By XAVIER SMERDON
THE western suburbs of Melbourne will finally have their own radio show dedicated to gay and lesbian content with a new segment being launched this week.
GO WEST, a new show that will be beamed into resident’s cars and homes from 88.9 WYNFM’s Werribee studio, had its first show last Sunday.
The two hour weekly program airs from 8pm-10pm on Sunday nights and is hosted by Allan with regular panellists David, Michael and Noel.
It features panel discussions, interviews and news affecting gays, lesbians and bisexuals with a focus on the western suburbs.
Host Allan said it was about time Melbourne’s traditional working class suburbs had a radio station that catered to the needs of gay and lesbian listeners.
“Wyndham and Melbourne’s West is the fast growing region in Australia and the number of gays and lesbians, bisexuals and transgenders is growing rapidly as singles and couples take advantage of the affordable housing and lifestyle,” Allan said.
“I grew up in Laverton in the 1970s and you dare not come out or even show any gay or lesbian inclination or you were beaten up.”
Allan said public opinion was shifting in support of gay and lesbian rights and equality, as evident by the establishment of Hobsons Bay Council’s new Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender and Queer Advisory Committee.
“I left the area to be me and get career opportunities and have been gay all my life, and now that I’ve returned to the area, I feel it’s time to give the gay/lesbian community a voice. Sadly, I don’t feel comfortable enough to identify myself by my full name”, he said.
For more information on GO WEST, email gowest3030@tpg.com.au or visit www.wynfm.org.au.
