Kevin (he/him) is an 80-year-old former tram conductor, LGBTQIA+ activist, and storyteller living in Melbourne, Victoria.

In this episode, Ken shares his experiences of coming out in the 1970s when holding hands in public could lead to arrest. He reflects on the profound changes he has witnessed in LGBTQIA+ rights over the decades, from police persecution to Pride celebrations filling the streets. Ken also takes us on a journey through his rich and varied life—from working as a tram conductor in Melbourne to spending 20 years in the U.S., where he met his late partner of 21 years. Now retired, Ken dedicates his time to spreading joy at festivals, dressing as a vintage tram conductor, handing out old tram tickets and pennies, and reminding people of the importance of connection and community.

Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, historical discrimination, and discussions of grief.

If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.

This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.​

Episode Credits​

Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas​

Co-Producer: Ashlee Hints

Music & Underscoring: Mieke Louise

Want to know more about Pridefinder?​

www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/​

Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?​

www.thewayfinder.com.au/​

Music Credits

Original jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.

You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik and on Spotify

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Seek Support

​If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:​

Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/​

QLife (3pm-midnight) – 1800 184 527 | www.qlife.org.au/resources/chat​

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat​

Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/​