World AIDS Day 2009
To commemorate World AIDS Day on Tuesday December 1, the WA AIDS Council will be hosting a community event at the AIDS Memorial in Robertson Park, North Perth. Organisers say the event will provide an opportunity to gather together to remember and celebrate the lives of those people affected by HIV, and to acknowledge the recipients of the 2009 World AIDS Day Awards for their achievements and commitment to demystifying and de stigmatising HIV. Senator Louise Pratt, Chair of the Parliamentary Liaison Group for HIV/AIDS, BBVS and STIs will be the guest speaker and light refreshments will be served. RSVPs are essential by November 26 on 9482 0000.
GLBTI Couples Counselling to Continue
Relationships Australia have hailed their first relationships course for same-sex couples a success, with the eight couples who participated giving glowing evaluations. Held from October 23-25 the course dealt with issues such as conflict resolution, communication skills, harmony, intimacy and the differences and similarities between same-sex and heterosexual relationships. ‘I am very happy with the outcome and look forward to running it again in the New Year,’ said Relationships Australia’s Relationship and Community Education Manager, Elizabeth Brennan. For more information of Relationships Australia’s services go to: www.wa.relationships.com.au
Women in Sport Gather
The Coastal Breakers Gaelic Football Club will be hosting a Women in Sport Sunday Session on November 15 from 2pm at The Court Hotel. Sporty girls of all codes are welcome as organisers say the afternoon aims to connect women in sport and their various clubs. There will be pizza and jugs specials, door prizes, competitions and lots of sporty fun. A gold coin entry fee will raise funds for the Coastal Breakers and if enough interest is generated, The Court Hotel is interested in assisting other sporting clubs with similar fundraising events. ‘We think it’s a great way for the community to get together and support some of the clubs that really need the help,’ said Court Director, Bree Maddox.
Gay Candidate Elected
Openly gay candidate, Warren McGrath has been elected to the Town of Vincent council and says he was humbled by the level of support he received. ‘My aims are all about getting people out of their houses and into our streets, parks, recreational facilities and local groups to build up our sense of community,’ McGrath told OUTinPerth. Town of Vincent Mayor, Nick Catania said while he was disappointed by the actual number of votes cast, McGrath received a good number of those votes. ‘He conducted a very good campaign and was rewarded for his efforts,’ said Catania. ‘Congratulations to him’.
GLBTI and Dementia Paper to be Launched
Alzheimer’s Australia WA will be officially launching a pioneering paper called Dementia, Lesbians and Gay Men on November 12. The paper, which identifies the unique needs of gay men and lesbians diagnosed with or caring for someone with dementia, is the first of its kind in the aged care industry and aims to address some of the issues associated with the interaction between service providers and complex family relationships that may affect care provision for those with dementia. There are an estimated 18,000 people suffering with dementia in Australia who do not identify as heterosexual.
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