In 2015, Dion Padan relocated from north Wales to Sydney, Australia, pursuing a long-held dream. However, changes to Australian immigration regulations meant that to secure permanent residency as a barber, he needed to move to either Tasmania or the Northern Territory. Opting for Darwin in 2018, he was drawn by the warmer climate, fearing Tasmania's weather might too closely resemble the British conditions he sought to leave behind. Arriving in Darwin with little knowledge of the city, Dion embarked on a new chapter of his life.
A Connection Sparked Online
Soon after settling in Darwin, Dion connected with Ben Graetz on the dating app Grindr. Ben extended a warm welcome, offering to show Dion around the city and expressing curiosity about his journey from Wales to Australia. During their initial conversations, Ben inquired if Dion planned to attend Darwin Pride, mentioning he would be at a Pride pool party event in a few days. Notably, Ben omitted a key detail: he would be hosting the event in his drag queen persona, Miss Ellaneous.
The Surprise at Darwin Pride
When Dion arrived at the Darwin Pride pool party in 2018, he was taken aback to discover Ben's alter ego. Miss Ellaneous captivated the crowd, running and dancing around the pool before plunging into the water in full drag. Ben invited Dion backstage, where he showcased his elaborate costumes, sweeping Dion into the vibrant world of drag performance.
Throughout the day, Dion observed Miss Ellaneous commanding the audience with humour, confidence, and generosity. Offstage, their conversations flowed effortlessly, marked by laughter and a palpable connection. Other performers at the event remarked on their chemistry, commenting, "Where did you come from? You make such a cute couple." At the time, both Dion and Ben dismissed the idea, insisting they were not dating. Dion later learned that Ben was "a bit famous" in the drag scene, frequently travelling for shows, which made the prospect of a romantic relationship seem unlikely.
Deepening Bonds During Covid
The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 altered their dynamic, grounding both in Darwin. With Ben home more often, they began spending increased time together. Ben invited Dion for a weekend getaway to Dundee, where they stayed in a secluded villa with a jacuzzi and no phone signal. On the second evening, they sat on the veranda playing Scrabble, enjoying a serene afternoon together.
The Moment of Realisation
Without any grand gesture or dramatic moment, a profound realisation dawned on Dion. He felt safe, seen, and deeply listened to, free from judgment. This sense of ease and connection was unmistakable, and he knew he was in love. This quiet epiphany marked a turning point in their relationship, solidifying their bond.
Building a Life Together
Their journey since has included significant challenges and joys. Dion lost his barber business in Darwin due to a fire that swept through his shop. In 2022, Ben moved to Sydney to work on WorldPride, and Dion, feeling adrift in Darwin, followed him. They married in Sydney that same year in an intimate ceremony with just two witnesses. Recognising the logistical difficulty of gathering all friends and family in one location, they celebrated their union with three separate events over a year: in Darwin, Sydney, and a final "festival of love" on their first anniversary in Liverpool, UK.
In February of the following year, they relocated to Brunswick Heads in northern New South Wales, seeking better quality of life, mental health, and career opportunities. Dion found work as a self-employed barber, while Ben continues to travel frequently for drag performances, facilitated by two nearby domestic airports. Dion reflects that he keeps falling more and more in love with Ben, cherishing their shared life.
Cultural Exchange and Shared Values
Ben is a First Nations man with cultural ties to Malak Malak, Kungarakan, Muran Clan (Iwaidja), and Torres Strait Islands (Badu Island). Dion values learning about Ben's heritage and history, and Ben enjoys hearing about Dion's Welsh identity. Their diverse backgrounds enrich their relationship, adding depth and dimension. Dion admires Ben's dedication to creating space and opportunities for other Indigenous people, noting he carries significant responsibility for his community.
Dion describes Ben as the most kind, generous, loving, driven, calm, and loyal person he has ever met, feeling as if he has won the lottery. He takes pride in supporting Ben's drag shows, whether Ben performs as Tina, Bogan Villea, or Miss Ellaneous. Seeing Ben achieve so much fills Dion's heart with joy, and he embraces his role as a proud husband.
Ben Graetz continues to share his artistry, performing shows like "Tina: A tropical love story" at events such as the Midsumma festival in Melbourne. Their story, from a chance online meeting to a enduring partnership, highlights the power of connection and love in the LGBTQ+ community.
