Building Pride in the Highlands: A New Partnership with Bobby Goldsmith Foundation

At The Real Homosexuals of the Southern Highlands, we are absolutely thrilled to announce our new inclusive partnership with the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation.

“We’re excited to be working alongside The Real Homosexuals of the Southern Highlands to strengthen support for LGBTQIA+ people in regional NSW. This partnership helps us connect with community members who may benefit from our services and ensures that inclusive care is accessible no matter where you live.”- Rhys Leppard, Director Public Engagement, Bobby Goldsmith Foundation.

This collaboration represents more than just a joining of forces it’s about amplifying visibility, safety, and respect for LGBTQIA+ people in our region. Together, we are building a future where queer voices are not only heard but celebrated, and where local communities and businesses feel empowered to create spaces of belonging.

What does Bobby Goldsmith Foundation think about our The Real HomoSexuals Of The Southern Highlands?

"We think the work you’re doing is fabulous. Like BGF, The Real Homos of the Southern Highlands is grassroots and community-led and that’s what makes organisations like ours so powerful. By creating visibility and joy in a region where the LGBTQIA+ community are often overlooked, you’re creating visibility and belonging and that can truly change lives."

Why has Bobby Goldsmith Foundation chosen to get involved with The Real HomoSexuals Of The Southern Highlands?

"BGF is committed to supporting people living with HIV and the broader LGBTQIA+ community where they are not just in Sydney. Partnering with us helps us to reach more people who might not know we’re here for them and it’s a great opportunity to create visibility in regional NSW."

How do Bobby Goldsmith Foundation services currently support LGBTQIA+ people in the Southern Highlands and Regional New South Wales?

"BGF provides HIV support, NDIS disability services and health and wellbeing programs to people across NSW. Our services include: HIV case management and peer support, Disability support, Alcohol and drug counselling, Financial counselling, Health and wellbeing programs like yoga and a book club. We work with people from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community, people navigating stigma, isolation or complex health needs. Our approach ensures everyone feels seen and supported."

What goals do you have for this partnership between Bobby Goldsmith Foundation and The Real HomoSexuals Of The Southern Highlands?

"We hope to Increase awareness of BGF’s services in the Highlands, Connect with LGBTQIA+ people who may benefit from our support, Collaborate on events and outreach, We also hope to learn form the Southern Highlands community."

Tell us more about NDIS and what this means for regional communities?

"BGF is a registered NDIS provider offering disability support to all people – not just those living with HIV. We’re expanding our reach to ensure LGBTQIA+ people with a disability have access to inclusive services. This includes: Assistance with cooking, meal planning and preparation, Light cleaning and domestic duties, Assistance with personal administration, Help with grocery shopping, Maintaining connections with family and friends, Accessing cultural activities that are important to you. We’re proud to be positioning ourselves as the LGBTQIA+ disability provider of choice."

Would you like to share any advice or resources for our Members and Wider LGBTQI+ community and allies?

"We invite your members and wider community to explore the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation website, where they’ll find a wealth of resources tailored to people living with HIV, LGBTQIA+ communities and those navigating disability or ageing. Read our blog posts for practical tips, inspiring stories and updates on community events, Visit our Insights pages to learn more about living well with HIV, accessing disability support and understanding aged care options, Discover our wellbeing programs, including yoga, cooking workshops and social groups designed to foster connection and confidence. Whether you're newly diagnosed, exploring NDIS options or simply looking for affirming support, our site is a great place to start. You can also submit a service enquiry directly through the site if you or someone you know needs support."

We are so excited to begin this journey with Bobby Goldsmith Foundation and to strengthen the network of support available to LGBTQIA+ people across the Southern Highlands, Wollondilly Shire and Southern Tablelands.

Now, we invite our local community, allies, and health organisations who share our vision of making the Southern Highlands and surrounding regions safer, more inclusive, and more respectful, to stand with us.

If you believe in creating a place where queer people can connect authentically with their wider community and businesses feel safe, supported, and seen - we would love to hear from you. Let’s explore how we can partner, advocate, and celebrate collectively for the future of our region.