Tag: LGBTQI+

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ACON celebrates 40 years

This year marks the 40th anniversary of ACON, an organisation that has been at the forefront of health, wellbeing and advocacy for LGBTQ+ communities in NSW. From its beginnings in 1985 as a response to the HIV/AIDS crisis, ACON has grown into a vital service provider, supporting people across diverse communities through health programs, harm reduction initiatives, campaigns, and community-building projects.

For four decades, ACON has stood as a fierce advocate, fighting stigma, breaking down barriers, and championing equality. Their work has not only saved lives, but also shaped a more inclusive society.

On a personal note, I recently had the privilege of visiting ACON’s offices to photograph a group of members and volunteers for a special cover image for the Sydney Star Observer. It was inspiring to meet and capture some of the faces who embody the organisation’s history and spirit. Being behind the camera in that moment reminded me how deeply ACON’s work has touched so many lives, and how vital their ongoing presence remains.

As we celebrate this milestone, it is an opportunity to reflect on the resilience of our communities, to acknowledge the countless individuals who have contributed to ACON’s journey, and to look ahead with gratitude and hope. Here’s to 40 years of care, courage, and change.

For more information on various events aligned to ACON’s 40th anniversary click on this link:

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A great day with the NAPWHA team in Melbourne

In June, I had the privilege of working with the team from NAPWHA  (National Association of People Living with HIV Australia) on a shoot held at Sun Studios in South Melbourne. The session brought together a group of generous and inspiring community members, who volunteered to be models for the day.

The shoot was part of a broader initiative to create a fresh library of imagery for upcoming educational and awareness campaigns.

Shooting at Sun Studios, Sth Melbourne
Ready for the close-up

It was a day filled with energy, purpose, and connection. I’m proud to have played a role in capturing content that will help support NAPWHA’s ongoing work and advocacy. My thanks to everyone involved — especially those who so bravely and openly stood in front of the lens.

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“There’s Nothing Like A Dame”

I had the pleasure of creating the poster art for Nothing Like A Dame, the latest show by Sydney drag icon Minnie Cooper, taking place at the legendary Stonewall Hotel on June 20th and 21st. The lead image featured in the poster is one I shot some time ago—so it’s a real joy to see it brought back and used to front this new production.

I’ve worked with Minnie for many years, capturing her in all her theatrical brilliance. With her rich background in the performing arts and sharp comedic flair, she’s a true force in the world of drag. Our creative collaborations reflect not just her talent, but also the enduring power and legacy of drag in Sydney’s LGBTQI+ history—particularly in venues like Stonewall, which have long been central to that vibrant cultural expression.

For tickets and more info, visit @theminniecooper on Instagram. This show promises sparkle, sass, and plenty of heart—you won’t want to miss it.

Some images from previous shoots of Minnie Cooper
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Kaleido Health Centre opens its doors

We/Us/Ours is the catch cry for this “first in Australia” health facility which caters for sexuality and gender diverse people in NSW.

Funded by the NSW Government as part of their LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy 2022-2027, the centre was established in South Everleigh in Sydney by ACON, NSW’s leading LGBTQ+ and HIV health organization, with a $4.2 million grant.

The Kaleido Health Centre provides a range of primary care and specialist health services, including general practice, sexual health services, mental health support, gender-affirming health care, drug and alcohol interventions, and cancer screening services. 

The building occupies one of the grand, heritage-protected buildings at South Eveleigh, at 6 Cornwallis Street, called “The Bell Tower”. As the name suggests there’s an old bell tower as part of the roof. The building has been renovated and now houses a state-of-the-art medical centre, both modern and welcoming and at the same time, maintaining its historical character.

Michael Woodhouse, CEO of ACON and Interim CEO of Kaleido Health, states:

“ACON established the Kaleido Health Centre because our communities deserve the highest level of care designed by us, for us. Too often we hear stories of people who say they can’t find safe, welcoming care that understands their lives. Kaleido Health will provide integrated care specifically designed to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ people and their families, across a wide range of health services, accessible state-wide.”

I was commissioned to photograph the newly opened building and to capture a series of head-shots of some of the staff.

It was also an adventure, since I had never before been to this smartly developed part of Sydney before. The centre is situated within the boundaries of Technology Park which is full of large, converted and heritage-listed buildings. I even managed to find a good coffee shop and barista in the vicinity at the end of the shoot.