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2026 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial
Peer Magic: The Power of Connection, Care and Lived Experience
2026 marks 41 years since the first International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in Melbourne. This year we recognise the vital role of peers in the response to HIV and AIDS with the theme Peer Magic: The Power of Connection, Care and Lived Experience.
Join us as we gather in community to share stories, reflect, and commemorate the friends, family and lovers we have lost to AIDS over the decades. Together we honour the enduring strength of peer support and the people who continue to shape a more compassionate and informed future for those living with HIV.
As we light candles in remembrance, we also look forward. The memorial is a time to acknowledge the power of connection, care and lived experience, and to reaffirm our commitment to building a better world for all peers living with HIV.
The evening will feature a panel discussion on the power of peer connection, alongside reflections from community speakers including Susan Paxton, Adam Ehm and LPV CEO Richard Keane.
Music from the Low Rez Melbourne Male Choir will be woven throughout the program, leading into a candle lighting moment to honour those we have lost and celebrate their lives.
Attendees will also recieve a commemorative pin to mark this special occasion.
Event details:
Doors open: 4:30pm
Event start: 5:00pm
Free coffee & tea generously provided by Thorne Harbour Health.
Livestream will be via our YouTube channel.
We have made improvements to the way we livestream from the Positive Living Centre. Please join us.
Getting there:
Tram stop 28 (Braille Library) on the Route 72 tram is located outside the main entrance to the Positive Living Centre.
Prahran Station is a 9 minute walk or wheel from the venue.
Limited street parking is available.
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