Once, “Are you a friend of Dorothy?” was a coded question asked in shadows; in Lee Knight’s Oscar-nominated short, it becomes a quiet bridge between generations as Miriam Margolyes’ Dorothy offers a young JJ (Alistair Nwachukwu) not answers, but something rarer – the space to see himself reflected and safe, in a living room filled with books, paintings and unspoken understanding.
THIS REVIEW AT A GLANCE
The film centres on an unexpected friendship between elderly widow Dorothy and 17-year-old JJ after his football lands in her garden.
JJ’s silent reaction to a painting of a half‑naked…
Dear JJ, You’re not needy — you’re a perfectly normal person to want connection with your partner. Current studies show that addiction to our phones and social media is a global issue that significantly harms well-being when used in excess. In relationships, it’s responsible for decreasing quality time, causing disconnection and reducing overall satisfaction.
I’ve said a million times before, communication is the key to healthy, happy relationships. I suggest starting with a heartfelt bid for connection and intimacy.
Maybe something like, “I miss connecting and talking with you, especially…
In the early 1980s, as the AIDS crisis devastated communities and governments turned away, queer people were forced to fight not just for survival, but for dignity. In The Normal Heart, Larry Kramer’s searing and deeply human play, that fight takes centre stage.
“The Normal Heart is a celebration of raising one’s voice and fighting for causes you believe in.” – FUSE Magazine.
The number of bills directly targeting and undermining the existing legal rights of transgender and nonbinary people in the U.S. has been escalating, with sharp increases since 2021 and with each consecutive year. Kansas dealt the most radical blow yet on Feb. 26, 2026, as a law that immediately invalidates state-issued driver’s licenses, identification cards and birth certificates for holders whose gender marker does not match their sex assigned at birth took effect overnight.
ESHU is Australian, it’s streamlined, and it’s clearly made for people who want to look good without turning their bathroom into a lab. Two products – an exfoliator and a moisturiser – and you’re done.
Dear R, Bravo for putting yourself out there. Here’s the thing: wanting a deep connection isn’t the problem. But on a first date, going full “soul excavation” can feel like jumping from a cup of tea to a six-course banquet. Not everyone’s appetite will match yours. I suggest pacing yourself. Think of dating like music: start with a gentle intro, then build to the chorus.
Share little pieces of yourself, watch how they respond while leaving space for curiosity. Deep connections are built over time, not in a single date. Don’t be discouraged, just take things slower.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO ASK SOM…
The ABC journalists consulted and interviewed me for the piece, including showing me all the videos they’d obtained. The vision was sickening – but not surprising.
Romeo and Juliet have always been inseparable. Who amongst us hasn’t wondered what would’ve happened if Juliet had chosen herself instead? '& Juliet' flips the classic story on its head, pairing a high-energy pop soundtrack with a dynamic cast to explore independence, resilience, friendship and self-discovery in a queer landscape.
'& Juliet' is unashamedly fun, modern story-telling. High-energy, bright and vibrant' – FUSE Magazine
THIS INTERVIEW AT A GLANCE
Josh Kirk plays May, a new non‑binary character created for & Juliet.
This new show asks what happens if Juliet…
Maxi Shield – drag powerhouse, Oxford Street icon and RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under alum – has died at 51 after a public battle with cancer, just days out from Mardi Gras. From the Sydney 2000 Olympics closing ceremony to Palms and Universal, she spent decades lighting up queer venues across the city and mentoring the next generation of performers.
THIS ARTICLE AT A GLANCE
Maxi Shield, born Kristopher Elliot, has died at age 51 after a cancer diagnosis announced in 2025.
Maxi was a veteran of Sydney’s drag scene, performing on Oxford Street for decades and appearing in the 2000 Sydney…
