The action plan is currently open for public consultation, I’ve read through it and am working on a response. If I’m honest, as someone passionate about pipe smoking and tobacco, the law changes do not impact me whatsoever. I am actually in favour of a lot of them, especially where they crossover with social and health inequities faced by certain demographics. In fact think these action groups are doing a disservice to these inequities by NOT exploring the impact that easy access to and abuse of alcohol has on communities.
Anyways, I find it hilarious how almost half of the recommendations pertain to making tobacco taste, well more like tobacco.
My ventures into whole leaf blending and homegrown over the last year or so has provided an invaluable change of mindset from only relating to tobacco as a commodity to understanding her as a plant.
The reality is, unless your a wealthy bugger or have had success with smuggling tobacco into the country, there has been no economically viable means for creating a stockpile for the last 7 years or so.
If anything, recent changes in my country’s legislation have actually spurred me into a greater love for the tradition. It has also provided a catalyst for fostering a sense of community amongst local smokers. Sure, half the time we spend shaking our fist at the powers that be, but I think that is a trait shared by brethren around the world regardless of tobacco access.
By increasing awareness and education about how to smoke well (somewhat of an oxymoron I know), I believe pipe smoking will retain a faithful following down under for generations to come. At least the government and I agree on one thing. I’m a codger at heart, and soon to be by law.