It has been announced that Darwin will be the city to host the 3rd Asia Pacific Outgames in May 2014.

Over 1,000 athletes and their supporters are expected for the triennial gathering of LGBT people from throughout the Asia and Pacific region. As much as a human rights conference as an athletic event, participants will be able to look forward to both sports and cultural programs during the week-long event.

The Northern Territory is no stranger to LGBT travellers. Delegates from the Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association – Asia Pacific (GLISA-AP), praised not only the facilities in Darwin but also noted that they were “confident that Darwin will produce a successful Outgames and warmly welcome LGBT people to their city.”

Looking to participate? Event organizers are hoping the Outgames will provide an inclusive environment for all, as well as provide greater representation of LGBT people from Asian countries.  “In many countries within our region, GLBT people still do not enjoy equal human rights nor acceptance, with many having to live secret lives due to the fear of discrimination, family or societal rejection and the possibility of violence,” said GLISA-AP Host City Liaison, Mr Barry Taylor.  “The Outgames provides the opportunity for a celebration of GLBT lives as well as to bring international attention on the human rights issues facing GLBT people within our region.”