David Polson, a lifelong HIV treatment advocate and founding chair of Darlinghurst queer museum Qtopia, has passed away. He was 70.
Qtopia said he died as he lived “fighting valiantly until the end in the care of St Vincent’s Hospital”.
Polson was one of the first 400 people to be diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Australia back in 1984. Shortly afterwards, he met the late Professor David Cooper, who guided Polson through 28 HIV drug trials under his supervision.
These trials left their mark on Polson but helped lead to medical discoveries, including the very effective “triple therapy” which is still widely in use across the globe.
“A debt of gratitude is owed to David for his life of service, for his courage, bravery and contribution over almost four decades, enduring 28 drug trials, toward the advancement of medical response to HIV and AIDS in this country and across the world,” said Qtopia.
The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, Australia’s longest running HIV charity, also paid tribute to Polson, saying he leaves behind an immeasurable legacy.
“David was a giant in the HIV community – his bravery, his advocacy and his generosity in
sharing his story have changed countless lives,” said Bobby Goldsmith chief executive Nick Lawson.
“He was not just a survivor but a trailblazer. His loss is deeply felt here at Bobby Goldsmith Foundation and in the wider community but his legacy has forever shaped the future of HIV.”
Bobby Goldsmith Foundation president Professor Carla Treloar reflected on Polson’s longstanding connection to the community.
“David embodied the very spirit of resilience and hope that Bobby Goldsmith Foundation stands for,” Treloar said.
“His tireless work in challenging HIV stigma and supporting others has left an indelible mark on our community.
“We will forever be grateful for his passion, wisdom and the light he brought so many lives.”
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras also paid tribute to Polson, who was part of their 2024 campaign.
“David possessed a rare presence of divinity and power that shone through him, and we were incredibly privileged to have spent time with David over the years as he championed for the advancement of, and advocacy for those living with HIV/AIDS,” it said.
Following professor Cooper’s death, Polson made it his mission to bring to fruition the doctor’s vision of an AIDS museum, which has formed a vital part of Qtopia.
For Polson’s 70th birthday in November, Qtopia announced the launch of the Wall of Love, a space for others to remember the people they love.
”I thought I’d never get to 35, let alone double it,” Polson told the Daily Telegraph newspaper last year.
Polson was recognised as a community champion by the National Association of People Living with HIV, Gilead Sciences and Positive Life NSW in 2021 for his services to HIV education and awareness.
He was then awarded the Member of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his service to community health through HIV education and advocacy roles.
“Once I realised the advice of my nomination for an Australian honour was genuine, I felt deeply honoured and humbled,” he said at the time.
“I was motivated to help to improve knowledge of HIV … from that moment I pledged to help medical science raise awareness and knowledge, and to educate others about HIV/AIDS.”
Polson is survived by his sister Ruth Henning, brother in law Evan Henning, his nephews Willian and Edward, close cousin Cecily Polson and life friends Peter Campbell, Amanda Findlay and Greg Woods.
Gay Sydney News reporter