'Gayline', Auckland's LGBT community counseling and information telephone service, will soon be renamed ‘OUTLine NZ', and a competition to design a new logo is now open, says Auckland gay and Lesbian Welfare's General Manager Neil Denney. “The idea is to have people from the GLTTB community re-brand us with a new logo and give us visibility as OUTLine NZ," explains Denney, who adds that the executive board are looking forward to a "saucy, sassy and sexy" new look. Denny says the changes reflect the organisation's new direction and new focus. “The GLTTB community has changed drastically in the last 35 years. In that time we have seen law reform and civil unions. The needs of the community have also changed.” Auckland Gay and Lesbian Welfare's new board of management has worked hard over the past three months to future-proof the organization, Denney asserts. “Part of planning for our future has been having a good close look at our services to ensure they meet the needs of the GLTTB community in the 21st century, and canvassing the thoughts and ideas of our members. “Many things have changed in 35 years, including the use of technology and different media for communications,” he said. “The challenge for us as an organisation is to get the mix right and to make sure we are meeting the diverse needs of the community." Five-star luxury resort Umoya Lodge in the Hunua Ranges has donated an overnight stay for two people -- with a four course dinner, wine and breakfast for two -- as a prize package valued at over $600 for the winner of the logo competition. "It's a wonderful night of being pampered in the luxurious surroundings with mien host Johann," smiles Denney. Full details and rules can be obtained from Gayline on 09 309 3268. The Gayline offices have also undergone a huge transition in the past few weeks. "Our volunteers have worked to paint the offices, and we have purchased new furniture and fittings to make the offices a more pleasurable place to visit, work and volunteer," says Denney proudly. "The purchases have been made possible by the donation of $7,000 from the Gay Auckland Business Association and Out! Magazine who donated $1,000 for paint. "It has been a great project, breathing some new light into the offices. We are really happy with the results. “AGLW has a proud 35-year history of meeting the needs of the community and these transformations put us in an excellent position to continue this proud tradition in the future,” concludes Denney. A picture of Gayline's revamped office is available to view on the link below. Ref: AGLW (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 15th August 2007 - 5:29pm