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From Barber to Husband: A Love Story Forged in Darwin
1 Feb
Summary
- A barber moved to Darwin and met a drag queen persona, sparking a connection.
- Covid lockdowns grounded the couple, deepening their relationship and leading to love.
- They married in Sydney in 2022 and later celebrated with three international events.
A barber from north Wales moved to Darwin, Australia, in 2018, seeking a new life. He met Ben Graetz, a local who performed as the drag queen Miss Ellaneous. Their initial connection at a Darwin Pride event was strong, but Ben's frequent travel made romance seem unlikely.
The Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 unexpectedly grounded Ben, allowing him and Dion Padan to spend more time together. A pivotal weekend in Dundee solidified their bond, leading to Padan realizing he was in love. This realization came with a sense of safety and being deeply understood.
Following a business fire in Darwin and Ben's involvement with WorldPride in Sydney in 2022, Padan moved to join him. They married in Sydney that same year, celebrating with three separate events in Darwin, Sydney, and Liverpool, UK.
In February 2025, the couple relocated to Brunswick Heads, New South Wales, for improved quality of life. Padan continues his barber career, while Ben, a First Nations man with ties to multiple Indigenous groups, remains a travelling performer. They embrace their cultural differences, finding joy and love in their shared life.
