A festival of queer literature will visit Horsham in January as part of a statewide slate of regional LGBTQIA+ events organised by the State Government.

Q-Lit is a literature festival that celebrates the history of storytelling within Victoria’s queer community, showcasing the work of writers across genres including fiction, non-fiction, graphic novels, songwriting, play and screenwriting, mixed media, children’s books, academia, and poetry.

The festival will travel to Horsham on January 19 as part of its focus of connecting queer writers in regional and metropolitan areas.

The festival is one of 15 regional Victorian events to receive funding of up to $10,000 from LGBTQIA+ organisation Midsumma through its Victoria’s Pride regional activation program.

Minister for Equality Harriet Shing said the government expected tens of thousands of people to take part in events and activities across the state, including in Horsham, Portland, Beechworth, Nathalia, Bendigo, South Gippsland, Warrnambool, Castlemaine, Mildura, Warragul, Wangaratta and Geelong. “I’m so excited to celebrate Victoria’s Pride later this year with our rainbow communities right across Victoria – there are some incredible events scheduled and I encourage everyone to get involved,” she said.

“Victoria’s Pride is not just about embracing our amazing LGBTIQA+ communities but creating opportunities for our rainbow communities in the regions to express themselves and deepen connections in their towns.”

Midsumma community engagement manager Ashlee Hints said Victoria’s Pride program was important for queer communities in regional areas.

“The regional activation program plays a crucial role in bridging the gap of geographical isolation for LGBTQIA+ individuals living in regional areas. It offers unique opportunities for connection, creativity, and community-building,” she said.

More information about Victoria’s Pride program, including details of the Q-Lit festival, are available at midsumma.org.au/regional-
activations.

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