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Commonly known as Gay Christmas, Mardi Gras is a time to partay and hang out with friends and lovers. If you’re attending events around Sydney, keep an eye out for ACON’s Mardi Gras campaign — BeforePlay. This campaign aims to get people talking to their partners about what’s hot, what’s safe and what they are both into.

It’s always best to discuss safe sex before the ‘hot’ moment arises, because previously made decisions can evaporate as rapidly as the lube. For all the details on the campaign visit ACON’s website. Whatever you do this Mardi Gras, have a great and safe time.

Following Mardi Gras week is International Women’s Day on March 8. You can celebrate IWD by painting a mural, followed by a free brunch at the Lismore Women’s Resource Centre, 79-81 Woodlark St. This activity starts at 9am.

There’s a women’s photographic exhibition between 5.30-7.30pm at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall. They are seeking entries from local women. Call Neroli 0457 864 253 for more information.

The Lismore and District Women’s Health Centre is hosting a fundraiser with a screening of a contemporary version of an old favourite, Alice In Wonderland, at Birch, Carroll and Coyle in Lismore at 5.30pm. The $20 tickets need to be purchased in advance from the Women’s Health Centre on 6621 9800.

The GLBT youth group is held at the Fruit Bowl. The next groups will be held on March 4 and 18. Issues and services are explored in a safe, informal manner. For more information, call Sioux at ACON on 6622 1555.

There are now free city concerts in Lismore. Held on the first Sunday of each month from 11am at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, the music presented over the year will be an eclectic mix of jazz, world music, rock, classical and other genres.

Have a safe and happy Mardi Gras, everyone!

info: For more on groups, services, organisations or events in Northern Rivers, contact Sioux Harrison at ACON on 6622 1555 or [email protected].

Sioux Harrison is Administration and Volunteer Officer for ACON Northern Rivers.