The journey to pride has been challenging… one that I believe is still happening. For me, it’s a lot to do with safety, and not experiencing shame. I believe that in regional areas, being proud of who you are is a form of activism. It’s much more valuable than in metro areas because here there’s no one around who looks like you. Being authentic is so much more important when there is a lack of visibility and representation. Being your true authentic self leads to pride. I started the not-for-profit charity LINE Wangaratta because there was no LGBTQIA+ group in our area. The closest organisation was an hour away. I worked closely with GV Pride to set up the organisation and we’re now going off in our own direction, which is really exciting. I felt awkward choosing a location for the shoot. I always feel more comfortable is corporate wear, and love a good bow tie. There’s a beautiful old bridge that crosses the river in a park near the central part of town and chose that location, which is usually busy. It speaks of an important connection to nature for me, and a beautiful part of Wangaratta history.