Southern comfort

Southern comfort

It’s been a great year in the Illawarra. As this is my last column until we return in January, I’d like to thank everyone who has been such a big help to our team. Your volunteering and participation across the Southern Region have been wonderful and I wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and New Year holiday season.

After recovering from the last UNITY dance party which was one of the best in years, we look forward to more dances, events and some great new projects in 2009.

The main event to put in the diary that is coming up soon is the retreat for HIV positive people from Friday 6 February to Sunday 8 February. This retreat will focus on living well and complementing your existing therapies with strategies around relaxing and improving general health and wellbeing.

Bookings are essential so please call Michael on 4226 1163.

For those planning to go on holidays over the break, remember to pack plenty of condoms and lube. You never know what delightful situations you might find yourself in, so as part of your travel preparation, plan for safe sex.

Are you thinking about what to wear to catch admiring glances when you’re at the beach or on that big night out? Whether you’re HIV negative or positive, why don’t you think about getting a complete sexual health check as well? With most sexually transmitted infections able to be easily treated, you can head into this silly season with confidence that extends beyond your ability to look fabulous!

Before I sign off, I’d like to ask that you make some time for those close to you who may be spending their holidays alone or away from their birth or chosen family. This is a very busy time; we get caught up in all the excitement or are thrown into situations outside our normal routines, but our everyday relationships still need attention.

It’s rewarding-¦ and doesn’t necessarily come with a hangover. See you in the New Year!

info: For more information about groups, services, organisations or community events taking place in the Illawarra contact ACON Illawarra on 4226 1163 or email [email protected]

Trevor Slattery is the Education and Community Development Officer for ACON’s Illawarra Branch.

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