Mel 'Feisty' Fitzpatrick: The tyranny of distance?

For those of us lucky enough to live in the major cities, access to a myriad of nightclubbing and social opportunities is one of the things we often take for granted, along with a fabulous variety of international food, galleries and other such cultural experiences.

However, life in regional centres can be very different. And for the queer community social options are often very limited, particularly if the nightclub scene is your thing. In the metropolises we take it for granted that we'll have a gay pub, club or bar. For better or worse these places often facilitate our friendships, relationships and communities. So what happens in regional centres where there is no gay bar? Do regional residents suffer from the ‘tyranny of distance’?

These days I divide my time between Sydney and the New South Wales north coast and I reckon they've got it made up north. The air is clean, the pace much more human and the social life is rich, friendly and relaxed. And unlike we city slickers who whinge and moan when our regular night out fell just below our expectations, country queers go with the flow and embrace their parties.

Regional parties are usually only held every now and then and often require patrons to travel a fair distance so it’s quite a commitment. Generally their attitude is better. Distance is not so much a tyranny than an opportunity. They'll pitch a tent to avoid the booze bus or visit friends and sleep on couches. They'll make a weekend of it. Don't worry about friendships and community - they've got it in spades. And on the dance floor they'll allow a DJ or performer to take them along for the ride. It's a joy to live here (even if it's only part time) and an honour to play tunes here.

Tyranny of distance? Nah ... heaven!

www.djfeisty.com