Benalla unites for IDAHOBIT

By Sharlene Baldo

May 19, 2025

On Friday, May 16 Benalla Police and Benalla Rural City Council held a flag-raising ceremony to commemorate the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia, also known as IDAHOBIT.

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Deputy Major Cr Justin King shared a few words during the morning ceremony.

“We come together to observe IDAHOBIT,” he said.

“It’s a day that holds deep significance for the LGBTQIA+ community, and for everyone that believes in equality, respect and inclusion.

“IDAHOBIT shines the light on the discrimination and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Flags fly in unison at Benalla Police Station. Photo by Sharlene Baldo

“It is a powerful reminder of why we need to keep building a world where people are free to live authentically without fear of judgement or harm because of who they are.

“Today, I stand with my fellow councillors as an ally, just as Benalla Rural City Council stands to ensure our community remains a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.”

Cr Nathan Tolliday, Senior Sergeant Jenni Lamond, Cr David Blore, Leading Senior Constable Chis Di Ciero, Detective Senior Constable Abby Buckley and Deputy Mayor Cr Justine King at Benalla’s IDAHOBIT ceremony. Photo by Sharlene Baldo

Leading Senior Constable Chris Di Ciero followed with a speech of her own.

“IDAHOBIT is more than just a commemoration, it’s a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still work to do,” she said.

“It’s a day to celebrate and take a firm stand against discrimination in all its forms.

“For Victoria Police, supporting IDAHOBIT is not only important - it’s essential.

“We stand alongside the LGBTQIA+ community today and every day, to say that discrimination, harassment and exclusion have no place in our organisation or our society.

“We acknowledge that, historically, the relationship between police and the LGBTQIA+ community hasn’t always been a positive one, but we are listening, learning and evolving, and we are entrusted and committed to rebuilding and strengthening that trust.”

The ceremony concluded with a gathering, where attendees enjoyed refreshments while collecting LGBTQIA+ pins, stickers, magnets and informative pamphlets.