Hunter happenings

As the GLBT community looks forward to our most anticipated and celebrated event, Mardi Gras, there are many offerings for the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid North Coast (MNC) locals in the meantime.

After twelve months, the extension of the Hunter/MNC branch office is now completed. New projects focusing on GLBT mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and Aboriginal access to fresh injecting equipment are enhancing the already extensive services offered.

To mark these achievements, ACON is holding an event on Thursday 5 February with Minister for the Hunter Jodi McKay officially opening our renovated premises. Other official guests include Aunty Sandra, a local Aboriginal elder, Newcastle Lord Mayor John Tate, ACON President Mark Orr and CEO Stevie Clayton.

As part of ACON’s preparation for our work over the next three years, consultation meetings will be held in our region. An open forum, with representatives of the ACON Board and senior management, will be held at ACON from 4 -“ 6pm on Tuesday 17 February in Newcastle and Wednesday 18 February in Port Macquarie. Community members and partner service providers are encouraged to come and have your say. Call Hunter 4927 6808 or MNC 6584 0943

Hunter Rainbow Visions (RV) is holding a community consultation on Saturday 21 March from 2.30pm. Community members are welcome to provide input on events they would like held in 2009 and how RV can best serve our region. Go to www.rainbowvisions.org.au for more details.

ACON Outreach Service in Port Macquarie is promoting a fortnightly sexual health clinic operated by the North Coast Area Health Service. A sexual health doctor will be on duty every second Monday from 2 February to Monday 30 March. The clinic is free and confidential.

Appointments are necessary. Call 6588 2750 or 0418 207 939.

The next instalment from Coastal Castaways, a Valentine’s Day dance, will be held on Saturday 14 February at Pacific Palms Recreation Club. Come along and support this fundraiser for ACON. For more details call Mark 0401 880 352 or ACON MNC 6584 0943.

info: For more about organisations or community events 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.