How have I experienced the spirit of our community? Well, it’s no secret that the heart of Mount Lawley is infamous for having a booming gay community vibe. I’m not just referring to the folks who identify as LGBT, but to the evident vast support and acceptance that comes from the fellow dwellers of this cultured suburb. It’s almost like there is an invisible security blanket shielding Mount Lawley, creating this nurturing environment that allows you to freely express yourself, your ¬ideas and interests.
Take for example (albeit, a very simple one) the deck of UNO cards and pack of Bananagrams that seem to have taken up permanent residence in my bag. Now carrying games around could be seen as quite the nerdy trait but they frequently get a workout at pubs all down the Mount Lawley strip, and nine times out of 10 we will end up with a completely random thrown together group of remarkably different people who are just keen to play. That’s what I love about Mount Lawley – there is no bias, it’s like primary school before you reach Grade 7 and form little cliques.
One late afternoon I was driving along down Beaufort street to the sounds of The Black Keys when I suddenly managed to ram a car from behind. The common reaction that follows minor events like this goes something along these lines:
1) guy gets out of car frowning so intensely it could make Donatella Versace look fresh faced,
2) there is an awkward exchange of details and generally a lot of exasperated sighs about inconvenience and lack of time,
3) you part ways feeling incredibly lousy, The end.
Not this fine afternoon though. Imagine that nauseating sound of cars crunching and:
1) the driver of the other vehicle hops out, flashes you the most radiant smile imaginable and asks if you’re okay?
2) after the inevitable exchange of details you realise you recognise them from The Court;
3) you end up going for a cheeky beverage at the pub;
4) you part ways feeling pretty damn awesome, that is, until you remember police reports and insurance companies…
I guess what I’m saying here is that queer people are pretty damn good at life! Plus, recognising ‘family’ meant a bad experience flipped and actually became a really positive one.
On a final note, if you needed any other reason to embrace the awesome community of Mount Lawley then I have four words for you; Flying Scotto chilli chips – need I say more?
Katie Cameron
