Northern exposure

With the winter months fast approaching it is tempting to hibernate below your doona throughout the cooler weather, but don’t. There are plenty of activities in the Northern Rivers to entice you out.

The Gay Men Living with HIV retreat will be held on the ANZAC weekend. This popular retreat offers participants a great balance of information, relaxation, and outdoor activities. Of course it is an opportunity to connect with other men in similar circumstances. Call ACON Northern Rivers for details and, if you miss out this time, register your interest for next year.

How about the chance to stop smoking in a supportive environment with access to the best healthcare, counselling, peer support and nicotine replacement therapy? ACON and Tropical Fruits are commencing a GLBT Community Quit Smoking Group in April. Contact Tropical Fruits on 6622 6440 or ACON.

Bent Events hold various activities in our area. One regular activity is the sausage meet which is held on every second Sunday of the month in a local backyard. All gay men are welcome. So bring some meat, nibblies and drinks and enjoy the company. A gold coin donation is appreciated. Ring 0413 918 288 for details.

In order to respond to the needs of same-sex attracted women living in outlying areas our Lesbian Health Project worker will be providing outreach to 10 towns in April. For more details and a schedule of towns visited, ring Amber on 0400 242 934.

On 12 May the ACON branch in Lismore will be holding its Planning Day and PLWHA Consultative Committee morning tea. It is only with the communities’ input that organisations such as ACON can keep up to date with our communities’ needs, so if you would like to be involved, please attend. Ring ACON to RSVP and for an information package.

So please, get out from under the doona and participate in one of the above activities. Stay safe and have fun.

Sioux Harrison is the Administration/Volunteer Officer for ACON Northern Rivers. Phone 6622 1555 or 1800 633 637.