Qtopia Sydney is deeply saddened by the passing of David Polson AM, their Emeritus Founding Chair and one of the most influential figures in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The NSW Government has announced a State Memorial Service in his honour, to be held on Wednesday, 12 March, with a live stream available for those unable to attend in person, including his family, friends and supporters in New Zealand.
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 23 November 1954, as the only son of a head teacher, David’s life was defined by extraordinary courage and an unyielding commitment to activism. He attended Christchurch Boys’ High School before moving to Australia to pursue his passion for the arts, accepting a scholarship at Sydney’s Ensemble Theatre.
As one of the first 400 men diagnosed with HIV in Australia in the 1980s, David endured 28 gruelling drug trials to help pioneer treatments that would go on to save lives worldwide. He fought stigma with a fiery wit and a defiant belief that people living with HIV should stand tall, free from shame.
David was cheeky, irreverent, wickedly funny, warm and endlessly gracious. His passion for advocacy extended beyond medical research to education and the preservation of LGBTQIA+ history. In 2024, his vision became a reality with the opening of Qtopia Sydney, Australia’s first LGBTQIA+ museum and a place of remembrance, education and celebration. This was a promise he had made to his dear friend, the late Professor David Cooper, ensuring that the stories of those lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic would never be forgotten.
“David Polson was the heart and soul of Qtopia Sydney. His passion and vision shaped the world for the better, and his legacy will be felt for generations,” said Greg Fisher, CEO of Qtopia Sydney. “It’s only fitting that his life will be honoured in such a special way, recognising his courage, resilience and the incredible mark he left on so many people.”
David passed away at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, where he had spent so much time over the years, always in the care of compassionate hands. He was surrounded by those who knew and loved him best.
David is survived by his sister Ruth Henning, brother-in-law Evan Henning, nephews William and Edward, his close cousin Cecily Polson and lifelong friends Peter Campbell, Amanda Findlay and Greg Woods.
The State Memorial for David Polson AM will take place on Wednesday, 12 March in Sydney, Australia, with further details, including live stream access, available soon via NSW Government State Services.
David’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the communities he strengthened. His impact will never be forgotten.
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Louise Duff
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