November 27th, 2022Flock together with Birds of a Feather

LONG time LGBTIQA+ activist Rodney Croome will be special guest at
next month’s Birds of a Feather lunch event in Kyneton.
Tasmanian-based Rodney is particularly well known for his work on
the campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania, and was a founder of
Australian Marriage Equality.
The stories and insights he is likely to bring to the table at next month’s BOAF
gathering fit perfectly with the aim of the events, says Belinda Brain, social worker
with Sunbury Cobaw Community Health, the organisation that runs Birds of a
Feather, or BOAF, events.
“Our vision is enriching and empowering the lives of LGBTIQA+ people in
Macedon and beyond,” says Belinda, who delivers the Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusive
Program. The Birds of a Feather events are part of my broader CLIP role with
Sunbury Cobaw Community Health,” she says. The next BOAF luncheon is set for
noon-2pm on Friday, December 9 at the Kyneton Bowls Club.
Also on Hepburn Shire’s LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee, Belinda says the
BOAF luncheons are a means of enabling regional LGBTIQA+ people to connect,
share stories and make new friends in a welcoming environment. The fact that they’re
held at lunchtime is particularly aimed at ensuring they’re readily accessible for the
more mature LGBTIQ+ folk, and the only costs are the price of the meal and drinks.
“It can be really difficult to connect with older LGBTIQA+ people and this is one
of the ways that we can do that,” Belinda said. “People can bring along a friend or an
ally if that makes them more comfortable and they will find everyone very friendly
and welcoming. Sharing experience and story via our invited guests can help inspire
ope and uncover personal strength that participants can recognise in their own lives.”
BOAF was borne out of many passionate conversations between Belinda and
CLIP’s Nathan Allwood, pictured. Both recognised the need for a regular event
for older regional LGBTIQA+ individuals. They also identified a gap in Queer
connection options for folk residing in aged care.
“We also run a monthly rainbow coffee club for LGBTIQA+ people, friends and
allies at the Social Foundry in Kyneton on the last Friday of the month,” Belinda said.
Details: 5421 1666, belinda.brain@scchc.org.au or nathan.allwood@scchc.org.au
Words: Eve Lamb | Image: Kyle Barnes