WITH Pride Month just days away, the team from “Cheers Queers” is inviting the community along to Stick Bar on 5 June for “Beers 4 Queers” – an inclusive event to celebrate the month ahead.
Organisers Mark and Abbey stress that the event is open to everyone wanting to connect with the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It’s not just about celebrating Pride but about coming together as a community to support visibility and inclusion,” Abbey told News Of The Area.
As part of the night, Cheers Queers will be gathering support for a community petition, which calls for Pride flags to be flown along the main street of Port Macquarie during Pride Month.
The initiative follows their invitation to attend a local Labor meeting.
“We had the honour of speaking about our lived experiences growing up queer in a regional area and the importance of public visibility,” Abbey said.
The duo was asked to promote a petition to raise the Pride flag and they hit the ground running, creating a digital campaign that gained the support of over 250 people in the first 24 hours.
They are also encouraged by early support from a number of councillors.
“To have the petition formally brought before Council, we need 250 handwritten signatures.
“So far, we’ve gathered about 60 from just one outing, thanks to the amazing support at the IDAHOBIT Pride Walk organised by Jake Little.”
Flying Pride flags along Horton Street each June is about more than promoting the month.
“It’s about sending a powerful message of love, acceptance, and visibility for our growing queer community here on the Mid North Coast.”
Port Macquarie is home to a thriving and diverse queer community, with groups like Snappy Productions, Out Loud and Proud, Trans Collective MNC, and Cheers Queers all working hard to support LGBTQIA+ individuals.
“Most of these initiatives are grassroots and community-led, with no formal funding – just people giving their time, energy, and love to make a difference.
“Visibility can change lives, and it’s crucial that LGBTQIA+ living here can see themselves reflected and supported in their hometown.”
The team is encouraging the community to sign the petition or host one if they have a business.
For more information email hellocheersqueers@gmail.com or contact Cheers Queers on social media.
By Rikki WALLER