Sydney ‘beats’ Get Safe-sex Message (Press, 20 September 1989)

On 20 September 1989, a unique approach to AIDs prevention in New South Wales gained attention through the efforts of two men, Ulo Klemmer, 39, and Phillip Keen, 26. Their job involves visiting public toilets and areas where men often seek casual, anonymous sexual encounters. This initiative was established under a State Health Department grant after research from Westmead Hospital indicated that many men, some infected with the AIDs virus, were engaging in unsafe sex at these locations. Klemmer and Keen were recruited after responding to an advertisement by the New South Wales Aids Council approximately a year prior. They have since spread AIDs prevention messaging to around 800 men at about 60 cruising spots in western Sydney. The challenge addressed by the project lies in reaching men who might not identify with the traditional gay community—many have wives or girlfriends and typically do not respond to standard AIDs health campaigns. The two men believe their work has significantly reduced unsafe sexual practices among their clients. Their outreach efforts often take place during the day, as many men prefer to keep their evenings free for family time. They reported that clients were eager to engage in conversations about their experiences, with many expressing that it was their first opportunity to discuss their same-sex encounters. Keen commented on the long conversations they have had with clients, noting that it appears to have helped many men feel more comfortable about their sexuality. Klemmer further explained that there is no typical profile for the individuals they encounter, reflecting a broad spectrum of masculinity. Despite the potential danger associated with visiting beats—such as reports of violence—neither man has faced serious issues. However, they expressed concern that increased publicity about their work could lead to violence and political pressure to shut down the beats. Don Baxter, a spokesperson for the Aids Council, echoed their worries, highlighting that closing down beats would deter men from seeking AIDs testing. He pointed out that cruising behaviours have existed for centuries and underscored the necessity for similar outreach programmes in other major Australian cities. Baxter stated that at least ten more “beats officers” are needed in New South Wales, as similar activities are likely occurring in urban areas across the country.

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