How quickly the months pass! As I write this in the late afternoon, swallows are gracing the Bush Theatre with their lively presence, building nests for their eggs. Fireflies dance around the building in the evenings, and the days get longer and warmer.
A significant upcoming event that will impact businesses and residents in Nimbin is the local council elections on Saturday, September 14, 2024. The Nimbin Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a forum at the Nimbin Bowling Club, where prospective councillors engaged with the community. About 60 enthusiastic community members attended, seizing the opportunity to ask questions, address local issues, and gain insight into the candidates' attitudes before casting their votes.
Most prospective councillors were present, including representatives from Steve Krieg’s independent team, Harper Dalton’s Labour Party, The Greens led by Adam Guise, Virginia Waters from Tuntable Falls, and independent candidate John Jenkins. Mayoral and Councillor candidate Big Rob declined to attend.
Key concerns raised by the community included healthcare, recycling, pothole repairs, the public toilet and shower block, support for the Chamber’s management of the special business levy, management of street cleaning, and the continuation of the Nimbin Advisory Group as a reliable conduit between the Nimbin community and the council.
For those unfamiliar with the importance of local councils, here’s a brief overview of their roles in local governance:
Legislation and Policy: Councils create and pass local laws, often referred to as ordinances, to address community needs and issues.
Budget, Finance, and Accountability: They approve the municipal budget, allocate funds to various departments and services, ensure fiscal responsibility, and monitor the performance of municipal departments to ensure efficient service delivery.
Public Services: The council oversees essential services such as water supply, waste management, public transportation, and the maintenance of public spaces.
Urban Planning and Development: Councils make decisions on land use, zoning, and urban development projects, guiding the municipality’s growth.
Local Representation: Council members advocate for the interests and concerns of their constituents, addressing regional issues.
Community Engagement: The council engages with the community through meetings, public consultations, and outreach programs to gather input and address concerns.
Emergency Response: During crises or disasters, the municipal council coordinates emergency response efforts and ensures that necessary resources are allocated.
Overall, the municipal council plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and development of the local community, balancing residents' needs with effective management and planning.
Bakery Laneway Mural
Work on the mural is well underway and shaping up nicely. Students from Nimbin Public School are actively participating in the project, adding another dimension of community involvement.
Public Speaking Workshop
Details of the upcoming public speaking workshop, including the date, location, content, and cost, will soon be available on the Chamber's website. There will be limited places, so it’s a good idea to book early: https://www.nimbinaustralia.com.au/.
Nimbin Interagency
Many community organisations in Nimbin are tirelessly working towards improving village life. It has been proposed that all organisations meet at least twice a year to inform each other of the actions taken and any overlaps between group efforts.
Upcoming Nimbin Chamber of Commerce General Meeting
Our next general meeting will be held on September 17, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the Nimbin Bush Theatre. This is an excellent networking opportunity for all Nimbin business owners to connect and gain a deeper appreciation of the diversity and depth of our commercial sector. The evening will have both social and business focus, with presentations from business leaders, including Rainbow Power Company, the new operator of Nimbin Tax and Accounting (our largest employer), and a presentation from the economic development team from Lismore Council. We are stronger together and will continue to support each other.
Wellness in Nimbin
Finally, it is becoming increasingly noticeable that wellness is a theme attracting visitors to our village. Various modalities, including massage, cacao ceremonies, sound bowl healing, and Breathworks, are drawing visitors and receiving support from the local community.
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