Having to hide his sexuality for a large part of his life has made Tim McIntyre, a Condition Monitoring Supervisor at BHP, determined to make sure others don’t have to. 

Growing up in the rural Queensland town of Ayr, Tim knew he was different from the boys and men around him.

“Through school I knew I was gay, but I hid it away from everyone. I felt like I’d rather fit in then worry about what other people thought of me,” Tim says.

After completing an apprenticeship as a fitter and turner at a sugar mill in Ayr, Tim worked in mining across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia before finally settling in WA 10 years ago, where he now lives with partner Matt in Perth.

Working in traditionally male-orientated spaces meant it was difficult for Tim to be himself.

“I didn’t say I wasn’t gay, I just shied away from conversations around whether I had a partner or not,” Tim says.

This all changed three years ago when Tim started at BHP.

“When I came to BHP, I noticed it was different. In my induction, there were people from all walks of life and it made me realise that this is where I could be more open,” Tim says.

“I didn’t want to hide who I was anymore so when I started I made sure people knew I was gay. When you’ve got a good workforce around you that is supportive, and not judgmental, it makes a big difference.”

BHP’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) was fundamental in helping Tim achieve the courage he has today.

“I’ve used the EAP a few times since I’ve been at BHP, and it definitely helps.  I wouldn't be sitting here and talking about my life without the support from my partner and the EAP as they have both been very influential in helping me,” Tim says.

Now, Tim works hard to make sure his work mates don’t have to hide who they are like he once did.

“When I first started work, I'd join in when people were making fun of gay people. I described it as being a ‘homophobic homosexual’. When I look back now, I'm disappointed in myself because I didn't come out for that reason,” he says. 

“This is why I joined the Inclusion and Diversity Council (IDC). I don't open up enough, so talking about things hopefully doesn't just help myself, but others around me.”

When it comes to giving advice to those in a similar position, Tim says it’s all about opening up and reaching out.

“Even if you’re not safe to do it straightaway, reaching out to groups like Jasper, the EAP or the IDC, would be a start. It makes you feel better once you do it. Even if you have to start small, it’s a start.”