Cessnock couple Brendan Peel and Brett King have been together for more than two years, and were engaged in March.
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They are undoubtedly thrilled with the outcome of Australia’s postal survey for same-sex marriage, which resulted in a 61.6 percent ‘yes’ vote.
The couple agreed it was an “overwhelming” day last Wednesday when the result was announced.
“I was more emotional than I thought I would be,” Mr Peel said.
“To think that every state and territory voted yes, it has restored my faith in the Australian way.
“It’s overwhelming to see how good a response it was.”
They will wait until the legislation is passed in parliament to set a date for their wedding, which they would like to hold in the Hunter Valley.
“I’ll be happy when it’s legalised – this is just the first hurdle,” Mr King said.
“But it’s good to know people are on our side.”
Both of Cessnock’s Federal electorates recorded ‘yes’ votes above the national average, with 64.4 percent in Hunter and 65.5 percent in Paterson.
Local marriage celebrant Kathy Pynsent praised the outcome of the postal vote, saying the result sends a powerful message.
“It’s about fairness and happiness. It’s about togetherness. It’s recognising that love is love,” Ms Pynsent said.
“It’s knowing that a large proportion of our community believe in the right for everyone to marry without prejudice.
“It’s a step in the right direction.”
The Cessnock-Kurri Greens were also delighted with the ‘yes’ vote.
“While the Greens were staunchly opposed to conducting an ‘opinion poll’ of the Australian people on this matter, it comes as no surprise that the vast majority of people support the case for equal rights for LGBTQI people in our communities,” branch member Janet Murray said.
Ms Murray said the result, while very pleasing, was not really surprising.
"We publicly campaigned to encourage people to return their ballots, and this result was certainly reflected in the attitudes of people we met in Cessnock and the wider community during our campaign,” she said.
"People were telling us personal stories of family members and friends who were deeply affected by being denied equal marriage rights because of their sexuality.
“Most people could relate to this issue and showed significant empathy for their fellow Australians.
“In the wake of this unprecedented ballot, we now urge the Liberal Government to act urgently on the unequivocal support given by the Australian people for marriage equality.”
