Groups back in City on gay kids’ night

Alex de Vos
State lobby groups and youth organisations have defended a controversial ratepayer-funded night for gay youths in Geelong.
Anti Violence Project of Victoria’s executive director Greg Adkins slammed Australian Family Association and the Catholic church for “ignorant and offensive” opposition to the event.
“Their comments reveal either a lack of understanding of the needs of young people or wilful and homophobic ignorance,” Mr Adkins said.
The Independent revealed last week the City of Greater Geelong was set to host the event for “same-sex-attracted and queer-friendly youth” at a cafe next month.
Australian Family Assoc-iation’s Max Crockett labelled the event “inappropriate”, while St Mary’s parish priest Father Kevin Dillon said it was akin to using ratepayers’ money for reverse-discrimination.
Mr Adkins demanded an apology from both the family association and Father Dillon.
“These apologies should extend well beyond the young gays and lesbians targeted by their words and include an unreserved apology to the greater Geelong community,” Mr Adkins said.
“Mr Crockett and Father Dillion need a not-so-gentle reminder that being homosexual is not a preference, it’s a God-given fact of birth.”
Barwon Adolescent Task-force’s Leigh Bartlett believed the event would have a “positive effect” on the mental wellbeing of participants.
“This event allows the youth to party in a safe environment,” Ms Bartlett said.
“It’s about improving opportunities for our young people.”
State Mental Health and Community Services Minister Lisa Neville also threw her weight behind the night.
“Due to the stigma sometimes associated with homosexuality, homosexual people can experience higher rates of mental health issues,” Ms Neville said.
“Any event that provides a safe environment for young people to come together and promotes health and wellbeing is positive.”
Father Dillon denied he was homophobic.
He said he had changed his opinion on the event after meeting councillors about his comments in last week’s Independent.
“It’s not just a social event but part of a program to help vulnerable kids,” Father Dillon said.
“This casts it in a different light.”
A City Hall spokesperson said the White Winter Party was the City’s fourth gay-friendly event.
The Independent was unable to contact Mr Crockett for comment before going to press this week.