DIANA Kontoprias of Frangipani Gelato Bar at Cronulla has developed a delicious and striking range of red gelato flavours to mark World AIDS Day and HIV Awareness Week.
Ms Kontoprias said the aim was to encourage her customers to remember how important testing was in the prevention of HIV.
"I supported AIDS Awareness Week because I have such a broad spectrum of customers and it's great for the next generation to be aware," she said.
"I grew up in the era of fear — with the Grim Reaper — it's not like that now."
NSW has made significant progress in increasing HIV testing and treatment uptake among people diagnosed with HIV and strengthening prevention efforts. But it is estimated about 14 per cent of people with HIV are undiagnosed.
"The most effective way for people to protect themselves and their partners is to consistently use condoms with sexual partners and have regular HIV and STI testing," said Alison Mudie, Red Ribbons campaign co-ordinator for the South Eastern Sydney Area Local Health District.
"HIV testing leads to early detection and allows early uptake of treatment, improves individual health and prevents transmission to others."
World AIDS Day, on December 1, is an opportunity to remember those who lost their lives to HIV and AIDS and show support for people living with HIV.
It also addresses the HIV-related stigma that still persists in Australia, undermining prevention, testing and treatment efforts and causing social isolation for many people living with HIV.
Details: worldaidsday.org.au