For the group who shows up come rain, shine, mud, wind, flood, fire, or any kind of chaos.

Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre
The Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre has been a cornerstone of the community for almost 50 years — a 100% locally run organisation that shows up, day after day, no matter what. Five days a week, year in and year out — through fires, floods and COVID — the Centre opens its doors to support people through whatever life throws at them. They help with lost things, lost dogs and sometimes lost souls. They navigate tricky online forms, fix frustrating digital problems, respond to emergencies and support countless other community groups. All of this is done with minimal resources — the equivalent of fewer than four full-time staff — and powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who give countless hours, often in challenging and high-pressure situations. Without them, the Centre simply could not operate. The Neighbourhood Centre brings people together, listens, and takes action — quietly holding the community in ways that often go unseen. A true embodiment of the Golden Gumboot Award — grounded, resilient, and always there when it matters most.

Aquarius Park Landcare Group
Few groups embody the spirit of the Golden Gumboot quite like the Aquarius Park Landcare Group. They show up — come rain, come shine, come mud, wind, flood, fire and everything in between. When the ground is soggy, they’re planting. When the weeds are winning, they’re pulling. When the sun is blazing, they’re mulching. And when others are sheltering indoors, they’re out there checking on trees. They quietly and consistently care for one of Nimbin’s most loved community spaces. Their work isn’t glamorous — it’s muddy boots, sore backs and early mornings — but the result is something we all benefit from: a greener, healthier and more beautiful Rainbow Walk. They don’t do it for recognition. They do it because they care. A grounded, generous group whose steady commitment reflects the very heart of this community.

Nimbin Country Womens Association Nimbin Branch
The Nimbin CWA reformed in February 2019 — and just seven months later, they were thrown straight into a baptism of fire. During the devastating bushfires of September 2019, they stepped up to take over the School of Arts, feeding firefighters, volunteers and a shaken community. In 2020, they made Fig Tree House at the Community Centre their home, transforming it into a vibrant, welcoming space complete with a commercial kitchen and a now legendary op shop. And when the floods of 2022 hit, they were there again — cooking, supporting and showing up for those who needed it most. Everything they raise flows straight back into the community, supporting local schools, environmental groups, the neighbourhood centre, hospital and many others — often quietly helping individuals along the way. They are a democratic, inclusive group who meet every challenge with generosity, resilience and a wicked sense of humour. A powerhouse of care, action and community spirit — and a group that continues to show up, no matter what.

Nimbin Environment Centre
The Nimbin Environment Centre has been a fully volunteer-run organisation since the days of the Aquarius Festival, quietly holding a strong environmental voice in the community for decades. While many know the shop on Cullen Street — open seven days a week, all year round — what sits behind it is much bigger: a hub for environmental action, education and connection. Volunteers share knowledge, support campaigns, contribute to local and regional movements, and create a space where people can engage with the issues shaping our future. Through bushfires, floods and everything in between, they have continued to show up — keeping the doors open, supporting the community and staying active when it matters most. It’s a collective effort, built on consistency, care and a deep commitment to both people and the environment — the kind of work that doesn’t always get seen, but is felt everywhere.

Nimbin Good Times
For 30 years, Nimbin Good Times has been the voice of Nimbin — a true independent media outlet driven by a dedicated team of volunteers. From its humble beginnings to now, the paper has provided a platform for community voices, ideas, and stories, allowing a diverse range of views to be expressed and heard. The team includes co-editors, layout specialists, proofreaders, distributors and more — all volunteers who give their time freely to keep the paper alive and running month after month. In a time when independent media is under pressure, the Nimbin Good Times remains an invaluable resource for local news, issues, and community connection. Whether overcoming technical challenges, finding creative solutions to transport issues during natural disasters, or navigating the daily hurdles of publishing, the team continues to show up, work hard, and keep the spirit of community media alive. The paper’s ongoing success is thanks to the tireless effort of all involved, and the Northern Rivers community is grateful for their commitment to keeping us informed and connected.

Nimbin Organic Food Co-op
For over a decade, the Nimbin Co-op has been a vital part of our community, run entirely by over 60 dedicated volunteers. They ensure that more than 600 members and many visitors can access healthy, organic food year-round, even on holidays. But the Co-op is more than just a food hub. It’s a place where friendships are formed and community spirit thrives. Volunteers not only run the store but also support local growers and producers, while helping make good food accessible to those who might otherwise go without. Over the years, the Co-op has also supported local groups such as Nimbin Central School, Nimbin Youth Organisation and other community initiatives, quietly strengthening the fabric of our village. This kind of steady, behind-the-scenes commitment — practical, generous and constant — is exactly what the Golden Gumboot Award celebrates.

Rural Fire Service
It’s been a quieter few years since the fires, but in 2019, when Nimbin was nearly burnt to the ground, the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and their dedicated volunteers were at the heart of our community’s survival. While many worked together, it was the RFS who led the way, saving homes and ensuring the safety of all those in the fire’s path. Their selflessness, often under intense pressure and in difficult conditions, has left an unforgettable mark on our town. For their unwavering commitment and courage in times of crisis, the RFS volunteers truly deserve recognition with the Golden Gumboot Award. Thank you to all who have given their time, energy, and courage to protect our community.

Vollies of the NCCI
The Nimbin Community Centre is supported by a small but dedicated group of volunteers who quietly care for its gardens and grounds, helping keep the space welcoming and beautiful for everyone who uses it. They show up consistently, putting in the time and effort needed to maintain a place that so many in the community rely on, and they do it with warmth, generosity and a smile. It’s steady, behind-the-scenes care like this that makes a real difference — and reflects exactly what the Golden Gumboot Award is all about.

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