The ancestry of the Aquarian Archive by Graeme Irwin that a group of Festival-goers Rainbow Region • In spirituality in the Region; unilaterally took over the sports field and continues to - meditation and • In Planning Law – the introduction n 2004 a group of local in front of the Union and started up pervade almost Buddhism; of State Environmental Planning Aquarians and others set up a food cooperative as an alternative to every aspect of • In politics - forest Policy Number 15 which enables, Ian incorporated, not-for-profit the official catering. Australian society blockades; election with Council endorsement, the association called the Aquarian This was one of the factors that and culture. To of new settlers to construction of multiple community Archive, taking its name from the led to the organisers of the ’73 give you an idea Local Councils dwellings on rural zoned land 1973 Aquarius Festival in Nimbin Festival to locate it off-campus and of the range of and the State throughout NSW. which attrated 10,000 – 15,000 to transcend its university roots to fields in which the Government; The Aquarian pioneers were the people to the then dying hamlet. embrace all the manifestations of Aquarians have • In publications advance guard of a migration In turn, the Festival’s title drew on the new consciousness. This Festival had an impact and - local newspapers, that continues to this day and, in the wholesale shift of consciousness was to be not just a like are still making periodicals and proportional terms, comprises the which emerged in Australia in the earlier 1970’s festivals, but a whole- an impact in this journals; largest single subculture in the world 1970’s and which to those of us of-lifestyle festival, a do-it-yourself regard, consider: • In music - protest to re-settle in a rural area. caught up in it really did feel like the experience. • In community songs and the Now, more than 30 years on, we dawning of a , affecting The invitation was a clarion call development introduction of ethnic are in danger of losing touch with almost every facet of our lives. The to movers and shakers around the - the “Land Sharing Intentional elements and instrumentation; the 70’s wellsprings of this culture “relaxed and comfortable” post-War country and also overseas, and so Communities” movement, • In education - the establishment of as people move on and this is why years had finally given way to a sense they came in their thousands to learn • In agriculture - the application of “free” community schools; the Aquarian Archive has been set of change and innovation, to a sense and to celebrate. So great was its the “Permaculture” system of land • In fashion - tie-dying and batik; up – to document, collect, preserve, of experimentation in lifestyles. impact that, to this day, those who management; • In media - new styles of store, restore and display the cultural The anarchic quality of the didn’t make it can still tell you what • In alternative energy - wind, solar documentary filmmaking, artefacts of the Rainbow Region New period is perhaps encapsulated by they were doing and where they were and water power; community radio and the Settlers of the 1970’s and beyond. the changes that took place in the during that magical week. • In food production - organic setablishment of one of the first I would like to thank the organisers Aquarius Festival itself, which was Although a handful of New produce; commercial internet service of today’s Forum for giving me the the successor to the National Union Settlers had moved into the region • In architecture - domes, yurts and providers; chance to remind us all of what of University Students Festivals, before Aquarius, it was the Festival innovative designs involving recycled • In trading – the establishment of a great opportunity we all have previously held for years at university that gave the impetus to hundreds materials; “Country Markets”; to achieve something which will campuses around Australia. and later thousands of people seeking • In building - sawdust, sand & • In obtaining affordable housing – celebrate and preserve this important The Universities Festival a different lifestyle for themselves cement for wall panel infill; the construction of low cost self help part of our shared regional heritage. immediately previous to Aquarius and their families to migrate to what recycling of building materials, hand housing; had been held at the Australian came to be known as the Rainbow made mud bricks; • In food distribution – the • This is the text of a speech that Graeme National University, where the food region. • In health - herbs and alternative establishment of retail bulk-food gave on 7th July 2006 to the Southern provided by the University Union The Aquarian cultural movement healing modalities; home birthings, outlets for example, “Fundamental Cross University forum on the Aquarian was considered so bad and overpriced reached its peak here in the home burials; Foods” in Lismore and other towns Archive project. New email discussion group for community members Thanking all men for positive times with our children Pan Community Council (Pan Com) was established in about communities. Nimbin almost 20 years ago as an umbrella organisation for While it is terrific to have this list in operation, its value will For the past three rural land-sharing communities in north-eastern NSW. One depend entirely on the quality of material posted on it and the years Nimbin Central of Pan Com’s primary aims is to promote interaction between level of participation by subscribers. At this early stage there students have won communities and assist communities in their dealings with is no restriction on topics that can be raised. In addition, the first prize in the councils and other organisations. most useful information will be collated, indexed and archived Thanks Dad Photo Thanks to Greg Hall from Elands, Pan Com has recently for open access through the website. Competition, which established an email discussion group to assist those of us Apart from inquiries from local community members, Pan originated in Lismore. living in intentional communities (or hoping to) to exchange Com gets regular requests from people wanting to set up In 2005 the questions and answers, ideas and information. communities, visit communities or simply obtain information competition went The site will also contain an index page with links to key about them. Questions cover issues such as ownership national, and was again resources on-line, whether on the local site or elsewhere. This structures, meeting processes, planning laws, insurance, fire won by a Nimbinite, will be a valuable resource for those wanting more information protection, building techniques, rules about pets, shares for Portia Hunter, with her winner, there are nine sale and accommodation. photo of Industrial Arts categories, each awarding a We often get inquiries from secondary and tertiary students teacher Stan Kovac and one $100 Cash Prize, donated undertaking studies of community living and lifestyles. The of his twin daughters, Luka. by TPHealth and Fletchers ADVERTISE HERE discussion group will enable Pan Com to broaden its response Her photo also took out the Fotographics Lismore. �������������� to such inquiries by allowing others to have input. People’s Choice award. Photos will be entered in all ��������������������������� While many communities are on the existing Pan Com Entries for the 2006 relevant categories. See www. mailing list, the discussion group provides an opportunity for competition close 25th thanksdadphotos.org for info all members of communities (or at least those with email) to August 2006. Photos must and entry forms. Nimbin GoodTimes tune in and be kept informed. Of course, you can unsubscribe show a child or young person Nimbin Central School at any time. (or part of them) with is holding a “Dad’s Day” on ������������������������������� For general information about the mailing list and to their father, grandmother, Friday 11th August, 1pm subscribe please visit: stepdad, uncle, sports coach to 3.30pm, which will be a Phone 6689 1148 http://elands.com/mailman/listinfo/pancom-l_elands. or other significant man in great opportunity for taking ����������������������������� com For more specific information contact Diana Roberts: their lives. photos! Contact the school [email protected] As well as the overall for more details. Nimbin Village Butcher ���� ������������������������ ��������� ������������� �������� ������������������� ������� �������������������������� �������� ����������������� Open 7 days ������� 8am - 5pm weekdays Friendly and obliging service ��������� 11am - 4pm weekends Phone 6689 1311 ����������������� ���������������� Phone 6689 1010 Fax 6689 1210

Page 2 The Nimbin GoodTimes July 2006 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Wondrous word-orgy weekend Diana Anaid sparkles imbin Oasis Café audience. I look forward to Review by Warwick Fry poets, with the catching up with you all again Nsupport of the this year.” Live CD/Film Clip recording community, is preparing Contestants have eight Bush Theatre Saturday 29th July itself for the fourth Nimbin minutes to perform one or 2006 Performance Poetry World more poems on the Saturday tep aside Patti Smith. Cup on the weekend of the 5th during the heats. If lucky Diana Anaid is in and 6th August. enough to go through to the Stown. Diana Anaid This year’s event has $4,000 finals, they will then perform might not be as butch but in prizemoney, the winner again on Sunday, starting from she is just as ‘in your face’ receiving $1500 and the Ghostboy will be a judge at the 11am at the Oasis Café. and maybe, just maybe, prestigous shiny cup. 2006 Nimbin Performance Poetry The evening sees the Grand more challenging than Patti. Summerland Credit Union is World Cup. Final at the Nimbin School of Her poetry is certainly less sponsoring the People’s Choice Arts at 7.30pm. The verandah contrived, and this gives it the Award of $400. Runners-up poet worth their salt will lick café, staffed by the Tuntable strength and authenticity of will each receive $200 and their lips and hit the Nimbin Pre-School, will be open for an emotional honesty rarely there are incentive awards of stage. dinner and light snacks (and found in the lyrics of a pop $50 and $20 to be presented “Best performance poetry cakes). star. by the judges on the first day event in Australia, best poetry All the heats and semi- I must confess that I only of the heats. audience in the world!” finals on the weekend are free went to this because a Every year this event atracts Candy Royalle from to attend; admission for the female friend (who is a pretty more visiting performance took away the People’s Choice grand final show is $15. strong character in her own poets and the competition will Award last year, and will be A bonus event this year is right) told me how impressed be hotly contested. back more determined than the ‘Roving Raving Poets she was with the strength of Least year’s winner, ever to be up there with the Show,’ which will be parading Diana’s performance. This, I Ghostboy from the Sunshine finalists, and hopefully take through cafes and the hotel on told myself, I would have to Coast, is laying down the away the Cup this year. the Saturday night. see. I’m glad I did. challenge and said of his win Of her weekend in Nimbin Organiser Gail M. Clarke Diana deftly sidesteps the “The Nimbin World Cup is she said “ What a fantastic said, “Come along and have traps of teenage angst and a weekend word-orgy of fine show Nimbin puts on. some fun. I look forward to maps her own path through lines and mic spit, and any What an absolutely fantastic seeing everyone there.” personal relationships. These are described without excuse with rapt attention drawing standing next to me felt upside down in Shenzo’s or apology, but with the on a strong rapport. Diana inspired to strip down to the Jazzy Lismore Electric Stunt Orchestra clarity of a clean passion and reads that audience well, buff and start dancing. She have caused a sensation the courage of unremitting her eyes and voice reaching was soon joined by several Cameron Ford Quartet at festivals and on TV honesty. She wields this out to them, generating of her sisters. It was a spirit Sunday 20th August. City around the country. Shenzo emotional honesty with a warm applause at the end I hadn’t seen since … err … Bowling Club 2pm-5pm $5 / $8 performed with world music talent for lyric; a sense of of each set. And perhaps well, … since 1969… ‘Gypsy Quartet’ Jazz Manouche group Monsieur Camembert phrasing and timing that some of the younger men This Homecoming Queen at the 2004 Montreux Jazz makes each word seem to be may have even have begun doesn’t have a gun, but she has igh energy acoustic Festival in Switzerland. precision welded into just the to learn something of the a voice, and she definitely has music that takes Peter has graced many right place. feminine mystique, the enough ‘attitude’ to take care Hthe audience ensembles in Brisbane with I can remember thinking needs, expectations and of half a dozen country towns on a Gypsy Journey from his buoyant and articulate while listening to her first vulnerabilities of their like Nimbin. Bach to Django Reinhardt. Latin Jazz. He has studied style. An adept of modern song that if ever she lost the girlfriends, if they happened If only Thomas George Featuring Cameron Ford and performed in Spain, jazz, he is a gifted improviser use of her hands and her to be listening closely. could have been here … it - virtuoso guitar, Jérémie England and Ireland as well and sensitive accompanist voice she would still be a And there was something might have changed his life. It Nagabbo – rhythm guitar/ performing locally at the and is not shy to add his poetess of stature. there that reached the mature certainly could have changed vocals, Shenzo Gregorio – Woodford Folk Festival, and talents to Blues, Bluegrass, While an obviously audience as well. I hardly his views on the value of violin / guitar, Peter Walters various live music venues traditional Irish, Latin and sophisticated and experienced noticed, it seemed so natural Nimbin as a rich environment – double bass. A non-stop around Brisbane, Noosa and Manouche. He has backed stage performer she is not over at the time, when the woman for home grown talent. pumping swing rhythm, the Gold Coast. the best of jazz performers polished. There is nothing guaranteed to keep the joint Jérémie has spent the last from the USA, Europe and false about her performance. jumping. couple of years in France Australia. Her stage presence is warm, Formed in the middle of reconnecting with his French Lismore Jazz Club stages natural, intimate, no frills, Klassic Lodge 2005, each member comes heritage and has discovered live jazz on the 3rd Sunday addressing her audience Special Deals for August from a long background of his true passion in “Jazz of the month, featuring a directly. One doubts that she performance in various fields. Manouche”. Jérémie’s solid variety of bands and jazz could get away with telling Self-contained units Add to that a good blend rhythm and soulful French styles. LJC is also staging a her audience when she’d had $50 per double per night of Hot Club Jazz and many singing gives the quartet both couple of special events – the her last period if she had been experiences in Montreaux, stability and the extra layer George Washingmachine performing in Hollywood, Motel Units London, Dublin, Edinburgh, of colour that makes this Quintet on Thursday but it seemed just right, for $40 per double per night Spain and Paris and you line-up something special. 28 September and the Nimbin. have a well-seasoned group of Shenzo studied classical Bob Barnard Quintet on The performance itself was Salt-water swimming pool and BBQ facilities world class musicians. violin and has continued Saturday 25 November. certainly a demonstration of Weekly rates available Cameron has played guitar his studies in jazz playing What a season of good jazz! strength of female character. Phone Kim on 6689 9350 for many years specialising both violin and guitar. His More info Michael Bird A large number of young 1597 Nimbin Road Goolmangar in Flamenco, Gypsy Jazz and performances on violin 6622-5912. women followed the act 11km from Nimbin, 19km from Lismore Nimbin Village Pharmacy ������������� Join our Vitamin Club ������������������������� �������������������������������� for Free Vitamins! ���������������������������������� Buy five vitamin products by Pharmacist Formula, ���������������������������������������������� Nature’s Way or Bioglan and the average value will ����������������������������������������������� be deducted from your sixth purchase. ������������������������������ Ask us how to join. �������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������� Cullen Street Nimbin 6689 1448

www.nimbingoodtimes.com July 2006 The Nimbin GoodTimes Page 3 Rainbow Ridge Open Day Rainbow Ridge Steiner around 10am and will go R-e-s-p-e-c-t School will be throwing all afternoon. The school is by Manuela Geiss open its doors for its annual located at Blue Knob, 2.5 Community Liaison Open Day on Saturday kms up Lillian Rock Road Officer, Nimbin Central 24th August. from the Nimbin Road School If you are considering a turn-off. Steiner education for your In order to encourage more child or are just curious, Make It, Bake It, Grow It involvement from parents this is a chance to find out Market and caregivers, Nimbin what Steiner education The Rainbow Ridge Steiner Central School has been is all about. You are also School is seeking expressions employing me as their invited to inspect the school of interest from within Community Liaison Officer grounds and classrooms, the local community to (CLO) for one day a week meet the teachers, and most contribute towards creating a for more than a year now of all enjoy a fun day with local craft & produce market When I started out I felt the school community. day. that I first needed to know an exploration of Respect. would be good for younger Rainbow Ridge has been Xavier Lane and her best friend The market aims to support what parents and caregivers The sessions were superbly kids.” (Student) enjoying strong growth over Lilly Hewitt, who are both in local artisans, growers and thought and wanted so organised and facilitated by This year, the NSW the past few years and this Kinder at Rainbow Ridge Steiner industrious home businesses I organised a number of Ms Grieves. Department of Education year the school underwent a School. with a local craft & produce parent/caregiver forums. The Respect Forums has sent a memorandum to major extension. The school market space. Stall fees During the last one, a received very positive all State schools outlining offers a variety of learning Ridge provides a balanced will go directly towards the group of parents voiced feedback from parents/ what schools should do to programs including art, approach to the modern Steiner School and will be their concerns about an caregivers, teachers and raise student awareness of music, Japanese, German, curriculum. $7 - $15 depending on how apparent lack of respect by students alike. For example: and levels of respect, and this cooking, and dance. On display will be much space you need. high school students and • “The forum was pretty year Nimbin Central School In a Steiner school, examples of the children’s We especially encourage suggested that the school good. It’s good to put is again organising Respect children not only focus on work, both academic and people with an abundance organise a Respect Forum things out in the open. I Forums. This time we will the academic, but on the creative. There will also of food in their gardens to to address the issue. hope those sort of things include the students and creative and social as well, be performances by the bring it along. The market Ms. Grieves, the Deputy happen more often.” parents from Class 4, 5 and 6. or head, heart and hands. children and teachers, food, is proposed for the first Principal at the time and (Parent) We are doing this not as With small classes and a music, activities for children Saturday of each month. For now Acting Principal, • “It was a very valuable a response to the directive stable and dedicated college and a fresh produce stall. further details contact Lisa immediately jumped into awareness raising exercise from above, but because we of teachers, Rainbow Things will kick off at on 0428-221-290. action. Soon we had set for all age groups.” at Nimbin Central School the date and began inviting (Teacher) feel that we are leading the Council jottings Policy Advisory Group parents and caregivers • “The word ‘respect’ has way through modelling has been fortunate to have of our Year 7 – 10 since been used by teachers respect. We believe, as Mel Cr Jenny Dowell Sue Stock as one of two students. Many parents and students more often. I Webb put it so aptly in his Village Representatives and caregivers came and think this is a good sign.” song ‘Go the carrot not the fter the hurly- and as Chair, I take this participated together with (Teacher’s Aide) stick’ that ‘Respect can’t burly of the opportunity to express my their child, their child’s • “It was a good way to share be demanded, it has to be ABudget process, appreciation for Sue’s input peers and the teachers in ideas about respect. It acquired.’ Council returned to its and look forward to her normal steady workload Children’s Week Parade continued representation in in July. At our monthly • Tuntable Falls Early the coming year. Grant money for Central School meeting we again addressed Childhood Centre - Briefly on other news, the contentious issue of maintenance Council has obtained some Nimbin Central School has Nimbin students and Head Surf Lifesaving Club fluoridation. As you may • Nimbin Central school - additional funds to address received funding of $2,200 community members will on Sundays. The school recall from my June article, lifesaving activities several ‘blackspot’ roads from Lismore Council to aid be given the opportunity welcomes the involvement while I am a supporter of Cheques for these recipients including a section of Blue the Little Nippers Project, to participate in the Little of parents as helpers in this fluoridation, I also support a and representatives from Knob Road. I understand which will commence in Nippers surf lifesaving program. referendum so again I voted our rural halls that receive there will be some shoulder Term 4. skills program with Evans Nimbin Central School for the people having their $1000 towards their costs widening and new line Landcare Group has won a voices heard but the motion will be distributed at a markings. Mitre 10 Junior Landcare was lost 4/8 as before. function on August 1 to On pleasurable matters,  Grant for $500. The money It was much less agonising mark Local Government it was great to catch up will go towards purchasing to approve $33,050 in Week. At that event with Nimbin locals at equipment and funding Section 356 Community the combined clubs also Southern Cross University’s  rehabilitation works within Donations. There were 37 handout their CDSE grants discussion on the creation  our Big Scrub Rainforest applications for grants of to other community groups of regional archive for the area. $2200 maximum. Each so there should be a few culture that was born and  A call has now gone out Councillor voted for 15 happy groups throughout has thrived in and around  for expressions of interest and the projects with the the community. Nimbin. A working party  from landholders in the latest most votes were approved. While on giveaways, has been formed to further round of Natural Resource Successful applicants in the Council is currently plans so stay tuned.  Management grants, Nimbin area include: advertising free computers If readers would like  focussing on river restoration. • Tuntable Falls for non-profit community to contact me about any  Contact Chris Herden on Cooperative Youth Group groups. Applications close Council matter, please  0427-326-031 for more - repairs on August 11. phone 6625 2206 or email  information. • Nimbin Family Centre - The Community Services [email protected]. Clarrie & Sally Rose, trading as ������� Nimbin Mill Farm Hardware & Gas ������������ at the Old Sawmill on Gungas Road. ��������� The name says it all! for a broad range of We sell bulk landscaping materials Open Wed, Sat, Sun and Searles gardening products. ��� + ���� Come out, see our range and compare prices. materials at ccompetitiveompetitive prpricesices Free delivery to Nimbin township ��������������������������������� Phone 6689 1206 ��������������������

Page 4 The Nimbin GoodTimes July 2006 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Safe Community Project History booklaunch a late inclusion Women’s workshops fostering environments that as encouraging them to try Mondays 14th, 28th August value children and promote more challenging tasks and 11th September. Birth & resilience. · Encourage children to Beyond 10am- 2pm Information gathered from learn how to do things for The first 2 days will focus Kids Help Line and Parentline themselves appropriate to on pampering, self nurture, counsellors highlights several their developmental stage sharing stories, discussing possible strategies that may · Allow children to explore safety in relationships, and assist adults to promote and take risks. on the last day we will do resilience in children: Notice and highlight some goal setting. Workshops • Foster a sense of strengths and achievements are free and lunch will be connectedness and belonging · Recognise their efforts and provided. Please phone Lizette to family, school and others; their willingness to try new 66891692 or 0429363850 for • Let children know they are things Wybaleena cemetery, February 1998. Aboriiginal section to left (unmarked graves); European section to further info and to secure a loved, valued and wanted; · Affirm their mastery of right with memorials. Plaque in memory of the last of the Aboriginals, middle left front. Photo: MJ Kidd. place in the workshops. • Try to ensure there are newly acquired skills several adults in a child’s · Encourage persistence and The Sacred Wound of Australia, a book by characterises The Sacred Wound of Australia The following information is life who care about and can that making mistakes is okay Nimbin lawyer Michael Kidd, is being and will assure it of a special place in the reprinted with the permission of support them; - even valuable. launched in conjunction with the literature. It is distinctive, it is fresh and it is Kids Help Line • Spend time with children Role model resilience Writers Festival at a separate location – the highly original. It will interest, stimulate and 1800 55 1800, www.kidshelp. and be available when they · Talk through experiences, Scout Hall at Marvel Street, Byron Bay, on 6th even inspire its readers. It will also annoy, anger com.au need you; reflecting on what worked August at 2pm. and agitate.” • Listen to children and show well and not so well The subject matter is the genocide of Veronica Brady: “ … a significant example of Develop Resiliency them understanding; · Problem-solve together to Tasmanian Aborigines last century and its inter-disciplinary scholarship ... the mainstream With one in seven young • Be interested and involved in address their concerns implications for Australia of today. legal system in this country will continue to Australian’s estimated to activities that are important · Be aware of and role model Henry Reynolds approached Michael Kidd to fail Aboriginal Australians until it is able to have mental health problems, to them; self talk that is positive and launch the book at the festival and after much take into account spiritual values central to young people are growing up • Balance affection, warmth realistic adjustment the printing was able to be brought Aboriginal culture...” in uncertain times (AIHW, and responsiveness · Assist children to notice and forward, but unfortunately it was too late to be Ohlah Publishing of Nimbin are the 2005). One of the most with clear, realistic and challenge their automatic, included in the official Festival program. publishers, and it is hoped this will be the first important roles adults can take consistently applied negative thoughts This is what two well-known commentators of many books with an alternative look at issues is to assist children to develop boundaries and limits · Model respectful behaviour on Australian history say: facing Australia. For enquiries contact them skills to be resilient during the appropriate to their towards children and others Professor Henry Reynolds: “this unique at: PO Box 615 Nimbin, NSW 2480, email: changes and challenges life developmental stage; and expect it in return. combination of talent and taste... so [email protected] brings. By assisting children to • Consult with children and Protect children develop resiliency we can help ask for their opinions; · Ensure children have them to gain the necessary • Have fun with them - adequate supervision, skills to cope with adversity, laughter, humour and games consistent with their Nimbin Hall available to all promote achievement and help build a sense of trust; developmental age If you are planning a $7 including the use of the hour and is ideal for basket- enjoy better health. • Encourage peer · Take appropriate actions to meeting, an event or a class, grand piano, for authorised making, outdoor meetings All children are born relationships; ensure children are physically remember your Village Hall. users only). etc and some of our local with an innate capacity for • Pay attention to how safe and free from harm. The Hall costs $10 per Downstairs, studio one clubs and societies hold well- being and resiliency. A children feel about their Take care of yourself hour during the day and is $5 per hour and has an Xmas get-togethers there. resilient child is emotionally school life. · Ensure you take care of your $15 per hour after 5 pm. A upright piano and studio two Lastly, trestle tables and healthy, equipped to Provide opportunities own wellbeing and look at night costs $100 for 5 to 12 is only $3 per hour. Both chairs can be hired by the successfully confront · Allow children time to do ways to enhance your own pm. The veranda gives ramp are ideal for music lessons, day as well as being available challenges and bounce back what they are good at as well coping skills. access to the toilets and the meetings, massage and more. for hirers of the Hall or from disappointment and venue is great for most uses. Hirers of studios one and studios. setbacks. Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Talk to the committee if you two also have access to the Nimbin School of Arts is However, children and – Well, One Out of Three Ain’t Bad have special requirements downstairs toilets. the body that looks after the young people should not The happiest nations are not the high-consuming ones, survey says as they may be able to The Veranda & facilities Hall for us. They can be be expected to always be help! The Foyer is only can be hired for $10 per contacted on 6689 1577. resilient. No one can cope A new Happy Planet Index supports the cliché that money can’t available by arrangement when they encounter repeated buy happiness. The New Economics Foundation, a British think with the committee, but experiences of adversity over tank, looked at 178 countries’ consumption levels, life expectancy, is an excellent place for an prolonged periods of time and happiness, and concluded that people can live long, happy information session. without help. lives without sucking up large quantities of the planet’s resources. The Hall and studios Adults can promote In its ranking of happiest nations, the South Pacific island of one & two and the veranda resilience in children through Vanuatu earned the top slot. Vanuatu, population 209,000, and toilets are wheelchair their words, actions and the runs its economy mainly on small-scale agriculture and tourism; accessible but the stage and environment they provide. its GDP has been ranked 207th out of 233. Latin American backstage studio are not. Raising resilient children countries dominate the top 10 happiest nations, with Colombia in There are three studios requires caring and supportive second place. Many African and Eastern European nations are available, as well as the social environments for both near the bottom, with Zimbabwe the official unhappiest nation. Hall and the veranda. The children and adults. 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www.nimbingoodtimes.com July 2006 The Nimbin GoodTimes Page 5 Letters email [email protected]

Democracy to ‘keep the bastards honest’. start a new life somewhere Thank you Nimbin for I wonder how many of our This has been negated About us We are online at www. else – it’s hard. People aren’t making our lives fulfilled. more recent arrivals are because they elect their own Editor: Bob Dooley nimbingoodtimes.com as ‘friendly’ or ‘accepting’ of We love and miss you all aware that one of the dreams committees. Assistant: Sue Stock Thanks to all contributors my way of life as I’m used to heaps – we only hope you all of the original new settlers The straw that broke the Layout & design: and sponsors. in Nimbin. Half the people miss us. was to establish some kind camel’s back was the election Andy Gough NGT is auspiced by the I meet are very judgmental - Kelly-Jo and family of grass roots democracy so of Sue Boardman to the Contributing Nimbin Community the other half are fascinated that each person felt they had position of town sports co- photographers: Sue Stock, School Co-operative Ltd. by the whole ‘Nimbin’ thing. Setting the record an avenue of involvement. coordinator. I don’t know Cath Marshall, Thurston Next deadline: Wed 30th Hell – I don’t even know if straight - Part 2 Tuntable, for example, Sue Boardman, I’m sure Jones, Celeste Oss-Emmer, August I know what the ‘Nimbin I wondered why all this implemented the hamlet she’s a good person, but I do Bob Dooley Email: goodtimes@nim thing’ is, but my family and nastiness from Wunbong, system. The idea being know the other person who Typist: Billie Jackson binaustralia.com or put I have it. It’s an energy – a way in excess of what was that each person in the applied for the job. This Distribution: Sue Stock stuff in the ComSchool’s way of life, a way to love, a required for a sensible hamlet knew their elected was Nigel Hayes who is a Website: David McMinn pigeonhole in the Nimbin way to be – that is inoffensive debate. Like most things representative to whom founding, foundation and Community Centre. and beautiful. in life it probably has to do they spoke of their ideas, life member of the Nimbin Just the other day I was with money. fears or suggestions. This Headers Sports Club. He Civil disobedience is not against humanity. busking in the City all in Presumably Wunbong representative, in turn, was president for many years revolution, it is merely You authorities are in Hobart when a nice-looking has a property or two in the took same to the larger and he played for the team thinking outside the box and breach of international law hippy couple approached area and is salivating at the Tuntable meetings. From that put the Headers on being willing to break the but worst of all you are in me. The first thing they prospect of rapid capital there, the elected Tuntable the map. He only stopped rules for a principle. This is breach of the Univeral Law. said was ‘great music’ … the gains as Nimbin gentrifies. representative (at one holding office a few years ago the reason we attract more You have endangered our second thing “Are you the How dare Anita, that time there were two to attend university. I cannot people in a day than Uki gets community with violence. girl we bought cookies off ‘sensitive little violet’, raise because of Tuntable’s large find anyone who does not in a year. You have neglected and failed in Nimbin? .. and do you concerns about this process! proportionate population) think that Nigel should have We are famous for three in your responsibility of duty have any more?” But to their Sensitive I am: ‘little violet’ attended progress association been given the job. things: 1. We are a hippy of care, not only to me, but to disappointment I had to say is just patronising. meetings which advised This on top of the town (possibly the only one every individual residing in no to having any cookies for Wunbong commented in Lismore Council of our skateboard park fiasco, the left in the world). 2. We this town, every plant, every sale – in Hobart. I added his letter (NGT July 06) needs and desires. toilet block shooting gallery have a relaxed attitude to animal, every living creature. that I actually have to play “And thanks to the NGT for We now have a situation (Would someone explain marijuana use. 3. We have a The earth belongs to God. guitar and sing if I want to encouraging healthy debate where, at a national level, to me the sense of having a plethora of wonderful artists Heidi Zekiel work the streets for money despite the probability that we are involved in a war that needle exchange for health of all kinds. We have never – and I make about $1 a Anita would likely prefer most people don’t support, reasons, then encouraging been, are not, and will never Greetings from Hobart minute on average. Not too me censored or deported”. and at a state level we tried people to shoot up in a be famous for our clerks. Hey everybody, Kelly-Jo bad, and it’s legal. No way have I ever tried to sell the Snowy River toilet?) and lastly, the failure George Scott, here – fucken freezing in We then proceeded to get to influence the editors against most people’s wishes. to support Mulgum House. Nimbin Tasmania. Guess everyone into a lengthy discussion on and have Wunbong’s However it’s all right locally, Mulgum House was knows that I’ve moved to why in all the world would commentaries censored. because we have a grass roots the classic case of civil Eviction from the Pit Hobart – with Lily, Roman you move from Paradise to I know it would be hard democracy. Right? Wrong! disobedience winning the I’d like to introduce myself. and my fiancé Kieran. That’s the coldest place in Australia for Wunbong to understand, We have a burgeoning day. On the day of Notice I am Heidi, daughter, the beauty of small towns – and my answer was (you’re but I do not care what she bureaucracy which has of Eviction by the Anglican mother, grandmother, artist – word gets around. gonna love this one!) … writes about me. If I was a elected itself to our fourth Church, the bureaucracy and many other God-given Hobart, I might add, LOVE. real person, I may have taken level of government when said, “We will have them talents do I have. I’d like to is a small town. I’ve only So, you see, people of offence, but I am not. On everyone knows that three is back in twelve months.” This share my experience from the been here nine months and Nimbin: to the people that the bottom line, both our one too many. was never going to happen. Pit in Nimbin. everyone already knows were my closest friends; to opinions are worth nix in the The townspeople are not Along came a couple of To my brothers and sisters me (in Launceston!!). We my NimFM listeners (you long run and Wunbong takes being consulted. It used to be our senior new settlers (Di surviving under the cruel and have our own house and know who you are); to all herself too seriously. that the committees, made Keavey and Sonia Atkinson) harsh conditions, stay strong, are settling in (after we’ve people that own a business, Gentrification is just a up of people not employed in and said, “We are not don’t lose heart. We became thawed out). It has four lease a kitchen, or a shop; phase in Nimbin’s history. the bureaucracy, were there moving.” a family. big bedrooms and is near to the servo, the NRMA; to Peak oil and $6 a litre petrol To the empty churches and the Derwent River, about the Doctor, Hospital and the will mean far fewer tourists grounds, while people are 8 kms from the Hobart Fire Brigade; to the Bowlo and the affluent will move to freezing to death, shame on CBD, with a huge backyard and the Bush Factory; to areas with more amenities you all. and awesome views to Mt the Hemp Embassy and the and better public transport. To the authorities who Wellington. Museum; to the Parkies and Nimbin will then de- harrass and endorse the ‘Little Deb’ who works the Laneway boys; to George gentrify. burning out of homeless at the Freemasons sent me Scott and Graeme Ward, So Wunbong get in people at the Pit, is this the last two copies of the the Durgas, and even to the quickly, make a killing on terrorism or protection? GoodTimes which upon people that didn’t know me the local real estate and then While the police are receiving I couldn’t help but very well, didn’t even like buy your dream home on the protecting us from criminals, cry – I am very homesick me much, and to anyone I’ve Gold Coast. I am sure you who is protecting us from the and miss all my friends forgotten - I miss you all very would be a lot happier there. Position Vacant – TEACHER police? terribly. I miss Nimbin and much and so do my kids. I could rant on, but that EXP for years 3-6 classroom. Full time position. Send I demand these people all its people very much. And Nimbin people are special would make too long a letter. apps to Tuntable Falls Community School CMB Tunt- stand down from their doesn’t Jasmine look HOT! – doesn’t matter who you Be happy. able Falls NSW 2480. Apps close 15th August. See official positions, as they will (We all know she is anyway!) are – the Kelly Jo family love www.tuntablefallscommunityschool.net/ for job details. be judged in time, for crimes When you leave Nimbin to you all. You are all special. Anita Bong

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Page 6 The Nimbin GoodTimes July 2006 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Notices Independence from America - and Freedom from the Police! Wanted Car parts for 1977 Chrysler - Reflection on the ironies of Sunday 2nd July Lancer LB. Would like to contact the people who left a By Sophia Hoeben the tourists, tactics even the Gestapo would have message on the windscreen been proud of, whilst Centrelink checked people’s of my orange Lancer with he Independence from America Day dole status. Many people were arrested and lives mag wheels, parked behind at Byron this year began with some disrupted again, one woman for cake and leaf, the Rainbow Café in July- Timpassioned anti-American poetry and after a clandestine operation where they followed August 2005, saying they speakers in the park, and ended in a thunderstorm her from her home. Cripes! And there’s me had an LB for parts. of drums at the markets. thinking there were real drug issues to deal with Phone Clinton on 6622- The rally, which in previous years attracted larger such as alcohol and speed. 1080. numbers, still made its presence felt, mainly by So the dogs of war returned to terrorise our virtue of the very colourful costumes and dramatic village some more, and reportedly with the For Sale drumming routines. As the town’s population support of a ‘broad spectrum’ of the Nimbin Vinyl Annex for caravan, lined the streets and spilt over balconies to watch community. So who are these people that are so 24’ heavy duty. Only 3 years the grand parade, it dawned on me just how much often mentioned by the police? Please identify old. Top condition. No of a festival it had all become. yourselves, so we all know where we stand, or is faults. $750 phone 6689- The pennants depicting the various issues Graeme Dunstan at the head of the Byron march. your tongue held by fear and the almighty dollar? 7490 seemed to be dancing beside the ganja faeries As far as I can ascertain, nobody enjoys the on stilts as I glanced up at the smiling crowd on harassment and heavy-handed approach of the Practitioner’s rooms for the balcony of the hotel. My enthusiastic friend rich, injustice for the many. police or their new American neo Nazi tactics. share in Lismore CBD. Car- marching beside me suddenly called out to people Unknown to me then, it was at the same time I In the past, when I was young and police were pooling an option. phone standing close by to come and join, without was indulging in the luxury of a piece of fresh fish unarmed public servants, people felt safe and 6689-7490 success. Apathy is everywhere these days, so why and listening to the speakers of the morning’s rally secure in their presence. There was a sense of not in Byron Bay? that another invasion was occurring, again in my the local copper being a part of the community Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but wonder, who it own home town. It wasn’t till Monday morning and these even lasted here in Nimbin til the 80s. Meetings was we were protesting to? And who it was that that I heard the news on the radio. Roadblocks Now, every police force in the world seems to be Nimbin Chamber of was listening? had been set up on every road into Nimbin. similarly attired in a more militaristic fashion and Commerce However, it was nice to hear the Mayor of Byron, Everyone coming and going was stopped, searched much more likely to really hurt you when you start Jan Barham speaking out against America’s global by sniffer dogs and checked for registration, bucking the system, or have I mis-spelt that? Next meeting Tuesday military and cultural invasions. I feel the French licence and roadworthiness, and, of course, any Is it all really about controlling the people? Isn’t 15th August at the Oasis should really take back their Statue of Liberty, for outstanding warrants. ‘terrorism’ what terrifies you? If a whole village can Café at 6pm. ‘New’ faces it now makes a mockery of what really exists for The Immigration Department were also on be intimidated beyond the point of reason by the needed, new meetings, new it belies modern American politics, liberty for the the scene, demanding passports and papers form police, do the police then become the terrorists? premises, new ideas, new members urgently needed, or...... ? officials checked more than around with a lot of drugs upon his seven year-old son Operation Grasstree 70 people, and none were on them. in the passenger seat. Nimbin Environment found to be staying in the • Maree Conroy, a Blue Knob • Andrew Kavasilas of The Set Up Centre country illegally. teacher and mother of three, the Nimbin Chamber of Film and Food nights. Last • Extensively planned and • Six Centrelink fraud told the Northern Star Commerce told ABC radio Thursday of every month. co-ordinated, the operation investigation officers visited said she felt violated and the action was unfair and Also @ The Channon @ was conducted over four businesses in and around upset and made to feel like heavy-handed, and since Tuntable Creek Hall days, Thursday 29th June to Nimbin and cancelled or a criminal because of where tourists were also targeted, Friday 18th August. Sunday 2nd July. suspended 19 customers’ she lived. was not good for business in Programme: • Phase One saw undercover payments. Another 78 • A Nimbin man who prefers Nimbin. ‘Tugun Bypass’ – doco officers in operation people will be the subject of to remain anonymous told • Several complaints are on highway development for two days, mainly in further investigations. the NR Echo he too felt believed to have been involving land rights issues. Lismore, while Phase Two • Richmond Local Area that Nimbin residents were lodged with the NSW ‘The Fluoride Deception’ involved roadblocks on Commander Supt Bruce being unfairly targetted Ombudsman regarding the – factual evidence on the Nimbin’s main access roads The haul. In police custody. Lyons described the after sniffer dogs were set operation. effects of Flouride use in throughout the weekend. Photo courtesy The Northern Star. operation as a success, water • Roadblocks were manned saying that though no by uniformed police, resulting in three drivers commercial quantities of Greens fundraiser Department of Immigration charged with drink-driving. drugs were confiscated, Dinner and doco Friday 4th officials and Centrelink • Eighty-one searches were the operation would still August at 6pm at Djanbung investigation officers. conducted resulting in 47 disrupt drug dealers by Gardens. • Searches included the use of drug detections, from which hitting their customers. We’ll be showing The labrador drug sniffer dogs, 21 people were charged with Power of Community which and were carried out under drug possession offences The Fall-out describes how Cuba was 2002 legislation allowing and 25 issued with cannabis • Lismore solicitor Steve able to survive with little oil police to to take out a search cautions. Bolt said it was hard to or fertiliser in the 1990’s. warrant for a particular • Police seized a total of 676 justify such intrusive tactics Cost is $20/$10 which section of road. grams of cannabis leaf, four for minor drug matters, includes dinner from grams of cannabis resin, two and that random roadside Robyn’s marvellous kitchen. The Results morphine tablets and 12.4 searches were not effective For further info, contact • Police conducted 383 kilograms of cannabis cake. against drug dealers, who Sue Stock on 6689-1148. random breath tests • Department of Immigration did not generally drive

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