Hunter happenings

As our communities are aware, the world is currently in the midst of AIDS Awareness Week. Nationally, many activities are planned to raise much needed funds to enable new and ongoing work to assist people living with HIV/AIDS and to limit the spread of HIV.
Locally, across the Hunter, Mid North Coast and Central Coast regions, there are many opportunities for people to come together to remember those we have lost as a result of HIV/AIDS, to reflect on the past but also to continue to limit the spread and impact of HIV/AIDS.
All through AIDS Awareness Week people can show their support by buying red ribbons, wrist bands and other items at local venues and public places, including ACON Hunter, The Gateway Hotel and local businesses in Hamilton, Mayfield, Wyong, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Tamworth.
On Friday 30 November, volunteers will be selling ribbons at Hamilton and Broadmeadow train stations. As the week comes to a close, our efforts will turn to World AIDS Day on Saturday 1 December. A tree planting ceremony will begin the Newcastle activities at 3pm at The Carrington Garden Grove, located just over the bridge on Cowper St in Carrington. After this ceremony, participants are invited to attend the Nova Positive Living Centre community barbecue from 4pm.
On the Central Coast, the Oasis Youth Centre in Wyong is marking 1 December in conjunction with the closing event of the two-week Artstart festival for youth. From 3pm to 6pm the centre is hosting workshops, charity stalls, ribbon selling, live performances, a skating competition and circus acts on BMX bikes. The Centre is located at the corner of Hely St and Anzac Ave, Wyong.
Over the range in Tamworth, the staff from Bligh Street Sexual Health Clinic will be holding a street stall to sell red ribbons.
For more information on ribbon sales or further details concerning these events please call Hunter ACON on 4927 6808, MNC ACON on 6584 0943, the Oasis Youth Centre on 4353 9799 or Tamworth Sexual Health Clinic on 6766 222.
If you want any information about groups, services, organisations or community events taking place in the Hunter, New England, MNC or Central Coast contact ACON Hunter/MNC on 4927 6808 or email [email protected]. Sean O’Rourke is the Education and Community Development Officer at ACON’s Hunter/MNC Branch.