Pubdate: Mon, 04 May 2009
Source: Lismore Northern Star (Australia)
Copyright: APN News & Media Ltd 2009
Contact:  http://www.northernstar.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4156
Author: Jessica Kellett
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?420 (Cannabis - Popular)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

NIMBIN: SMOKE WITHOUT FIRE

MORE than 150 drug seizures by police at the weekend's 17th annual 
MardiGrass event proved many visitors once again tried leaving Nimbin 
with a bit extra in their bags.

The Rainbow Region's annual coming out parade attracted a staggering 
amount of tourists and locals alike, but police again had their work 
cut out for them.

Sniffer dogs based at a 'drug bus' outside Goolmangar Hall on the 
road to Nimbin helped proceedings, while in town four mounted police 
covered the event itself.

Duty officer, Inspector Nicole Bruce, said the number of drug busts 
seemed to be down from last year but there was still the same number 
of incidents.

The crowds were generally good," Inspector Bruce said.

And we're pleased with the way the events transpired."

Visitors said the crowds produced a relaxed and safe atmosphere with 
young, old and families coming as supporters of cannabis law reform.

Although some visitors were at the rally specifically to obtain 
marijuana, the majority of the crowd revelled in the laidback 
atmosphere and joined enthusiasts of the reform movement.

Kylie Frew, of Nimbin, has attended the event before and continues to 
go because of the good atmosphere and the positive message the rally sends.

If Government looked at the possibility of legalising marijuana the 
crime would ultimately be less," she said.

Long-time attendee of MardiGrass, Kalvin Pollock of Brisbane, 
compared the gathering to an 'Aussie Woodstock'.

Where else can you see all of this for free in a safe, relaxed and 
calm environment," Mr Pollock said. Another Brisbane resident, Pamela 
Brown, said she came every year.

It's a very casual atmosphere, very laidback and family oriented, 
that's why I bring my daughter," she said.

 From roadside attractions of Pot Poetry and the Kombi Konvoy to the 
Hemp Olympix, including the bong throwing, Nimbin MardiGrass had 
everyone experiencing new things, but not necess-?arily those of the weed kind.

Graham Askey, of Lismore, who is part of the Help End Marijuana 
Prohibition (HEMP) Party was quietly sitting by the Hemp Bar entrance 
with registration forms for those who wanted to join the reform party.

We've had 60 and 70-year-olds becoming members," Mr Askey said. 
"Prohibiting marijuana is costing the tax payers millions."
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom