This document is an electronic copy of an information sheet that was provided to people contacting Central Network for the first time; locals, new arrivals or just visitors passing through.
It appeared in a few different versions over the years. This one is from the late 80s when the organisation still viewed itself as being primarily for gay men. By 1991 coverage had been formally extended to the Centre's lesbian community, although most activities had actually been mixed from the outset. Then, as now, it provides an insight into how we viewed ourselves and what we were trying to achieve.
This information sheet has been prepared to answer some of the
questions that are frequently asked by visitors and new arrivals
to the region.
The social gatherings normally happen in response to demand. As a tourist town we experience a rapid rise in Gay population around February each year which normally starts to disappear again around November. Because of this, social gatherings usually wind down over the summer months and peak in the middle of the year.
Over the last few years we have found that monthly gatherings are about as frequent as the local Gay community wants. Currently these take the form of a dance at a venue known as 'the Asylum' on the first Monday of every month. Details can be obtained from the Gayline on 532844. But there are often other informal activities happening in town - a few friends going out for dinner or drinks - so it's worth keeping in touch to see what's going on.
Central Network also operates an 'open house' where you are welcome to drop in and catch up on local news. You're also welcome to bring contributions of drinks and nibbles to ease the burden on the residents. In the busy season visitors stand a good chance of meeting a new face or two which makes it the closest thing to a Gay bar for 1,500km.
For reasons of security and privacy we reserve the right to get
to know you, at least over the phone, before letting you know the
address.
If you require any advice or information regarding AIDS you can ask Central Network, the STD Clinic at Alice Springs Hospital, or the Central Australian AIDS Action Group (PO Box 910, Alice Springs, 53 1113).
All three are totally confidential and specifically equipped to deal with matters relating to AIDS and Gay men. We do not generally recommend the use of local private doctors as there have been a number of unfortunate incidents and breaches of confidence.
The Action Group also operates a Safe Sex information, education and supply shopfront called SafeSexWorks in Turner (Grandad's) Arcade at the top end of Todd Mail. Services include counselling, a drop-in facility and the cheapest condoms and lube in town. SafeSexWorks is also the local agent for "Virgin" condoms, which include a 50c donation to the AIDS Trust of Australia in the purchase price. This facility was established with the needs of the local Gay community in mind. Make use of it!
Central Network participates directly in the activities of the
Action Group and encourages local Gay men to get involved in this
acutely relevant issue. Volunteers are always needed. Contact
Central Network or drop in to the SafeSexWorks.
Central Network does not offer escort services.
The Simpson's Gap Bar is one of the less rowdy bars in town and
usually has reasonably good live entertainment. It is also known
for the high price of its drinks. After the Sheraton closes, the
Casino and "Bo's" stay open until around 5am. The Piano Bar and
disco are the main places to hang out in the Casino. "Bo's" is a
small, sleazy bar/nightclub with a dance floor and occasional live
performers. Both "Bo's" and the Casino are well known for the
speed and heavy-handedness of their doormen in hurling patrons out
the door. Despite frequent incidents and complaints they remain
popular as the only late night venues in town.
The NT Criminal Code contains penalties for offences which it terms "Public Indecency". These are not clearly defined by the law and could be open to interpretation by the courts, e.g. two men kissing or holding hands in the street could possibly be considered public indecency - we have no way of knowing, so be careful.
Gay men and People With AIDS are not protected against discrimination in the NT under existing anti-discrimination legislation.
If you have any need of legal advice while you are in the region,
Central Network can provide you with details of sympathetic legal
representatives.
Many local Gays remain concerned about exposure and prefer to
remain fairly quiet. Please respect the privacy of others and
don't draw attention to them unless they make it clear that they
don't mind. It can be great fun to scream your tits off in someone
else's house, but they have to face the neighbours in the morning.
Central Network holds a small library of videos at the house
which are on loan from guys in town. These are available for
borrowing by local residents. As long as you don't mind other
people borrowing your videos, you are welcome to leave them at the
house for as long as you like.
Amyl Nitrite (Rush, Heavy Duty, Action Aroma etc) is legal in the
NT.
We also have a policy of not offering accommodation to visitors at the house.
John & Paul, for Central Network.