Chamber Chats - July 2026

As we move further into winter, Chamber acknowledges this can be a difficult time for local businesses, particularly those relying on visitor spending.

Tourism is quieter through the colder months, and this year wet weather, potholes and the planned Tuntable Creek Road closure are adding pressure. The closure is expected to start on 6 July 2026 and continue for approximately 12 months. This may affect residents who normally use Nimbin as their service centre, with some finding it easier to travel elsewhere.

When making a buying decision, try to make it Nimbin first. Every local purchase helps keep money circulating locally. It helps business owners maintain staffing levels, supports local households, and protects the village economy. Local businesses provide jobs, support events, welcome visitors and help give Nimbin its character.

NAIDOC Day will be celebrated in Nimbin on Friday 10 July from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm at the Community Centre market site. This free family community event will include live music, thanks to Black Boy, activities for the jarjums, and a NAIDOC Day quiz with prizes. Chamber encourages members and the wider community to attend.

Chamber thanks Matt Potter, Director Water, Sewer, Waste and Open Spaces at Lismore City Council, for attending the June Chamber meeting to discuss Nimbin’s water supply, water quality and future infrastructure planning. The recent boil water alert was explained as a precautionary response to prolonged wet weather and turbidity issues associated with the temporary treatment plant. No serious contamination was detected, and replacement membranes have since been installed.

The current plant whilst improved remains temporary, with a permanent treatment plant planned for completion in 2027. Matt also discussed water capacity, growth constraints, water security options, sewer and waste infrastructure, and communication during future alerts. Chamber has requested a written summary from Council.

Chamber has prepared a submission to Lismore City Council on the Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026-2036. Chamber supports the Strategy’s broad direction and welcomes recognition of Nimbin’s role in tourism, creative industries, regenerative agriculture, local enterprise, cultural life and regional identity. However, recognition must be matched by priorities, investment, delivery and measurable progress.

Lismore plays an important role as the region’s service centre, providing essential services, health, education, retail and regional support. Nimbin offers a different but complementary strength. Visitors are drawn to the Northern Rivers by scenery, culture, arts, music, events, villages and distinctive local experiences. Shaped by the Aquarius Festival legacy and decades of community creativity, Nimbin remains a great cultural and visitor asset.

Chamber is asking Council to match its recognition of Nimbin’s tourism value with practical support. This includes renewed investment in a Visitor Information Centre or suitable visitor information model, following the closure of the previous service. Such a service would help travellers connect with local businesses, events, accommodation, food, arts, culture, nature and heritage, while encouraging them to stay longer and spend locally.

Chamber is also seeking greater investment in village presentation, including roads, footpaths, gardens, signage, public spaces, car parks, lighting, cleanliness and public toilets. These are not cosmetic extras. They shape first impressions, support local business, improve amenity and strengthen the visitor experience.

Chamber has asked Council to identify first-stage priorities for 2026-2030, including a Nimbin Place Plan update, visitor infrastructure, development pathways, community organisation support, water, sewer and Roads and traffic planning. Backed up by Nimbin-specific reporting of progress and action on all points.

The Birth and Beyond mural, supported by Chamber, has been completed and is expected to be installed shortly. Options are also being explored for refreshing the Haberdashery mural, while the Allsopp Park mural requires Council funding approval. The Nimbin Mural Walk project is continuing.

Chamber thanks business owners for providing counter space for the Nimbin mural tins and thanks the community for supporting the mural program. A little change goes a long way.

TAFE NSW will hold a Community Consultation Workshop on local skills, training and workforce needs on 30 July 2026 in Lismore. Chamber will seek feedback from the local business community and attend.

The next Chamber meeting is scheduled for Thursday 16 July 2026 at 6.30 pm at the Nimbin Bush Theatre.

Choose local. Experience Nimbin.

David Hyett

President

Nimbin Chamber of Commerce