Midsumma: West welcomes gay festival

MIDSUMMA 2013 is under way with all its usual colour and pizzazz, and the western suburbs are shining through in the participation stakes this year.

As part of Victoria’s premier gay and lesbian arts and cultural festival, the GoWest consortium of councils will showcase the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer communities of the west until February 3.

Tomorrow is the debut of Stories from Out-west, first-hand accounts about life on Melbourne’s westside, along with stories and strategies to challenge homophobia. It’s from 6.30-8pm at Williamstown library.

A panel from local GLBTIQ communities will share experiences of being queer in Melbourne’s west. The session will be led by educator and gay rights activist Daniel Witthaus. Bookings: midsumma.org.au

On Saturday, February 2, Brimbank Council is sponsoring a free, family fun day and sausage sizzle at Buckingham Reserve, Sunshine West. 

Bring a picnic blanket and be part of activities from 11am-3pm. Book on 9249 4496.

At The Substation in Newport, Blue and Pink Phenomenon is an exhibition by Australian artists exploring queer life. The exhibition, curated by Jessica Bridgfoot, ends February 24.