Thorne Harbour Health has unveiled the winners of its 2024 Awards, recognising influential contributions towards the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ communities and those affected by HIV. The awards were announced following the organisation’s Annual General Meeting and the 32nd Keith Harbour Address.
Tony Briffa, recognised as the world’s first openly intersex mayor, received the prestigious President’s Award. Janet Jukes OAM, President of Thorne Harbour Health, praised Tony for her enduring advocacy. “Tony’s tireless activism has challenged the medical establishment and advocated to governments for the right of intersex children to grow up with dignity, free from unnecessary medical interventions,” she said.
Life Memberships were awarded to two notable HIV advocates, Kath Leane and Marg Hayes. Kath Leane, who serves as President of Positive Life SA, was acknowledged for her robust advocacy which keeps South Australian issues relevant on national forums. “Kath’s unwavering dedication alongside her close work with our SAMESH staff continues to make a profound difference in the lives of many in the community,” said Vice-President Paul Kidd. Marg Hayes was recognised for her past role as Coordinator of the Catholic AIDS Ministry.
The ceremony also honoured several volunteers with Special Service Awards. Recipients included South Australian Kellie Greene, as well as Marc Mendoza, Angelo Todaro, and the Rainbow Local Government Group, all celebrated for their exceptional dedication to supporting community members.
The Greig Friday Young Leader Award was bestowed upon Elvis Martin, a refugee migrant who has risen as a significant advocate for LGBTIQ+ multicultural communities. Elvis’s involvement extends to serving on the boards of the Victorian Government’s LGBTIQ+ and AntiRacism Taskforces.
The awards event coincided with the captivating 32nd Keith Harbour Address, delivered by former ACON CEO Nicolas ‘Nic’ Parkhill AM. In his address, Parkhill reflected on the enduring legacies of ACON and Thorne Harbour Health, both originating as AIDS councils. “We have used many lessons from the HIV epidemic to inform our ongoing work. Our organisations are built on those foundations, and even our contemporary programs reflect those fundamental principles,” Parkhill stated.
He also touched on the collective strength and resilience of these organisations. “Collectively, we are formidable. We have overcome much adversity, always standing up for what is right and just while strengthening our visibility, influence, and organisations,” he said.
The awards and the address were highlighted during Thorne Harbour Health’s Annual General Meeting, which also marked the release of its annual report for the 2023-24 financial year. Through this event, and the recognition of its award recipients, Thorne Harbour Health continues to highlight its essential role in supporting its communities, particularly acknowledging those individuals who lead and advocate for vital change and inclusion.
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