Queer group making connections

AFTER thirty years in operation, a queer networking organisation is set to hold their next monthly event in Ballarat.

Since debuting regionally earlier this year, Piano Bar Ballarat will tomorrow serve as the next location for the Gay and Lesbian Organisation of Business and Enterprise, or GLOBE Victoria’s networking event.

Regional director and vice-president Jo Bangles said the free event will give LGBTIQA+ members of the business community a chance to mingle and connect.

“There’s so many amazing people in the community whether it’s Ballarat or any other regional town, that are just doing incredible things,” she said.

“Being a part of especially the LGBTQI community, it’s important to connect with like-minded individuals and to support each other so we’re providing the space for that.

“One good thing us in the rainbow community love to do is support others in the community, whether that’s through their business or even social lives so we’re thrilled to do that in Ballarat.”

Drag entertainment will provide the backdrop to a panel discussion including representatives from the City of Ballarat and Commerce Ballarat.

Two speed networking sessions will be held for attendees to get to know each other in a fast-paced setting.

Ms Bangles said Ballarat will serve as the next step in expanding GLOBE’s reach beyond the Victoria’s capital city.

“Since rebranding from GLOBE Melbourne, we’ve really wanted to reach out to regional Victoria and help form those connections,” she said.

“There’s a power to networking and building meaningful relationships with other business owners and also the wider community.

“People buy from people, not from businesses so this is really about building those relationships.”