I guess it has been a difficult road. Being an ‘older transitioner’ and being rural, I didn't have access to knowledge of LGBTQI+ people as I was growing up. There was no visibility in the media and back in the day we only had two TV channels, no internet. There was a lot of fear and uncertainty during my teenage years around the AIDS epidemic. This helped cloud and repress my thoughts. I probably had depression for the majority of my life, but I just didn't realise it. I immersed myself in activities to keep my mind occupied and silence the gender thoughts. In my late 30s and early 40s I started joining the dots and I took a slow and methodical approach to finding/accepting my identity. Ultimately, when I transitioned, the colours returned to my world, and I was free. I found my pride. Since I was about 10 years old helping with hospital fund raising, and surf lifesaving, volunteering has been big in my life. For 15 years and counting I’ve volunteered for CFA. It’s a major part of who I am. CFA is a hub for rural communities and gives me a connection to Country, purpose, and passion. It was through CFA that I came out publicly to the wider community in a controlled and constructive way. I had control over my story and could correct the myths and lies that surround being transgender. Now I don’t have to continually come out or answer the same questions over, and over again. I also work on a casual basis at one of the local secondary colleges with the well-being team to help support and provide a role model to the LGBTIQ kids and to build awareness across the greater College. It's a privilege to be part of such an awesome, progressive, accepting group of people. I chose a location that represents me and my life. It’s the farm I grew up on, that I have farmed for my whole life. Being in yellows, it’s an iconic image of rural Australia, and a key part of my identity. James made it easy and comfortable, and I enjoyed being a part of his creative process.