Counting down the days

Counting down the days

The anticipation for Asia Pacific’s first-ever Outgames in Melbourne is close to climax. The event is pushing full steam ahead and final preparations are well underway.

With sponsors, club registration, volunteers and media sources to confirm, and just weeks until the event kicks off, games co-president Peter Sagar has much to do.

“Everything is going really, really well. We have had so much national and international interest,” Sagar said.

“We are now organising details for each event, finalising signage and arranging volunteers.”

The Outgames, although a sporting event, is not confined to sport. A large focus is placed upon heightening social awareness of a gamut of international issues and bettering the quality of life for communities around the world.

The Human Rights Conference to be held during the games is a clear example of this.

“The conference is a great opportunity for people from different regions to come together and discuss issues that pervade their respective community in hopes of change,” Sagar said.

“Everyone is welcome to contribute, it isn’t limited to academics or activists. We encourage a range of issues to be discussed, from homophobia in sport to famine and poverty.”

Games organisers have joined with Climate Positive to ensure their impact on the environment is minimised.

“We are greening the games – trying to be carbon positive. We are taking responsibility and expect the same from our participants,” Sagar said.

“Climate Positive have suggested a range of initiatives that we have taken on board that will limit our wastes as much as possible.”

The event, in accordance with its theme of justice and equality, will acknowledge the traditional owners of the land. Working closely with OutBlack, indigenous Australians have been very involved in all aspects of the games.

For more information visit www.melbourneoutgames.org

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