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Guys Like Us Analysis

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As a newly graduated journalist, Ben Woodward, from a third generation Cairns family, contributed in the latter part of the 90s and early in the new century used his considerable talent with words to inform the LGBT community and the general public about the latest gigs, and artists to listen to and look out for. His great interest in music helped to nourish his passion as a DJ.

After working as a journalist at Cairns radio stations 4CA and Hot FM, in 1999 he volunteered at local youth service YouthLink, where he started the first gay youth group in Cairns, “Guys Like Us”. Feeling fortunate to have attended a similar group in Brisbane, he wanted the same opportunity for youth in Cairns. Made redundant when the radio station centralised their newsroom in Townsville, …show more content…

It reflected his own great self-belief, and his firm belief that all people should be treated equally. A product of his own family upbringing, he and his family show how these isssues should be dealt with.

In May 2000, he became host of Tropical Gay FM, staying on for 18 months, before moving to London in 2001.

When Ben went to the UK in 2001 he sent reports back about the music scene, its trends, its upcoming artists and an indepth review of the huge music festivals around the UK. He quite clearly enjoyed his time overseas, reporting he preferred chestnuts roasting over a hot fire to baking in his own sweat.

Ben, and British partner Ricky Philbin returned to Cairnsin 2008, and he continues as an active and valuable member of the Cairns Gay Community; the Out! Cairns parties and Cairns Tropical Pride, just some of the activities he continues involvement with. Also spokesperson for the Cairns LGBT Alliance, he frequently speaks to the local media on LGBT+ issues, particularly marriage

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