Gay and lesbian group in Ipswich

Chris Wilkins, Gail Campbell, Peter Robinson and Karen Smith are launching their new gay and lesbian group at Murphy’s Town Pub in February.

Sarah Keayes

A LACK of gay and lesbian support services in Ipswich has prompted the creation of a new gay advocacy group, which will officially be launched in February this year.

Named Ipswhat?, the group will promote gay and lesbian awareness in Ipswich and its surrounding rural towns, as well as fundraising for charities and services.

Ipswhat? secretary Gail Campbell said the group was set up because there were currently no gay and lesbian services in Ipswich.

“A lot of people still have negative preconceptions about the gay community, but really we live and work here in the community and are just like everyone else,” she said.

“We want to change people’s perceptions. Gay or straight, we all share the same concerns and just want the best for our friends and family.

“We’ll be looking to fundraise for all community groups, not just gay groups, and we’ll be trying to help young gay people who are finding it hard to live in rural and regional areas without support.”

She said the newly formed group, which was recently registered as a not for profit organisation, expected to receive some backlash from conservative Ipswich residents.

“We have no doubt that this will be tough, but we’re dedicated to making this work. I think the wider community as a whole will accept us,” she said.

“Whether they like it or not, we are here as a community and that won’t change. We’ll especially work hard to put on events in regional towns out of Ipswich.

“It’s hard in small communities for people, especially when you’re younger, to come out and be accepted as gay. We want to put on something where they can turn up and be in a safe and supportive community.”

The official launch for Ipswhat? will take place at Murphy’s Town Pub on February 6, from 4pm to midnight. Lesbian country star Kate Cook will perform.

Joining Ms Cook will be the Out West drag performers and guest DJs, with Dianna Tunne’l hosting.

To buy a $30 ticket for the event, which covers entry and entertainment, telephone Chris Wilkins on 0417 744 116.