Hand In Hand with Queer Nation

ACON’s annual Hand In Hand party is joining forces with Home nightclub’s Queer Nation this June to bring us Big Queer Nation.

The dance party, to take place during the Queen’s birthday long weekend on Saturday 12 June, will be held at the Fox Studios complex in The Hordern, The Dome and Stage 11.

Billed as 2004’s biggest community fundraiser in the name of HIV/AIDS, the party is expected to sell out quickly with a capacity of around 8,000.

ACON’s chief executive officer Stevie Clayton said she’s extremely grateful for Queer Nation’s involvement.

These days it is getting harder and harder for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community organisations to fundraise, so we are incredibly reliant on the generosity of organisations like Home to help us to provide vital services to our communities, she said.

Queer Nation promoter Emma Smyth said it was a chance to give something back to the community. We really want to make sure ACON has a sensational fundraising event and we will leave no stone unturned to ensure this happens for the gay and lesbian community, she said.

International guests on the night will include Victor Calderone (pictured), Alan Thompson and Kristine W, while leading the pack of local DJs will be Pete McNamara.

Music played in The Hordern will be progressive and trance, Stage 11 will provide bright classics and anthems, while The Dome will be the site of funky house with a special twist, organisers said.

Info Tickets go on sale today, Thursday 22 April, at Ticketek and www.bigqueernation.com. Anyone interested in volunteering at the party should email volunteer@bigqueernation.com.