They rolled in from the hills, they flowed like the Yarra, they rode, walked, partied, and perved — it is Midsumma after all.
If one is to be gay or lesbian in Melbourne, this is the week and month to do it. They’re out, they’re about, they’re loud and proud. Every size, type, shape and age — part of the fabric that makes Melbourne one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Summer is a great time to be out sister-spotting.
‘Sports Kit’ has a lot to answer for as a ‘dress code’. How dare our stunning gay and lesbian sports people be tarred with the brush that brought ‘baggy greens’ to our national cricket team, creating a daggy look that no gay person would ever consider a role model? The Socceroos hide great physiques beneath more metres of fabric than one could find in an Indian bazaar.
Our ironmen and women, AFL teams and the occasional swimmer make waves with their highly visible, very becoming teeny-weeny costumes.
Watching the races on our beaches, whether in person or on TV, encourages the gays to follow the lead of the champions. Not because we all want to be champions. Oh no, that is far too deep. We simply want to look like that.
As we meander idyllically through Gay Christmas, this becomes a prime motivator to ensure that the spandex, glitter and sequins accentuate each curve. When being observed — whether from a distance, in passing or up close and very personal — how we feel about ourselves is displayed by the image we portray, not by the venue we visit.
The summer brings out the sisterhood, turning to follow the arc of the yellow disc traversing the heavens like a sunflower.
Well may the passersby stare, for style and sophistication is passing them by. Clever suburbs welcome the breath of creativity, applauding the reawakening sophistication.
So it is time to get ready for the busiest time in our communities’ calendar. Join us in a sports event over this period. Contact a team or group from the Queer Sports Alliance Melbourne.
By Wally Salinger
info: Find us at www.queersportsmelbourne.org
