Remembering Destiny Rogers: A Legacy of Courage, Wit, and Storytelling

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Destiny Rogers, a cherished figure in Australian LGBTQIA+ media and performance. Destiny, who succumbed to a long battle with metastatic lung cancer, passed away at her home in Hervey Bay on August 2, 2024. She was 64 years old.

Destiny's journey began in the vibrant gay bars of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley during the late 1970s, a time marked by the punk revolution and the waning years of the Bjelke-Petersen era. As a proud trans woman, Destiny was a beacon of resilience and creativity. Reflecting on her early days, she recalled, “It was the punk era and the declining years of the Bjelke-Petersen reign, and we all partied like there was no tomorrow.” Despite the arrival of AIDS casting a shadow over the community, she found solace in venues like the iconic Terminus Restaurant, which became a sanctuary for LGBTQIA+ individuals to build families and communities.

Destiny's career was as eclectic as it was illustrious. From her formative years at the Terminus, where her caustic wit shone, to her adventures as a wildlife showperson in northern Queensland, her life was a tapestry of diverse experiences. Known for her no-nonsense crocodile shows, Destiny’s ability to handle both reptiles and drag queens with equal finesse was legendary. “There isn’t much difference between working with crocodiles and drag queens,” she once said, “You never know when they open their mouths if they are going to smile or bite you.”

In addition to her stage performances, Destiny’s influence extended to managing nightclubs and organizing North Queensland pride events. A passionate historian and writer, she made significant contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community through her work at QNews Magazine, where she served as Managing Editor from 2018 to 2022. Destiny's writing, known for its sharp humor and deep insight, reflected her belief that “what they see as an eclectic career is often just trans and non-binary people surviving.”

Her legacy is one of dedication and resilience. As Michael James, a longtime colleague and friend, recalled, “Destiny was never backwards in coming forwards. Her sharp criticism and witty commentary were integral to shaping many of us in the queer journalism community.” Destiny's impact was profound, her contributions to the community immeasurable, and her storytelling unmatched.

Tributes have poured in from across the LGBTQIA+ community. Brisbane Pride has expressed their sorrow, noting Destiny’s significant contributions to the community. The Lost Cairns & District Facebook page and the Australian Queer Archives have also paid tribute, highlighting her vibrant spirit, advocacy, and the invaluable role she played in preserving and sharing queer history.

Destiny Rogers was a voice for those who needed it, a keeper of stories, and a beloved friend. While she requested no funeral or memorial service, her legacy will undoubtedly continue through the countless memories and stories she has left behind.

Goodbye, Destiny. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your stories and spirit will live on in the hearts of many. Sending heartfelt support to our community and friends at QNews Magazine. At Destiny’s own request, there will not be a funeral or memorial service, but there will be a private cremation next week.

Photo courtesy of QNews.com.au