Q News
Jordan Hirst
NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced the details of the state memorial service for long-time HIV campaigner and Qtopia Sydney founder David Polson this month.
David passed away at age 70 on February 10. Tributes flowed for the community icon, remembering his significant contributions to HIV advocacy and the LGBTQIA+ community over his lifetime.
At age 29, David was one of the first four hundred people in Sydney diagnosed with HIV in 1984.
He bravely underwent 28 experimental drug trials, which ultimately saved not only his life but the lives of many others.
Premier Chris Minns has shared new details of David Polson’s state memorial service in Sydney on March 12, 2025.
“The State Memorial Service for the late LGBTQIA+ advocate David Polson AM will take place on Wednesday, 12 March at the City Recital Hall, Angel Place, Sydney,” Minns confirmed on Saturday.
“The service will start at 10.30 am and provide an opportunity for Mr Polson’s family, friends, dignitaries, and members of the public to celebrate the life of the acclaimed activist.
“Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on.”
David Polson was ‘a genuine community hero’
In 2023, David Polson received the Member of the Order of Australia for “significant service to community health through HIV education and advocacy”.
David was also a founding chair of Qtopia Sydney, Sydney’s first queer museum. Qtopia opened in Darlinghurst last year.
Last month, NSW Legislative Council government leader Penny Sharpe paid tribute to David Polson as a courageous hero who saved lives.
“There are people alive today because of the courage and bravery of David Polson,” she said.
“It is a fitting tribute that he has a state memorial to acknowledge his work and share the story of LGBTQIA+ activism in New South Wales and David’s role in it.
“David Polson was a genuine hero of the community whose life profoundly helped others.”
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