Melbourne's inaugural gay and lesbian multi-sport event, the ‘Asia Pacific Outgames' is planned to take place between 30th January to 3rd February, 2008, organisers have announced. Between eight and twelve sporting tournaments and activities – including badminton, ten pin bowling, swimming, rowing, tennis, volleyball, waterpolo, dancesport, lawn bowls, field hockey, running and walks – plus cultural events and a human rights conference are currently being planned as part of Melbourne's 1st Asia Pacific Outgames. Volunteers from the Asia Pacific Outgames organising team have been spreading the word, attending a number of GLBT events throughout the Melbourne region to help provide information to the community and invite GLBT sport lovers and the broader community to come and ‘play with your neighbours' in Melbourne in 2008. The OutGames events are timed to take place during the Midsumma Festival – Melbourne's premier gay and lesbian cultural and arts festival. “Melbourne and its GLBT community are looking forward to welcoming participants and their friends from Australia and the Asia Pacific region including New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and many other countries”, say organisers. “So if you've been thinking about doing something sporty, then check out one of your local gay and lesbian sports clubs (or create your own) and get ready for next year. Now is the perfect time to join and take a fresh look at sport – it's not all about getting sweaty!” For more information and to register for events, check the official Melbourne 2008 Asia Pacific OutGames website on the link below. Ref: Melbourne OutGames (m)