Gippsland’s community of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer young people will have their chance to celebrate diversity at a regional Pride Formal.
Headspace is hosting the event for people aged between 12 and 25 years old next month, with the hopes to make the formal ongoing.
“We believe that all young people should be equally valued,” headspace youth and community engagement officer Josh Cassidy said.
“All young people have the right to be connected to their community and all young people have the right to feel confident.
“So that’s what we hope to achieve by offering that platform.”
Twenty-three year-old Jordan Hegarty, who has been involved in the Whatever Diversity group at headspace for nine years now, could not be more excited.
“There hasn’t been any pride formal down here,” Ms Hegarty said.
“Previously everyone’s had to go to Melbourne to the Minus18 events.
“I think it’s a great initiative and I hope to see it around for a long time.
“I want LGBTIQ youth to be valued and not alone – there are others and there are ways they can be celebrated and be proud of who they are.”
Individuals are encouraged to express their identity and are welcome to bring along a support person or family member on the night.
Although the venue has a capacity of up to 200 people, Mr Cassidy said he would not measure the event’s success by its numbers.
Gippsland’s Pride Formal will be held on 12 November at The VRI hall, Traralgon from 6pm until 10.30pm.
Free transport will be offered to those travelling from Warragul and Sale.
RSVP is a must and closes on 28 October.
To register email info@headspacemorwell.org.au
For more information, visit ‘headspace Morwell’ on Facebook.
When: Saturday, 12 November
Doors open from 6pm until 10.30pm
Where: The VRI hall, 18-20 Queens Parade, Traralgon
Featuring: Live music and finger food catering
This is a drug, alcohol and smoke free event
Who: Age of entry between 12 and 25 years
Individuals can bring along a family member or support person outside of that age bracket
Dress code: Open to individual expression of identity
Price: Free entry
