David Polson AM: Trailblazer In HIV Activism And Qtopia Sydney Founder Dies At 70
David Polson AM, the founder of Qtopia Sydney and a long-time advocate for HIV education, passed away earlier today at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst. He was 70. Polson’s remarkable legacy is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication to creating a world shaped by hope and understanding.
A Survivor, Advocate, and Trailblazer
In 1984, Polson became one of the first four hundred individuals in Sydney diagnosed with HIV at a time when diagnosis felt like a death sentence. Determined to challenge the odds, he participated in 28 experimental drug trials under the care of Professor David Cooper, enduring gruelling side effects to fight for his life. His courage and determination not only helped save him but also shaped advancements in treating HIV/AIDS for others.
When Professor Cooper passed away in 2018, Polson committed himself to fulfilling Cooper’s vision to establish a museum to document and honour the response to the AIDS epidemic in Australia. That dream came to life in February of last year when Qtopia Sydney opened its doors in the historic Darlinghurst Police lockup. It now stands as a testament to both men’s tireless activism.
As Qtopia prepares to welcome visitors for its second Mardi Gras season, Polson’s passing marks a poignant moment for the community he devoted his life to advocating for.
Honoured as a National Treasure
Polson’s impact extended beyond the creation of Qtopia. In 2022, he was recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia for his outstanding contributions to HIV education and advocacy. Reflecting on his work, Qtopia Sydney CEO Greg Fisher described him as a “true community hero” who “never sought the spotlight – only solutions.”
“David’s determination to open Qtopia stemmed from his own life,” Fisher said. “He was one of the first people in Australia diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Unlike so many others who died at that time, David refused. He instead devoted his life to participating in 28 drug trials…the side effects from which were often worse than the disease.”
The St Vincent’s Curran Foundation ambassador and inaugural Community Champion of the 2021 NAPWA and Gilead Science Awards remained steadfast in using his story as a long-term survivor to inspire, educate, and dismantle stigma.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Polson is remembered as a man of warmth, wit, and boundless determination. “David was cheeky, irreverent, wickedly funny, warm and gracious,” Qtopia shared in a statement. “He died as he lived, fighting valiantly until the end, surrounded by those who loved him most.”
Nick Lawson, the CEO of the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, called Polson “a giant in the HIV community” whose bravery and generosity impacted countless lives. “He was not just a survivor but a trailblazer,” Lawson said, reflecting on the smile and joy that defined Polson’s character.
Professor Carla Treloar AM, President of the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation Board, echoed these sentiments, honouring Polson’s advocacy and resilience. “His tireless work in challenging HIV stigma and supporting others has left an indelible mark on our community,” she said.
ACON, a health organisation supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, commemorated Polson as a “tireless advocate, speaker, and role model” who used his personal experience to uplift others and confront discrimination.
Rest In Peace, Beautiful David
David Polson is survived by his sister Ruth Henning, brother-in-law Evan Henning, nephews William and Edward, cousin Cecily Polson, and his close friends Peter Campbell, Amanda Findlay, and Greg Woods.
Through his advocacy, Polson shaped a legacy of hope that will live on in Qtopia Sydney and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the community he fought so fiercely for.
At DNA we remember David’s vibrant spirit, commitment, and the inspiration he brought to our community. His story has been a beacon of hope and resilience that we’ve been honoured to share.
