By Oliver Lees
When Susan Lodge started the LGBTIQ Coffee Catch-Ups group in Sunbury five years ago, she said she wanted to create a space where people can get together and feel at ease.
“When I was a kid I didn’t even know that I was a lesbian,” Ms Lodge said, now 51-years-old.
“Having someone who goes through the same experience as you is a huge comfort, to know that someone understands.
“It’s a big, painful thing going on inside your own head, when you’re not what’s considered normal.”
On Monday, Ms Lodge joined other members of the public in showing their support for the LGBTIQA+ community on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
The IDAHOBIT rainbow event, organised by Macedon Ranges council and Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH), included a flag-raising and speeches from community members.
SCCH health promotion team leader Lauren Tyrrell said it was an important day to encourage people to challenge discrimination.
“We know that the LGBT community is at risk of experiencing poorer mental health outcomes and that is due to the experience of homophobia and discrimination,” Ms Tyrrell said.
According to LGBTIQ+ Health Australia, LGBTIQ+ people aged 18 and over were over 18 times more likely to have considered attempting suicide in the previous 12 months.
SCCH provides support services for the LGBTIQA+ community, including WayOut, which focuses on the health of young people.
Macedon Ranges local Keiran Atkins has been a member of WayOut for 10 years and was given the opportunity to speak to those in attendance on Monday.
Speaking to Star Weekly before the event, Mr Atkins said he had always been passionate about making his community a safer place for everyone.
“Growing up, I didn’t have many friends, so I was always trying to find more people who were like me,” he said.
“The core of my message is that there always is, and always will be, people who are proudly queer and in the country.”
Macedon Ranges council mayor Jennifer Anderson said it was important to show solidarity.
“Everyone, regardless of sex, gender, religious beliefs, skin colour or background has the right to be treated equally,” Cr Anderson said.
Ms Lodge, who has family history in the region going back decades, said it was encouraging to see the community become more accepting of different people.
“I love seeing these young kids coming out and embracing who they are,” she said.
“It makes the journey all worthwhile.”
