Jan Thwaites

Judge of QPHC 2019

I’ve been working with the Queensland AIDS Council for almost 14 years.   I started as the Office Manager in 2006 and have worked in various other areas of the organisation as well.   I have worked in Clinic 30 (sexual health and mental health clinic at QuAC)  for a couple of years, booking in and greeting patients who attend the clinic, whether it be for sexual health testing, attending our mental health service or Gender Service.   I have a good knowledge of sexual health issues including HIV, PrEP, PEP, STIs.   Mental health is big issue in the LGBTIQ community and we now provide a mental health service with a fully qualified Mental Health Social Worker.   All appointments are bulk billed but you do need a referral from a GP.

I also have the role of raising funds for the Queensland AIDS Council and I am the co-ordinator of our weekly fundraiser, Balls OUT Bingo at The Sportsman Hotel every Friday night.   Apart from having the fundraising aspect of the night, I wanted to provide a night for the LGBTIQ community which was fun and a safe space for everyone.  All money raised goes towards our unfunded programs.

I enjoy engaging with the LGBTIQ community so much and feel I connect with them in a meaningful way.   It also helps me to continue learning about the issues within the community.   I want to help in any way I can to educate people around the affects of homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, stigma, discrimination and bullying.    My view has always been that everyone is a human being and should be able to live their lives in whatever way makes them happy free from judgement and harassment.

I was involved as a judge for the QPAH Competition last year and I am looking forward to seeing what this year’s contestants have to offer and feel very humbled to be asked to return. 

Good luck to everyone!