What a busy month it’s been in the west. I’m not one who leaves people on a downer, so let’s starts with the downs of western Sydney, and I ain’t talking about the snack between the thighs, I’m talking about the sad news in recent times.
Last month’s article saw us bringing you the sad news about the end of Dolphins. I now have the unfortunate task of letting you know that yet another night has died. The once-popular Jupiter’s Nightclub GLBT dance, a well known night for the GLBT communities of the Richmond area, has come to a grinding holt. Hostess Wilhemina Scott has only just informed me of the night’s closure and said it may return in the summer, but as of now, the night will no longer continue.
This does come as very bad news to us, but fingers crossed all goes well and that Wilhemina will find a way of making it work again in the warmer months.
The biggest shock to hit Western Sydney in the last month was the sudden suspension of the DIVA Award-winning Queer Out West radio program.
A complaint was made in writing to the 2GLF board, claiming the show had breached codes of conduct. An inquiry into the allegations is to take place in the next week. The QOW presenters will have the chance to defend the allegations this coming Wednesday.
The 2GLF secretary stated that “complaints made to the board of 2GLF are taken seriously and will be investigated fully in accordance with the Community Broadcasting Code of Practice. At the completion of the investigation the future of Queer Out West will be reconsidered”.
At my age, this is way too much stress for my poor old ticker to handle. Fingers crossed all goes well and in our favour.
The QOW team are all dumbfounded and have no clue as to what the allegations could be. Is it some extremist religious group getting on their high horse, or is it someone within our own community with sour grapes?
Either way, we are going to find out soon enough, but it has already caused us a lot of drama.
After nearly 10 years of QOW, the show has only ever not aired twice. Once was in 2010 for the DIVA Awards (as we all attended) and then again on May 9 — due to our temporary suspension.
Letters of support for our program can be sent to [email protected] and [email protected]
On a better note, there are some good things happening in western Sydney.
The Open Door group will host an IDAHO (International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia) event to raise awareness of the challenges facing the GLBTI communities of western Sydney.
Special guest Julie McCrossin will MC a panel of invited guests including representatives from the local police, PFLAG, ACON, the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, GLBTI religious and social groups as well as little old moi — well, in disguise anyway.
The aims for the night will be to share positive strategies for addressing key local challenges, to share information about local services, support and fun for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and to enjoy a lively discussion with audience participation.
Doors open at 6.30pm at the St Mary’s Memorial Hall, cnr of Great Western Hwy and Mamre Rd, St Marys, Tuesday, May 17.
Contact [email protected] for more details.
In more good news, the Three Sisters social group has confirmed its 30th Anniversary Ball will be held at the Fairmont Resort, Leura. The theme is black and white, and tickets are available — contact [email protected] or call 02 4757 3994.
Finally let’s briefly discuss Heaven’s Charity Night. I am currently in search of financial sponsors to help cover the running costs of the night. As well as this, I am looking for businesses willing to donate prizes to our raffle. All door takings will be going to ACON Western Sydney to be distributed to GLBT youth groups.
Contact me through www.heavensocialdance.com with any queries or offers.
Until next time, gorgeous!
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What about Crystals at Canterbury bowling club this Saturday??