Chamber Chat – May Edition

As autumn deepens, Nimbin continues to thrive through community spirit and creativity. This month, we share updates on a range of initiatives that reflect the strength and engagement of our local networks.

Mardi Grass 2025 – Celebrating Community, Culture, and Cannabis Reform  Nimbin’s festival this year was a success, drawing strong crowds despite inclement weather. Fortunately, the rain was broken by sunny spells, allowing activities to shine. From parades and speakers to musical performances and discussions, there was something for everyone and plenty of fun.

Congratulations to the Hemp Embassy for curating a diverse, engaging program entertaining and educating attendees. Mardi Grass continues to advocate for the legalisation of recreational cannabis while providing valuable information about its medicinal uses.

The Hemp Embassy reported a noticeable reduction in police presence this year, contributing to lower community anxiety levels and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. Visitors were respectful and well-behaved, and there were no reported incidents of bad behaviour—a positive reflection on both the event’s organisers and our wider community.

Feedback from local businesses has been overwhelmingly positive. Many reported that while crowd numbers were similar to recent years, the attendees were pleasant, easy to engage with, and appreciative of Nimbin’s unique lifestyle. Spending was solid, even if it did not reach the peaks of past years.

Nimbin Markets – New Signage and Free Membership for Stallholders  We are developing new signage for the Nimbin Markets to support local traders and visitors. This initiative will improve visibility and navigation while celebrating our Sunday market community. Additionally, we are offering free Chamber membership to regular stallholders—an invitation to join the business conversation and connect with local opportunities.

Murals and Signage Projects 

The Chamber is making progress in installing murals at the Nimbin Hospital and replacing the mural above the news agency as part of our broader mural preservation initiative. We are evaluating the most cost-effective methods for placing these murals, including assessing suitable anchoring techniques and selecting the appropriate artistic presentation. Additionally, we are considering imagery that best represents Nimbin’s rich artistic heritage and community spirit.

Public Toilets – Official Handover and New Mural  On April 22nd, the long-awaited handover of the public toilet block was finalised. We thank all involved for their persistence in ensuring that visitors' and residents’ needs are met with appropriate amenities. As part of this upgrade, we congratulate Julie DeLorenzo, a talented local artist, who was selected to create a new mural for the building. Her work will enhance the site’s visual appeal and reflect the vibrant creativity that makes Nimbin unique.

Roadworks Update and Community Advocacy  Following heavy rainfall, we continue to monitor local road conditions and have submitted feedback to Lismore City Council (LCC) regarding urgent repairs. The Chamber stays in regular contact with the Council to ensure Nimbin’s infrastructure is safe and welcoming for residents and visitors.

In addition to our ongoing advocacy, we have formally requested information from LCC regarding their processes for identifying, managing, and implementing temporary repairs of road hazards. Specifically, we seek clarity on the current work plan and schedule to better understand and communicate our area's timelines and priorities for road maintenance.

Community Safety – Vehicle Camping Behind Cullen Street  There are concerns regarding the number of people camping in vehicles in the western car park behind Cullen Street, which separates the shopping centre from the school. While we extend our care and understanding to those facing housing difficulties, this location raises concerns.

Its proximity to the school, the absence of toilet facilities, and the need for available parking for customers accessing services make this site unsuitable for long-term camping.

The Chamber has raised the issue with the Council, which advised that it is a police matter. After speaking with the police, the issue was referred back to the Council, highlighting the ongoing challenge of unclear jurisdiction.

We will continue to follow up with both agencies and advocate for social support services. This matter has strong community opinions, and our goal is to navigate a respectful, compassionate solution that meets all needs.

Chamber Meetings and Upcoming Events

Bridging Futures: From Classroom to Career 🗕️ Monday, 12 May 2025 📍 MPU – Nimbin Central School, 23 Thorburn St, Nimbin NSW 2480 🕠 Starts at 5:30 PM 🎟️ Free and open to all. Please RSVP for catering purposes.

Agenda Highlights:

- Hear from students, teachers, and local employers about their experiences and perspectives.

- Discover the results of the Nimbin Business Survey, shedding light on local employment trends.

- Engage in conversations to make work experience truly meaningful for our youth.

- Explore local job pathways, vocational training opportunities, and options for self-employment.

- Participate in Q&A sessions to share your insights and ask questions.

Presentations by:

- Nimbin Chamber of Commerce - Nimbin Central School

- Training Services NSW

- Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP)

- Nimbin Youth

- Local employers and young workers

Women in Business Workshop on June 2nd at the Youth Centre will offer a safe, inspiring space for personal growth and networking—an opportunity to build confidence, share stories, and support one another in business and beyond.

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Inter-Agency Meeting – Strengthening Community Collaboration  The Nimbin Chamber of Commerce is convening an inter-agency meeting on Saturday, 31st May 2025, from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Birth & Beyond, 54 Cullen Street, Nimbin. This gathering aims to bring together all community organisations to share updates, explore collaborative opportunities, and enhance our collective impact within the region.

Invitations have been sent to community organisations. If your organisation has received an invitation, please RSVP to confirm attendance.

Thank you for your continued support! The Chamber’s work is only possible because of the passion and dedication of our community members. We remain committed to building a stronger, more connected Nimbin.

Warm regards,  David Hyett  President, Nimbin Chamber of Commerce