Outgoing Labour MP Tim Barnett has received a new award designed to celebrate services to Wellington's LGBT communities. Tim Barnett (centre) receives his Pink Wellington Award from Andy Boreham and Aaron Hailwood The inaugural Pink Wellington Award was presented to Barnett at the queer prom on Saturday night by representatives of Out Wellington Inc. "He has done so much for our community," Out Wellington's Andy Boreham said during the low-key ceremony. "Including spear-heading human rights initiatives such as prostitution law reform, civil unions, relationship property laws and the clean-slate act. "He is someone who will leave a great void but also a great legacy." Barnett said was excited to receive the award, especially at a youth-based event like the queer ball – an event designed and largely attended by high school and university students. "I didn't 'come out' until I was 24," Barnett told the audience. "It's so great to see such young, active and happy queer people enjoying yourselves and who you are." "This is my third queer award," Barnett explained, "but it is one that will definitely sit with pride of place." The Pink Wellington Award will now be given out sporadically by Out Wellington Inc. - a committee who also run the capital's gay and lesbian fair – to those who provide exceptional service to Wellington's rainbow communities.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Monday, 15th September 2008 - 2:41pm