ELI says an overwhelming response to a winter ball for LGBTIQ+ young people and their allies in Ballarat is amazing. It makes him feel "less alone".
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The second annual winter ball, run by headspace Ballarat and LGBTIQ+ support group Zaque, promises to be bigger and better this year with a snow machine, a DJ and way more lights.
But Eli said the fact more people wanted to go to the ball was great for awareness and support for the region's LGBTIQ+ community.
Eli said he did not know what LGBTIQ+ was until he was about 12 years old. A friend spoke a little to Eli about their experience and he felt he could relate.
I was happy for days afterwards...I could be myself.
- Eli
"The ball last year was amazing, absolutely incredible. I was happy for days afterwards...I could be myself," Eli said. "I made about 10 new friends I still talk to."
headspace Ballarat's Andy Penny said the ball was an opportunity for everyone in the LGBTIQ+ community and their supporters, aged 12 to 25, a safe place to have a good time.
The inaugural, free event had 80 tickets booked with about 60 young people turning up on the night. Mr Penny said there was such a good response from those who attended that Zaque was determined to host another event.
Already, this year's event had 100 tickets book out the ball within the first two weeks registrations opened and a further ticket release was made to help meet demand.
Community support has also been strong. Ballarat's LGBTIQ+ community arts and culture group Frolic is helping in mentoring roles at the ball, City of Ballarat's Byou team is providing a photo booth and the event also has funding through the state government's HEY (Hear Equal Youth) project.
Vintage Event Hire company Ooh La Lemonade will help light up the night with a giant neon rainbow.
There will also be a chill out space.
Dress code is any theme from punk to retro to Cosplay or jeans and a t-shirt. Eli said fancy dress was fun, but it was all about having a good time and feeling community support for you.
Winter Ball is in the Minerva Room at Ballaarat Mechanics Institute on Friday, August 16, 7-9pm. Tickets, here.
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