New LGBTI voice on Queensland TV
A new LGBTI voice will be coming soon to Queensland TV screens with the upcoming launch of the show Queer TV (QTV) on community television in April.
QTV will be a general, chat style show that deals with issues and events concerning the LGBTI community in Brisbane and Queensland, reporting on news, current events and social events. Special guests will join the show’s hosts each week to discuss both light-hearted and serious topics effecting the community.
It will be hosted by Sharon Mulheron and radio presenter and one half of the infamous 2011 Rip ‘N Roll campaign duo, Michael O’Brien. They will be joined by blogger and equal rights campaigner Matt Bo.
The show’s producer, Steven Whiteley, said he wants QTV to be a new means for the community to express itself using a medium that hasn’t had a specifically queer focus in over ten years.
“I’m just glad that after so many years of being ignored, the gay and lesbian community finally has a voice on TV. I’m proud to be a part of it,” Whiteley told the Star Observer.
Whiteley said QTV will have a wide range of topics to bring to the community each week such as legal issues regarding civil unions and child custody and much more.
“We’ll be covering a range of issues from mental and sexual health, support and advice for LGBT teenagers and parents, homosexuality and religion and even what it’s like to be gay in the Australian Defense Force now,” he said.
“I also want the show to serve as a window into the gay and lesbian lifestyle for straight people. The more straight people know about, and can identify with gay people, the easier it will be to break down the walls that divide.”
QTV’s first episode will air on April 1 at 9pm on Channel 31 and will feature an appearance by Queensland Police who will discuss the dangers of meeting people off the internet, as well as coverage of the upcoming Brisbane Queer Film Festival and Ellen’s Australian visit.
A launch party will be held on April 1 at 7.30pm at the Wickham Hotel with an early preview of QTV’s first episode along with a meet and greet with the hosts.
