If I were an Ethnographer...

I see Nimbin as one of the most cultured places I have ever visited. After reading about the Ethnography, it was one of the first places that came to mind if i were to study a particular group and their environment. Nimbin is known for its laid back and alternative lifestyle. On nimbinaustralia.com it is refered to as the 'alternative capital of Australia'. Nimbin has its own distinct environment, although it is in close proximity to more 'familiar' places, the people there have different lives and all share the similar views. Nimbin even has its own 'rules' which are pictured below.

Nimbin is also heavily associated with marijuana use with their well known annual 'Mardigrass' festival and Hemp embassy.

In the textbook, Katrina Schlunke explains that ethnography is about getting a detailed understanding of the very particular culture (the ordinary lives, contested codes and representations) of the participants that are studied (2008: 219).

When I visited Nimbin, about a year ago i have continued to wonder about the lifestyles of the people who live there, their daily rituals and beliefs - the reason why they live there. There is obviously a lot to be uncovered about this place.


A sign outside a shop in the main street of Nimbin, expressive of the lifestyle Nimbin residents live.
(Retrieved 14 June 2010 from, http://aphs.worldnomads.com/blue_skies/11377/IMG_0250.jpg)


A shop sign reflective of Nimbin's drug culture
(Retrieved 14 June 2010 from, http://a54.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/22/l_05eb919ad99d11b1030bff0e7213347d.jpg)


The Nimbin rules
(Retrieved 14 June 2010 from, http://images.travelpod.com/users/hudsondino/durham2oz.1197692520.nimbin-rules.jpg)