Featuring entertainment from Lismore’s own Jex Lopez, a virtual forum tomorrow, May 13, will explore how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) people in regional NSW.

‘Covid-19 and Our Regional Communities’ is hosted by NSW’s leading health organisation for sexuality and gender diverse people, ACON and people are invited to join in the conversation from 3pm. 

ACON Community Health and Regional Services director Sarah Lambert said while COVID-19 is affecting all Australians, its impact can play out differently for a range of communities, such as LGBTQ people living outside of major metropolitan areas.

“We know that COVID-19 is having an impact on LGBTQ people in regional communities,” she said.

“There is also a lot of misinformation out there, and this can sometimes make understanding Covid-19 difficult.

“Those that live in regional and rural settings already face unique challenges when it comes to accessing appropriate health services and support, which can be compounded by the pandemic.

“The forum will deliver messages on keeping safe, accessing support and staying connected in regional and rural NSW and will provide health information and issues relating sexual health, mental health, trans and gender diverse health and Aboriginal health during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The forum’s panel features a range of clinical experts, health care professionals and community members.

It will be facilitated by writer and performer Maeve Marsden, and feature performances from Newcastle entertainer Timberlina and Northern Rivers performer Jex Jopez.

“As well as being a forum to get information, this virtual event is also a chance for LGBTQ people in NSW to come together and connect with others,” Sarah said.

“So, we encourage everyone in our communities – wherever you are across the state – to join in and be part of the conversation.” 

‘COVID-19 and Our Regional Communities’ is on Wednesday May 13, from 3- 4.30pm. 

For event details and registration, visit the ACON website.

Speakers at the forum include:

Dr Kat Taylor: Public Health Physician, Hunter New England Population Health

Dr David Smith: Medical Director, North Coast HIV/Sexual Health Services

Dr Emmanual Vlahakis: Sexual Health Physician & Gender Affirming Care Specialist, Northern New South Wales Local Health District and Mid North Coast Local Health District

Carlie McDonald: Youth Care Coordinator & Community Engagement, Headspace Bega

Simone Jordan: Community Relations Team Leader, Awabakal

Sarah Lambert: Director Community Health and Regional Services, ACON