Hibiscus and Mint Cordial

This hibiscus and mint cordial was created in honour of LGBTQIA+ organisations like ACON, who continue to lead community health and wellbeing. In 2025, ACON marked its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of community-led care, advocacy, and support.

Many of these organisations were born during the HIV/AIDS crisis, when governments and mainstream systems were slow to respond, and queer communities came together to care for one another.

In the early days, much of this work was unfunded, driven by volunteers and grassroots fundraising, before government support began to follow in the late 1980s under Prime Minister Bob Hawke, resourcing community-led organisations to lead the response. They shared information, advocated for change, and provided practical, life-saving care.

During this time, many people experienced loss of appetite, difficulty eating, and extreme fatigue. In those moments, drinks became a simple but vital way to stay hydrated, take in energy, and feel cared for.

With its bold, vibrant colour, hibiscus brings a sense of visibility and strength, while mint offers relief and grounding. Together, they create something that is both uplifting and steadying.

Together, this cordial is about care, visibility, and the small acts that help sustain us.