REVIEW: ‘Frontier’  the Australian Science Fiction & Fantasy Media Magazine http://www.frontiermagazine.net reviewed by Stephen Stonewall

Many of the features are aimed squarely at areas of interest for Aussie fans, such as news on Star Wars, Farscape or other local productions; CD and video reviews; reports on local clubs, conventions and fan activities – even web sites that might be worth checking out.

There is an obvious reason why ‘Frontier’ magazine remains so relevant for fans – because it is written and edited by fans, for fans. Yet it also boasts high production values and is often spotted in newsagent stands. In their premiere issue, dated April/May 1996, the editors promised to present “information in an understandable, readable and honest way”. They have clearly aimed to live up to that promise by being all-inclusive, making attempts to even present information of potential interest to Spaced Out readers.

One such item was an interview with Claudia Christian, published after her trip to Melbourne’s Multiverse 3 convention some three years ago. The interview includes the actress’s thoughts on the bisexual relationship between Babylon 5 characters Susan Ivanova and Tahlia Winters. Christian suggests that had Winters remained in the series, the relationship between the characters would have strengthened and grown.

In more recent times, ‘Frontier’ magazine has included Spaced Out’s own web site in its cyber site listings, and our humble club continues to appear in their general club listings. This demonstrates that the spirit of fandom is alive and well in the pages of “Frontier” – after all, we’re all in this together, so let’s help each other out.

In this spirit, ‘Frontier’ editor, Katharine Shade, was spotted in the audience during the Spaced Out ‘Sexuality in Science Fiction’ panel at the Multiverse 4 convention, and she added her supportive comments regarding possible characters and stereotypes in future SF shows such as the upcoming “Star Trek: Enterprise” series.

From editor to columnists, every page of this magazine oozes with credibility and integrity – these people are fans who have used their passion and talents to expand into the mainstream. As such, they deserve our congratulations and support.

If your newsagent doesn’t stock this magazine, ask them to get it in – or change newsagents.