Questions answered for LGBTIQ+ and wider community

A NEW support service co-delivered by the former Victorian AIDS Council, now known as Thorne Harbour Country, and Bendigo Library has been announced.

Known as LGBTI Q-Time, the effort is a joint initiative where, on the first Monday of every month, people will be able to visit the library and speak with someone from Thorne Harbour about questions or concerns they have regarding gender identity and sexual orientation.

“It is fantastic to see a number of LGBTIQ+ pride festivals underway across regional and rural Victoria,” said Thorne Harbour Health acting CEO Carolyn Gillespie.

“But some people may be hesitant to engage with LGBTIQ+ community pride events or come to see us at our local office.

“This could be due to previous experiences of discrimination, apprehension about ‘coming out’, or simply being intimidated by all the excitement.”

That need has led to the creation of what Thorne Harbour Country program manager Damien Stevens-Todd describes as “a welcoming and safe opportunity for anyone in the community to ask questions, access resources, and discuss their experiences.”

The service is also open to anyone looking for information on how to help an LGBTIQ+ relation, co-worker, or other loved one who may be struggling.

LGBTI Q-Time takes place between 10am and 12pm on the first Monday of every month at Bendigo Library at 259 Hargreaves Street.

Thorne Harbour Country, a division of Thorne Harbour Health, is located on Mundy Street and provides many services to the LGBTIQ+ community and those living with HIV.