Chamber Chats - August 2026
- David Hyett
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
The Nimbin Advantage
As winter begins to give way to spring, Nimbin has been enjoying the simple pleasure of sunshine again. The long run of rain served its purpose, replenishing the landscape, but by the end it had everyone looking skyward for a break. A few bright days have transformed the mood of the village. Smiles are returning, the streets feel more alive, and the sunshine seems to have invited visitors back to experience all that Nimbin has to offer.
With the sunshine returning, our streets, cafés, galleries and shops are once again welcoming more visitors. Our local businesses are at the heart of what makes Nimbin such a distinctive destination, creating the experiences, hospitality and character that people travel here to enjoy. In return, every coffee shared, meal enjoyed, purchase made and event attended helps keep dollars circulating through our local economy, supporting local businesses, local employment and the continued vitality of our village.
One of the highlights ahead is the ABC TV Back Roads episode featuring Nimbin, airing on Thursday 27 July at 8.00 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our village, its people and its remarkable story to audiences across Australia. We encourage everyone to tune in, spread the word and invite friends and family to discover what makes Nimbin unique.
Your Chamber continues to maintain a positive and constructive working relationship with Lismore City Council, advocating on behalf of local businesses and the wider community while working collaboratively to achieve practical outcomes for Nimbin.
Council has advised that approximately $300,000 has been allocated towards upgrading Nimbin's main public toilet facilities. Chamber's focus is ensuring this investment delivers practical, accessible, attractive and durable facilities that meet the needs of residents and visitors alike. For many visitors, these amenities provide one of their first impressions of the village. They are an opportunity to demonstrate that Nimbin values its visitors and takes pride in presenting a welcoming, well-cared-for community.
Council has also agreed to investigate funding opportunities for a new mural in Allsopp Park after it became clear the existing artwork cannot realistically be restored by the original artists. This provides an exciting opportunity to celebrate local creativity and further enhance our village.
Preparing Nimbin for the busy visitor season is about more than major projects. Chamber has also raised the importance of ensuring our streets present at their very best. Council has been asked to undertake pressure cleaning of the village footpaths, helping refresh the streetscape ahead of spring and the increase in visitors. At the same time, Chamber is working constructively with Council to review current street cleaning arrangements and explore opportunities to further strengthen the presentation of our village.
A dedicated Visitor Information Centre remains one of Chamber's highest advocacy priorities. While budget limitations present challenges, we believe creative thinking, collaboration and practical partnerships can help turn this long-held vision into reality. Chamber will continue working constructively with Council and the community to keep this important project moving forward.
We're also encouraged by the upcoming NSW Government Night-time Economy venue improvement grants, which may provide valuable opportunities for local venues, businesses and community organisations. As more information becomes available, we'll ensure it is shared with our members.
Youth engagement also featured strongly in recent discussions. Chamber supports initiatives that strengthen pathways into employment, training and volunteering, while Council has indicated its willingness to assist community organisations in identifying suitable grant opportunities.
Congratulations to the Nimbin Show Society on receiving the NSW AgShows Innovation Award for operating the Show primarily on renewable energy through solar panels and battery storage. Congratulations also to Rainbow Power Company for its expertise and support in planning and delivering the project. It is another example of Nimbin leading through innovation and sustainability.
The Chamber-sponsored Dialogue Bubbles conversations continue to inspire our thinking around 'The Nimbin Advantage'. That phrase reflects the creativity, resilience, innovation and community spirit that continue to define our village. Every successful project, thriving business and volunteer contribution strengthens that advantage.
The Chamber is strongest when it reflects the voices of the businesses and people it represents. If you have an idea, see an opportunity, or would like to contribute to shaping Nimbin's future, we'd love to hear from you. Together we can continue building a vibrant, resilient and prosperous village that reflects the very best of the Nimbin Advantage.
The Nimbin Advantage Ideas. Collaboration. Community.
David Hyett
President
