Love is big business
Coast duo cross ditch to walk down the aisle
AS a small-business owner himself, proud Gold Coaster Anthony Ikin would have loved to see the local economy reap the financial spoils of his upcoming wedding.
More than 120 guests will fly in from around the world to watch Ikin and his “soulmate” Peter Cunningham get hitched on May 18 – at a winery on Waiheke Island, off Auckland, New Zealand.
Dance teacher and choreographer Ikin, brother of former Brisbane Broncos star Ben Ikin, proposed to TV producer Cunningham in New York in March – long before the same-sex marriage postal ballot was announced.
The result of the ballot will be announced at 9am today.
“It’s been such a hot topic for so many years and nothing gets done so when I thought of proposing to Pete, my soulmate and life partner, my number one thing was stuff Australia – we’re going to do it anyway,” Ikin said.
“We have the full support of our parents and friends but the plebiscite made me think about how much the debate is affecting people.”
Ikin is confident the yes campaign will win but says the road to recognition has been long and challenging.
“Fingers are crossed it’s a yes but being judged isn’t fun – that’s what it is, judging whether same-sex partnerships are worthy or equal.”
Ikin said victory in the electoral poll would help address the inequality experienced by the LGBTIQ community.
“It’s a step forward for something I’ve been waiting for for a really long time.”
If same-sex marriage does become legal here, Ikin and Cunningham plan to say “I do” again – on home soil.
“Pete’s parents have a beautiful farm with animals and a killer view in Maleny, so it would most probably be there,” Ikin said.
“What I am planning now though is my bucks party on the GC – a rooftop bar hop.”