Tuesday marked the first official day of marriage equality in Australia, as same-sex marriages took place around the country.
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In Ballarat, some couples have decided to marry at the first possible moment after up to decades of waiting, while others have set dates throughout the year.
For Ballarat couple Darren Dubberley and Dave Harrison, the countdown is on for when they tie the knot.
They will have their dream wedding on March 24 at Kirks Reservoir Park, which was the first available date after Mr Harrison proposed on the day the postal survey results were revealed.
Ballarat recorded the second highest ‘yes’ vote of all non-metro Victorian electorates with 70.5 per cent of its survey responders voting to change the Marriage Act.
Mr Dubberley and Mr Harrison attended Ballarat Trades Hall for the historic and emotional occasion on November 15.
I just can’t wait for the day when it’s not gay marriage, it’s just considered marriage.
- Darren Dubberley
Then, later in the day, Mr Harrison surprised Mr Dubberley at work with some roses, a bottle of champagne and a proposal.
“That day was an emotional roller coaster, we were up, we were down, we were crying, we were happy just to finally be accepted and allowed to (get married),” Mr Harrison said.
“When it actually passed in parliament I saw it on the news and I just broke down like the day my mum died.”
Mr Harrison said the wedding would be a relaxed and casual celebration.
“We’ve been together 18 years and we just thought let’s get it done as soon as we can,” Mr Harrison said.
Mr Dubberley added the whole day would be a party, starting with the Kirks Reservoir ceremony.
“It’s a beautiful garden, it’s close to home and we wanted it in Ballarat, that was always a big thing,” he said.
The couple had also been keeping an eye on the news as same-sex weddings took place on Tuesday.
“To think of all those people that have been bashed, died and put in prison, for us to get to where we are now you’ve got to say thanks to them,” Mr Harrison said.
While Mr Dubberley said he was glad it would be easier for future generations.
“It’s awesome, it’s great to see so many people (getting married) and there is going to be lots of them that are finally getting the chance to be happy,” Mr Dubberley said.
“I just can’t wait for the day when it’s not gay marriage, it’s just considered marriage.”
