Justine Elliot MP for Richmond s your local MP I know that the North Coast is a great place to live Aand as the Minister for Ageing I’m so proud to showcase our magnificent area. Earlier this month I was pleased to host the inaugural meeting of the National Dementia Advisory Group – right here in our area. The new Dementia Advisory Group, comprised of members from all over Australia met for the first time on Monday 3 March 2008 at Kingscliff NSW. The new advisory group has been established to streamline and build on the work done by the Dementia Taskforce set up in 2005. It will advise on Australia’s response to the challenge of its ageing population and the growing incidence of dementia. Australians now have the world’s longest life expectancy and the government Janelle delivers her maiden speech to Parliament. is committed to building a modern Australia, capable of tackling the challenges of our ageing population. This 16 member advisory group will be Janelle Saffin MP for Page co-chaired by former Brisbane Lord Mayor, “Janelle’s Page” Minister Gillard is seeking Wong has announced Ms Sallyanne Atkinson AO, and author creative suggestions for a timetable for the and dementia carer advocate Sue Pieters- The first two sessions disposing of the mousepads, introduction of emissions Hawke. Both have complementary skills of Parliament have been her favourite so far being trading, with preliminary that will assist the Australian Government to be assessed by ACAT. This is simply not exciting and busy times, that they be used as floor consultations already in responding to the challenges of dementia good enough. and it’s been wonderful liners for portaloos. underway and a Green Paper in our communities. The rapid response team is expected to to be a part of the Rudd to be released in July. The I also announced grants of more than $9 target far northern NSW and northern Government as it brings Teen Dental Plan emissions trading scheme is million for dementia research grants across Sydney. It will then move to other priority in so many long awaited I’m acutely aware of the due to commence in 2010. Australia. These grants will support people areas across Australia. The $250,000 pilot is changes as we roll out our problems many people There is also a new with dementia and their carers through part of a $1 million boost to cut assessment election commitments. have being able to access government taskforce which funding ongoing research and dementia waiting times for older Australians in ‘black affordable dental care. In prevention initiatives, early intervention and spots’. Increased allowances will work on ways to reduce fact I raised this issue in my greenhouse emissions, waste, support programs, and dementia specific The new Rapid Response Team is headed and pensions. first speech to Parliament. energy and water use in training for our aged care workforce. by an experienced assessment team manager The Government brought So I’m pleased to know that Government operations and with nursing qualifications who is supported in legislation to increase many parents in the region examine options to increase he North Coast is a wonderful by aged care experts/allied health workers. the utilities allowance for will benefit from the Rudd government sustainability. location for Ministerial meetings and It is the first stage of the Rudd aged pensioners to $500 Government’s Teen Dental TI look forward to bringing more to Government’s response to a national review a year. For the first time, Plan. Local Transport our great area. of Aged Care Assessment Teams +ACATS) these payments will be Under the plan, eligible On the topic of I was also pleased to announce recently begun by the previous government. extended to recipients of the families will be able to sustainability, one issue that a new mobile Rapid Response Team Carer Payment, Disability claim up to $150 towards of major concern in our will be set up to help older Australians who n implementation plan based on the Support Pension, Widow B the cost of an annual check region is the lack of public have been waiting to be assessed for vital recommendations in the National Pension, Wife Pension and up for each of their teenage transport. I was able to raise government funded aged care services. AReview of Aged Care Assessment Bereavement Allowance. children between the ages of the issue in Parliament when To gain access to aged care services, a Teams report is being developed in The $500 will be paid in 12 and 17. I was also pleased speaking in support of the person must usually be assessed by an Aged consultation with the states and territories. quarterly instalments with to see that the Australian Infrastructure Australia Bill Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Some This will be followed by the deployment the first payment starting at Dental Association has 2008. people have been waiting up to three months of more aged care assessors to help with the the end of March. said many dentists will I told Parliament that the backlog of aged care assessments. be able to provide some feasibility and costing of There are 115 Aged Care Assessment Work Choices straightforward treatments light commuter train services Teams in Australia made up of health The Government ‘s on top of a check up for should be part of a long professionals who assess people’s care needs “Transition to Forward with $150. I hope dentists in overdue integrated study for and help them find appropriate services. Fairness Bill” which is the our region will provide that improving public transport These teams are a vital gateway for people start to dismantling Work service. in the Northern Rivers. to get Commonwealth-funded services Choices has been passed and The Teen Dental Plan As I write this I’m preparing from aged-care residential beds to packages proclaimed by the Governor aims to encourage young for the local 2020 summits to allowing them to stay longer in their homes General which means there adults to continue to look be held in Grafton on April 4 and local communities. can be no more Australian after their teeth once they and Lismore April 5. I know The teams may include geriatricians, Workplace Agreements. leave home. The plan comes there’ll be some innovative nurses, social workers, occupational But while the Government in from July 1, 2008. and creative solutions coming therapists and psychologists or has been able to bury the out of these events, and I physiotherapists. AWAs The Deputy Prime Climate Change look forward to putting them The Australian Government provides Minister and Minister for After last year’s election, to the National Summit in funding to state and territory governments Employment and Workplace one of the first acts by the Canberra. to operate the ACATS, which visit people in Relations, Julia Gillard is Rudd Government was to I may see you there, or their home or can be located at hospitals or finding it harder to dispose sign the Kyoto protocol, and come and chat to me at the community centres. of the$121 million worth of the Government has already local markets around the The Government is committed to tackling Work Choices propaganda released its initial report – a Page electorate. the challenges of the 21st century. left behind by the Howard year earlier than the UN Til next time. Government, including deadline. Federal Member for Page Federal Member for Richmond 100,000 Workchoices The Minister for Climate 63 Molesworth Street Lismore Justine and her family 107 Minjungbal Drive Tweed Heads South mousepads. Change and Water, Penny Phone 1300-301-735 Phone 1300-720-675

openFormerly Motdang7 day Thai s Dine-in or Take-away Soon to be • Asian Fusion Cuisine opening evenings • Delicious Thai snacks for a la carte • Merlo coffee dining Phone 6689-0028 46 cullen street nimbin

Page 2 The Nimbin GoodTimes April 2008 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Fired up about Fossil Fools Skate park saga Benny Zable is passionate about protecting the environment, and prepared to go to great lengths to make his point. “We must look after the earth,” he said. “It will continue anyway, but it won’t discriminate, it will shake us off. We’re just confetti.” Benny’s passions were aroused when Country Energy came to Nimbin to upgrade the power infrastructure – he chained himself to a pole and gained widespread publicity. “Nimbin should be an example of a green town,” he told the media, calling for renewable local power generation, and for the cables to be run underground. Lismore Council’s current Development Control Plan for Nimbin includes a map of by Elowyn Paitson for Discussions Cullen Street dated December 2000, which Friends of Nimbin Skatepark A Friday bears the words, ‘Conduit for underground a map of where it was laid. afternoon power has been laid in Cullen Street’, reputedly In anticipation of Country Energy’s next In September 2007 a meeting at at a cost of $40,000, but so far, no-one can find visit, Benny painted a large billboard above the community forum was held the skate park newsagency, and organised a rally for 1st April, in Nimbin to discuss whether (above) and the ‘Fossil Fools Day’. to continue with construction skaters who set Unfortunately, police operations on the day of the Nimbin Skate Park. the wheels in detracted from the rally, but this did nothing Construction was halted motion (right). to dampen Benny’s enthusiasm. by LCC in 2005 after local ““Decisions are being made by big business, residents complained about sound generated by the apply for a Section 96 DA rather than at the grassroots,” he said. Pointing the noise generated by the ramp. We believe that the amendment. Before we out the dangers of overhead power lines, he park; at that time no sound proposed sound mitigation submit this proposal we argued that we should be planting more trees, proofing measures were in will go above and beyond the want to consult the residents and “trees and power lines don’t live together.” place. Lismore City Council recommendations set out by and businesses that will be He is now setting his sights on a low-energy agreed to let the Nimbin the acoustic engineers report. directly affected. We will be usage MardiGrass, where elctricity is only used Community Development Over the past week, local contacting the immediate for essential services. Association, (NCDA), kids have opened the park neighbours soon and hope “We can show what’s possible, by being an continue work on the skate themselves, removing the that they will meet with us example of using less,” he said. park, providing they could safety fencing and skating in the near future to learn reduce sound output levels to on the ramp. They have about the proposal, voice the approval of all residents. taken this direct action their concerns and discuss The community was strongly because they are frustrated appropriate conditions to the supportive of the project and with how long this process amendment. voted by an overwhelming is taking, and ‘just want to Our suggestion is to open majority to continue. skate the ramp’. They have the ramp for limited hours Following the forum the requested that a Section 96 per week, perhaps 9am- Friends of Nimbin Skatepark, amendment be made to the 3pm on Saturdays. We also (FONS) formed, to explore Skate ramp DA, allowing the suggest that we apply to open soundproofing options and ramp to be opened in time only a section of the ramp, begin fundraising. It has been for MardiGrass, and for a six- as rust treatment will have estimated that completion of month period. to be carried out to ensure the ramp will cost between While we are really excited the skaters’ safety before the one and two hundred to see local kids so passionate ramp is opened. War memorial restoration thousand dollars. about the skate ramp, and Opening the ramp for FONS are currently by Paul Le Bars first World War. It is also understand their frustration even these limited hours finalising costings and plans a sentinal of respect to the at seeing the ramp closed for will require both funds The Nimbin War Memorial to construct the necessary veterans & families of the so long, we are also concerned and energy to achieve. We has now been restored sound barriers and complete following (WW2, Korea, that nearby residents may hope that we can gain these to its original state, with the park. Clara Morasszeky Borneo, Vietnam) and suffer as a result. This in through the support of the financial assistance of the has offered to donate her time continued theatres of defense turn may jeopardise the long broader community. Dept. of Veteran Affairs and materials to construct a (Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia term viability of the project. We’re looking for volunteers & volunteers from the trial hemp masonry wall on a and peace keeping in many FONS recognise that the to help run our fundraising community. Thanks must go small section of the ramp so countries across the globe. concerns of nearby residents and information stall at to Wilson McLelland from that we can test the viability This year’s ANZAC Day are legitimate and believe Mardi Grass, as well as prizes the Lismore Sub-Branch of of this option. We aim to parade, on Friday 25th April, that meeting their needs is of and ticket sellers for a raffle. the RSL, Wayne Fuller and carry this out during April. will muster at the Nimbin foremost concern. If you would like to be his donation of the paint and We are also planning a Memorial Hospital at There are also safety involved, have suggestions or organising the painting of fundraising event at the 10.45am to start the march concerns about the site. comments, the FONS meet the flag pole, Martin Soutar upcoming MardiGrass, at 10.55 and commence the The ramp is still under weekly at 5pm on Fridays from LCC, Vic Florey, the exploring available grants, service at 11.00. I would construction and prolonged at the ramp, or out the back crew form the NNIC (for and searching for sponsorship like to invite everyone to weather exposure has left the of the Oasis Café in wet their patience and support), to help us achieve our aims. participate on the day, in the surface rusted and rough, weather. Following Mardi Nimbin Police, the Northern FONS are passionately march or as a spectator in potentially quite dangerous. Grass we will be meeting Star, ABC North Coast committed to opening the the remembrance ceremony. FONS hope that we fortnightly. You can email and all of the people and skate park. Our aim is to Following a service will can work together as a us at [email protected]. community organisations satisfy the needs of both be held at the Nimbin community to get the ramp au, phone Duncan on 0427- who supported the project. the youth and skaters in Bowling Club at 12pm with opened permanently. 889-815, or check out our Commissioned in 1926 and construction is a dedication our community, and the refreshments available. With the support of the website for more information dedicated in 1927 by the then to those who fought & died, local residents who are Many thanks for your NCDA and local police, at http://sk8park. NSW Governor General the wounded and to those directly affected by the support. “Lest We Forget” the FONS have agreed to nimbincommunity.org.au/ Sir Dudley De Chair, the who never returned in the Nimbin Village Butcher Aquarius Bakery ���� ������������������������ ��������� ������������� �������� ������������������� Nimbin ������� �������������������������� �������� ����������������� ������� Open 7 days 8am - 5pm weekdays Friendly and obliging service ��������� ����������������� ���������������� 11am - 4pm weekends Phone 6689 1311 Ph: 6689-1010 fax: 6689-1210 email: [email protected]

www.nimbingoodtimes.com April 2008 The Nimbin GoodTimes Page 3 On the up and up Kara fi res up Nimbin’s Chamber of Commerce Nimbin School of Arts by Gerard Dwyer Th e Nimbin Community President’s Report March 2008 will be pleased to know that by David Hallett years, it continues to be the once again there is an active venue for many community and functioning Chamber of Following the major and cultural events. Commerce. internal renovations and Due to the constant use Initial meetings were held external improvements in of various facilities of the late last year, and confi rmed the courtyard and carpark NSA, the obvious wear and the need and desire to get the during 2006-7, the past year tear requires considerable Chamber up and running has seen a steady revival of vigilance in the maintainence again. Kara Forsyth of Daizy the fi nances of the Nimbin of so many fi ttings, locks, is the elected president, School of Arts (NSA) lights, doors, tables, chairs, and is doing a great job prior to the next stage of etc. It is a credit to the on- of resurrecting and re- improvements to the 104- going work of Tony Gibson invigorating NimCoC. year old hall, particularly that the hall is kept in Meetings are held at 6pm the repainting of the hall operation in so many small on the third Tuesday of each exterior. and large ways. Many thanks, month at the Rainbow Café, Th e School of Arts remains Tony. and local business owners are the prime venue for most Th e major annual most welcome to attend. visitors with relevant encouraging Country Energy of Nimbin’s major annual programme of Cabarets and Issues that have dominated information about the town to upgrade electricity supply events: the three Blue Moon Spring Arts Exhibitions discussion so far are the itself and also showing major infrastructure to prevent a cabarets and Spring Arts have been very successful erection of lighting at connecting roads in the area. re-occurrence of last year’s Exhibition, co-ordinated during the past year, and the the pedestrian crossings Anybody who has spent supply issues during the by the NSA, together with NSA sponsored Nimbin’s 39 on Cullen Street, the time working in a Cullen Mardi Grass Festival. the Nimbin’s 39 Hours Hours, Nimbin Performance beautifi cation and adequate Street business will know Hopefully we can make a fi lm screenings and awards Poetry World Cup and the lighting of the western how many times you are diff erence. evening, the Nimbin Weave and Mend Festival. carpark, and the introduction asked, ‘Where is...’ or “How A vibrant, bustling little Independent Film Festival, Th e NSA continues to of waste recycling facilities in do I get to....?’ town like Nimbin really Nimbin Players productions, foster the arts in Nimbin by town itself. Th e maps are available in ought to have an eff ective Autumn Arts Extravaganza, providing reduced rentals Th e Chamber has books of 100 at a nominal Chamber of Commerce Concert of Dances, Nimbin and hire to a number of Kim leave her invaluable role commenced lobbying cost, and local businesses to represent not just the Fashion Shows, Nimbin cultural events, and also by at the NSA, and to note, Lismore City Council on are encouraged to keep a interests of business owners, Performance Poetry World assisting various community as I have in previous years, these as well as a few other stock of them. Th ey will also but to make a positive Cup and Mardi Grass. events staged in the hall. that like other volunteer issues, and we are pretty eventually fi nd their way out diff erence in the community Th e main hall, studios, I would like to personally organisations, the NSA is hopeful of some positive to the obvious information generally. Th e new NcoC pianos and kitchen continue thank all the members of the managed by a small and outcomes in the near future. posts at the coast, Lismore certainly has plenty of to maintain regular use from management committee for ageing committee that needs You might notice some etc. enthusiasm, energy and a wide variety of community their contributions during somehow to attract some new green ‘All roads lead Th e Chamber has also been ideas, and we are looking hirers. While the Hall no the past year, particularly new and younger members to Nimbin’ maps being involved in actively seeking forward to seeing fruits of longer provides the church Kim Hanning, who has to develop their skills distributed around town. resolutions to other on-going that in the months to come. services that it did in 1904, provided book-keeping in the management and Th ese are a Chamber issues such as the reliability Come along to the next and occasionally in recent expertise. It is sad to see maintainence of the NSA. initiative designed to provide of ATM access in town, and meeting if you have time. Community Centre meeting Neighbourhood Centre turns 30 NCDA Special NNIC 30th Anniversary Meeting 5.30pm Nimbin Aquarius Markets, Celebrations in Allsopp Park Thursday 17th April just one of the activities of (next to the Neighbourhood 2008 the NCDA. Centre) 18th April from 11am Nimbin Community On Friday 18th April Centre Dance Studio 2008, starting at 11am, Nimbin Neighbourhood In July 2008 the Nimbin community will and Information Centre take title to Nimbin Community Centre. Our (NNIC) will hold a public ten year lease with Lismore Council expired celebration marking 30 The new extensions to the in February, we have repaid all the money years since NNIC began Neighbourhood Centre we borrowed from Council to purchase and operation and 21 years since develop the site and now it’s time to hold the its incorporation. NNIC Nurse Practitioner position intensive support for an title deeds in community hands. is celebrating 30 years of to provide community-based average period of two years To support this process we have reviewed achievements and: services to clients with a dual per family, targeting families the aims and objectives of the organisation. • Launching its new booklet diagnosis (mental health with particular vulnerabilities We have come a long way over the past – Th e History of NNIC issues as well as drug and/or and young children, with ten years and it’s time to move forward from 1978 to 2008. alcohol issues). the aim of enhancing the into a new phase in the life of the Nimbin • Introducing the Nimbin • Conducting the offi cial strengths of the family and Community Centre and those valuable Integrated Service Delivery opening of the newly the potential of the children organisations which contribute so much to Project (NIS) - a partnership renovated premises at NNIC into the future. the Nimbin community. As a consequence between NSW Department – there are now two beautiful Nimbin Community we are holding a special meeting on Th ursday and will keep you informed of our plans. If of Premiers and Cabinet, new offi ce spaces and a new members past and present April 17th from 5:30pm at the Community you have an email address, please send it to North Coast Area Health community workshop/ are invited to come along and Centre Dance Studio. If you are a current or our offi ce. In the meantime we hope you can Service, Nimbin Health, meeting area. enjoy the food and festivities historical NCDA Member or are interested attend the special meeting. If you are unable NSW Police, NSW • Also being launched is the starting from 11am. Bring in getting inviolved in our future directions, to attend but would like to appoint a proxy Department of Community Brighter Futures Program your brolley in case of rain! please feel welcome to come along. you are welcome to do so and a proxy form Services and NNIC, to in Nimbin – the new early For more information, We are determined to organise a special plus a list of members can be obtained from establish the Nimbin intervention program, a contact Natalie Meyer, Team celebration when we take ownership in July Marcus at our offi ce. Integrated Community Care voluntary program off ering Leader, on 6689-1692

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�������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������ Page 4 The Nimbin GoodTimes April 2008 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Open Learning Centre – five years on Pleasurable parenting by Sue Edmonds Today’s Society, Milestones to the Cosmos; physical, by Helen Lieschke Five years of classes and the (yoga, dance); the arts of Family Support Network Open Learning Centre is still sculpture, drawing, writing going strong. In that time, Parenting young children is and painting and the esoteric 500 people have enrolled in a full time and demanding arenas of astrology and programmes, varying from job. More importantly it is mandala. Dance to Aboriginal Studies, an incredibly rewarding and A Nimbin So if you have any ideas for Drawing to Yoga, Computer enjoyable experience. Community interesting programmes, call Studies to Sculpture. As Family Support Network School Project into the Com School room at well as the experience of and Nimbin Family Centre 81 Cullen Street (the NCC) studying and participating in finding an appropriate tutor are committed to supporting or ring 6689-1477. stimulating sessions, many to match the idea. There have parents to get the best out of Next term the definitive firm friendships have been been regular requests for parenting. study of the ukelele has been made. language classes, specifically Nimbin Family Centre is added to the programme and An important part of Spanish and Italian, to open Monday, Tuesday and weaving with Moksha makes developing the programmes complement the French Fridays from 9.30am to 3pm a return. has been, and still is, classes (which will return in to do just that. suggestions and ideas brought Term 4 2008) Watch out for the bright The Centre offers a range in by interested people. The O.L.C. aims to interest pink leaflet. Enrolment dates of programs, playgroups and Sometimes an idea is as many people as possible are Wednesday, 30thApril resources to build parenting Nimbin area with children interactive music program for presented with tutor and and accordingly the topics and Thursday 1st May. The confidence and add to up to twelve years of age. children aged between 3 to 5 programme already designed. range from academic study, eight week term starts on 7th parent’s enjoyment of their The group will be held at years with their parents, is to Sometimes it is a matter of such as Aboriginal People in May and ends 25th June. children. Birth and Beyond in Cullen be held on Friday afternoons Beginning Monday 5th Street. between 1.30pm to 2.30pm. May, Nimbin Family Centre A Family Worker from Bookings must be made to is running a free six week Family Support Network in secure your child’s place, as Lesbian outreach project Participatory Program Lismore visits Nimbin on this program will be limited Promoting Pleasurable Mondays for appointments to a maximum of 12 children. The Lesbian Health Project Rivers to come together and at Nimbin Family Centre. For more information at ACON, Northern Rivers develop personal networks Parenting (P5). This Program presents Parents or anyone caring for about the P5 program, Branch is visiting 10 towns and pick up information Local women’s support/ a positive approach to children 0 to 12 years can use Family Work appointments, in 10 days during April. and referrals in a safe and health services and groups parenting and family this service. Supported Playgroups, The project will be at Birth supportive environment. are involved and encouraged relationships. The emphasis This service offers a Jamming Preschoolers and Beyond Centre, Nimbin Information sessions will to attend. is on exploring ways for listening ear and provides or programs for families on Tuesday the 15th April be available on the following For more information, call developing potential in both information and ideas for delivered at Lismore (Family from 10am to 4pm. topics: Relationships, ageing, Amber 0400-242-934 parents and children. parents to address concerns Support Network) please This in an opportunity for stress and depression, Transport, information The P5 group is open to impacting on their family. phone Mimi on 6689-0423 same sex attracted women discrimination, parenting and support is available, call all parents and carers in the Jamming Preschoolers, an or Helen on 6621-2489. living in the Northern and much more! ACON 6622-1555 Party smART this year New Preschool Do you live in NSW? Are you aged 16 to 25? Finalists from each category will be Do you know how to party smart? showcased at an Award Presentation and on Director Do you want to have the chance to share in the 2008 DVD and Education Resource. Tuntable Falls Early Childhood Centre has $12,000 in cash and prizes? Deadline for entries is 25th July 2008. a new Director, Maree Conroy. Then start filming, writing or designing Entry is free and open to all residents of Maree is a local of 4 years, an experienced now. NSW aged 16 to 25. Early Childhood Teacher and Mum of three Play Now Act Now is a film, graphic design For entry forms and more information visit kids. She is excited about her new role and and writing competition for young people the website www.playnowactnow.net.au or is looking forward to getting to know all the aged 16 to 25 in NSW. Play Now Act Now contact Katrina Douglas on 02 9356-1818 or existing children and families at the centre. recognises that young people do and will email [email protected] Parents are welcome to bring their children drink alcohol and use other drugs, and sets Play Now Act Now is a collaboration (aged 2-5) for playgroup Wed-Thurs 9-3. We out to minimise the harms associated with between NSW Health & Metro Screen, are currently taking enrolment enquiries for this. proudly supported by Artshub, Screenhub Term 2, our number is 6689-1179. This year’s theme is party smART. and the NSW Writers Centre. Welcome Maree! Have your say at 2020 summits Local health issues forum Federal Member for Page Janelle Saffin tribe/Bundjalung nation elder Aunty Irene Richmond Health the Area Health Advisory Council and has invited the community to participate Harrington, who is also a member of SCU Participation Forum the Chief Executive on matters relating in a local 2020 summit early in April to Council. Wednesday 9th April to community health concerns, health feed into Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s While it will be ‘come one, come 2008 at 11am planning, and service provision within the Australia 2020 Summit in Canberra on all’ affair, trained facilitators will be Birth & Beyond Meeting Richmond Network. April19-20. volunteering their expertise and time to Room, 54 Cullen Street The Forum is keen to hear of concerns and The summit will be hosted by Southern keep five discussion groups focussed on two issues in relation to health services from Cross University at its Campus Central of the 10 critical areas. The major outcomes Richmond Health Participation Forum residents of Nimbin and surrounding areas. auditorium from 9.30am until 12.30pm on of the local summits will be summarised invites residents of Nimbin and surrounding Please take advantage of this opportunity to Saturday, 5th April. It will be co-chaired into a regional report, which then will feed areas to meet with members of the Forum meet with us face-to-face. by SCU’s Executive Director (Corporate into Mr Rudd’s national process. to discuss community health issues and For more information, please don’t Services) and Council Secretary Mr To register your interest in the local concerns. hesitate to contact Melanie Doriean Malcolm Marshall. Light refreshments will summit, please contact Ms Saffin’s policy Richmond Health Participation Forum (Chairperson) Ph. 0413-887-068 or email be provided. adviser Peter Ellem by emailing peter. consists of 12 community members [email protected] or The summit will start with a Welcome to [email protected] or by phoning him on appointed by North Coast Area Health visit http://www.ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au/ Country ceremony performed by Widjabul 0437-303-875. Service. The Forum provides advice to participation

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www.nimbingoodtimes.com April 2008 The Nimbin GoodTimes Page 5 Blue Knob Hall fundraiser This was a not-to-be-missed event - at least, over 100 people thought so, and it was standing room only in the little hall for the ‘Back to Blue Knob’ concert on Sunday 30th March, featuring The Romaniacs. The title was apt – musicians Phil Levy and Guy Maddigan last played there in 1976, when bush dances and full moon dances made the Indigenous arts venue legendary throughout the region, up until the late 1980s. Nimbin’s 12-week The other performers, Leo indigenous arts course is up Glass, Chris Aronsten and and running, with a large Julie Metcalf also played in construction,” she said. class that is already creating the hall frequently in those The committee had raised interesting works. days, though they have $3,500 from cinema nights The course is an ACE been back since, and clearly and raffles, so they only North Coast initiative, with enjoyed hearing the sound needed another $1500. local artists Gilbert Laurie of their acoustic instruments They put the idea of a and Burri Jerome training again in the wooden hall. fundraising concert to the students in contemporary As did the rapt audience, band, who were enthusiastic, techniques, principles and whose prolonged applause and so many people turned composition, using powerful after each tune was far louder up that now the money has dreamtime stories and than the music. been raised, and work is language. Organiser Jeni Kendall scheduled to start in this On completion of the explained how the concert financial year. course, students will receive came about. “I’d like to thank everyone a Certificate 2 in Indigenous “We got $40,000 in grants for coming, everyone who Letting rip. The Romaniacs, Cultural Art. to build a workshop at the made food for the supper, including Chris Aronsten and and of course, the musicians,” Julie Metcalf (top) and Guy Burri Jerome (above) and rear of the hall, $33,000 Jeni said. Maddigan (above), impressed Gilbert Laurie conducting training from Arts NSW and $7,000 The real beneficiaries were the big crowd with their sessions. from Lismore Council, leaving the hall committee the audience, who got a taste breathtaking musicianship and to raise $5,000 to fund the of the way it used to be. robust ensemble playing. Big cultural festival planned Yuggera Corroboree Festival for September. (Grand Prize of $1000) Saturday 13th September 2008 The Festival will involve • Boomerang-throwing at White’s Hill, Mount Gravatt at least 15 different dance contest (Grand Prize of An exciting new Murri groups and will feature: $1000) cultural festival is planned • Spear-throwing contest • Fireworks • VIP Luncheon Journey to Respect program The supporters of the Information Session for referring agencies and parents/carers Festival so far reads like a Thursday, 10th April from 2pm - 4pm at Lismore City Council, 43 who’s who of indigenous Oliver Ave, Goonellabah Council Chambers culture. Our Journey to Respect is an inter-generational violence Archie Roach, Roger prevention program developed for young Aboriginal males. Knox, Yamba (NITV), This program looks at ways the participants can identify Sean Choolburra, Troy n and manage feelings of anger, sadness and shame, which Trevlyn and Angus Rabbit may inturn lead to aggressive or violent behaviour. are just some of the many RSVP 7th April to Lee-Ann Emzin, Aboriginal people who are already Community Development Officer, Lismore City Council, involved with the Festival at Earth Hour, what Earth Hour? phone 02 6625-0432 fax 02 6625-0400 or email lee-ann. this early stage. [email protected] Contact Shannon Ruska on 3299- 4470 / by Bob Dooley Along Cullen Street, environmental tragics consoled each other, bemoaning the lack of 0413-830-756 or email arth Hour observances, from 8 to 9pm on consciousness about the need to reduce our nunukulyuggera@yahoo. Saturday 29th March, were intended to E carbon footprint despite the melting ice-caps. Nimbin Aged Care & Respite Service com.au be a strong demonstration of reducing energy But at the Trattoria, it was a different story. Watch for more consumption, and hence carbon emissions. POSITION VACANT Cheerful candlelight and a warm welcome information to be circulated But in Nimbin, lights blazed as usual. made the restaurant a beacon of conviviality, Aboriginal Social Support in the near future. The Environment Centre’s planned and all those who entered the darkened room Worker Organised by celebration did not materialise, and for the were rewarded by being connected with the Seven hour per week part time position Quandamooka Lands pub, the Bowlo and Darcy Goodwin’s soup world-wide environmental movement. SACis award applies (relevant to experience) Council Aboriginal kitchen, it was business as usual. Purpose of Position Corporation, the Festival Of the community-owned buildings, only erhaps it is more important for the big The Aboriginal Support Worker will work as part of the promises to be ‘deadly’. the Community Centre was dark – the Pcities, but it’s a pity most of Nimbin Nimbin Aged Care and Respite Services (NAC) team Start making plans for School of Arts floodlights and under-awning wasn’t up for it. It means we can’t take any and with the support of the Nimbin Health and Welfare September soon – it’s going lighting, though controlled by time-switches, credit for sparing tons of CO2 from going Association Inc (NH&W) management committee to to be good. burnt as usual. into the atmosphere. coordinate, develop and support the delivery of services to older indigenous people and their carers in the Nimbin area. Essential Job Requirements • Aboriginality • Experience in working with Aboriginal communities • Good oral and written communication skills • Experience in delivering community based activity programs • Ability to work as part of a team ABN 90 778 660 973 Lic No. 69227C • Senior First Aid Certificate • Current Driver’s License Serving The Nimbin, Lismore, Applications close Friday 24th April 2008 Information package including selection criteria available Channon Areas For 25 Years from Cedar Wicce-Otter or Rose Cubis, Co-ordinators Phone: (02) 6689-7184 Fax: (02) 6689-7324 Nimbin Aged Care & Respite Service, phone 6689 1709 Mobile: 0412-248-554 Phone 0428-171-353 (Aboriginal Social Support Worker (section 14D of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977)) Email: [email protected]

Page 6 The Nimbin GoodTimes April 2008 www.nimbingoodtimes.com Pre-IWD Women’s gathering by Raine West The pre-International Women’s Day Gathering was well attended and very much enjoyed by those who came. As is the way with this amazing town, there was plenty of talent-sharing with song, dance and poetry. The evening was begun with Welcome to Country from Auntie Viv and Aunty Liz led us in an honouring of women past and present. Healing Earth, a newly formed women’s band began the entertainment with a set of original songs, followed by Nirelle with a circle chant and drumming. Pov sang Moksha and Antonia a few songs, followed by Bobbin and Inez dancing followed by a sexy little Gail and helpers opened to her music. Moksha and dance number from the the kitchen for tea, coffee Banging the drum for women’s rights. The International Women’s Day march in Nimbin was Antonia performed a couple “Hot Flushes”. Leandra sang and cake and Doug very celebrated with drums and whistles, and was applauded by the men on the footpath. of original songs and Leora a couple of her songs then discreetly operated the sound sang a feminist song from Healing Earth did another for the evening. A brave man! Peggy Seeger “I want to set. Thank you to everyone for Best countries to be a woman be an engineer”. She then The finale of the evening participating. Measures of well-being both men and women, but of surviving economically, led a beautiful set of Israeli was the always stunning The talk is of another include life expectancy, throughout the world it’s protecting themselves and circle dances, which had “Nomads”. The sword dance gathering in a couple of education, purchasing power women who suffer the most leading healthy lives. In these most women on the floor. Ib strongly connected with the months, perhaps full moon, and standard of living. Not from lack of income. In these countries, women’s literacy danced her beautiful Thai small number of women maybe afternoon into surprisingly, the top 10 countries, women earn less rate is less than 50 per cent dance and Janey told a couple staying to the end and a evening, possibly at the newly countries are among the than 50 per cent of men’s of men’s: of poems, which had us all beautiful sharing of energy revived Bush Theatre. As you world’s wealthiest. incomes: Mali 49 per cent, Benin wanting a wife of our own. took place. can see, the plans are loose 1. Iceland Benin 48 per cent, 49 per cent, Yemen 47 per Lisa and Regina with cello The food brought by the and open to your input. If 2. Norway Bangladesh 46 per cent, cent, Mozambique 46 per and recorder performed a women to share was plentiful you want to be involved, call 3. Australia Sierra Leone 45 per cent, cent, Ethiopia 46 per cent, very moving birthing song, and delicious. Raine on 0427-336-910. 4. Canada Equatorial Guinea 43 per Guinea 42 per cent, Niger 35 5. Ireland cent, Togo 43 per cent, per cent, Chad 31 per cent, 6. Sweden Eritrea 39 per cent, Cape Afghanistan 28 per cent. 7. Switzerland Verde 36 per cent, Yemen 30 Countries with women’s 8. Japan per cent. literacy rate less than 70 per 9. Netherlands Source: UNDP Human cent of men’s: 10. France Development Report India 65 per cent, Morocco Source: UNDP Gender- 60 per cent, Pakistan 55 per related development index Literacy Gaps cent The better a woman’s Sources: UNDP, Income Gaps education, the better chance UNESCO, UNICEF Poverty means pain for she and her children have Contributed by Doug Whitlen Make magic at the CTC Congratulations to all participants for their part in expanding our community’s storytelling into the Digital Age via A section of the crowd at the pre-IWD another epic 39 Hour Film Contest Women’s Gathering at Nimbin Town Hall. (see review p.14) powerful supercomputer is only an inert While the computers at the Nimbin tool. CTC have recovered, our volunteers are Be it a sewing machine or an athame, still buried in paperwork. Prize winners without a living, breathing human being’s Learn technology in Seniors Week are asked to contact the CTC and arrange magic, the power of these tools is pretty to pick up their cheques and fill out their much limited to intimidating newbies or TechnoSeniors 2008 at CTC Kyogle Week 2008 celebrations. Seniors can learn ABN declarations. exciting acquisitive passions. for FREE all about computers and the Are you a senior who needs help learning the When people talk about Community What’s worse, digital tools have finite use- resourcefulness of technology using the computer, or are you interested in learning Technology Centres, the conversation is by dates. Unlike a Neolithic bone needle internet and digital photography. more about digital cameras and the Internet? often taken up by discussions of CPUs, that could still be used today, try running You are invited to be a part of this week at The CTC Kyogle will hold a variety GUIs, networks, modems, and sundry some 20 year old software on a modern CTC Kyogle of FREE activities for seniors during arcane witchery. A natural association you computer, or new software on your 10 year For more information, please contact TechnoSeniors 2008 on Tuesday 8th April to might think. old machine. Telephone Alison and Jodi on 02 6632-1833 Friday 11th April from 10am to 12pm every Indeed such items do rank highly in So don’t hold back, head on down to your to register and for more information. day. Enrol for any one session, or all of them! any functioning technology organisation, local Technology Centre and apply some Public Trustee’s TechnoSeniors is funded TechnoSeniors is a special event run at though it is equally true that such a focus human magic to Technology for the benefit by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Community Technology Centres throughout obscures the simple fact that even the most of your Community. the state and is part of the NSW Seniors Home Care and Public Trustee’s.

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www.nimbingoodtimes.com April 2008 The Nimbin GoodTimes Page 7