HIV and gay health advocate Geoff Honnor has been remembered as a hero of the community after passing away on Monday night in his Sydney home after a period of illness.
Honnor has been lauded as “amazing” and “wonderful” by those who knew him.
In his career, he worked for numerous organisations supporting the HIV-positive and LGBTIQ communities in New South Wales.
“Geoff was a true hero whose tireless and passionate service over the years made a significant contribution to improving the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV and the broader gay community,” said LGBTIQ health organisation ACON in a statement.
As ACON’s Director of HIV and Sexual Health, Honnor was responsible for the innovative Ending HIV campaign that influenced sexual health strategies around Australia and New Zealand.
“Geoff’s passion and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV will serve as an inspiration to many in the HIV sector and the broader [LGBTIQ] community,” said ACON.
“His dedicated service over many years, utilising his advocacy skills, cultural understanding, and communications expertise to serve people living with HIV has our honour and praise.”
Nic Holas of The Institute of Many praised Honnor for his role in establishing and supporting the HIV organisation.
“He was an extraordinary man, mentor, and a giant of the Australian HIV response,” posted Holas on social media.
“Those of us who were swept up under his wing were grateful for his wisdom and guidance.
“I can’t begin to list the ways his mentorship and support lifted me and so many PLHIV up.
“TIM would not be what it is today without his support.”
The National Association of People with HIV Australia (NAPWHA) has also issued a statement in memory of Honnor.
“It is with sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Geoff Honnor: HIV activist, community advocate, and impassioned employee,” the organisation posted on Facebook.
“Geoff worked at NAPWHA during the 2000s and is possibly best remembered for his fierce and ingenious writings about all things HIV, particularly how it and people living with HIV are best treated.”
Many friends and colleagues on social media have posted tributes to Honnor, calling him a “truly remarkable man” and “a legend”.
Honnor is survived by his children and his partner Lance Feeney.
A memorial event is to be announced.
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