http://www.senews.com.au/webstory/w...4/story1_319951

News from the Star Newspaper
Star journalist wins award for article

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By Lachlan Hastings
STAR journalist Jane Gillard has received an award for telling a local community activist’s story with honesty, integrity and respect.
Ms Gillard received an award from the Genetic Support Network of Victoria (GSNV) for her front-page story "Tony Briffa speaks out" (Star Williamstown, 25 May).
In the award-winning piece, local community activist Tony Briffa told Ms Gillard he was sick of defending himself over attacks on his genetic condition.
"Mr Briffa was born with an intersex condition that meant he was not exclusively female," Ms Gillard wrote.
"He was raised as a girl and attended an all-girls school, despite the fact that he is genetically male.
"This mistake – and the fact he refuses to hide it – has made him the target of a political smear campaign."
Mr Briffa – who is also president of the GSNV and nominated Ms Gillard for the award – said she had reported his story with honesty, integrity and respect.
And he said Ms Gillard had shown an awareness of the fine line between exploitation and education.
"I was pleased to be able to nominate Jane Gillard for this award and I am pleased with the decision of the judging panel," he said.
"I was initially hesitant to have a story about my personal experiences … published in the local media.
"But I’m glad I had faith in Jane."
"And the community’s response has been very supportive," he said.
The Genetic Support Network of Victoria (GSNV) – based at the Royal Children’s Hospital – is the peak Victorian body supporting people with genetic conditions.
Its Art of Learning award recognises people who have improved awareness of genetic conditions.
The five-member judging panel included a genetic counsellor, two geneticists and two genetics support group members.
The other nominees included scientists, clinicians, and peer support advocates.
GSNV has presented Ms Gillard with a work by an artist from Kew Cottages and an etched glass trophy.
Seventy people attended the recent awards ceremony at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

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Until you've lost your reputation, you never realize what a burden it was or what freedom really is. --Margaret Mitchell

Great article Betsy!

Tony and I have been pen pals for years, since before he transitioned. He's a sweet guy, and a wonderful person. If he isn't already a member of Bodies, he oughta be!

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Cheers,
Meresa

There will be no second-class citizens in this society.
-- Chuck Panozzo