Happening at The Palais, Hepburn next month, the Freeza Youth Pride Ball is a free event for LGBTIQA+ and allied young people to come together and celebrate in a safe, discrimination free environment, embracing pride, diversity, and inclusion for all.

Featuring plenty of live music and a dance competition, the Pride Formal 2024 ball is locked in for Saturday evening, March 2.

Presented by FREEZA and the Hepburn Shire Council this dance party is aimed at the 12-17 age group LGBTIQA+ and allied young people to come together, dance their socks off and celebrate in a safe, discrimination free environment.

It will also feature tasty bar food – think burgers, fries, pizzas, fish & chips – with the entire evening will be hosted by the one and only Elektra-lite (pictured above).

Organisers say it will be an “unforgettable evening filled with love, acceptance, and fabulousness” and a prime opportunity to dance the night away to amazing music from artists Memphis LK.

They strongly that those who planning to be there should “put on your most dazzling outfit, because this is the perfect opportunity to show off your style and express yourself freely” with prizes up for grabbed for best dressed.

“Our goal is to create a safe space where everyone can be their authentic selves, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation,” organisers say.

“Whether you identify as LGBTIQA+ or simply want to support and celebrate diversity, the Pride Formal 2024 welcomes everyone with open arms.

“It’s a chance to meet new friends, make lasting memories, and be part of a movement that promotes equality and love.”

Ballarat’s QHub service for LGBTIQA+ young people is now operational and accepting referrals.

An experienced team of professionals including a youth and family specialist, community engagement practitioner and peer support workers are available to support young LGBTIQA+ people, their families and carers.

The City of Ballarat Inclusion Plan indicates that 11,000 people in Ballarat identify as LGBTIQA+. This figure is approximately 10 per cent of the Ballarat population and almost double the Victorian average of 5.7 per cent highlighting the importance and need for specialised welcoming and inclusive support close to home.

Cafs (Child & Family Services, Ballarat) CEO Wendy Sturgess said: “Cafs is a strong ally with the LGBTIQA+ community across the Central Highlands region and we welcome this opportunity to continue to provide services in a safe space dedicated to young LGBTIQA+ people.”

QHub manager Jack Khouri, pictured above, said: “The Ballarat QHub team has been working diligently alongside community to ensure that the programs available are fulfilling the needs of prospective clients.

“We’re also looking at a range of special events and activities during school holidays that will offer young people opportunities to connect socially in a safe, supported environment.”

Anyone looking to access support through the Ballarat QHub is encouraged to email qhub@ds.org.au or phone intake on (03) 9663 6733.

Locals are being offered the opportunity to become Rainbow Community Angels to enable them to take part in peaceful actions to support community safety at LGBTIQA+ inclusive events with a special training event happening in Kyneton this Saturday.
In partnership with Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, the Rainbow Community Angels, a Victorian community-led safety initiative, are delivering training in Kyneton to the LGBTIQA+ community and allies.

Participants will learn how to shield and protect the LGBTIQA+ community, including young people, local council, business owners and venue staff should protesters attend LGBTIQA+ activities and events.
Talking about why it was important to provide this training, Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program worker Belinda said: “The Rainbow Community Angel training builds hope and resilience in our community, empowering us to stand together in solidarity as a community and allies in support of LGBTIQA+ events.”
Rainbow Community Angels work with event organisers and venue staff to increase event safety through a peaceful, supportive and highly visible presence.
They have experience working with local councils, libraries and youth organisations to support the safe passage of attendees to and from the scheduled activities. The Rainbow Angels have formed in response to an increased presence of anti-trans and anti-drag activity in the community which has led to a series of event cancellations.
“By training to be Rainbow Angels, we can turn some of that anger and hate into love, kindness and community,” Belinda said. “It’s about working together and finding a structure to support each other and ensure inclusive events continue to go ahead.”
The upcoming Rainbow Community Angels training will be held in Kyneton this Saturday, September 2 from 10am to 1pm. The training is free, but registration is essential at www.sunburycobaw.org.au/rainbow-community-angels. Those living in Central Victoria and Sunbury will be prioritised for this training opportunity.
For more information about this event or Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s LGBTIQA+ programs, contact WayOut or CLIP on 5421 1666/ healthpromotion@scchc.org.au.
*If this article has raised any concerns, Qlife offers support for LGBTIQA+ people from 3pm to midnight – call or webchat 1800 184 527.