The Kirby Institute joins our colleagues and friends in mourning the passing of David “Polly” Polson AM.
David Polson was a kind, passionate and tenacious man who dedicated his life to challenging the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. He was a strong supporter of scientific clinical research solutions to HIV, participating in 28 drug trials himself. It was through these trials that David developed a strong relationship with the Kirby Institute, and he was a frequent speaker at Kirby Institute events.
He was a close friend of our inaugural director, the late Professor David Cooper AC, who passed away in 2018. In honour of David Cooper’s vision to create an AIDS museum, David Polson spearheaded Qtopia, a queer museum that serves as a memorial and celebration of queer people who have suffered persecution and discrimination.
The Kirby Institute is incredibly grateful for David’s Polson’s dedication to preserving Australia’s HIV/AIDS story, of which the Kirby Institute plays a small part. David was a determined advocate for his community. His approach was enhanced by a disarming charm, a sharp wit and wicked humour.
Vale David Polson - a determined and fearless voice who has changed the face of HIV in this country. He will be dearly missed.