Association (Vic)
GAMMA
�GAMMA� is the Gay and Married Men�s Association of Victoria. GAMMA is a support group for men in or out of long term heterosexual relationships who are sexually attracted to other men. It has existed in some form in Victoria for over 20 years
2. What is GAMMA not?
GAMMA is not a sexual contact group, dating service, �coming out� forum and is not Gamma Project.
3. Who is it for?
GAMMA exists only for men who are married, were married, or in long term heterosexual relationships, who are dealing with the special issues that surround their life choices, relationships and sexuality.
Attendance is diverse in background and age. Some are still married, others separated, others divorced. Some have children, some don�t. Some are openly gay, others not. Gay partners of GAMMA men are welcome to attend with their GAMMA partner.
4. What is its mission?
GAMMA will provide a supportive network for gay married men built on understanding, opportunities and hope for managing their individual circumstances.
5. What does it do?
GAMMA offers information, discussion and networking in a friendly environment that respects the individual. To do this, GAMMA:
1. Operates a telephone information service;
2. Provides forums for informed, objective and friendly discussion of issues;
3. Maintains a database of resources relevant to participants� needs;
4. Fosters better understanding of issues affecting participants; and
5. Respects individual privacy and meeting confidentiality as paramount
6. How does it operate?
GAMMA is a voluntary organisation, organised by a small team led by a Convenor.
GAMMA meets monthly in group session on the last Monday of each calendar month. In addition, GAMMA endeavours to provide opportunities for social networking and discussion in between formal meetings.
Confidential telephone and e-mail services are operated by the team on behalf of the group. Regular newsletters are also distributed by e-mail (blind copy to protect privacy of email addresses on the list).
GAMMA maintains standing advertisements in the gay community press and is to develop a broader communication strategy in support of its functions. These expenses are funded by a small door charge at each monthly group meeting.
7. How are meetings run?
Meetings are run according to a Code of Conduct based on respect for privacy and confidentiality. Meetings offer the chance for individuals to raise individual circumstances, as well as hear regular guest speakers on common issues. Participants are welcome to participate actively or to simply observe.
8. Are there rules for participation?
Privacy and confidentiality to encourage free participation by all who attend is paramount. As a participant in GAMMA, you agree to observe the following rules:
(a) Attendance � you will be married, have been married, or in a long term heterosexual relationship dealing with the special issues that surround GAMMA circumstances, and will not be attending for sexual or social contact.
(b) Confidentiality � matters discussed within the meeting room are at all times confidential to the room. By attending, each participant agrees not to discuss outside the group specific or personal matters raised within the group, without the permission of the individuals concerned.
(c) Privacy � all participants must pay full regard to individual privacy and sensitivities when asking questions or seeking information from others. This applies within or outside group meeting.
(d) Respect � each participant is asked to respect each other�s differences and avoid statements that may be perceived as judging, bullying, intimidating or threatening.
(e) Listening � basic courtesy is to be extended to any speaker, being either another participant or a guest presenter, by allowing their points to be made fairly and fully.
(f) Speaking � participants are fully encouraged to raise personal circumstances and responses to discussion, but in respect of other�s need to speak and limits on meeting time, are asked to keep contributions focused, on topic and avoid generalisations of opinion.
(g) Mobile Phones � mobile phones should be switched off for the duration of the meeting. Should you be expecting an urgent call, please switch your phone to �silent� mode, or ensure you are seated near the door to take that call.
(h) Fees � at each meeting all participants (excluding first time attendees) are asked to donate $2 to assist GAMMA to cover the costs of outgoings such as advertising. Transparent accounting records are kept and are available.
(i) Refreshments � to ensure smooth functioning of the group, no alcohol or food is to be brought into the meeting room during the meeting.
(j) Smoking � the meeting room is always a smoke-free environment.
9. What sorts of issues may arise at GAMMA meetings?
Meetings and resources cover a range of issues from the special circumstances that surround their life choices, relationships and sexuality.
Common issues relate to dealing with past and present relationships, health matters, finances, legals, children, extended family and workplace, but may extend to all aspects of everyday life.
10. How do I join?
It is recommended you first telephone our Contact Officer on 0417 507 930 for a confidential discussion of your needs and details of meetings.
Alternatively, you can send an e-mail to [email protected]. For confidentiality, replies are done by �blind copy� which ensures that the source of the e-mail is not disclosed in your e-mail inbox.
GAMMA Convenor
September 2003
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