A couple from Australia have become the first in the world to marry under Scotland’s new marriage equality law which comes into effect today.
Douglas Pretsell, a Scottish resident in Melbourne, and his Australian husband, Peter Gloster, converted their civil partnership into a marriage in the UK consulate in Melbourne at 11.01am today, the exact moment Scotland’s marriage equality law came in to effect.
A quirk of Scottish law means same-sex couples not in civil partnerships will have to wait 15 days from today to marry, while Scottish residents in civil partnerships cannot convert to marriage until registry offices open in Scotland, later today Australian time.
Image by Same Love photography
Douglas Pretsell said,
“It’s wonderful to finally have our marriage confirmed, especially since the Scottish legislation is the most progressive in the world with the full inclusion of transgender and intersex partners.”
“It’s just so sad that as soon as we stepped out of the consulate and on to the street we ceased to be married in the country we call home.”
“Today, I feel immensely proud to be a Scot, and I look forward to feeling just as proud of being Australian.”
“Here’s hoping that Australia takes note and brings in equal marriage soon”
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“I congratulate Douglas and Peter on their marriage and for being marriage equality pioneers.”
“Most Australians will find it absurd that Douglas and Peter’s solemn vows under Scottish law are not recognised in the country they have chosen to call home.”
“Australia has many historical and cultural ties with Scotland and I look forward to the time when another tie is that both countries treat all loving couples with equal dignity and respect.”
“I call on Tony Abbott to allow a free vote on marriage equality so Australia can rejoin the company of nations, including Scotland, that value equality for all.”
Tom French, Policy and Public Affairs Coordinator for the Scottish Equality Network, said,
“After many years of campaigning, we are delighted that as of today same-sex marriage is now legal in Scotland.”
“We wish all those couples who are getting married today, and those planning to do so in future, all the best.”
“In recent years Scotland has become a leading light on LGBTI equality, with one of the most progressive equal marriage laws in the world, helping to create the fair and equal society we all want to see.”
Photographs
Three photos of Douglas and Peter’s marriage are attached (Douglas is on right in interior photo with Union Jack)
High res versions are available here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/stepy0g1z3po2b4/AAA9sNOwVvVv44QwAqEaK3Qpa?dl=0
Low res versions are available here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/0pvrx0an3iyj9lg/AADOkqOMvfWfUMF_yg0K5cGca?dl=0
Further photos from today’s marriage are available here:
http://www.frankfarrugia.queensberryworkspace.com/galleryslide/78006548f50eda2c42/slide
Please credit all photos to Same Love photography.
For more information contact Douglas Pretsell on 0466 925 966, Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668 or Tom French on +44 (0)131 467 6039. For requests for photos call Frank Farrugia on 0424 736 662.
Author: Douglas Pretsell Rodney Croome Tom French
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 16 December 2014