FUSE EVOLUTION OF RURAL GAY LOVIN’
MADE IN AUSTRALIA FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2011 / JAN 2012
LIFE LOVE 26 24 EQUALITY
RAINBOW LABOR making history
2012 WHAT
LIES BEYOND?
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CHRISSY GIFTS FOR THE DISCERNING OMO
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PFLAG KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER ROUND UP / YEAR IN REVIEW ZACHARY ‘GAY IT FORWARD’ QUINTO CHER + GAGA = THE GREATEST THING TOP QUEER GOES GREEN JOCK STOCKING STUFFER!
HO HO HOMO > HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM FUSE
ALL I WANT FOR XMAS IS TO SURVIVE IT DEBT
facebook.com/dickenswomen @DickensWomen #MiriamMargolyes
CONTENTS
FUSE MAGAZINE MADE IN AUSTRALIA DEC 2011 / JAN 2012
LIFE LOVE 26 EQUALITY EDITOR Alexander Thatcher ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Tony Hamlyn
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POLITICAL EDITOR Simon Copland
FUSE FEATURES
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Yasmin Element CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christopher Powell PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Rebecca Lanning Linda Djumlija
12
CONTRIBUTORS Scott Malcolm Andrew Barr Robert Edward Smith Rose Pappalardo Chad Wijayatilake Stuart Poole Mickey Reiser Dany Fauzan Fenkil Abraha Jason Roses PHOTOGRAPHERS Doug Robinson Helen McCallum Josh Sellick
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During our formative years we all assumed we had to trek to the big smoke to have a chance at love and life. But with the broader acceptance of gay lifestyles, regional areas are becoming far more attractive. Robert Edward Smith talks about the evolution of rural gay lovin’.
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Recent surveys have shown that up to two thirds of Australians now support same-sex marriage. Is 2012 the year we finally achieve true relationship equality? Simon Copland looks ahead to this milestone and considers what lies beyond.
21 We report on Rainbow Labor’s success at the ALP National Conference. Tony Hamlyn hunts down the quirkiest queer Chrissy gifts for the discerning homo. From hot priests to classy crystal, these prezzies will ensure your BBBFF status with those hard-to-buy-for, already-have-everything princesses.
FUSE REGULARS 19
WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU 41 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.
With the recent launch of PFLAG in the ACT, we look at the history of the movement and the vital support it offers to the LGBTI community and their families.
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CONTACT FUSE Telephone: 0412 309 992 Email: hello@fusemagazine.com.au Mail: PO Box 3577 Manuka ACT 2603 Published + designed by: Lithium Innovation Pty Ltd www.lithium.net.au ISSN 1836-8387
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02 04 06 12 17 23 27 33 35 37 41 42 46 48
Editor’s Rant What’s On & The Flicks Round Up : News & Politics Buzz : Entertainment & Gossip Fashion : Jock Stocking Stuffer Money Shot : Debt Free Christmas Out & About : Cube Nightclub Top Queer : Green Machine Tip Off : Gifts From The Heart SpringOut & About : Bushdance SpringOut & About : Fairday Ear Candy : Music Reviews & Gossip FUSE Community Directory Dear Rose 1
EDITOR’S EDITOR’SRANT RANT
❂ EVERY DAY SHOULD BE CHRISTMAS I often find myself conflicted at Christmas. I love all the sparkly things, opening gorgeous prezzies from my wonderful boyfriend and family, eating way too much delicious food with a belly full of beer… hmmmmm Christmas. Then on the other hand, in the back of my head (where the beer hasn’t reached), I know that millions of people are not having such a great time of it. Starvation, poverty and social equality has always been a problem in our world and it seems, for the most part, that our resolve to change things is pretty half hearted. Alexander Thatcher Editor
Perhaps instead of spending 364 days a year immersed in our own lives and one day showing goodwill, love and charity to others, we should swap that around. What a world we would have. Maybe we wouldn’t have prezzies every day, but perhaps our gifts would come in other forms. So if you find yourself rushing around the mall looking for those last minute presents, especially for people who are difficult to buy for, why not make a charitable donation on somebody’s behalf instead. We have a couple of charities listed in Tip Off p35, but there are thousands that would love your extra support this Christmas. In this issue Scott Malcolm talks about how to survive xmas debt free p23 and Tony Hamlyn gives you some tips on some fabulously camp and quirky Christmas gifts p29 — it’s a whole lot of fun.
Tony Hamlyn Entertainment Editor
Simon Copland reflects on the year that was p06 and the year that will be p19. Plus we report from the ALP National Conference, where Rainbow Labor made history with the ALP ratifying its support for same-sex marriage p21. We look at the grass roots of PFLAG following their official launch in Canberra p09. We also consider the downfall of the gay ghetto and the evolution of rural gay lovin’ with Robert Edward Smith p11. And if you’re looking to buy something big and electric this Christmas check out Stuart Poole’s review of the new Mitsubishi i-MIEV in Top Queer p33. I’d like to thank all our contributors, supporters, advertisers and of course our readers for another great FUSE year. We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and you all pop a cork at new year.
Simon Copland Political Editor
Enjoy, Alex Lukey Pukey Thanks FUSE, you are my favourite gay magazine in Australia. It’s awesome and I absolutely love it. November 18 Friday at 9:34pm Paul Eldo John Waters @ the Canberra Theatre Centre was fantasic — thanks to FUSE for the tickets. Gotta love the free things in life! November 6 Sunday at 8:05pm
Yasmin Element Associate Editor
Christopher Powell Creative Director
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HAVE FUSE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR BOX! SUBSCRIBE NOW AT: FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
Reflection + Functionality = Form Established in 1996, Form Haircutters in Kingston ACT, centre of Canberra’s Café District offers a high level of client comfort, quality customer service and the latest fashion trends in hair, whilst providing you with a ‘value for money’ commitment. Managing Partner/s Wayne Friend and Paul Granata, lead a dynamic and creative team of stylists whom share Wayne’s passion for the art of hairdressing and his ongoing commitment to education and awareness of the Hair Industry at both a national and global level. Upon arrival at Form, you are immediately greeted by the fresh, 25 Kennedy Street
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solutions ranging from hair cutting/styling, colour, and both in-house and at-home hair treatments. 3
MOVIES THE WOMEN ON THE 6TH FLOOR OPENS 15 DECEMBER It’s Paris, 1962. The marvellous Fabrice Luchini stars as wealthy stockbroker who lives a staid bourgeois existence with his perfectly-presented socialite wife (Sandrine Kiberlain). But when the family’s maid abandons them, into the residence comes Maria played by Natalia Verbeke. Remarkably, it doesn’t take long for the building to become enchanted by the new arrival. Maria rallies the friendship of the other servants on the sixth floor and soon, the balance of the household ruptures into wild, cross-cultural chaos!
RESTLESS OPENS 1 DECEMBER Two outsiders, both shaped by the circumstances that have brought them together, forge a deep and lasting love. Directed by Gus Van Sant (Milk and My Private Idaho), one of the most astute observers of people living life on the edge, comes a take on friendship and young love as engaging and true as it is provocative and stirring. LA Times One part “Harold and Maude,” two parts “Love Story” and two parts Oregon teen ennui. Indie Wire Winner of the ‘Audience Award’, it’s a disarming and charming story that offers substance as well as being immensely entertaining.
THE FLICKS THE IRON LADY OPENS 26 DECEMBER Staring Meryl Streep as Margaret and Jim Broadbent as Dennis, The Iron Lady is the story of a woman who came from nowhere to smash through barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male dominated world. It is a film about power and the price that is paid for power, a story that is both unique and universal.
✔
A FEW BEST MEN : OPENS 26 JANUARY From the director of The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and writers of Death at a Funeral, A Few Best Men, features a stellar cast. When English lad David (Xavier Samuel from Twilight) announces he is getting married to an Australian, his hapless mates give a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘for better or worse’! The chaos-filled wedding day tests their new marriage, challenges David’s relationships with his three best men, and risks turning what should be the best day of their lives into the worst. A Few Best Men is a hilarious culture clash between his friends and her family - because blood is thicker than water, and so are David’s mates!
FREE MOVIE TICKETS FUSE has double passes to give away to Dendy Cinemas.
Email us and tell us what you think of FUSE, comment on an article or sign up to the FUSE website and you could win these great Dendy movie tickets • email: hello@fusemagazine.com.au • www.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
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WHAT’S ON
DRAG DIVA WAYNE ROGERS 19 - 23 DECEMBER TEATRO VIVALDI Drag yourself out! Mr Entertainment, Drag Diva and Australia’s Got Talent Finalist, Wayne Rogers will give a dazzling display of live performance with music, glamour, glitz and laughter at Teatro Vivaldi this Christmas. Join in the fun with amazing Wayne Rogers and enjoy the wonderful Christmas fare at Teatro Vivaldi. He will be performing with James Court, a fantastic young Canberra pianist — plus some surprise special guests. GET YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS IN EARLY FOR THIS UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT, CALL 02 6257 2718
NEW YEARS CITY CONCERT & DANCE PARTY SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER 7.00PM TIL LATE LONDON CIRCUIT AND GAREMA PLACE, CANBERRA CITY Two prominent sites in the city will again play host to New Year’s Eve celebrations, with a concert in Civic Square, a dance party in Garema Place, and two fireworks displays at 9pm and midnight. From 9pm, Garema Place will feature top DJs including Chris Fraser who will be counting down to midnight with all the dance hits of 2011. One of Canberra’s most state-of-the-art pyrotechnic displays will then top off the night, with the fireworks set to a soundtrack that will herald in the New Year. For more infomation check out events.act.gov.au
This guy shines like a beacon, he keeps the audience in the palm of his hands and always leaves the audience wanting more! His costumes outdo those of Danny La Rue. Every sparkle, feather and outfit shimmers. Wayne has a remarkable voice – it’s one in a million – Australia’s Got Talent. For more infomation check out fusemagazine.com.au
RE SEATSURN O BACK N!
POPU BY LA DEM ANDR
PARTY AT CUBE NIGHTCLUB SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER 10.00PM TIL LATE 33 PETRIE PLAZA CIVIC, CANBERRA CITY Join in on all the gay fun at Cube Nightclub for the party of the year — FLASHBACK, CUBE’s fabulous 1980’s themed New Years Eve party. Dress in your favourite 80’s gear or just come along as you are. $25 cover with 2 FREE selected drinks — gotta love that! Doors open at 10pm.
BLOOD BROTHERS 19 - 28 JANUARY 2012 THE Q — QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Willy Russell’s classic musical Blood Brothers is set in Liverpool and is a story of twin brothers separated at birth who reunite and become friends in their childhood, unaware they are related or of the consequences their relationship will bring. Regarded as one of the all time great British musicals, Blood Brothers has been playing on the West End for over 20 years.
‘I see no reason why it shouldn’t run for at least another ten years. If you haven’t seen it yet...WHY NOT?!’ Christopher George, London Theatre online.
WHAT’S ON! WANT TO KNOW WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING, CHECK OUT OUR ‘WHAT’S ON’ SECTION AT WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
CAROLS WEDNESDAY 14 DECEMBER 7.30PM-9.30PM STAGE 88 COMMONWEALTH PARK CANBERRA Join thousands for Carols by Candlelight. An inspiring evening of music and celebration, as you sing along to your favourite carols in the beautiful surroundings of Commonwealth Park. More info at visitcanberra.com.au 5
NEWS & POLITICS
By Simon Copland
ROUND UP)
A YEAR IN REVIEW
2011 was a year that many couldn’t imagine. With revolutions, nuclear disasters and media scandals that nobody expected, it will be a year that many won’t forget. On top of that, the queer movement again gained strength as positive changes in laws, policies and our society once again brought hope for queer people around the world.
NEW QUEER RIGHTS 2011 once again brought with it a swathe of new rights for GLBTIQ people. Some of the biggest victories were in the United States, where the policy barring openly gay people from being in the military,‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’, was finally removed (trans* people however, still face significant discrimination in the US military) and the state of New York legalised same-sex marriage. 2011 also brought the end of extremely oppressive laws in some countries around the world. In March, Mozambique’s Justice Minister Benvinda Levi officially stated that homosexuality is not a criminal offense, bringing an end to criminalisation in the country. The infamous ‘Kill the Gays’ bill in Uganda also seems temporarily defeated, with the Ugandan Parliament not voting on the bill in May and the Ugandan cabinet agreeing to not pursue it further in August. 6
Changes were also afoot in Nepal, where the national census taken in May, for the first time officially recognised a third gender in addition to male and female. Same-sex marriage has gained significant momentum in Australia, with a motion passed by the Greens Adam Baandt in the House of Representatives calling on all members to openly canvas the views of their electorate on the issue. Motions at a number of ALP state conferences around the country were also passed in support of same-sex marriage, and the issue will be debated at the ALP national conference at the end of the year. A policy change in Australia also saw a significant victory for trans* rights. The new policy announced by the Australian Government will mean that transsexual and intersex Australians will now only have to provide a medical certificate from their regular physician in order to change the sex on their passport. This is in sharp contrast to previous policy, where reassignment surgery was required for someone to be able to change their sex on their passport. WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
PEOPLE BY THE ARAB SPRING
GLBTI MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES One of the biggest health debates during 2011 has been around mental health. Whilst the Government has announced a new framework for health funding in Australia, it seems as though mental health issues still seem to dominate our political discussion. The queer mental health debate was sparked in Australia after Beyond Blue board Chair (and former Victorian Premier) said in a newspaper opinion piece that children growing up with homosexual parents are more likely to end up with worse mental health outcomes. For many this was the last straw for Kennett’s Chairmanship, with his remarks providing a catalyst for the resignation of Beyond Blue’s Chief Executive and the development of a campaign from queer activists to see Kennett resign. With queer mental health issues still being a major problem in our society, it seems as though there is still much work to be done to find a solution. On a positive side however, homophobia and queer mental health issues are now being tackled in schools under new programs in NSW and the ACT. In January the NSW education department announced another program to combat homophobia in schools. This program, called ‘Proud Schools’ will be trialled in a small number of schools, with a full roll-out if it is successful. Following this, the ACT Minister for Education, Andrew Barr announced a similar scheme focused on training school staff on how to deal with homophobia. He also announced an anti-homophobia conference open to all staff, high school and college students that was held on the 17th May.
It began with some protests in Tunisia and turned into a movement that will change the world forever. In December 2010 a group of protesters took to the street to demonstrate against the dictatorship of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The movement grew quickly and by January the President had fallen. These protests spawned action around the region, with other campaigns erupting in Egypt, Bahrain, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Jordon and many other countries in the region. By the end of the year, the Government of Egypt had fallen as well, and an eight-month civil war in Libya saw President Muammar Gaddafi killed by rebels who had taken control of the country. In other countries, regimes had been severely weakened with many seeing this as the beginning of a democratic transition for the Arab world.
A MEDIA IN SHOCK Media agencies around the world are facing serious problems from the fall-out of the News of the World scandal in the UK. The scandal erupted after evidence was found that journalists had hacked the phone of a missing teenager and then deleted messages on her answering machine, giving her parents false hope that she was still alive. News Corporation head Rupert Murdoch acted swiftly under the allegations, abolishing the news paper. Yet the problem has not gone away – after the resignation of many top News Corp chiefs, the Murdochs are still under fire, with the future of their company potentially under threat.
NUMBERS 7 billion
The number of people living on the planet in 2011. In 1811 it was around 1 billion.
15,813
Estimated number people who died in Japanese tsunami.
10 million
People affected by the drought and famine in Africa this year.
33.3 million
Estimated number of people living with HIV throughout the world.
2011 FUSE POLL
MARRIAGE
What Fuse online readers thought about gay marriage 50.8%
)
Support it and want to get married.
34.7%
Support it, but not interested in marriage for myself.
7.4%
Don’t believe in marriage for anyone.
7.1%
Don’t believe in marriage for gay people.
OCCUPY WALL STREET
NOTABLE 2011
It started with small protests in New York, but has now spread to a worldwide movement. Occupy Wall Street has become global, focusing on the huge income inequalities in our world today. The movement has seen protests around the world, The approx. number of with actions in Sydney turkeys slaughtered and Melbourne drawing each Christmas thousands of people and heavy police presence. The movement seems likely to continue over the coming year, with the big question being, will it actually have an impact?
Steve Jobs Apple CEO & co-founder. Amy Winehouse Pop-star. Muammar Gaddafi Libyan leader. Elizabeth Taylor Screen legend. Knut Germany’s favourite polar bear. Osama Bin Laden Leader of Al Qaeda. Betty Ford Founder of the Betty Ford drug rehabilitation centre. Leslie Nielsen Noted actor. David Kato Queer activist in Uganda who was beaten to death.
15 million
)
DEATHS
)
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Talking to your kids about puberty, relationships and sexuality can be challenging. Parents can feel that they lack the conďŹ dence or resources to do this effectively.
Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) is a health promotion charity that has been supporting parents & carers in Canberra to have these conversations with kids since the 1970s.
Our key goal is to minimise the risks and harms faced by children and young people, using an evidencebased approach to comprehensive relationships education.
For more info about how SHFPACT can support you as a parent or carer, phone us on 6247 3077 or visit our website at www.shfpact.org.au today.
Assisted with funding from the ACT Government.
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PFLAG
KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER
COMMUNITY
IF YOU ARE A PARENT, FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND OF A LGBTI PERSON — THEN IT IS LIKELY YOU WILL BENEFIT FROM PFLAG. Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is a socio-political group of family members and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. Its goals are to promote health and wellbeing of LGBTI persons as well as actively support their families and friends through education and positive advocacy. Last month during Canberra SpringOut they launched the ACT Chapter of PFLAG, which was held in the Rainbow Room at Westlund House. Andrew Barr and other high profile members of the community attended the evening. PFLAG ACT can offer support from people who truly understand how you are feeling first hand. If you contact PFLAG ACT (or any other chapter for that matter) you will be welcomed with open arms by parents that know what it is like to have their son or daughter come out to them as a LGBTI person. They know the heartbreak, confusion, guilt and worry that most parents go through when they first discover their child does not fit into the standard mould expected by society.
HOW DID IT ALL START? The event that sparked PFLAG was in 1972 when Jeanne Manford was watching a TV news report and saw her son being tossed down an escalator during a gay rights protest while the New York City Police Department stood by and watched. The idea for the organisation arose out of Jeanne Manford’s marching with her gay son Morty, carrying a sign saying “Parents of Gays: Unite in Support for Our Children” in New York City’s Christopher Street Liberation Day Gay Pride Parade (now known as Heritage of Pride). People came up to Manford during and after the parade, applauding her actions and inspiring her to form a support group for gays and lesbians and their families. The organisation was originally known as POG (Parents of Gays), then later became PFLAG, and grew to include bisexuals and trans* people.
They can help you understand, learn and then come to terms with any unexpected situation you may find yourself in regarding your child’s sexuality and gender variance. You will not have to worry about confidentiality because this is a high priority for PFLAG. They will be able to offer a safe and comforting haven for you to express your feelings, have your questions answered and have the opportunity to educate yourself. PFLAG is an international group and has chapters all around Australia (see contact list on this page) and the world including America, NZ, the UK and many other countries. The work of these parents is absolutely invaluable to a community. You will also find that parents and families from PFLAG come from all different walks of life, religions, cultures and nationalities. What will be obvious is that every one of them will have something in common: that they love someone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans* or intersex.
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS You can find many informative resources on LGBTI issues at your local library or on the internet. Here are some recommendations:
My Child is Gay Bryce McDougall, Allen and Unwin, 1998 Sexuality is Not a Choice Shelley Argent (PFLAG) pflagvictoria.org.au Now That You Know Betty Fairchild and Nancy Hayward, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1998 When Our Children Come Out Dr Maria Pallota-Chiarolli, Mar 2005, Finch Publishing
CONTACT PFLAG ACT E : pflag.act@gmail.com P : 0422 913 942 Facebook: PFLAG ACT PFLAG ILLAWARRA P : 02 4226 1163 W : illawarraqinfo.com PFLAG NSW P : 02 9869 1454 W : pflagaustralia.org.au PFLAG VIC P : 03 9660 3960 W : pflagvictoria.org.au PFLAG QLD P : 07 3017 1739 W : pflagbrisbane.org.au PFLAG WA P : 08 9228 1005 W : pflagwa.org.au 9
Peter, 30 Public Servant
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because I never want to say ‘I wish I’d used a condom’
aidsaction.org.au Photography by
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FEATURE OP.ED
THE EVOLUTION OF RURAL GAY LOVIN’ By Robert Edward Smith
Robert is a 24-year-old communications graduate, freelance writer and bisexual advocate for equality.
Major metropolitan cities are seen as ideal havens for gays and lesbians both young and old, but have we reached an age of social inclusion where much smaller locales embrace homosexual lifestyles? From Gundegah to Geraldton and Wollongong to Warnambool, gays and lesbians across our sunburnt land are enjoying copious amounts of carefree romances and the warmth of true companionship. During our formative years we all assumed we had to trek to the big smoke to have a chance at love and life, but as rental prices skyrocket and the cost of living pinches our pennies, regional areas become far more attractive. Remote cities tend to have a dispersed and diluted nightclub scene, where most patrons (regardless of sexual orientation) frequent the same bars. Yet in an era of surging tolerance it’s easier than ever to find other same-sex attracted people in traditionally ‘hetero’ environments. Despite living in this gay ‘golden age’ there’s still the preconception that Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane will deliver us to a grandiose utopia. Many of us still believe they’re the only places where we can snare a same-sex partner, boyfriend or girlfriend and have all our wildest dreams served up to us on a pink platter.
Commercial road has indisputably been Melbourne’s gay epicentre — a hotspot teeming with gay bars, clubs, cafes and trendy clothing stores. But this year alone, the doors have shut on two of its iconic hotels: The Xchange and The Market Hotel — more city gay spots in Australia may follow in their wake. But is that really the case? Having lived in tiny shanty towns and bustling metropolis cities it’s clear to me that gay life is what you make it. Simply ‘existing’ in big cities isn’t going to cut the mustard either - you’re going to need to haul your ass out the door and trot off to nightclubs and trendy bars each weekend or else you’ll risk falling behind the proverbial pack, and let’s not forget those aforementioned big city cost of living pressures.
And following the untimely demise of Commercial Road, Victoria’s former hub of discoballs and glitter, Melbourne’s fledgling gay nightspot scene is lacking the panache of yesteryear. I believe the death of places like Commercial Road is a consequence of the integrative nature of nightspots in the modern era, where concepts of gay and straight are overshadowed by the many shades of grey inbetween, where gays can party in harmony with straights. And as gay men and women masquerade as straights and vice versa at the multitude of edgy, cosmopolitan clubs across our capital cities, it’s only a matter of time before this becomes commonplace in rural areas. And that can only be a positive thing for us all. Sublime coastal savannahs and charming timbertop towns dotting the Aussie landscape are beckoning for gay and lesbian residents to set up camp and paint their towns pink. We’ve already conquered our cities, yet it can be a lonely life for those of us who choose to reside in smaller towns, watching many of our likeminded peers departing when they reach their late teens or early 20’s. As homophobia continues to fade in our society, marooned in the dank pages of history, I firmly believe tolerance will flourish in every corner of this great country. 11
ENTERTAINMENT
By Tony Hamlyn
BUZZ ! EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSIE! I just love Rosie O’Donnell. As a regular on The View she was constantly criticised for being too gay-centric and trying to push a lesbian agenda on the show, which of course was a ridiculous claim given that everyone is supposed to bring a personal perspective to that job in the first place. Nobody ever criticises Elizabeth Hasselback for forcing her boring Republican right-wing family into our homes. The idea that American audiences — and indeed, syndicated audiences around the world — were being given an insight into the normalcy of Rosie and her family was something very satisfying. Plus, she always had the best Broadway features, which for an old show queen like me was manna from heaven!
She left The View in 2007, after an ugly public spat with Hasselback over US troops in Iraq, and whilst she’s done a few things here and there she has been sadly missing from our television sets. Until now! Rosie is back with a new talkshow on Oprah’s OWN network called The Rosie Show. And whilst the show itself is having a bit of trouble finding its feet, the reviews are mostly positive, with the New York Times calling it ‘colourful and spontaneous’. Plus, the show’s logo is suspiciously similar to the 1950s musical Gypsy, and who doesn’t love that! The general consensus is that here once again we have Rosie talking plainly and sensibly to the masses about the normalcy of her lifestyle, and that’s something to celebrate. Guests so far have included the likes of Mariah Carey, Roseanne Barr, Wanda Sykes, Fran Drescher, and Russell Brand. The Rosie Show may not have been picked up in Australia yet, but let’s hope it does because it looks like it might be something fresh for nighttime. 12
HUSBANDS THE SERIES Husbands is a web series co-created by Jane Espenson, and if that name sounds familiar to you then perhap it’s from the credits for Buffy or Battlestar Galactica, as she wrote and produced on both series. Husbands is not steeped in the fantasy-fiction genre like those other titles however, in fact it’s more of a gay rom-com. Think Newlyweds meets Will & Grace without the network censorship. The casting is superb, with a couple of new Hollywood hotties in the lead roles. Sean Hemeon is Brad, a hunky gay baseball star, and Brad Bell plays a twinky actor called Cheeks. Bell is the other co-creator of the show, and he delivers the machine-gun dialogue with a quick wit and feisty bravado. Each episode is just under three minutes long and I’ll hold off on sharing any of the plot with you, as it might spoil the fun of actually discovering the show for yourselves. I mean, it’s a master feat in itself to simply have plot in a three-minute webisode, but this does, and it’s great. And clever. And it’s also hilarious! Web series are the new black; everybody knows that. And this new production is seriously fabulous. Check it out at: husbandstheseries.com
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BUZZ !
COME OUT COME OUT Actor, Zachary Quinto, best known for playing the spooky Sylar in Heroes and of course as Spock in the 2009 Star Trek reboot, divulged that he is gay in a recent interview with New York magazine. The teenage suicide of yet another gay teen, Jamey Rodemeyer, who killed himself only weeks after posting his own “It Gets Better” video on YouTube, was said to be the catalyst for Quinto’s coming out. The actor made a statement that Rodemeyer’s death made him realise that ‘living a gay life without publicly acknowledging it is simply not enough to make any significant contribution to the immense work that lies ahead on the road to complete equality’. It’s so nice to see someone come out in such an admirable and classy way, without fanfare or scandal. So classy in fact, it inspired US newsreader Dan Kloeffler to come out himself during a live broadcast, suggesting that he would drop his ‘no actors’ dating policy for Zachary Quinto. I’m thinking of coming out myself now, inspired by Kloeffler’s coming out over Quinto’s coming out, hoping to inspire someone else to come out — like a ‘gay it forward’ kind of thing. We’ll see. In the meantime, would you please quit it with the suicide, kids! Who’s going to keep this big, gay world turning if you all go and off yourselves? And watch the gorgeous Zachary Quinto, who plays a gay guy in the new TV series American Horror Story, with the hope that one day you just might get a piece of that, you might just never consider suicide again.
COCO OFFICIATES By now you would most likely have read about the gay wedding that talkshow host Conan O’Brien featured on his New York telecast early November. In case you haven’t, Conan’s costume designer Scott Cronick married his partner David Gorshein live on national television, with Coco officiating. The whole thing was legal and everything, and came across to some as a bit of a publicity stunt and ratings puller for the talkshow host and his late night show. But before we all get very cynical and eye-rolly, might I suggest having a look at the wedding footage available online? Because it really is something special. The couple in question are undoubtedly in love, and committed to the idea of getting married, not just getting married on TV. It’s an incredibly touching moment as they say their vows to each other in front of family and friends. I challenge any Australian TV show to do the same! They can’t of course… because it’s not legal. Yet. And whilst this Coco stunt is a hilarious spectacle of sorts, the end result for us is that millions of people watched as a gay couple got married on the tele like it was normal. Which of course it is, and which of course it should be. Proving that the world will not end and society will in fact not break down if homosexuals are allowed to marry. Not that we needed proof, but it’s nice to see them kiss and stuff. Go to the FUSE website for the footage — fusemagazine.com.au
GLAMBERT A CHEATER? I like Adam Lambert, though I’ve never cared for him vocally. I think he’s smart and subversive, and that’s important at a time when the likes of Chris Brown is considered an essential piece of the pop puzzle. I don’t like his troll-doll hair, and I don’t like his screeching falsetto, but I love his savvy and he’s always incredibly charming. And I’d do him, no question. So how surprising to hear the news that the one and only out and proud Idol is… A CHEAT??? No, not in the ‘other woman’ sense! A lawsuit has surfaced from an independent record company claiming that Glambert had already signed a publishing/recording deal with them in 2008, just prior to his competing on American Idol. This point blank goes against the first rule of any country’s Idol: Though shalt not have already signed on anyone else’s dotted line. The company, Colwel Platinum Entertainment, began distributing copies online of unreleased material by the artist, suggestively titled Beg For Mercy. Sounds awful, right? The songs, claims our Glambert, are unfinished tracks which should never have seen the cold, hard light of day. His people forced Colwel to stop distribution, which they did, but have now hit back with a lawsuit that has everyone a little nervous. Everyone that is but the fans, who now have kick-ass bootlegs they can get their grubby hands on. And who doesn’t love that? Adam apparently, who just the other day tweeted ‘Remember that in any dispute, reserve judgement until all the facts surface from ALL parties. Guilt and innocence come with a complete story’. 13
BUZZ
ENTERTAINMENT
HOMO HERITAGE PRISONER
THE WOMEN OF CELL BLOCK H
We look back at a significant cultural phenomenon from our big gay past… Australia is renowned for its soaps, in all their glorious kitschness. There is a multitude of titles in our television canon that have over decades provided a snapshot into the people we are (and are not) and the things we hold dear (and don’t) as a society. But perhaps none is more loved, more revered or held in higher esteem — by gay audiences especially! — than Prisoner. After seven jawdropping years as its most gripping night-time drama, the Ten Network slammed shut the steel bars of Wentworth Detention Centre for good in December 1986, and so this month marks 25 years since the end of Prisoner.
‘DON’T YOU CALL ME NAMES, YA SMART ALECKY TROLLOP!’ LIZZIE BIRDSWORTH It’s not hard to see why this show was such a phenomenon and a cultural game-changer. For the first time Australian TV had not one but dozens of female role models to pay regular homage to who, whilst being intensely violent, even homicidal, were strong and forthright and vaguely representative of most suburban mothers. None were more memorable than Val Lehman as the notorious “Queen” Bea Smith who, in the first twelve minutes of 1979’s premiere episode, tricks naïve newbie Lyn Warner into putting her hand onto the industrial press so she can jam down the apparatus, punishing her for the crime for which she’d already been committed! But it was the juxtaposition of this kind of evil torturous shrew, against the softer maternal side of Bea we get to see in consequent episodes, that made Prisoner what it was: A shocking fantasy world of perversity and crime filled with the everyday people who grew up on your street or who you knew from family barbeques who, whether through their own actions or the actions of another, somehow ended up trapped in this red-bricked nightmare. Its ability to deal candidly with lesbianism and other social issues of the time was unparalleled. Years before lesbian chic was even a concept, Prisoner was not only giving us dyke characters, but portraying them as real and sexual and as protagonists. Of course, it wasn’t without its ridiculousness, and its end of year cliffhanger episodes were always a combination of high tension and camp craziness (remember the tunnel collapse escape of 1981 occurred as the rest of the prison continued a crudely-staged pantomimed Cinderella? Gold!). 14
‘I HEAR THAT SHE IS TOP DOG AMONGST YOU PRISONERS’ JOAN “THE FREAK” FERGUSON In later years the wonderful Maggie Kirkpatrick made famous the character of Joan “Freak” Ferguson, possibly our first ever hint at corrupt officials within the Victorian criminal system, and perhaps the most insanely frightening of all our Aussie TV villains. With those menacing black leather gloves and that chinless beady-eyed sneer, she put the fear of God and jail time into the heart of every prepubescent dyke and gay boy in the country. And these are only two of the abundance of iconic female characters written into the show’s seven years; I could go on about loveable old booze hound, Lizzie Birdsworth; or evil murderess Nola Mackenzie; manipulative cockney slapper Chrissie Latham; doe-eyed Doreen; or good-hearted screw Meg Morris. And that’s not even scratching the surface of this non-stop action-packed soapie.
‘SHE’S SO UP AND DOWN WE SHOULD CALL HER DUNNY-SEAT DAVIES!’ MARLENE With a massive following throughout Europe the show’s theme song, Lynne Hamilton’s gorgeous rendition of ‘On The Inside’, went top three in the UK in 1989 after Prisoner began a late-night run on ITV that would continue for a decade. Amazingly, given its enormous success overseas, the DVD release has been a sketchy endeavour and the series as a collectable DVD item has never really been marketed and distributed properly. But if you do get the opportunity to watch the show, even though it has dated, it still has a bald-faced intensity and some amazing performances from its leading ladies. And it still remains fabulously entertaining. WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
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FASHION By Mickey Reiser
JOCK STOCKING
STUFFER
ES UNDERWEAR FOR GUYS HAS BECOME POPULAR IN AUSTRALIA AND MAKES THE PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER. They are known for their provocative ad campaigns, and their latest campaign does not disappoint. Shot in Segovia, Spain in an abandoned prison, images depict models in playfully sporty fun-wear from the new collection. The bold colors and chiseled frames of the models — and we all like that in a man — pop out against the drab backdrop of the prison walls and bars. “The theme of this years shoot was freedom,” says designer Ed Suñer. “Freedom to express yourself with color. Freedom to live the way you choose to live without restrictions. “WE SHOULD ALL BE THANKFUL THAT WE ENJOY GREATER FREEDOMS TODAY THAN OUR GRANDPARENTS EVER DID. HOWEVER, WE STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO. UNTIL WE ALL HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS, WE NEED TO KEEP ACTIVE IN THE FIGHT.” ES Collection knows how to fight. The brand continues to thrive despite the onslaught of copy cat brands ripping off their designs. In addition to playful new athletic wear offerings, this season ES is unveiling the Wonderbrief and Wonderboxer version 2.0 — a second generation of their most popular collection — as well as the latest addition to the line, the Wonderslim. “After four years on the market, we modified the Wonderbrief and boxer for a more sophisticated look. The new briefs offer a molded and seamless effect with removable padding. “ Visit LAJock.com and grab some of these great Christmas gifts for that special man in your life... or yourself! Facebook search ES-COLLECTION AUSTRALIA.
“LET FREEDOM REIGN AS ES LEADS THE FUTURE OF MEN’S ACTIVE WEAR,” PROCLAIMS SUÑER.
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FEATURE OP.ED
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2012 AND BEYOND
I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL PRIDE MARCH IN STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN IN AUGUST 2009. The march took place immediately following the adoption of a new, gender-neutral law on marriage by the Swedish Parliament with an overwhelming majority. The passage of the law followed a huge campaign in the country to see same-sex marriage become a reality. I was interested to see how a queer movement would react to such an achievement and move forward. What I found was pretty amazing. First, the theme of the march, roughly translated, was ‘how does heteropatriachy affect you?’, a pretty strong indication of a movement that was not willing to settle with same-sex marriage as their end goal. The second amazing thing to see was the size and energy of the march and, from what I saw during my year in Sweden, the movement around it. It was clear that same-sex marriage had not reduced the momentum for the Swedish queer movement. In fact it probably helped it. Same-sex marriage was clearly seen as one victory on a ladder to much wider societal change. Looking at Sweden, I think there is much that the Australian queer movement can learn from their experience. Momentum in Australia around same-sex marriage is so strong at the moment that it is, in many ways, sucking the oxygen out of most other high-profile queer issues. The campaign also looks certain to come to a head soon, particularly following developments at the ALP National Conference in early December where Labor agreed to recognise “equal access to marriage under statute for all adult couples irrespective of sex” as part of their national platform. The ALP also voted in favour of allowing a conscience vote on the issue of same-sex marriage in the Federal Parliament. How this will play out is uncertain, however it is very likely that any such amendment to the Marriage Act would be introduced either by the Greens or as a private members bill rather than come from the Government, with every chance that the bill would then be defeated due to a lack of numbers (unless the Coalition also allows a conscience vote on this matter). So, what should we do after such a vote and how should we approach the next 12 months as we head into 2012?
WHAT HAPPENS IF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE PASSES? WHAT HAPPENS IF IT FAILS? In all political movements it is important to be able to identify achievable goals that allow us to have identifiable victories that can lead to long-term success. With same-sex marriage, while we may have disagreements about the value of marriage (something I am happy to engage in), for those who are advocating and campaigning for it, it should be seen as one potential, identifiable victory, that is part of long-term success. Same-sex marriage is part of a broader campaign to create a more inclusive society and to bring an end to the “heteropatriachy”. It is by no means the be-all and end-all of queer politics. One of the key elements of ensuring that these sort of strategies work is being clear that the stepping stones on the way to a greater victory are just one part of this long-term change. This has two important implications. First, social movements need to be able to clearly articulate that achievable goals are just part of a broader change desired in society. In the case of same-sex marriage, it continues to be essential that we articulate that it isn’t the ultimate goal, although many consider it to be an essential element to change in our society.
Photo Stockholm Pride
By Simon Copland
IN A RECENT SURVEY THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD REPORTED THAT ALMOST TWO THIRDS OF VOTERS SUPPORT LEGALISING SAME-SEX MARRIAGE, INDICATING THE PUBLIC IS MORE RELAXED WITH THE CONCEPT THAN POLITICIANS Second, it is essential that the queer movement has a clear plan forward after same-sex marriage is either won or lost. Whilst it is certain that many will focus on re-strategising if the issue fails in Parliament in 2012, we will also need to re-strategise if the law passes. The debate over same-sex marriage has seen the queer movement gain almost unprecedented coverage and support from a broader community that clearly feels empathy with the issues activists are putting forward. We need to think about how we can keep this momentum going, so we can tackle the other important issues facing the gay community. We need to have a post-legislation strategy. This is a matter that has to be addressed by queer activists now. Organisations such as ‘Australian Marriage Equality’ and ‘Equal Love’, who both focus almost solely on same-sex marriage, are now dominating the public sphere of the queer movement. There are serious concerns that other issues are simply being pushed off the agenda — such as queer mental health, trans* and intersex rights, gender identity, bullying in schools and the workplace, and challenging the ingrained heterosexual norms that still dominate our society. If you are someone who cares about same-sex marriage, things are looking brighter in 2012. Yet, as the campaign momentum for same-sex marriage heats up, so does our responsibility to ensure a bright future for the queer movement beyond this single issue. We have real potential to take this momentum to the next stage and to be able to effect change with other issues facing the queer community in Australia and around the world. 19
Tilley’s
Devine Café Gallery
TILLEY’S IS NESTLED IN TREE LINED LYNEHAM For over 26 years Tilley’s has been famous for its breakfasts, lunches and dinners... and of course 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.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM TILLEY’S Tilley’s would like to wish you all a very merry and safe Christmas, a fabulous holiday season and a happy new year!
THE CALL IS YOURS! TILLEY’S CAN DO IT FOR YOU! CORNER OF WATTLE & BRIGALOW STREETS, LYNEHAM 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 20
WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
STOP PRESS Do not ask us any longer to accept our relations being treated as lesser. Less worthy, less valued, simply because of the gender of our partner. Penny Wong
Love, trust and commitment are found at the heart of all good relationships. Andrew Barr
RAINBOW LABOR MAKES HISTORY At the ALP National Conference 2-4 December 2011, Rainbow Labor successfully amended their party’s national platform to include the commitment that “Labor will amend the Marriage Act to ensure equal access to marriage under statute for all adult couples irrespective of sex who have a mutual commitment to a shared life.” ACT Deputy Chief Minister Andrew Barr moved the motion, seconded by federal Finance Minister Penny Wong, and the platform change was resoundingly carried on voices, paving the way for same-sex marriage in Australia under a Labor Government. Following the endorsement of the Barr-Wong motion, we caught up with Andrew Barr to get his thoughts on this historic moment. Discussing the outcome of the Conference, Mr Barr said, “I’m thrilled that Labor has changed it’s platform and now supports marriage equality. This is a significant moment in the party’s history and I’m proud to have been able to successfully move the platform amendment.” With one victory achieved, we asked the Deputy Chief Minister about the process moving forward to eventual Government legislation supporting same-sex marriage. “The campaign to pass the marriage equality bill begins now. We will need support from MPs from all parties. The pressure is now on the Coalition to allow a conscience vote. Every vote will count. It will be close.”
Marriage equality is about giving us the same rights as everyone else. Andrew Barr
Mr Barr also noted that there are still a number of other pressing issues facing LGBTI people in Australia that he and the Rainbow Labor movement will be addressing in the future. “In addition to marriage equality the focus will be on combating homophobia in schools and sport, and youth mental health issues.” For full transcripts of the National Conference speeches by Andrew Barr and Penny Wong, go to the FUSE website fusemagazine.com.au Report by Christopher Powell
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By Scott Malcolm
With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s tempting to throw out the year’s careful planning and budgeting to splurge in the name of Christmas. But getting into the Christmas spirit doesn’t mean you have to go into debt. Follow these tips to emerge in the new year debt free. SET A CASH FLOW PLAN First take some time out to review your current finances. Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend without going into debt for it! Remember to include gifts and entertainment as well as all the small things that come with the season like cards, stamps, decorations, food and travel. Next make a list of everyone you plan on giving a gift to and decide how much you want to spend on each person. Finally check that the total figure you want to spend is not beyond your means. You may need to reduce the amount you’re able to spend on each person or reassess the number of people on your list. Or think of some more creative gifts to give that don’t cost you money! START EARLY Before you know it, Christmas will be upon us. In fact, most of the shopping centers have already started spruiking their Christmas wares. By shopping early, you can look out for sales and great deals for later in the year. You also have time to comparison shop rather than last-minute shop; where your panic to pick up something (anything) will usually mean spending more. Also check out the online stores that may require some delivery time but will get you a great discount!
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS... IS TO SURVIVE IT DEBT FREE!
MONEY SHOT LOOK FOR SAVINGS AND INCENTIVES If you choose to use your credit card, look for any rewards or discounts that may be available through your credit provider. Also try to shop online first as you’re less likely to impulse shop and can easily compare prices across various websites. There are plenty of online retailers that offer savings across a number of product categories such as fashion, skincare, make up, fragrances, books and electrical appliances. You can also find discounts through online community classifieds, auctions and daily deal sites. REMEMBER WHO YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR When you’re shopping for family and friends, it’s very easy to find things that will be just perfect for yourself. This is a very common mistake that is sure to break your budget. Christmas shopping isn’t a ‘one for you, one for me’ deal. Don’t buy it. If you really need to have it, wait until after the holidays when it’s more likely to be on sale. Or do what a few of my clients do and shop for next Christmas during the post Christmas sales! STICK TO YOUR PLAN Remember that a deal is not a deal if you can’t afford it. Once you reach your budget limit, stop. SAVE EARLY Get off the overspending merry-go-round by saving early for next year. As soon as the holiday season is over, determine next year’s Christmas spend and set up automatic direct debits into a dedicated Christmas savings account. You’ll be all set by the time the department stores bring out their tinsel again.
If you need assistance on how to manage debt and build a savings plan, talk to a professional but most importantly start your journey to being free around your money and creating wealth with understanding.
Scotty’s Loose Baubles Have a merry Christmas, and this year add something to your gift list to make the world a better place... no matter how small! Why not make a donation to a worthy cause in the community, or check out the Money Mechanics micro finance program and get involved in helping people in need this Christmas. money-mechanics.com.au /about-us/microfinance
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.
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E CRIB S B U S E! & SAV THE S E MAK FECT PER GIFT XMAS
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2012 SEASON
IN THE TICKETS 6285 6290 • WWW.THEQ.NET.AU
FOREVER EVERLY
THE MOUSETRAP
SYNCOPATION
29 FEBRUARY - 3 MARCH
7 - 24 MARCH
27 MARCH - 5 APRIL
“This Tribute to the Everly Brothers brought the audience to their feet with shouts for more!” Lesley James Curtain Up Queensland
“The cleverest murder mystery of the British theatre” The Daily Telegraph “A truly entertaining classic thriller The Sunday Times
A smash-hit fusion of comedy! “A compelling story that promenades, foxtrots and tangos to life” The Age
MOTHERHOOD THE MUSICAL
WHAT A MAN’S GOTTA DO
CHASING THE LOLLYMAN
14 - 19 AUGUST
28 AUGUST
29 - 30 AUGUST
“If you saw the funny side of the change of life in Menopause The Musical, then this show is for you.” Jason Blake Sydney Morning Herald
“Five Stars! Rip-roarin’ rootin’ tootin’ adult musical…brilliant songs…clever writing… This show just glowed. Independent Theatre Association
“...as original as it is Aboriginal, taking a light-hearted but surprisingly deep and personal look at Murri culture...” Baz McAlister – Time Off Magazine WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
MOOD! 253 CRAWFORD STREET QUEANBEYAN LET THE SUNSHINE
APRIL’S FOOL
THE IMAGINARY INVALID
26 - 29 APRIL
15 - 17 MAY
11 - 21 JULY
“An absolute must see, it will have you in fits of laughter. This is quality theatre you will not want to miss out on.” Brisbane Critiques
“Seeing this show is a beautiful experience because you see how people survive. That is what the most moving thing is for me.” David Burton
Laughter is the best medicine. An exuberant play full to the brim with naughtiness, flamboyance, hypocrisy and defiance.
BIDDIES
HAIR
LADIES MEN’S NIGHT
4 - 8 SEPTEMBER
19 SEPTEMBER - 6 OCTOBER
10 - 13 OCTOBER
Five marvellous women find themselves back in the classroom plying their needles in a good old-fashioned session of “stitch and bitch”.
“We may find flower power naive, but Hair brought counter-cultural values to a mass audience and helped loosen up a whole generation.” The Guardian
The story of four unemployed guys, motivated by ‘The Chippendales’ to form a male stripping act, in order to make some fast cash. 25
OUT & ABOUT
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FACEBOOK Join Cube on facebook! www.facebook.com/cube.canberra
DJ Pete & DJ Matt playing the hottest dance dirty tracks on Foreplay Fridays. Friday nights at CUBE.
WWW.FUSEMAGAZINE.COM.AU
♥
FREE ENTRY & HAPPY HOUR
Are you free this weekend? Come to happy hour at CUBE. We’ve got free entry & happy hour every Thursday, Friday & Saturday night until 11pm.
OPENING HOURS • THURSDAY 9PM-5AM • FRIDAY 9PM-5AM • SATURDAY 10PM-5AM • SUNDAY 10PM-LATE 33 PETRIE PLAZA CIVIC, CANBERRA CITY WWW.CUBENIGHTCLUB.COM.AU
♥
NEW YEARS EVE @ CUBE
Join us at Cube Nightclub for FLASHBACK! CUBE’s fabulous 1980’s themed New Years Eve party. Dress in your favourite 80’s gear or just come along to join in the fun. $25 cover with 2 FREE selected drinks. Doors open at 10pm. Don’t miss this great night of fun and celebration.
HALLOWEEN @ CUBE
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XMAS FEATURE In the
Mood anyone
The
deliciously
Hot
priests
Ditch the
Xmas carols
Showgirl must go on
Chrissy
gifts for the
discerning Dr Who
&
Sarah Jane
homo Pop
Life The
Campest Crystal ever
Head-scratching and shoulder shrugging my way through Westfield, I became increasingly frustrated with what the ‘straighty 180’ stores had on offer for us gays this Christmas. I mean, cargo shorts are over, and who really needs the Cold Chisel box set? I began to realise what we all need right now is some cheery, queer ideas for gayer gifts. Whether buying for your BF, or your BFF, or just your FF, here is a bit of a guide to what’s out there for you. By Tony Hamlyn
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deliciously
Hot
priests
NO, YOU DIDN’T READ THAT WRONG. There is, and has been for a number of years now, an annual Hot Priests Calendar featuring men of the clergy looking… well, hot. All the men of cloth are your typical gorgeous Italian types, and the featured photos look like a cross between the French Rugby team and an episode of Vicar Of Dibley. It’s all a bit odd, and the website is shoddily pasted together, but the merchandise is very real and available through both Amazon and eBay, so it’s obviously legit. They even have their own Facebook and Twitter accounts! A must if you have a Thorn Birds fetish, or if you just want to enjoy the kitsch and blasphemous nature of it all. facebook.com/calendarioromano
The
Campest Crystal ever
CRYSTAL
SPARKLY DELIGHTS. Finally, a gift that’s camp and piss elegant and perfect for your Christmas feast. Legend has it that the Champagne Coupe was modelled on Marie Antoinette’s breasts, and if they were anything like the dusty old saucers that sat at the back of my parent’s hutch then it’s a wonder the old girl got any action at all. But the boat-shaped glassware is now being polished up and brought back thanks to boutique wine bars and an art deco renaissance inspired by all the hype surrounding the upcoming Baz Luhrmann film, The Great Gatsby. If it’s for Daisy Buchanan then it’s for the gays! And in the words of Mike Welch from one of Canberra’s leading crystal glassware retailers Hang Ups Australia, “You can’t stack flutes when you’re building a champagne fountain!” Words to live by. For more details drop by Hang Ups in Canberra Cnr Gladstone & Kembla Streets in Fyshwick.
Dr Who
&Sarah Jane WHO? THE DOCTOR’S COMPANION PIECE. If you, or someone you know, is a Doctor Who nut then this Christmas is going to be the best one Walford has ever seen (inside Doctor Who joke there – sorry if you missed it!). Elisabeth Sladen, famous for playing arguably the most beloved of all the Doctor’s female companions Sarah Jane Smith, releases her posthumous autobiography in time for the Christmas rush. Penned just prior to losing her battle with cancer last April, a final draft was put together with the help and blessing of her family, and Who fans are in for quite a treat. She dishes on her golden days with Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker, the two doctors she worked with from 1973 – 1976, as well as anecdotes a-plenty about Sarah Jane’s return to the revamped series in 2006. In fact, former Doctor David Tennant – a Who aficionado himself – has written the foreword. This is an un-missable glimpse into the world of a TV cult classic, and one of the legends who knew it best. It’s available in Australia from angusrobertson.com.au and bookdepository.co.uk do free shipping anywhere in the world.
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XMAS FEATURE
Chrissy
gifts for the
In the
Mood anyone PROJECT RUNWAY IS THE STUFF OF GAY LEGEND. It manages to be tense and exciting and fabulously entertaining week after week. Part of this is the crazy creativity showcased, and because of the genius casting of both contestants and regulars. None more so than incomparable mentor Tim Gunn, who curiously pulls off criticism and inspiration in the same sentence and inspires the contestants to do their best, even when they’re at their lowest. Each week Tim trots them all off to a fabric store on 37th Street called Mood, and as they leave with their wares he calls out jovially ‘Thank you Mood!’ It was with major excitement then to find out that Mood are selling merchandise with this fabulously gay catchphrase on their website, including aprons, badges, bags and of course t-shirts. This is the ultimate gift for your TV obsessed bestie!
discerning
homo
The
Showgirl must go on
Available exclusively through the Mood website: moodfabrics.com
BETTE MIDLER GAY ICON.
She’s had a long, illustrious career that began in the bathhouses of New York City in the 1970s, and brought her all the way to Caesar’s Palace. Which is seedier I really can’t decide, but Bette Midler is one of the greatest live performers you’re likely to see, no matter what stage she’s playing. There is a reason she is an icon, and it’s all right here in this HBO special. Not quite as bawdy as she once was, Midler has still got it in the vocal department, and this DVD of her most recent Vegas production showcases that and her innate ability to hold an audience captive from go to whoa! All the hits are here, and a few old surprises. The Showgirl Must Go On is a must-see for the holidays.
Ditch the
Xmas carols
Available at JB HiFi. FUSE has copies of The Showgirl Must Go On to giveaway to the first five people to email LOVE BETTE to hello@fusemagazine.com.au
OUR VERY OWN DARREN HAYES Darren Hayes is one part pop star and one part kooky creative. His problem has always been marrying the two, and so far his offerings have been either too experimental for his commercial audience or too poppy for the diehard fans. This album at last strikes the perfect balance, and as a stocking filler it might just make everyone a happy homo this Christmas. It’s a collection of electro-gothic lyrics about death and heartache and metaphoric tides over bouncy, uplifting, string-filled melodies. It’s big, it’s gay, and the cover art is green and red (ish) so it blends perfectly with your tinsel and nativity scenes. It’s got ballads and dance tracks in equal measure and will have you dancing and singing along all Christmas day right through til New Years. Available on iTunes, at JB HiFi and all good retailers.
Pop
Life A WAY OF LIFE. To anyone who read it religiously, Smash Hits was more than a magazine: It was a way of life. It dictated what was hip and happening in the world of pop music and television, but never in a pretentious too-coolfor-school way. It instead tapped into a devoted teen audience by being the voice of ‘the kids’, with the same level of eagerness and excitement its readership had. It was around for over a decade, invented its own vernacular, and was always hilarious.
Now three of the former Editors have banded together to write an almanac of the magazine’s Greatest Hits of sorts called Pop Life: Inside Smash Hits Australia. If you grew up obsessed with Kylie or Madonna or Wham! or Duran Duran or Michael Jackson or 90210 or East 17 or the Pet Shop Boys or Kim Wilde or Kids In The Kitchen or Christian Slater or anyone who ever was anyone from 1984–2007, then this is the ideal pressie to give yourself this Christmas. Search Smash Hits Australia on Facebook.
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iMOVE
TOP QUEER’S STUART POOLE REVIEWS THE NEW GREEN MACHINE — THE MITSUBISHI i-MIEV So finally we have a “plug and play” electric vehicle on the market. It’s been a long time coming, but it’s here and here to stay. So in order to keep Top Queer up with the times, I thought I would have a look at one. i-MIEV, stands for ‘Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle’ and I guess the “i” is just a buzzy letter to have in any name at the moment. But buzzy is the last thing the i-MIEV could be described as — in fact it takes a while to get used to the silence. I was sitting at the lights, and it occurred to me that I could hear the car next to me, not the one I was in. So it’s not just green house gas emissions that i-MIEV cuts down on, it also slices noise pollution, by 100 per cent. Apparently in Japan they are considering adding external speakers that make an engine sound, as sight impaired people have been tragically stepping out in front of electric cars. So how did it drive? Quite well I thought, but you do have to get used to the engine braking. Because the i-MIEV is electric, as soon as you ease off the accelerator it starts engine braking, much like when you let go of the trigger on a power drill. The engine braking contributes to charging the battery though, and you also find yourself using the foot brake much less as a result.
TOP QUEER The i-MIEV has enough power to keep up with the traffic, in fact the acceleration is lively for a car of its size. However, like a petrol car, the harder you drive it the more juice it uses — meaning precious battery life. There is an economy gauge to help you prolong the life of a charge. The roll out of new rapid charge refueling stations on our highways means you’ll be zipping up the coast in no time flat! You can also charge your i-MIEV overnight, at home. If you don’t have a 15 amp power point, an electrician can install one for around 100 bucks — if your lucky he’ll be cute. Safety is well taken care of with ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution, Active Stability Control, and Active Traction Control. If all that fails to keep i-MIEV out of trouble, a six airbag package will protect you if push comes to shove. The cabin was comfortable and came with the optional sat-nav. The car seats four comfortably, has a good boot and the rear seat split folds for added versatility. It also comes with a ten year/100,000 km mechanical warranty and five years road side assistance. As an added bonus, because of its green credentials, the ACT Government has made the i-MIEV stamp duty exempt, saving you three per cent on the purchase price. So if saving the environment and money appeals to you, then the i-MIEV is a winner! So there you go — the future is here today. You can drive i-MIEV at Commonwealth Motors Phillip or check it out online at commotors.com.au. Happy (silent) motoring!
i-MIEV comes in six colours, one called “Raspberry Red” that I particularly liked.
By Stuart Poole
JOIN THE ACT QUEER CAR CLUB
AUNT DOROTHY’S
MOTORING TIP
Are you a car enthusiast? Would you like to meet like minded people? Join in the fun with Motafrenz. Motafrenz is a GLBTIQ car club that offers car based events, four wheel drive trips, dinners, drinks and other social get-togethers. Motafrenz aims to cater for a wide variety of people. So, whether your car is as rare as a Roller or as cute as a Capri, Australia’s first gay and lesbian motoring club could be for you. There is no need to own a special car and everyone is most welcome. Contact Stuart Poole at festistu@hotmail.com or call 0420 523 238 if you are interested in joining. Aunt Dorothy might even make the odd appearance in person — hoopla! 33
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XMAS TIP OFF
TIP.01 MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE THIS CHRISTMAS! Can’t think of anything to buy. A charity gift can be a wonderful way of helping others in need this Christmas and showing somebody that you really care. Here are two causes that we think would make fantastic gifts from the heart.
Photo by Cameron McNee
SUPPORT WOMEN IN NEED This Christmas help the world’s poorest people — women. Women and girls are the poorest of the poor, due to extreme forms of discrimination that persist in many parts of the world. In some parts, women are unable to own property or earn an income. Worldwide, more girls than boys are denied education. As farmers and the world’s major food providers, women get the most marginal land. As workers, they are trapped in the worst jobs for the least pay. In many regions women are more vulnerable to HIV infection because they are unable to insist on protected sex. Violence against women stops them from participating in their communities and wider society. Often decision-making and policies introduced at every level ignore women’s needs. But women can be powerful change agents in lifting themselves, their families and their communities out of poverty. ActionAid works in over 40 countries at grass-roots level, and at the local, national and international level to have women’s voices heard. Our projects support women to claim their rights as well as campaign for change. To make your Christmas donation call 1300 66 66 72, email supporter.au@actionaid.org or visit actionaid.org.au
SUPPORT ANIMALS IN NEED Another year is almost over and it has been a year of highs and lows in the animal kingdom. The last Javan rhino died this year adding yet another animal to the increasing list of extinct species, the cruelty involved in the live beef trade out of Australia was finally exposed for what it is and despite having legislation established in 2004 to ban the import of dog and cat fur into Australia we found vast quantities of it in stores this winter and Customs have refused to take any action. But there were also wins for animals this year, and not by Governments or industry, but by ordinary people. All the real change this year has been generated by a society demanding a better deal for animals and people. We are no longer happy for Governments to decide what our moral stand is and as an educated, thinking society we are quite capable making our own moral choices. While Government and industry continue to be more concerned about money and profits the public is more focussed on a real future for generations to come. So do your close ones really need any more trinkets or would a gift that truly makes a difference to the world be more appreciated. Humane Society International have a range of humane gifts that include improving lives for farm animals, providing care for rescued elephants, bears and orangutans or protecting some of the precious marine life that is struggling to survive. Simply go to www.hsi.org.au and follow the links to Humane Gifts or call 1800 333 737 and make this Christmas a special one for animals in need.
TIP.02 BUY A REALLY BIG PRESENT! Before you start wrapping up those Christmas presents — whether you are buying or thinking of selling a home here are some helpful tips. Home buyers don’t put your walking shoes away just yet! There are still plenty of sellers out there. However there will be less buyers, so now is your chance to be able to purchase a home without much competition and possible a better price.
Going into Christmas knowing you have secured your new home will be a great feeling and even better present to yourself! If you are a seller and deciding when to put the home on the market — houses are still selling right up until Christmas. Astute buyers always have their eye out for the right home. Most solicitors and companies will shut up until the second or third week of January so what better way to get everything ready before that happens. Remember with Christmas coming up, try and relax as much as you can, spend as much time with friends and family and have a very safe and festive Christmas season. It is the season to be jolly. TIP BY : JASON ROSES REAL ESTATE AGENT & AUCTIONEER IN ACT & NSW
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Pain when you pee? A sticky discharge? Don’t sweat: Just get it sorted
Gonorrhoea is on the rise in Canberra It’s easy to test and treat. Just see your doctor or the Canberra Sexual Health Centre
For more info visit www.aidsaction.org.au 36
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SPRINGOUT & ABOUT
BOOTS ‘N’ ALL
Bucseh dan 1 erra Canb
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Bushdance has continued its tradition of being one of Canberra’s most popular events of the year. With almost 600 people this year — many of whom were from interstate and even a few from overseas — everyone had a jolly gay ‘ol time as they boot scooted the night away! A big thank you to the wonderful volunteers who worked tirelessly during the day and long into the night. You have helped us hold yet another memorable Bushdance.
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SPRINGOUT & ABOUT
Bucseh dan 1 erra Canb
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CANBERRA SPRINGOUT FESTIVAL — BUSHDANCE NOVEMBER 2011. PHOTOS BY DOUG ROBINSON.
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To help those left behind
as ho h nd w d frie rien lp a fnd; be a e h o T a frie lost
Listen, keep in touch
Give them
time
Lifeline Ph: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au Kids Helpline Ph: 1800 551 800 www.kidshelp.com.au
Suicide often leaves behind questions of “why?” or “what could I have done?”. Frequently we don’t know how to begin a conversation or know what to do or say. You can best support a person bereaved by suicide by: • Listening to the story without judging; • Being prepared for any and all reactions; • Offering to do something practical such as making a meal, doing the shopping or washing.
ACT Crisis and Assessment Team Ph: 1800 629 354 www.health.act.gov.au/ suicideprevention
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SPRINGOUT & ABOUT
CANBERRA PRIDE
Fayir da erra Canb
2011
SpringOut Fairday 2011 was the biggest ever! These wonderful photos of happy crowds show the joy and warmth that individuals brought to Fairday this year, making it such a fantastic and vibrant event. We would like to thank all the amazing volunteers, community members and performers who contributed to its success. Photos by Doug Robinson and Helen McCallum.
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MUSIC
GIFTS FOR YOUR EARS
By Tony Hamlyn
EAR CANDY
SINGLES DAVID GUETTA FEATURING JENNIFER HUDSON
NIGHT OF YOUR LIFE
David Guetta’s contribution to the world of modern music is patchy at best. For each amazing When Love Takes Over there seems to be a tragic Sexy Bitch. If only he would lose his fascination with misogynistic rap and stick with sassy soul singers. This collaboration with Jennifer Hudson is a hands-inthe-air handbag moment of happiness, with a relentless vocal that will knock you flat. It was released digitally at the end of August and had a moderately successful charting both here and overseas. If anyone in Camp Guetta has any sense there will be a video and airplay and a big campaign, because this song is actually incredible – like, ‘Dance Track of the Year’ incredible! – and will undoubtedly have you toe-tapping from now til the end of Summer. If you haven’t got a hold of it yet then I strongly suggest you do.
KELLY ROWLAND
DOWN FOR WHATEVER
Her Freemasons track from a few years back, Work, was a masterpiece and saw Kelly delivering inspirational rhyming couplets about hard slog and sticking it in. On this new track, produced and co-written by RedOne, Kelly tells us of her readiness to have sex anywhere anytime. J-Lo must’ve turned this one down, I reckon, for being too risqué. It’s a far cry from Amazing Grace and those other gospel turns she used to have with Destiny’s Child, but frankly I love that Kelly is carving a nice place for herself as a dirty dancefloor diva. Down For Whatever will have everyone writhing around those poles at Cube on a Saturday night, no question. It’s hard and it’s fast and it’s got a weird pokermachinelike sample running all the way through it. This is a fabulous example of how talent, ambition and a deep understanding of your own g-spot can take you all the way to the top.
GIRLS’ GENERATION
THE BOYS
A nine-piece girlband from Korea? What tha what??? Girls’ Generation are a Pussycat Dolls/ Girls Aloud hybrid and apparently bigger than anything in the K-Pop-iverse. It’s easy to see why. This is good. In fact, it’s better than good – it’s flippin’ GREAT! Produced by the legendary Teddy Riley this track harks back to all those great R&B jams from the early 90s, from the likes of Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul but with a new kind of vibe. The video has to be seen to be believed! All sexy pouting and slow-motion petals and group choreography that will have any self-respecting gay buckling at the knees. The styling is out of control, and there’s been big money spent here to break them into the world market. The Boys is hot and definitely a hit. 42
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qnet.org.au
qnet queer youth canberra
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Canberra’s queer youth cyberspace - a safe space for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ‘not sure’ young people
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GOSSIP ROBBIE’S UNIVERSAL Having rediscovered unfathomable success in the UK and Europe after reuniting with Take That, Robbie Williams has now left the band (again) and signed on with the boys’ record company Universal. A new album is in the works as we speak, with rumours rife that a very busy Gary Barlow will be aiding and abetting with the writing/production. Fingers crossed.
THE LONGEST WAIT Still no word on an actual release date for the eagerly anticipated Cher/Gaga collaboration entitled The Greatest Thing. We were promised September, but it’s now December and still no love. Fans have been constantly harassing Cher on twitter for it, and essentially she’s telling them all to take a chill pill. A leaked demo of the track with Gaga’s vocals has been floating around the electronic interwebs, and the song is AH-MAZING! But when do we get to hear it proper?
GOSSY Bros fans unite! Remember fawning over 80s pop twins Matt and Luke Goss, who in the late 80s formed a band called Bros and became the poster boys for the trappings of instant fame and excess? Well you’ll be pleased to hear Matt Goss is back! He’s gone all Buble jazz style on us. And he is still breathtakingly beautiful. He has a regular headlining Vegas club act, and even had a recent run of successful shows at the Albert Hall in London. His brand new single, Fighting For Love, comes out December 19. There’s even rumours of a New Years Eve show at the Opera House in the works. Fingers crossed!
EAR CANDY
ALBUMS KELLY CLARKSON
STRONGER I bloody love this girl! In a world of bikini-clad autotunes and faceless featured artists with gold toothed rappers, along comes Kelly Clarkson armed with little more than a kickass voice and a great collection of songs. The perfect next step from 2009’s All I Ever Wanted, this is a slightly more mature and put-together collection than she’s given us previously Opening with her recent chart-topper ‘Mr Know It All’, the album essentially stays true to it’s kind of rocked out bluesy roots. There are some beautiful ballads, including ‘Standing in Front of You’, and some wonderful up tempo times with ‘Einstein’ and the album’s absolute highlight ‘To Love You’, which the lady co-wrote. It’s very Pink but with Texan attitude, and there are occasional moves into country flavour, a’la Lady Antebellum, which are pulled off to great success. She is this generation’s Pat Benatar, and thank god for that. Stronger is this summer’s must buy masterpiece.
KIMBRA
VOWS
Wow! This album is extraordinary. I mean, not an inch short of genius. In a big year for the ladies of pop this young whippersnapper from NZ has thrown down the gauntlet with one of the finest breakout albums since Bjork’s Debut or Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill. Vows is incredibly dark and brooding, but also infused with an optimistic pop vibe; it’s steeped in old school jazz, yet still sounds completely fresh and innovative; vocally she is clearly influenced by the likes of Ella and Lady Day, but there is also Erykah Badu and Angie Stone and even Annie Lennox here for the tasting. It’s an album filled with these weird contradictions and it is never – not for a single moment – dull. Haunting and melodic and beautiful, this is ten tracks (eleven including the hidden track at the end) of magic. Buy it immediately and hear the future. 45
COMMUNITY DIRECTORY AIDS Action Council The AIDS Action Council provides information, support and services. More info: www.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. www.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 Bent Lenses Canberra’s very own queer film culture group. Check out movie times online at www.bentlenses.org 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. More info 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 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 Gay Dads Australia A resource for gay dads and those who are thinking of becoming dads. Check out: gaydadsaustralia.com
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✪ Join the action at CUBE! CANBERRA HANGOUTS
Pink Tennis Gay & Lesbian Tennis Group meets Mondays 6pm–9pm at Turner Tennis Club, Cnr McCaughey & Condamine Sts.
Cube Nightclub Canberra’s premier gay nightclub venue. 33 Petrie Plaza Civic, Canberra City. www.cubenightclub.com.au
Qnet — Queer Youth Cyberspace Qnet is an online community for GLBTI people under the age of 25. www.qnet.org.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. www.lovethephoenix.com
Queanbeyan Youth Support Group Make new friends and discuss issues. Mondays 4pm-6pm at Axis Youth Centre, Campbell Street, Queanbeyan Park. Queer Scientists of the ACT For queer scientists of all disciplines for networking, support, socialising, and to combat discrimination. Email damien.huffer@gmail.com for more info. Rainbow Bubs A playgroup and support group for same sex parents and their kids. Email: hoogied@yahoo.com Rainbow Bowlers ‘Gay Bowling’ Sunday nights. Belconnen Bowling Alley. 1 Emu Bank from 7pm. 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
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. Bar32 Bar32 is gay friendly bar and nightclub with a mixed younger crowd. Indy and alternative dance music and bands. 32 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City. www.bar32.com Ranch Mens Lounge Canberra’s men’s 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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DEAR ROSE
‘‘
Dear Rose, I’ve learnt to hate Xmas. Every year we go to my partners parents and it’s really just horrible. I know how much it means to my partner and he would be really upset if I told him how I really feel, but truth be told I’d prefer to chop off a testicle then go again this year. Help! Grizzly
Grizzly, @ Dear Wow you must really hate Xmas with the Out-laws!
Ouch on the testicle, do you think that your partner might get the hint of exactly how much you dislike going, if you did that? The way I see it is, we all make sacrifices for the ones that we love. Whilst I absolutely empathise with the situation, as many of us go through exactly the same thing every year, not spending Xmas at the in-laws will probably hurt your partner more. Having said that, you can take control of the situation and make it better for you and your partner. It sounds to me Grizzly that it is time to start communicating and have a great Christmas.
‘‘
Dear Rose, I’ve been with my new girlfriend only three months and she’s already talking about living together. I’ve told her I think it’s way too early and now she thinks I’m not serious about the relationship. I really do like her, should I let her move in to save the relationship. BB
BB, @ Dear Whilst the old myths about lesbians moving in on the
second date are still around, I’d like to think that we have evolved somehow and are less inclined to move like the wind when it comes to moving in with a new girlfriend. And whilst it would be really easy to cave in to prove how serious you are about the relationship, the fact is it sounds to me like you are sending out your own alarm bells. You’re not going anywhere; presumably she’s not going anywhere, so I say, what’s the hurry? Is she perhaps afraid that she needs to engage you into a domestic situation as soon as possible? Sister, you need to sit down and field all of these questions before you make up your mind and start hiring a two tonne truck. Moving in together too early could potentially be a disastrous move, especially if one of you is not ready. And what started off as a fantastic romance could end up with both of you terribly hurt and disappointed. So take my advice, stick to your boundaries, keep the romance firing and see how you both are at six months.
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By Rose Pappalardo If you would like to write to Dear Rose please email her at dearrose@fusemagazine.com.au
‘‘
Dear Rose, I think Christmas cards are a perfect waste of time and bad for the environment. I prefer to call family on Xmas day or catch up personally during the holidays. Some members of my family get so upset and think ‘I don’t love them’ if they don’t get the cursory card with ‘ Merry Christmas, Love Steve’. Should I stick to my values or just go with it to make others happy? Steve
Steve, @ Dear How’s this for even more annoying —
every year without fail I seem to be the recipient of at least twelve gift boxes of soaps or body lotions, which makes me think that either I stink, or I am projecting a non-use of moisturiser that my family feels the need to resolve. But seriously, I am with ya on this one; there is nothing more annoying when Auntie Maisy cracks it cause you haven’t send the dodgy old Christmas card you picked up on sale last year. But seeing its Christmas and the time for good will and tidings, perhaps you could take a clever approach on how to tackle this touchy Christmas card issue. Break from those lofty old ideas and perhaps buy Aunt Maisy an Oxfam unwrapped Christmas gift. A duck or perhaps a goat! Imagine the looks on their faces when you announce that they are the proud contributors of a chicken to a family in need. Check out page 35 for some more ideas on prezzies from the heart. Or if you must send Christmas cards, try an eco friendly card or send an online one, if that won’t freak them out too much.
‘Our lives begin to end, the day we become silent about things that matter.’
Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Best known for being an iconic figure in the advancement of civil rights.
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Nothing to declare except my Guinness Painting of Oscar Wilde by Stephen Harrison
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Test drive the all new Series II
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Contact Chris Maher for all your Holden needs.
Phillip, ACT
Tuggeranong, ACT
158 Melrose Drive (02) 6121 2800
Cnr Scoallay & Oakden St (02) 6121 2800 LMD 17000038
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Phillip, ACT 158 Melrose Drive (02) 6121 2800 LMD 17000038
Contact Charlene Groundwater for all your Mitsubishi needs.