Nestled between Cairns and Port Douglas, Turtle Cove Beach Resort has been an iconic sanctuary for the LGBTQIA+ community for over 26 years. The resort stands as Australia’s only all-gay

Timo Rissanen has been part of the leather community since 1993, experiencing both its evolution and his own journey of self-acceptance. After moving back to Australia four years ago, he fully embraced his leather identity, finding liberation in who he is. Now, as a sober, gender-queer leatherman, he proudly represents Sydney’s leather community, offering guidance and advocating for important causes. In this year’s Sydney Leather Week, he was given the title ‘Sydney Mr. Leather 2024’.

In this interview, he reflects on his journey, the significance of his title, and his plans for the year ahead.

On Monday 2 September 2024, the Sydney drag community was gearing up for the annual DIVAs, the Drag Industry Variety Awards. The DIVA Awards have been around since 1991 and