MAKES GAY RIGHTS CENTRAL TO SECOND TERM President Barack Obama made history as he entered his second term, becoming the first President to say the word ‘gay’ in an inauguration speech. This emphasis on gay rights in the speech signaled that Obama may be looking to take more action on the issue in his second term and the President didn’t disappoint as national attention turned to immigration in late January. Under an immigration overhaul proposed by Obama, same-sex couples would have the same rights as their straight counterparts. Under current federal law, it is basically impossible for citizenship to be conferred to a partner of an American citizen if they are in a same-sex relationship. Obama’s proposal would change this. It is not known whether this will get through, but it is a good start.

RELIGIOUS GROUPS — OK TO DISCRIMINATE POPE BENEDICT XVI Pope Benedict XVI made a shock announcement in early February, deciding to retire at the end of the month. After becoming the Pope in 2005, Benedict has overseen a number of controversies in his time, including scandals about child sex abuse cover ups in the Catholic church, ongoing homophobia from the Pope and those high up in the church, and a continued refusal to support the use of contraception to deal with the HIV/AIDs pandemic. Benedict said he retired as he no longer had the strength for the role. The question now — will the Catholic Church aim for someone more progressive, or will it be the same old conservative dogma?

DO YOU LIKE YOUR BODY? In a recent survey about body image straight guys like their body the most, followed by lesbians, followed by straight women. Gay men liked their bodies least. 8

NEWS&POLITICS

In the middle of January it was quietly confirmed that the right for religious institutions to discriminate based on sexuality would not be changing under Gillard Labor Government. The ALP is currently looking to introduce a new Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Bill and under the act, religious organisations will still be able to discriminate against those who caused “injury to religious sensitivities.” What does that mean? Religious organisations will still be able to discriminate against their staff and students based on their sexuality, firing employees or blocking enrolments if they’re gay, lesbian, bi or trans*.

JODIE FOSTER IS OUT It’s probably been one of the worst hidden secrets in Hollywood for years, but this year it was made public. At her acceptance speech for the Cecil B DeMille award for lifetime achievement at the Golden Globes, Jodie Foster publicly came out. The speech made headlines around the world, as Foster was lauded for her bravery and the beauty of her speech. But we ask, did she have to come out publicly? It has been relatively well-known that Foster has been in relationship with a woman for a long time, meaning that this speech came as no surprise. It seems that our current society requires “coming outs” for queer people which really seems ridiculous when you really think about it — ever meet anyone coming out as heterosexual. FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Barack Hussein Obama is the 44th and current President of the United States.

ADD IT UP 1997

The year Tasmania made homosexuality legal, the last state in Australia to do so. Campaigns are now underway to expunge convictions based on previous legislation.

The NSW cross party working group for marriage equality at Mardi Gras Fair Day.

‘‘

A VALENTINES DAY GIFT TO GAY COUPLES IN NSW

598

The number of years since the last Pope (Gregory XII) resigned from office following the retirement of 85-year-old Pope Benedict XVI on 28 February. The Conclave to elect a new pontiff will likely be convened during March, although we suspect it will make little substantial difference to anyone other than the guy who prints the Vatican’s business cards.

34 million

The number of people on the planet estimated to be living with HIV/AIDS. Since the beginning of the epidemic, more than 60 million people have contracted HIV and nearly 30 million have died of HIV-related causes.

The NSW cross party working group for marriage equality has given same-sex couples in a Valentine’s Day gift with the release of the consultation draft of the NSW State Marriage Equality Bill 2013. The aim of the bill is to provide marriage between two adults regardless of their sex. The working group said they are thrilled to have a Marriage Equality Bill which they feel confident will stand up to any constitutional challenge.

INDIAN SURROGACY TOURISM CURTAILED The ability for gay and lesbian couples, as well as any unmarried people to seek parenthood through Indian surrogacy programs has been curtailed. Recent rules introduced by the Indian Government have determined that surrogacy will now only be available to “man and woman (who) are duly married and the marriage should be sustained at least two years”.

PRO-FOOTBALLER SAYS HOMOPHOBES SHOULD BE BANNED FOR LIFE! In a recent intereveiw AFL player Brock McLean said, ‘If there’s anyone yelling homophobic taunts, those people should be banned from footy for life. You hear, “you weak poof, you faggot” from supporters who use it as a term for someone who might go in soft or might not be as hard at the ball, which is just mind-blowing because it’s totally irrelevant and totally far from the truth.’ Whilst McLean’s support is fantastic a life bans is possibly a little harsh as there should always be room for forgiveness as views and feelings can change with time.

Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law. For if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well. Barack Obama at his inauguration speech

Robin Tyler is a pioneer within the grassroots gay civil rights movement.

‘‘

If homosexuality is a disease, let’s all call in queer to work: ‘Hello. Can’t work today, still queer.’ Robin Tyler

Hip-hop singer Ben Haggerty better know by his stage name Macklemore.

‘‘

If I was gay, I would think hip-hop hates me... I can’t change even if I tried, even if I wanted to... When kids are walking ‘round the hallway plagued by pain in their heart. A world so hateful some would rather die than be who they are... ‘Same Love’ by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis was #15 on the Triple J Hottest 100

NEWS&POLITICS

ROUND UP) FEWER AMERICANS BELIEVE HOMOSEXUALITY IS A SIN The percentage of Americans who believe being gay is a sin has decreased significantly in a year, according to a survey by LifeWay Research. A November 2012 survey of adults in the United States found 37 percent affirm a belief that homosexual behavior is a sin — a statistically significant change from a September 2011 LifeWay Research survey asking the same question. At that time, 44 percent answered, “Yes.” In contrast, the percentage of Americans who do not believe homosexuality is a sin remains nearly the same between the two surveys — 43 percent in September 2011 and 45 percent in November 2012 indicate this belief, with an increase in the percentage of those unsure of what they believe. Seventeen percent in the November 2012 survey said, “I don’t know” an increase of 4 percent over the September 2011 survey. Americans who never attend religious services are the most likely to say they do not believe homosexual behavior is a sin (71 percent).

Noel Tovey was convicted of having gay sex more than 60 years ago and still carries a criminal recond for buggery today.

HISTORICAL CONVICTIONS FOR BUGGERY Despite homosexuality being decriminalised in Victoria in 1981, many older gay men still have historical convictions for consensual sex and to this day it continues to cast a shadow over their lives. One of these men, 79 year old Noel Tovey has come to tell about his story — a life smeared with a ‘’buggery’’ conviction he has no way of removing. He told The Age that he was arrested when he was 17. ‘I was at a party given by one of Melbourne’s then infamous female impersonators, everyone fled except me … and I was taken to the police station and coerced into writing a confession.’’ Charged with “buggery”, Noel pleaded not guilty. He spent months in Pentridge Prison awaiting his trial before being released on a good behaviour bond. Noel says that the conviction still haunts him. Despite the decriminalisation of homosexuality, Noel and many others who were convicted under the laws carry deep scars and to this day are prevented from applying for some jobs, such as teaching. Many can’t even take on volunteering roles. The Victorian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby has been running a campaign to expunge convictions for those under the old law and the State Government has now indicated that it will be looking at legislation to erase the criminal convictions.

HOMOPHOBIC AUSTRALIA PARTY All it took was one interview and few tweets for Bob Katter’s Australia Party to cause national controversy and lose two candidates in the meantime. It started when the candidate for Wannon, Tess Corbett linked homosexuality with paedophilia when questioned about the Human Rights and Anti Discrimination Bill. Scrutinised for her homophobic views, one of Corbett’s colleagues, Bernard Gaynor — the Senate candidate for Queensland — quickly came to her defence, declaring that he would not want gays teaching his kids. The two candidates were out of the election within 24 hours, and the party leader Bob Katter subjected himself to what turned out to be an extremely embarrassing interview, where he refused to even recognise the serious issues that Corbett and Gaynor were raising.

NEWS&POLITICS

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36 Animals, 5 Actors, 1 Farm Animal Farm promises to be one of the most shocking, exciting, relevant and wickedly funny theatre events of 2013 and beyond

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5-7 March: Tuesday 5 March 1pm & 8pm; Wednesday 6 March 10.30am & 8pm; Thursday 7 March 10am & 1pm. TICKETS: Full price $39, concession & groups $34, all matinees: $29.

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Sweetly dark, a comedy of anxiety, absurdity and occasionally terror

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Off-Broadway’s phenomenal longest running musical comedy

Book and Lyrics by Joe DiPietro Music by Jimmy Roberts

Bookings and information: 6285 6290 or www.theq.net.au

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FUSE GIRL COVER

FUSE COVER GIRL

STEFANIA FERRARIO

Photo by Peter Coulson HOT&TALENTED

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FUSE GIRL COVER

STEFANIA FERRARIO Born in Canberra to an Italian mother and English father, when it comes to girls, Stefania Ferrario is pretty impressive. She’s smart, extremely sexy, well travelled, tri-lingual, bi-sexual, totally comfortable with who she is… and bald — by choice. What more could you want in a girl? Really? No really! Only last year Stefania shaved her hair to do a charity shoot for the Cancer Council to raise money for cancer awareness and research. Soon after this she was spotted by one of Australia’s leading fashion photographers, Peter Coulson, who wanted to include her in his upcoming photo book In My Pants. Hoping to raise $2,000,000 to fight cancer, Peter’s book is made up of celebrities; cancer fighters, survivors and everyday people all wearing a pair of his 30-year-old Levi 501 jeans. We were lucky enough to also have Peter Coulson shoot Stefania for this month’s FUSE girl cover. FUSE : So how did you get into modeling? STEFANIA : I did a fun, laid back shoot when I was 16 and gradually built up a portfolio. Modelling is a tough gig and not all it’s cracked up to be and I almost gave it up. It wasn’t until I finally got signed with Vicious in Melbourne that I really got into it. They’re a fantastic agency and definitely look after their models. FUSE : Why did you decide to keep your head shaved after the charity shoot for the Cancer Council? STEFANIA : I decided to make it my ‘look’ as I wanted to prove that bald is beautiful and can be sexy. Being bald, especially as a girl, is hard because a lot of people automatically assume you are ill, either from cancer or that you are living with some form of hair loss disease. Growing up you are trained to believe that girls must have long hair and boys have short hair. Going against the norm and proving to society that a girl can be just as feminine and beautiful without hair is my goal. I want women who are undergoing chemo or living with alopecia to be able to walk down the street and feel just as confident and sexy as they would with a head of hair. FUSE : There must be heaps of misconceptions that come with being a bald girl? STEFANIA : There definitely are, especially walking down the street, people always do the double or triple take. You can see confusion and intrigue in their eyes. I do get quite a few people stopping me either complementing the bald look or asking what the story is behind it. I’ve been asked a lot whether or not it was out of choice or because I have an illness. Illness shouldn’t be the first thought to cross people’s minds.

Photo by Peter Coulson FUSE : If you weren’t a model, what would you want to do? STEFANIA : I love kids and languages, so probably something to do with childcare, interpreting or teaching. FUSE : So your are a bi girl, when did you first realise that? STEFANIA : I’ve known since about the age of thirteen that I was bisexual. I had a big crush on a girl in high school with whom I had my first kiss. She was a gorgeous brunette ballet dancer. I fell for a boy when I was in college, and we dated for almost two years. FUSE : Do you think it’s more difficult being bi-sexual than gay? STEFANIA : To be honest I don’t think it really would make much of a difference. In my experience, being bi is easier. I fall for the person, not the gender. I have quite a few openly gay friends, some of which have gone through a lot of strife and tough times when they came out, from their ‘friends’ and even family. It’s hard to think that there are still a lot of people out there that won’t accept someone for who they are, or look pass that person’s sexuality. Sexuality, just like hair, is not something that should define you. FUSE : So how’s the love life now you’re older. STEFANIA : Only recently I got back in the game, and I currently have a girlfriend, Sally. She is openly gay, and just a whole heap of fun to hang out with. She gets along really well with my family who has accepted her with open arms.

FUSE : What would your dream modeling job be?

FUSE : So what’s next for Stefania Ferrario?

STEFANIA : That’s a really tough one! I think it would be being chosen to do a sexy catalogue spread for a high fashion magazine such as Vogue, but completely bald!

STEFANIA : I’m planning on spending some time in Melbourne to do some modelling work and have a little fun while I’m at it, as next year the hard work starts — I’m enrolling at the ANU. HOT&TALENTED

DeGeneres DOWNUNDER

By Elizabeth Gorrell

It was now that DeGeneres realised that despite her hardworking nature, talent, and loyalty to the network and entertainment community, prejudice would prevail. However, this only slowed her roll momentarily, and could not dampen the relief she felt at having finally broken out of the trap of being closeted. Despite the fact that DeGeneres sees herself as a very sensitive person ‘too sensitive sometimes, especially in this business,’ the importance of being honest with herself and with her loyal fan-base overtook her desire for approval from the entertainment business and the community at large. DeGeneres has become a figurehead for kindness and honesty, rare qualities in a star of her calibre, and these attributes were informed not only by her brush with public prejudice, but by her childhood. Ellen has said that she was raised in a very passive environment and that the frustration of this formed her desire to confront the world with her sexuality:

In March of this year talk show host, author, comedian and LGBTI icon Ellen DeGeneres will set foot in Australia. Her wife, Aussie local and Arrested Development babe Portia de Rossi will accompany her, as will the production crew of her talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show. From her humble beginnings in stand-up comedy clubs in her home state of Louisiana, DeGeneres quickly rose to stardom; being named America’s Funniest Person by Showtime in 1982. DeGeneres went on to feature on The Tonight Show and was the first female comedian to be invited by host Johnny Carson to speak with him after her spot. From there, DeGeneres seemed unstoppable, gaining roles in feature films and starring in the sitcom Ellen, which had been renamed to showcase her enormous talent. From waiting tables at TGI Friday’s, DeGeneres found herself rocketed to the pinnacle of showbiz, and has named by both Time Magazine and Forbes as one of the world’s highest earning and most influential women. She has hosted the Academy Awards and Emmys, as well as being nominated for, and winning dozens of awards for her comedic performances, script writing, and production. Ellen’s path through the murky waters of popular entertainment has not always been easy, or pleasant. In 1996, she came out publicly, on the cover of Time Magazine no less, accompanied by the headline “Yep, I’m Gay.” Shortly after, DeGeneres’ sitcom Ellen ran an episode, penned by Ellen herself, about her character coming out as well. The move was unprecedented, and the backlash was swift and harsh: Ellen was cancelled, ABC lost the support of several sponsors and advertisers, and DeGeneres consequently lost the support of ABC. DeGeneres was asked ‘Why do you have to tell everybody, who cares, and why do you have to announce it?’ To which she responded: ‘Because it’s [my] truth, and the truth shall set you free.’ 16

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‘I was raised to be quiet about things like that, (sexuality) you know, just keep your mouth closed. Not in a strict way… but in my family, nothing [was] ever confronted. Yet now it’s easy for me to tell other people what they’re doing and how it makes me feel.’ (Good Housekeeping) It is this penchant for open-ness and kindness that has ultimately lead to DeGeneres’ unmitigated success. Her brand of humour, which is never based on sarcasm or cheap shots at the expense of others, was a breath of fresh air to audiences when she launched her talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her style of comedy is anecdotal and playful, and she laments the state of modern American comedy, and grieves the loss of the comedic styling of her idols; people like Woody Allen and Steve Martin. DeGeneres wonders when comedy began to underestimate the public, and when making people laugh had be interlaced with “tearing someone down”: ‘You listen to any monologue on late-night TV or just in general, to people talking, and there’s always a joke at someone’s expense. It’s sarcasm, its nasty. FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

I grew up watching Dick Van Dyke and Lucille Ball, and they were nothing but sweet and funny. It wasn’t “negative comment, negative comment, laugh track.” So I’m really proud I’m not adding to the negativity.’ (Good Housekeeping). Avoiding negativity, and negative energy is important to DeGeneres, who believes that we are all connected, and that our actions influence the direction in which the world is headed. She says that faith plays an important role in her life, and she feels that the lessons she learnt being raised as Christian Scientist (“Do unto others as you would have them do to you”) stuck, even if the religion didn’t. Faith in a higher power informs the way she lives, and she practices meditation every day to cope with her extremely busy schedule. Quite apart from her career load (including writing three best selling books, launching a record label for young talent and her work on her talk show and feature films) DeGeneres dedicates much of her free time to charitable organisations and raising awareness for over 35 diverse causes. DeGeneres is often referred to as a philanthropist due to her massive contributions to charities ranging from animal rights and protection, education, LGBTI advocacy and breast cancer. Animal rights are particularly close to Ellen’s heart, and she has rescued all the animals that she and de Rossi keep at their farm. The pair owns horses, cats and dogs, and DeGeneres has dedicated herself to raising awareness for animal adoption and treatment centres. A particular focus of her charity is The Gentle Barn, an animal sanctuary in Santa Clarita, California. The centre houses and treats injured and abandoned animals of all sorts, including dogs, cats, pigs and horses, and their website showcases Ellen and wife Portia’s involvement with the project. The Ellen DeGeneres show has done wonders for numerous charitable causes, a mere mention skyrockets donations and interest. When Hurricane Katrina hit Ellen’s hometown of New Orleans, she and her viewers raised almost 10 million dollars in relief funds for the devastated city. DeGeneres also runs her own program for raising money for breast cancer research, called ‘Ellen for the Cure’. Also notable is her work on preventing bullying, particularly anti-gay bullying. DeGeneres produced a Public Service Announcement called ‘Be Kind’ aimed at exposing the terrible nature of bullying, and participated in the production of the disturbing documentary Bully, which drew attention to the abuse of young people by their peers in America.

After only a short period on the show, Ellen decided to step down from her role as a judge on American Idol in 2010. In a statement released by the network she commented that, it didn’t feel like the right fit. ‘While I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings.’ Ellen DeGeneres.

The LGBTI community knows what it’s like to be treated poorly. Ellen DeGeneres and her partner Portia de Rossi spend a lot of their time (and money) to help stop the exploit of billions of cows, pigs, lambs and chickens trapped in factory farms.

Despite her outspoken attitude towards giving, and the rights and safety of humans and animals alike, DeGeneres does not consider herself an activist, nor is she entirely comfortable with being an ‘icon’ for the LGBTI community:

‘I’m very uncomfortable with [being an icon], because I’m not. An icon is something that somebody else makes you. I didn’t choose to be anything other than a comedian. I just happen to be gay, and I didn’t feel like keeping it a secret, so I announced it. I didn’t intend for it to be an announcement even. It all turned into this whole big political thing.’ (Time Magazine) Being political is certainly something DeGeneres has no interest in. She does not consider herself an activist, but sees herself simply as someone who is passionate.

Ellen DeGeneres announced she would be heading to Australia on March 15 and told her very excited audience — with the help of Nicole Kidman — she’s taking them all with her!

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“I’m not an activist; I don’t look for controversy. I’m not a political person, but I’m a person with compassion. I care passionately about equal rights. I care about human rights. I care about animal rights. Above all, I strive to be the best person I can.” (Good Housekeeping) But, whether she likes it or not, DeGeneres has become a beacon of success and hope for LGBTI community members everywhere. Her happy marriage to de Rossi plays a part in this, and her affection for the Australian actress is nothing short of heart-warming. The two were married before Proposition 8 was passed in California and DeGeneres considers herself very lucky to have had the opportunity to wed the women she loves. Though she admits that getting married was “more important” to de Rossi than it was to her (O Magazine) she is delighted to have a wife, something she thought she would never have.

Portia de Rossi met Ellen in 2004. Portia said in an interview in The Advocate “I ran into Ellen at a photo shoot and she took my breath away. That had never happened to me in my life, where I saw somebody and (experienced) all of those things you hear about in songs and read about in poetry. My knees were weak.” Ellen announced on her show on May 16th, 2008: “Yesterday, if you haven’t heard, the California Supreme Court overturned a ban on gay marriage. So I would like would like to say, right now for the first time, I am announcing I am getting married.” Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi were married on August 16th, 2008 in a small ceremony at their home.

The TV sitcom Ellen ran from March 29, 1994 to July 22, 1998, producing 109 episodes. The series centered on Ellen’s dealing with her quirky friends, her family and the problems of daily life. The series is notable for being the first one in which the main character came out as gay, which DeGeneres’ character did in the 1997 episode “Puppy Episode”. This event received a great deal of media exposure, ignited controversy, and prompted ABC to place a parental advisory at the beginning of each episode. 18

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The pair are possibly the most successful lesbian couple in US entertainment history. DeGeneres sits at the 27th most wealthy person in the world at last count, and the pair are listed as one of the world’s power couples, holding influence over social media and the press. De Rossi, who has legally changed her named to DeGeneres, continues to perform under her maiden name, and can be seen in the upcoming reinvigoration of Arrested Development. It wasn’t until after the beginning of her relationship to DeGeneres that de Rossi gave interviews about her sexuality to mainstream publications, and she indicated in a 2010 television interview that she had been scared to reveal herself until that point. Both DeGeneres and de Rossi had been in less than stable relationships prior to getting together, with Anne Heche and Francesca Gregorini respectively. De Rossi also struggled with anorexia for the four years that she starred on Ally McBeal, but now maintains a healthy vegan diet and lifestyle with DeGeneres. As lesbian couples go, the two are fairly traditional, de Rossi wearing her pink diamond engagement ring along with her wedding band, and calling each other ‘my wife.’ DeGeneres considers de Rossi to be her soul mate, and they’re so adorable it’s almost gross. DeGeneres said of their relationship: ‘Well we’re perfect for each other. She is so beautiful and smart and so funny, and with her, I have that sense of “I’m done now.” I’m settled. I know that part of my life is taken care of. I’ve got love. I’ve got someone who will be with me till the day I die.’ (O Magazine). As LGBTI icons go, as unwilling as she may be to be one, DeGeneres is an excellent role model for success, tolerance, kindness and humour. There seems to be nothing fake about this woman; willing to expose her true self despite the consequences, DeGeneres is a figurehead for openness. Her presence in Australia can only be welcomed, and it is undoubtable that those lucky members of the audience will relish the experience. Ellen plans to begin shooting segments for the show in both Sydney and Melbourne on March 15th, and as well as the lucky locals, 400 audience members from LA will be treated to a trip down under to participate in the shoot. This will be DeGeneres’ first visit to Australia, and it is bound to be a successful one. Ellen’s sense of humour is a perfect match for Aussie audiences, and her visit will be fun for all, straight or gay! FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By Bebe Backhouse

EAR CANDY IT ALWAYS BRINGS A SMILE TO MY FACE WHEN A MUSICIAN, ACTOR OR OTHER ARTIST PUBLICLY DECLARES THEIR SEXUALITY.

Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t think for one second that one’s sexuality is anyone else’s business. However, when that leap of faith and guts is taken by someone with mainstream success and worldwide influence, I personally feel that the global LGBT community is just that little closer to reaching the epitome of acceptance. One artist who has recently joined that growing list is RnB singer, Frank Ocean. During a listening session of Ocean’s debut album Channel Orange, a journalist “harmlessly” began writing a piece about the frequency of Frank’s use of male pronouns in his songs. That night, he took to his Tumblr account and announced to his fans his sexuality, later admitting that although he “cried like a fucking baby” shortly after, he was happy. I think that we can all relate to this story; the magic that comes, the weight that is lifted and the happiness that is felt when honesty and self-acceptance is experienced.

MUSIC REVIEWS FRANK OCEAN : WISEMAN After unfairly throwing us all into a frenzy this summer by releasing the long-awaited debut masterpiece that was Channel Orange, Frank Ocean re-emerged recently and released an unforeseen and previously unheard track, ‘Wiseman’. Originally written for Quentin Tarantino’s latest film, the spaghetti-western Django Unchained, the song never made the cut for the soundtrack. ‘Wiseman’ begins with the reverberating warble of a line guitar (like any western should) and over the minimal music, Ocean considers the nature of man: the wise, mad, young, bad, evil, good, righteous, sad, old, strong, undying and weak. Sparse keys and drums back the dramatics of some string-plucking and before you know it, you’re listening to what could have been an epic closing scene. How could you, Tarantino?! Ocean reassures all men though (once the swelling synths come in), ‘your mother would be proud of you’. We bet the same of the six-time Grammy nominee. 20

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DIDO : NO FREEDOM In 2001, Dido found her audience on the strength of rapper Eminem’s era-defining single Stan, which sampled a verse of her own ‘Thank You’ as the chorus. Her soft cherubic vocals struck a chord with adult and adolescent alike as she found her market bridging the gap between mature singer-songwriter and dance/trip hop. Since Safe Trip Home in 2008, Dido returns with her new single, ‘No Freedom’, an archetypal love song done simply. Caught between uplifting and melancholy, the lyrics will certainly strike a chord with a huge proportion of listeners as she constantly reminds us that there is ‘no love without freedom/no freedom with love’.

FLUME : FLUME Since Australia and subsequently the world were introduced to Sleepless less than a year ago, Flume (aka Harley Streten) has been hard at work. The result: His highly-anticipated self-titled debut — 14 tracks of amazingly crafted electronic music from this versatile and talented producer. The diversity on the album is quite impressive with glitchy trip hop and stabby soul putting Flume’s instrumentation genesis in hip hop, exuding self-confidence and almost brashness. Whilst the production chops are still there, some of the tracks on the album could easily disappear into the black hole of music. It is when Flume flexes his creative muscles beyond a designated genre that his music flourishes. With a strong album of succinct tracks that never lose your attention, Flume is poised to become one of Australia’s biggest exports in electronica music. FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

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By May Garrett & Bebe Backhouse

EAR CANDY

THE ABILITY FOR MUSICIANS TO MOULD THEIR SOUND BASED ON WHAT IS POPULAR AT THE TIME IS AN INTERESTING PHENOMENON. The age old questions exists — do musicians stay true to their individual sound or do they “sell out” and ride the (often short-lived) wave of success? Icona Pop, a Swedish electro-pop duo, is a good example of the latter option. These talented ladies began their music career writing catchy yet quirky pop songs on French label Kitsune. ‘Manners’ was released as an EP with a sound completely different from anything in the Top 40 charts. Next minute, the song is re-recorded with party boy rapper Chiddy Bang and a now chipmunk sounding Icona Pop chorus. Is this the future for all smaller indie groups? I certainly hope not.

DISCLOSURE LATCH “I wanna lock in your love” Disclosure’s addictive chorus crawls in and under your skin. This song’s synthey vibe and mastered vocals makes for a winning formula.

ALICIA KEYS : GIRL ON FIRE Alicia Keys has released her 5th album a little over a decade since she first stepped into recorded music prominence. Going cross-genre in 2001 thanks to her ability to add musicality to RnB, proved a wellmarketed intention of artistic integrity that earned Alicia a record-setting five Grammys in 2002; and she’s been determined to deliver on that promise of being that year’s ‘Best New Artist’ ever since. For the first time, Alicia enlists the help of some of today’s most popular songwriters for every track but two — Emeli Sandé, Bruno Mars, John Legend, Babyface and Frank Ocean. None of the collaborations backfire the way they could, with Alicia retaining her original style.

Girl on Fire finds the balance between selfhelp and realised-romance. At first glance, there’s an absence of radio singles and aside from the frequent showing of strained vocals, the album pushes her superb writing skills forward without losing what makes Ms Keys the artist she promised to be eleven years ago. 22

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Image: Disclosure’s video clip is a real treat too, mixing together gay and straight couples, something which is missing in most major music videos. Disclosure, (Guy and Howard Lawrence), have been perfecting their craft for 2 years. Their first single, Offline Dexterity, was released in 2010 to a lukewarm reception. However Latch climbed to number 11 on the UK singles charts, and for good reason. The song proves that these boys can not only produce good music, but can write a melody so catchy you’ll hear it whistled as you walk down the street.

MACKLEMORE AND RYAN LEWIS THE HEIST A white rapper spinning rhymes about same-sex marriage equality, America’s war on drugs, and how money isn’t everything in life. Who’da thought? Macklemore and producer Ryan Lewis somehow manage to tackle tough issues in a way that’s still ‘cool’. From the Number 1 hit “Thrift Shop”, to the important protest song “Same Love”, The Heist is a definite crowd-pleaser. So much talent is sampled on this album — Band of Horses front man Ben Bridwell makes an appearance, and Ray Doulten is featured on the anthemic rap song “Can’t Hold Us”. A personal favourite is “Wings”, with a chorus featuring children chanting — the song is both haunting and beautiful at the same time, incorporating hand clapping and big piano chords to tell the tale of a materialistic America gone wrong. The Heist is powerful stuff. FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

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By Alexander Thatcher

Meditation off the cushion A SIMPLE PATH TO HAPPINESS

When your mind is not at peace it’s hard to be happy, even at the best of times. For me meditation has been the key to improving my life beyond what I thought possible. Although the practice itself is simple, it does require work — but most of all it takes commitment and consistency. It’s commitment which I find that most people, including myself, have the biggest trouble with. There are always excuses for not having enough time. For many years I never made time for activities like meditation and yoga. My favourite excuse was work, when really I was just busy keeping myself unhappy. Eventually it dawned on me that I could be so much happier if my mind was quiet and I was aware enough to realise when it wasn’t. I’m not sure if you’ve ever noticed that your head is constantly chattering away — telling you this and that; commenting on everything that comes before you; and forever jumping from one thought to the next. If you stop for a moment and really pay attention, you’ll discover that your mind literally never shuts up. If you had a friend like this you would most certainly avoid them like the plague. Unfortunately most of us either just put up with it or are so engaged with the noise in our heads that we are totally unaware of the trouble it’s causing us. I’m certainly no guru, spiritual master or yogi — I struggle every day to keep myself mindful and aware. Trying to make sure I don’t get caught up with the constant chatter in my mind takes work. Making meditation an enjoyable part of my daily life, instead of something I had to do, was the key to successfully achieving the consistency I needed to make change. Over time, as my noisy mind became more quiet, the stillness has enabled me to see how things really are. Every day I feel happier and more content.

Making meditation and mindfulness an everyday part of life If you have never meditated before, let’s have a quick look at the practice in general terms. Simply, meditation involves creating a mode of consciousness which is focused on just being present instead of allowing the mind to continue its chatter. This allows you to silence the mind, bringing awareness, clarity and calm. So, how do you make meditation a part of your life instead of a chore? The answer is really very simple: start small, incorporate it into your daily routine, and most importantly attach it to an activity you love — mine is gardening, but it could be anything. Eventually mindfulness should be part of everything you do — working, cooking, driving, opening a door, washing up, sport, even sex — but starting with something you love makes it easier to keep up the momentum in the beginning. 24

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My everyday practice I began a daily meditation practice in my veggie patch. Most people don’t think of gardening as a spiritual endeavour, but I believe any everyday activity practised with mindfulness can change your life by simply adding a focusing element. I start by sitting in my garden and take a few moments to ‘simply be’. Closing my eyes, I concentrate on whatever is happening in the present — sounds, sensations, thoughts, and feelings — without trying to do anything about it. I continue like this for a while, allowing myself to settle down. After a short time I bring my attention to the breath, simply noticing as it moves in and out of my body. Breathe in, breathe out. It’s surprising how moving your focus to a single thing can quickly bring you to a calm place. Within only a few minutes I feel a stillness inside and begin to notice the breeze in the trees; birds singing overhead; the sound of a mower in the distance… before long life’s orchestra is all around me — sounds normally muffled by an otherwise busy mind. Breathe in, breathe out. FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Tip

Taking just two mindful breaths can engage your meditative state. Do this before making a phone call, answering an email or starting your car. This is a great way to apply meditation throughout your day.

Like my garden, my journey from this point is organic. I mindfully open my eyes and take in the fullness of where I am. A bee collecting honey from a tomato flower; a snail travelling up a garlic stem; the breeze playing with the rocket. Staying with my breath, I quietly stand. I know what I’m going to do without engaging my mind; that snail needs a new home. Carefully collecting him up, I notice how beautiful his shell is. I’ll find him a new home away from my precious vegetables. As I move from one job to another, I continue to stay with my breath while being mindful of the task I’m performing. Quietly noticing the smell of the soil; how the spade feels in my hand; the sensation as I pull a weed from the ground. Breathe in, breathe out. The mind will wander away from the breath, but that’s fine — it’s all part of the journey. When I notice that I’m no longer observing the breath, I gently bring my attention back to it. As I go about my work in the garden I try to just let all my thoughts, emotions and bodily sensations come and go in the background. Noticing that they are there, letting them go and returning to my breath. In time, you become aware of the tendencies of your mind as it resists certain experiences and tries to hold onto others. Letting go takes practice. The smallest amount of time working in my garden this way creates a wonderful sense of awareness and calm — even the smallest backyard garden offers great emotional rewards.

Mindfulness out of the garden If you’re not the gardening type, other mindfulness meditation practices can be applied to almost any activity. In mindfulness, the idea is to be aware of whatever you are doing. The opposite of mindfulness is automatic action, where you are consumed by your thoughts. For instance even a chore can be turned into a meditation by adding a focusing element. You can count your breath whilst doing dishes, folding laundry or washing the car, for example. If you like walking, try to link your breathing with your steps — I do this in my garden. A traditional walking meditation practice is to take a step with each breath. This slow walking practice can be very rewarding. If you don’t have the time for slow walking, then just take a breath with every two or three steps while you walk the dog, cross the office floor or go to the store. I’m a bit of a gym junkie and I’ve been practising mindfulness while working out, by focusing on my body. Feeling the push and pull of my muscles, noticing movements and sensations, my balance and my breath. It’s pretty much the same concept as mindfully meditating in my garden, just in a different space.

Tip

Before starting any meditation practice, remind yourself that this is ‘your time’ — the mind has had all day to chatter away.

Setting up reminders You can also use simple items to remind you to be aware. I use my garden gate for instance, but doors work well too. As I approach it, it reminds me to be mindful and prompts me to be present as I open the gate. I become aware of my hand on the latch, of the gate opening, and finally my body moving through it and down into the garden. Strangely enough it’s a lot harder than it sounds, and it takes practice. I find things like starting the car or passing through traffic lights excellent reminders also. For me these are especially important, because I know how easy it is to daydream while I’m driving. Many accidents happen because we are just so lost in our own minds, on automatic and unaware of our surroundings. Although I also do a more formal sitting meditation every day and highly recommend it, these techniques are a simple and easy way to start on a path to mindfulness, making meditation an everyday activity in your life. And remember, no matter what kind of meditation you do, the practice should not end when the timer goes off. Too often, once a meditation session stops, we get caught up in the stresses and routines of the day and many of the benefits of having meditated are quickly undone. The practice should not be a temporary break, but rather a transformative process that enriches your life and the lives around you. FUSEFEATURE

Tilley’s

Devine Café Gallery

TILLEY’S IS NESTLED IN TREE LINED LYNEHAM For over 26 years Tilley’s has been a gathering place for the gay and lesbian community. It’s famous for its breakfasts, lunches, dinners and its fabulous coffees. Tilley’s attracts not only ‘regulars’ but visitors from overseas and interstate who enjoy the all-day menu specials, and oh such lovely cake! Internationally renowned for legendary blues, jazz and classical concerts, Tilley’s continues to attract artists of international calibre who prefer the intimacy of a warm theatre atmosphere clad in red velvet, brass and dark timber booths. With a fully licensed bar, one can enjoy champagne with breakfast, or in the evening savour our broad range of wines, spirits or boutique beers on tap.

THE CALL IS YOURS! TILLEY’S CAN DO IT FOR YOU! CORNER OF WATTLE & BRIGALOW STREETS, LYNEHAM 26

Serving you breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days • Monday to Saturday: 9am – 10pm Sundays: 9am – 6pm • To reserve your favourite table or booth phone us on 6247 7753

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By Clancy Atkinson Chef & Food Consultant

Pickling Fo d

THE SCIENCE & ART OF

They say all good things come to those who wait and a good tasty pickle is no exception. Like a fine wine, pickled food gets better with age. Pickling is a sophisticated yet simple culinary technique that has managed to transcend cultures and generations. Once done out of necessity to preserve food, pickling has a history dating back thousands of years. Today, examples of pickled food can be found worldwide from Indian Chutneys to Korean kimchi or English piccalilli to American dill pickles. The number of pickled foods that exist across different cultures is believed to have contributed to the unique differences in global cuisine such as the sour, spicy notes found in Asian cuisines or the acidic, peppery flavours of Eastern Europe.

Preparing a brining solution is the next step. A general rule is to use a four to one ratio of vinegar to sugar depending on what you are pickling. Simply bring the ingredients to the boil and they are ready to use. When using fruit increase the sugar ratio to ensure a sweeter finish. The art of pickling is the fun, creative side. Experimenting with the many types of herbs, spices and vinegars available can result in some interesting and unusual flavour combinations. To add complexity to pickled fruit or vegetables add spices like chilli, garlic, cumin, fennel seeds or star anise to the brining solution. Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, tarragon and oregano can be added for an amazing depth of flavour. Different types of vinegars can also be used: champagne, red wine and white wine vinegars are popular but for a deeper, rich flavour use a good quality aged balsamic vinegar. Honey, treacle and brown sugar can also be used adding a natural full-bodied sweetness. Packing the chosen produce into the sterilised jars is the next step. Simply place the food into the jars and pour over the pickling solution. Leave a small gap between the pickle and the lid to allow any expanding air room to escape. Next seal the jars with the lids and store the pickle in the fridge. Patience is a virtue when pickling food, if you can wait one week before indulging to allow the flavours to develop. Regardless if it’s fruit or vegetables, a good sweet and sour pickle is a sublime way to perk up any plate of food.

♥ BEETROOT RELISH Spiced Beetroot relish with gorgonzola and flat bread. Serves 6 as a light starter. 2 cups grated peeled raw beetroot 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 2 tablespoons brown sugar 3/4 cup water Sea salt and pepper to taste Pickling can be divided into two categories, the science and the art. The science of Pickling involves the process of brining and preservation, essentially submerging the food in an acidic solution thus preserving the food item. The first step is choosing what you want to pickle and summer is the perfect time to experiment; Cucumbers, zucchinis, mushrooms and eggplants are in their prime as are stone fruits such as plums, peaches and cherries. Next it’s crucial that the utensils, jars and lids being used are sterilised thoroughly. Equipment can be sterilised by placing into boiling water for ten minutes. Once sterilised, allow equipment to dry. A good tip is to use gloves while handling any equipment to keep a neutral sterile environment.

METHOD 1. Place all the ingredients into a suitable sized saucepan, stir over a high heat until the honey and sugar dissolves. 2. Bring to the boil and then reduce to a simmer and cook for two hours or until the beetroot is tender. Season. 3. Spoon the mixture into sterilised jars, seal and store in thefridge. Wait one week before eating. TO SERVE Once the relish is matured simply serve with some quality gorgonzola, grilled flat bread and some bitter greens.

EATME

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COME PARTY AT CUBE!!!

In January we were lucky enough to welcome Lady Bones to the Cube DJ team with their first event. It was a huge success, followed by our popular Australia Gay Party. This year we are very excited to be showing off some fabulous new performers, plus we are adding some fantastic new theme parties to our calendar. For more CUBE photos and our event line up check out the website cubenightclub.com.au or join us at facebook.com/cube.canberra

OUT&ABOUT

CALL ME FITZ For Canadian television viewers, they are well aware of the sensation Call Me Fitz, which has been recognised as one of the most groundbreaking comedy series on television. For Australian viewers, Call Me Fitz may be a still undiscovered gem.

HIT & MISS When it comes to stories, we think it’s hard to beat a TV series where Chloë Sevigny plays Mia, a cold-blooded pre-op transsexual assassin. After her ex-girlfriend suddenly dies, Mia finds out that she had fathered an 11 year old son and is now his — and the rest of the families — sole guardian. Like out of an old western movie, Mia, “the ruthless gunslinger” arrives in town to protect the innocent. As she tries to win the respect and trust of her new young family, she is confronted with her own sexuality, finding love, being a mother, and of course the bad guy in town.

The half-hour comedy series focuses on the misadventures of a morally bankrupt car salesman Richard “Fitz” Fitzpatrick (Jason Priestley) whose consequence free lifestyle ends up coming back on him when he gets into a car accident with a potential buyer. As a result he is forced to become business partners with a quirky do-gooder (Ernie Grunwald) intent on healing Fitz’s fractured psyche who claims to be Fitz’s conscience — one hilarious disaster at a time.

Call Me Fitz is a whole lot of madcap fun!

What we loved most about Hit & Miss was that it put Trans* people on a mainstream level. This is a really great series.

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potato

DID YOU KNOW Watching a rerun of your favourite TV show or movie — or even just thinking about it — can help you recharge your supply of willpower, says a study published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science.

COSENTINO Are you a believer? Immerse yourself in an hour of astonishing magic with Australia’s homegrown Houdini — Cosentino. From beginning to end, you will be shocked, amazed and completely baffled at what this dynamic Illusionist has up his sleeve. The show features Illusions from his sold out Regent theatre performance, street magic performed in-front of unsuspecting shoppers and a death defying escape that has to be seen to be believed.

JOAN RIVERS : DON’T START WITH ME What’s not to love about Joan Rivers. When you put this DVD in the machine you need to probably take a few beaths before you start watching the comedic wrath of entertainment icon that is Joan Rivers. In this brand new live stand-up event Joan goes to great lengths to take on everyone with her trademark wit. With her infectious energy Joan owns the stage from start to finish, leaving the audience in stitches as everything and everybody who’s somebody are fair game.

You’ll find all these titles at JB HIFI, online or at all good DVD outlets. FUSE also has five copies of each title to giveaway, see fusemagazine.com.au for details. 30

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moneymechanics. bringing together technical expertise and the human touch to create a solution tailored towards your overall goals. • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Estate planning CALL Cash flow management TODAY! Wealth creation strategies FIND OUT HOW Salary sacrificing strategies WE CAN HELP Direct share portfolio creation GET YOU ON Budgeting tools & accountability THE RIGHT TRACK Self managed (DIY) super strategies Ethical investment portfolio creation Property investment advice & analysis Public sector super maximisation strategies Debt management & reduction strategies Risk management planning & insurances Structuring assets for best tax outcomes

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By Scott Malcolm Director of Money Mechanics

Queeretirement

PREPARING FOR A FABULOUS, FUN AND FINANCIALLY FREE RETIREMENT! 2. Maximise Your Super Contribution Strategies : If you are a member of one of the Government Defined Benefit Super Schemes educate yourself about what the different levels of contributions will mean for your retirement benefits. As a member of an industry fund or private super fund maximise what you can be contributing. The limits have changed to a maximum of $25,000 per person per year, this includes your employer contributions so you need to start planning to maximise these benefits for your retirement.

IF THERE IS ONE THING I CAN GUARANTEE, IT’S THAT ALL

OUR READERS WILL ONE DAY GET OLDER AND WILL HAVE TO START MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT LIFE AFTER WORK. If you want to make your retirement fabulous, fun and financially free there are a few things you need to start thinking about today — no matter how old you are — so that can be a reality! The Australian Government has equalised the elements of tax, superannuation and social security legislation so for the alphabet soup (LGBTI) that is the queer communities; we can enjoy a mainstream retirement and Government benefits just like our hetero family and friends. With transitional arrangements in place this has caused some couples who had relied on social security (and their relationships not being recognised) to have to rework their plans as the eligibility criteria and tests changed to match what other defacto couples work with. The Centrelink Aged Pension is currently $712 per fortnight with age 65 eligibility. This is due to increase to age 67 by 2017 so if you are hoping that the Government will provide for your retirement the reality is that it won’t.

5 TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR RETIREMENT PLANS IN ORDER 1. Start Planning Today : Be clear on what you would like your retirement to look like. Will be you taking annual cruises around the world, will you be volunteering and getting involved in the community? The better you understand what you want with your superannuation and retirement options, the more prepared you can be for a financially free retirement.

3. Consolidate Your Super Accounts and Find any Lost Savings : Before I was a financial planner I worked in many other jobs while I was at Uni. I had six funds on the go when I started my professional career, paying fees on each is not the best way to maximise your savings. Check out the Australian Taxation Office’s Super Seeker website to find any lost funds and consolidate the ones that you have. Be sure to check out any benefits you may lose such as life insurances before you make a big switch. 4. Understand the Investments You Hold : The global financial crisis has enhanced the need for people to understand the investments they hold. If you are invested in managed investments get an understanding of how the manager works and know what fees you are paying. If you want to take more control over what you are doing educate yourself or get some financial advice to get the right strategy in place for you. 5. Have a Back Up Plan : Life can throw many things at us, some good, some more challenging and some down right bad. Having a good ‘Plan B’ in place in case the worst happens is important to make sure you can still achieve being financially secure. This includes having insurance for life, disablement and event trauma which can mean the difference between financial security and financial dependency now and in retirement!

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

If would like to ask Scott any questions, you can email him at scott@money-mechanics.com.au or call 02 6257 5557. (http://money-mechanics.com.au) Scott Malcolm is Director of Money Mechanics who are authorised to provide financial advice through PATRON Financial Advice AFSL 307379. 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.

MONEYSHOT

GENDER SEGREGATION IS RUNNING RAMPANT IN GYMS AROUND THE WORLD In the cardio section of the gym — with all the treadmills and the bikes — you’ll find mostly women. And in the strength training area — with various machines and free weights — you’ll see mostly men. But this isn’t a segregation enforced by gym policies or rules — but rather, it’s a segregation enforced by our own fitness misconceptions.

WHY MEN NEED CARDIO Let’s face it; a lot of men don’t seem to like doing cardio. Lifting weights is one thing, but spending time on a treadmill is a different beast entirely. However, in actuality, men really need cardio. The big myth is that you can’t build muscle if you include cardio in your workout. I hear this all the time. ‘I want to get big, that’s why I don’t do any cardio — I don’t want to lose any muscle’. The myth that all cardio cannibalises muscle is pervasive – and untrue. The truth is, even professional bodybuilders do cardio — or should! Why? Because cardio has a number of benefits that all men can use:

WHY MEN NEED CARDIO AND WOMEN NEED STRENGTH TRAINING By Davey Wavey Fitness Instructor Davey Wavey is an AFPA certified personal trainer and world renowned fitness guru. You can visit Davey online at daveywaveyfitness.com

• • • • • • •

Cardio strengthens your heart and improves overall heart health Decreases gym recovery time Can increase the body’s metabolism Improves endurance Increases bone density Results in better sleep and more energy Reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol and more

It’s true that long, drawn-out cardio sessions can lead to muscle loss. Because of this, it’s recommended that cardio sessions don’t exceed 45 minutes. My cardio, for example, is limited to 15–25 minutes per day. I alternate between running at a steady pace on one day and then doing intervals on the next. It’s important that all people — regardless of gender — incorporate cardiovascular exercise into their workouts.

WHY WOMEN NEED STRENGTH TRAINING While most women get plenty of cardio, they often shy away from the weight room. Beyond the intimidation factor of working with free weights, most women avoid strength training because they don’t want to become bulky or overly muscular. Whatever your gender, there’s no reason to fear becoming too muscular. In actuality, it takes a tremendous amount of time, know-how, strategy and effort to develop the massive physiques that you see on bodybuilding magazines. It doesn’t just happen — and it definitely doesn’t happen overnight. I often remind clients that once they build a desired amount of muscle, they can simply stop progressing to heavier weights and the muscle gains will stop. Yes, it’s that simple. But it’s not just about looking a certain way: • • • • • •

Strength training prevents, stops and reverses the muscle loss that we experience as we age Improves performance of everyday tasks with increased strength Reduces the risk of injury Improves posture and balance Lowers the risk of diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer and more Burns calories and boosts your metabolism

Strength training is a good thing for men and women. And if you’re not incorporating it into your workout, then you’re cutting your results short.

IN CONCLUSION Break the glass wall that divides your gym. There’s cardio and strength training equipment in your gym for a reason: any effective workout uses both. 34

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E H T

W L

REAL

Lauren Bedford Russell and Kiyomi McCloskey

FUSEFEATURE

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D R O W L By Elizabeth Gorrell

LOVE IT OR HATE IT, SHOWTIME’S HIT REALITY SHOW THE REAL L WORD HAS UNDOUBTEDLY BECOME AN ICONIC LESBIAN TV SHOW.

With all the shake ups, break ups, hang ups and hook ups, The Real L Word is now a household name. Packed with beautiful women — some we love and some we love to hate — megastar guests and nonstop drama this series has taken the world by storm. Stars of the hit reality show, Kiyomi McCloskey and Lauren Bedford Russell will hit Australian shores this year. FUSE contributor Elizabeth Gorrell caught up with the girls to talk to them about the tour, fame and their lives outside The Real L Word.

FUSE : Have you got any big plans for your trip down under? K&L : Lick Entertainment has planned most of our trip, but we’re lucky to be attending the Future and Sound Wave Music Festivals. Both have amazing line ups and we can’t wait! FUSE : Which Australian city are you most looking forward to visiting while your here? K&L : Lauren has been to Sydney but neither of us has been to any other major cities, but we’ve always wanted to. We have heard some awesome things about them, but I would say we are most excited about Melbourne from what we have heard. FUSE : Kiyomi, will you be performing with your punk rock band Hunter Valentine while you are here? Kiyomi : Unfortunately I won’t be. I am going to bring my travelling guitar so I’ll hopefully get a chance to do some writing while I’m on the road. FUSE : Lauren, have you thought about expanding your jewellery line into Australian retail stores? Lauren : I am bringing my line with me in case we have time to meet with some stores. I am more in favour of selling at boutiques and online than having my own store. FUSE : So tell us, what are the best and worst parts about being recognised? K&L : The worst part is when you are recognised at your corner store in your pyjamas getting milk and you look a mess! The best part is meeting the fans and getting to know them.

FUSE : Have either of you ever experienced any homophobia?

Kiyomi : I’ve actually been lucky enough not to be faced with any situation that was too bad. I grew up in a very progressive, forward-thinking area. I try to remember that I’ve been more fortunate than others every day.

Lauren : I grew up in a beach town that was very straight and religious. Even though my family is very liberal and accepting, this made it hard for me to come to terms with the possibility of me being a lesbian until I moved to New York City and felt free to be myself. But homophobia hasn’t been a real problem since I came out. I agree with Kiyomi, I feel very blessed that I haven’t had hardships, and that makes me want to work hard for equality in other countries. FUSE : Ellen DeGeneres will be here around the same time as you will; do you have any plans to meet with her? K&L : No, we don’t sadly (call us!), but we would love to see her stand up show! FUSE : What you do think is the best way to raise awareness about LGBTI rights and sexual health? Kiyomi : Being a performer and having a chance to be on stage every night allows me to raise awareness about some of these issues. As an artist I feel it’s my responsibility to spread the word about the things that affect our community. Lauren : I think more celebrities (especially straight ones!) need to take a stand and have events and fundraisers. We need people talking about these things to get the knowledge out there. FUSE : The show has a big fan base, are you comfortable being famous? K&L : We feel pretty comfortable with our public status now; it’s really important to use the reach we have to advocate for our community and speak up for other causes as well. FUSE : How you deal with the stresses of being on tour and running your own business? K&L : Well that’s the part that should be a reality show! No, in all seriousness it’s a very tough balancing act, but we do a pretty good job; lots of multi-tasking and hard work.

> KIYOMI + LAUREN’S AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

SYDNEY: Friday 1 March at The Bank Hotel, 324 King Street, Newtown PERTH: Monday 4 March at The Aviary (Level 2 Birdcage), William Street MELBOURNE: Friday 8 March at Room 680, Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn ADELAIDE: Sunday 10 March at Apple Bar, Synagogue Place, CBD

P I TR

This Mardi Gras take control of your health!

Sexual health check-ups

Getting a sexual health check-up from STRIP is quick, easy and FREE! Thursday evenings Saturday mornings (men only)

(for everyone)

Upstairs @ The Ranch Westlund House

6:00 - 8:00 pm 28 Feb - 21 March

10:00 am - 12:00 pm 2 March - 23 March

For more information call 02 6257 2855 or visit

www.aidsaction.org.au/strip

ACT

NEWS&POLITICS

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By Keiran Rossteuscher AAC Social & Program Marketing Manager

TESTING

TIMES

THIRTY YEARS AFTER THE FIRST CASES OF HIV STARTED TO APPEAR IN AUSTRALIA, THE NUMBER OF BIG NEWS ITEMS ABOUT PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT HAVE STARTED DRYING UP. There is always a lot of work and research going on but the pace and incremental steps taken rarely make for interesting media opportunities. Nor do these behind the scenes activities affect the day to day work of HIV organisations. However, in the last weeks of 2012 there was an announcement of one of the biggest developments in Australia we have seen for some time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the approval for the use of rapid HIV testing in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. The particular test that has been approved is the Alere DetermineTM HIV Combo test that uses a finger prick sample of blood applied to a small cardboard stick which provides a result in 20-30 minutes. Due to its satisfactorily high accuracy, portability and cost-effectiveness, Point of Care or rapid testing is a standard method for screening for HIV in many parts of the world. Australia prides itself on a gold standard approach to screening for HIV and so this is the first of its kind to be allowed for use in Australia. Rapid HIV testing provides a result within 30 minutes while traditional formats for screening HIV can take up to a week for results. This speed and convenience makes rapid testing an ideal tool for use in not just clinical settings, but also community-based clinics such as the STRIP Outreach Clinics offered by the AIDS Action Council. Rapid testing should not be seen as a replacement for current HIV screening methods but as an option available to some people. The details for the use of rapid testing are still being developed and as such the test is not currently available in the ACT even though it has been approved and other states that have had trials in recent years are starting to roll it out. It is likely that it will only be offered to those from high risk groups as the rate of false positives is too high in the general population.

Any test that proves positive will need to be followed up with more standard testing methods for absolute guarantee. Over the last five years there has been an increasing body of research that says that the time it takes to get the results of an HIV test is one of the biggest hurdles to gay men getting tested regularly. Forty-one per cent of participants in the 2011 Canberra Gay Community Periodic Survey indicated that they would test more frequently if they could access rapid testing in community settings. With the release on World AIDS Day (December 1) of the document Turning Political Will into Action, Australia reinforced its commitment to seeing a 50 per cent reduction in new HIV infections by 2015. The role that rapid HIV testing plays in this strategy is that we know that by identifying an HIV infection sooner, a person can make an informed decision with their doctors such as when to start using HIV medications and modify any risky activities that they may have been doing and take appropriate precautions. When a person effectively uses HIV medications we usually see a decline in their Viral Load, which is the amount of active HIV in their system. The lower the viral load, the less chance there is for HIV to be transmitted.

The AIDS Action Council is looking forward to the introduction of rapid testing but until then regular testing methods are still available. The STRIP outreach clinics will be running once more from 28 February â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 23 March. For more information check out aidsaction.org.au/strip

HEALTH&WELLBEING

CANBERRA QWIRE KICKS OFF

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS! Canberra Gay and Lesbian Qwire’s Patron and ACT Deputy Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA officially launched the Qwire’s 20th Anniversary program Q20: 20 Fabulous Years — One Proud Voice at Teatro Vivaldi Restaurant, ANU.

Stein Alia, the Canberra Qwire Convenor said: “Q20 is about Celebration, Music and Community. The 2013 Program reconnects with our past members, celebrates our achievements, gives something back to the community, and shares the joy of music.” Members of the Qwire were joined by members of the Canberra community to kick-off a jam packed year which includes a Ball, music camp, appearances during the Canberra Day weekend, and joining other choirs in Hobart in July. Canberra Qwire Musical Director, Ken Teoh said: “The highlight for the year will be the Q20 Gala Concert on 22 June at Llewellyn Hall. Our past musical directors and members will join us on stage as we sing some of our favourite songs from each of our 20 years.” Deputy Chief Minister and Patron of the Canberra Qwire, Andrew Barr MLA said: “Qwire has been a marvellous institution for Canberra’s LGBTI community over the past 20 years, and I congratulate everyone who has been involved over the years. It’s due to the great work of all those involved now, and in the past, that Qwire has grown into the vibrant group we know today. Everyone who has been involved should be proud of this achievement.” For the past 20 years the Canberra Qwire has promoted understanding and awareness for the city’s LGBTI community through music. Through the support of the Canberra Community the Canberra Qwire has grown from humble beginnings of just seven members rehearsing in a garage to one of Canberra’s leading community choirs with over 80 singers. Photos by Doug Robinson

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2013

OUT&ABOUT NEWS&POLITICS

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SYDNEY GAY & LESBIAN MARDI GRAS FAIR DAY This year FUSE Magazine helped celebrate Canberra’s 100 Birthday at Mardi Gras Fair Day. In association with ACT Tourism, Canberra Centenary, SpringOUT (Canberra Pride), CUBE and Bushdance, we let Australia know what a fantastic holiday destination Canberra was. It was a amazing day and FUSE would like to thank all our volunteers and the ACT Government for their support and hard work. For more information and a full line up of events for Canberra’s 100 Birthday celebrations check out the website at: canberra100.com.au Photos by Lily Chen.

MONEYSHOT

FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

By Melisa Paz

MARCH & APRIL 2013

YOUR HOROSCOPE

What a year 2013 has instore for us? A lot of planetary alignments will be happening this year, with a peculiar blend of harmony and stress. It’s going to be a time of great extremes — the best of times and the worst of times. Get ready for a year when everything will seem to get bigger. In a true reflection of this — with Jupiter and Venus going direct in February, March will be full of luck and passion however with Mercury going Retrograde from March 1 to 17 there will also be some madness in your life between these dates. Remember during Mercury Retrograde it’s best not to make any major purchases or sign any important documents.

Aquarius

January 21 – February 18 Keep that smile on! Things are getting better and everything you have planned is falling into place. With the help of Jupiter and Venus, things go smoothly. Tip: Positive thoughts; remember that you are the only one who can make yourself happy.

Taurus

April 21 – May 21 The beginning of March may be hard for you Taurus. Venus and Saturn will be at their highest emotional energies and this means that you will be feeling a lot more than usual. Tip: The universe is preparing something wonderful for you around love and relationships in early April.

Leo

July 23 – August 23 Work may feel like it’s getting a little bit exhausting but Jupiter will be with you in March to give you the motivation you need — let it guide your actions. Tip: Around 23 March check your email for any new opportunities that may arise suddenly.

Scorpio

October 24 – November 22 Are you letting work take control over your life Scorpio? It’s important that you make time for yourself and loved ones. Tip: Mars will be giving you energy and possibly money to spend on yourself during March — make sure you make space and time for this opportunity.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20 Mercury retrograde will especially effect you, so between March 1-17 stay safe by keeping a low profile. It’s a excellent time for quiet reflection. Tip: Avoid making any large purchases; important decisions and most definitely don’t sign any substantial agreements.

Gemini

May 22 – June 21 As March begins, you may find yourself preparing for a trip. With Mercury Retrograde, being prepared will be really important during March. Be punctual with appointments you make. Tip: Keep eating healthy, you might not see the results now, but it is working.

Virgo

August 24 – September 23 Venus will be effecting you in the first two weeks of March, so you may feel very emotional and confused. Don’t let that ruin your days and try thinking of some new ways to make yourself feel better about the way things are at this time. Tip: Avoid gossip at work.

Sagittarius

November 23 – December 22 You might find yourself having a serious discussion with someone you love. Be mindful and remember that no matter if you are right or wrong, it’s important not to hurt people you care about. Tip: The moon is telling you to follow your heart into a new venture around 9th March.

Aries

March 21 – April 20 Work will get interesting by the second week of March so keep a good attitude and let the universe surprise you with some new projects and opportunities. Tip: Talk to that person you have been avoiding as it’s is important that you resolve any differences.

Cancer

June 22 – July 22 April will be your month when it comes to sex! Let the universe fill you with passion and try new things with your partner or that one night lover. Tip: Focus your energy on work matters during March. It is important for you to do this with a clear mind and focus.

Libra

September 24 – October 23 Good news Libra, March will be your lucky month! Venus will provide motivation and Jupiter will be there helping with any situation that gets in your way. Tip: A relative or friend may be planning a trip or leaving town, so try to spend some time with them before they leave.

Capricorn

December 23 – January 20 Taking care of some family matters may be a priority as March ends. Keep calm and let Venus guide your whole family though any situation — the universe is preparing something wonderful. Tip: In April, Jupiter will give you some extra time to work, use it wisely.

STARGAZER

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY AIDS Action Council The AIDS Action Council provides information, support and services. More info: aidsaction.org.au

PFLAG-ACT A support and friendship group for parents and friends of LGBTI people. More info email pflag.act@gmail.com

A Gender Agenda A resource for transgender, intersex, gender queer and gender variant people. genderrights.org.au

Long Yang A friendly social club for Asian and non-Asian gays and their friends. Canberra: lyccanberra.org Sydney: sydney.longyangclub.org

ACTQueer A free email list for LGBTI people in Canberra and surrounding region. groups.yahoo.com/group/actqueer Bit Bent Youth Group Meet other young people, get support or just hang out. Mondays at Belconnen Youth Centre 6pm–8pm and Thursdays at the Woden Youth Centre 5pm–6.30pm. Email: bit_bent@hotmail.com Canberra Gay & Lesbian QWIRE Want to be involved with Canberra’s own gay and lesbian choir? Singers and non-singers encouraged. More info: canberraqwire@yahoo.com.au Capital Queers Canberra’s Mardi Gras group. More info at capitalqueers.com Dyke Dinner & Movie Group More info on FUSE website or see Canberra Lesbians on Facebook. Fruits in Boots A social and support network for rural GLBTI members outside the ACT. Email: fruitsinboots@gmail.com Gay ACT Squash Group Wednesdays 6.30pm–7.30pm. National Sports Club, Mouat St, Lyneham. groups.google.com/group/gayactsquash Gaycrash Canberra Taking over the coolest Canberra straight bars one night at a time! facebook.com/gaycrash.canberra/info

Motafrenz GLBTIQ Car Club Contact Stuart Poole ACT Convener Motafrenz on 0420 523 238 or email act@motafrenz.org motafrenz.org.au Pink Tennis Gay & Lesbian Tennis Group meets Mondays 6pm–9pm at Turner Tennis Club, Cnr McCaughey & Condamine Sts. Qnet — Queer Youth Cyberspace Qnet is an online community for GLBTI people under the age of 25. qnet.org.au Queanbeyan GLBTI Youth Support Make new friends and discuss issues. Mondays 4pm–6pm at Axis Youth Centre, Campbell Street, Queanbeyan Park. Radio Q Canberra LGBTI community radio show on 2xx 98.3FM 2xxfm.org.au Rainbow Bubs A playgroup and support group for same sex parents and their kids. Email: hoogied@yahoo.com South Coast Pride NSW From Wollongong down to Merimbula come out, come out, wherever you are! Email: southcoastpride@live.com Uni of Canberra LGBTI group A social group for all LGBTI students and staff. Queer Space is located at the UCSA building 1 at the Uni of Canberra. Info email: sexuality@theucsa.org.au

✪ Come and play at CUBE Nightclub! CANBERRA HANGOUTS Cube Nightclub Canberra’s premier gay nightclub venue. 33 Petrie Plaza Civic, Canberra City. cubenightclub.com.au Phoenix Pub The Phoenix is a chilled out friendly pub where everyone is welcome to drop by for a beer or some Drag Bingo! 21 East Row, Canberra City. lovethephoenix.com Tilley’s Devine Cafe For over 26 years Tilley’s has been a gathering place for the gay and lesbian community. Warm and sumptuous, it’s famous for its food and fabulous coffees and cake. To reserve your favourite table or booth call us on 6247 7753. Cnr of Wattle & Brigalow Sts, Lyneham. Diversity ACT Do you need assistance or require support? Call the Diversity ACT GLBTI Support Services Phone Line on 1300 794 717 between 4pm-10pm. diversityact.org.au Ranch Men’s Lounge Canberra’s mens’ space. They are located at Unit 19, Molongo Mall in Fyshwick ACT. A safe venue for men who want to meet men. See ad p47.

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

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A Little Laser Cosmetic Laser Clinic

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By Rose Pappalardo

Dear Rose, I recently came across FUSE Magazine at DENDY — what a great magazine. I’m 47 and recently divorced. I’ve always thought I might be gay as I am attracted to men, although I’ve never been with one (sexually). There seems to be lots of support for young people, but where does a guy of my age go for guidance? Lang

Dear Lang, Well howdy and welcome to the club! I absolutely agree with you, whilst there is huge focus on young LGBTI folks, in comparison, us older folks seem to get the short end of the stick when it comes to real social interactions. However, when you do get out there and look around you would be surprised at what you find beneath the surface. When I was first coming out I tried a whole bunch of different groups, from photography to 4WD clubs. The possibilities are out there, you just need to point in the right direction and put yourself out there! My biggest tip is to get onto a Yahoo group called ACT Queer; it’s the pin board of all things gay in ACT. There is also volunteering; I highly recommend contacting Westland House or Diversity ACT. They both offer support and social activities and volunteer programs. In volunteering there comes some incredibly rich friendships and connections. If none of those ideas appeal, try forming a group of your own. The fact is that if you are feeling there are no real places for older men to socialise, you’re probably not the only one out there!

Dear Rose, I really like this guy at Uni, but I’m super shy and he probably does not even know I exist. I am worried he’s maybe too good looking for me? TJ

Dear TJ, Be bold, be brave young man and venture into the unknown, find a way to just say “Hello”. You would be amazed how many nice looking people complain bitterly that they are usually at home on a Saturday night without a date because others are intimidated by them, or think they only date people as “attractive” as they are. Most people are just looking for someone who is genuine, funny and is not going to break their hearts. As my grandmother used to say “nothing ventured, nothing gained”.

ASK DEAR ROSE 48

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EMAIL DEAR ROSE WITH YOUR PROBLEM TODAY!

Dear Rose, I recently came out to my parents. They have been pretty supportive, and told me it’s OK but it was important that I don’t advertise it and to be as “low key” as possible. They feel being overtly gay makes life too difficult. I’m not sure I agree, but I know they love me and only want the best for me. What do you think? Ben

Dear Ben, What parent doesn’t want to protect their child from the nasty’s of this world? You have to allow them to play that role because ultimately they are your parents, but at the end of the day you need to be who you are. The biggest myth about coming out is that a person will instantly change into someone unrecognisable, and sometimes that’s exactly what they end up doing, instead of just being who they actually are! My guess is they think you will turn into a screaming queen, and that certainly doesn’t sound like you although to quote a famous line, ‘not that there is anything wrong with that’. The other thing is when people come out they tend to make everything in their life about being gay, when in actual fact it is just a small part of your story. There is family, career, travel, sport and a whole world out there. And whilst it is fantastic to immerse yourself in the gay social scene, be careful not to let it consume you. Sure, you will play down your sexuality at times, and your gut feeling will guide you as to when this is appropriate and when it is not. We are lucky though, we are now living in a time when being gay is no longer a terrible stigma, and your darling parents will see that in time.

Barack Obama 2013 “Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law — for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well.”

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

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