I ran out of Swedish snus (oral tobacco) Friday two weeks ago. This was due to an unforeseen delay of my shipment from Sweden. A delay neither the Swedish or Australian postal service could explain.

Nicotine withdrawal is not a pleasant experience. I became so desperate that weekend I decided to give Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) lozenges a try.

After just one lozenge I had a better understanding why some just give up and go back to smoking. These nicotine lozenges is far from satisfying. Not to mention, they taste awful.

Research has shown that smoking cessation success rate when not using NRTs is at 10%, but when using NRTs it only rises up to 17%.

Plain packaging was introduced last year in Australia to encourage people to stop smoking and to make it less appealing to start smoking.

This is probably the most aggressive smoking cessation approach put into action so far.

It might seem as an exaggeration to call plain packaging an aggressive approach, but in fact there has not been anything more drastic done than this to make people stop smoking.

Except for oral tobacco such as Swedish snus.

In 1991 oral tobacco was federally banned in Australia with seemingly little resistance, as it was claimed that all oral tobacco can cause oral cancer. Even though the Trade Practice Commission advised the science behind those claims were not satisfactory.

Earlier this year a similar struggle was happening between EU and Sweden, where sale of Swedish snus has been banned throughout EU since 1992, but Sweden has been exempt from the ban — for now.

EU tried to impose new rules on what should be allowed to be added to Swedish snus, specifically flavouring, but also trying to put restrictions on tobacco content — risking change to a tradition that is about 200 years old.

Pirate MEP Christian Engström gave a passionate speech to the EU parliament 21 March this year. Saying that plain packaging of smoking tobacco will most likely have an effect on younger people to make smoking less attractive, but might not have a huge impact on those already addicted to smoking cigarettes.

“We also have an obligation to look at what we can do to help current smokers stop smoking,” MEP Engström said.

“Sweden has 13 percent smoking prevalence — the average in Europe is 28 percent.”

The effects of this is that Sweden has the lowest rate of lung cancer and mouth cancer mortality in Europe.

“It is very frustrating that the [EU] commission seems to have decided to ban [Swedish] snus — then it is very selectively reading the scientific reports to gain support for that.”

MEP Engström added that if EU took a harm reduction approach regarding smoking, allowing Swedish snus, it could save about 350,000 lives per year in the EU.

The EU commission were not successful with imposing new restrictions on Swedish snus in Sweden.

I then decided to contact Dr Karl Olov Fagerström who has 20 years of experience in nicotine research. Whom is also supportive of the harm reduction approach, pointing out that a complete ban on products that might help with smoking cessation is counterproductive.

“No one wants to ban cigarettes, yet Swedish snus that is 90-99% less harmful is subject to bans,” he said in an email to me.

I was also given two recent research articles showing that nicotine is not as harmful as first thought, and a research article showing that Swedish snus is less harmful than smoking.

This selective reading of scientific research is not unique to EU, as it seems to also be common in Australia.

On the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission’s (ACCC) website it is claimed that all oral tobacco cause cancer.

When I contacted ACCC about this, they responded by saying they “rely on credible scientific research” that is available on NCI’s website. Adding that studies, seven to be exact, on their website are “significant and authoritative.”

ACCC informed me the ban of all smokeless tobacco products, in 1991 in Australia, was based on studies only focusing on smokeless tobacco originating from USA, due to the lack of research on smokeless tobacco from Scandinavia, such as Swedish snus.

Yet now that there is more research available on Swedish snus the EU and the Australian government seemingly ignores it.

Even the Swedish Cancer Council, Cancerfonden, states on their website that Swedish snus is not without risk. However, due to the most recent research that is available they admit not being comfortable claiming that it causes cancer.

Which is a different approach than what Cancer Council Queensland (CCQ) takes.

CCQ also rely on the same information as ACCC sources from NCI and is not accepting of recent research regarding Swedish snus.

CCQ spokesperson Katie Clift claims that Swedish snus is not a safe alternative to smoking.

“There is also no evidence to suggest that legalising snuff would encourage current smokers to quit and take up the alternative,” she claims.

Presumably not familiar with recent, valid and reputable studies that are available, showing that using Swedish snus as an NRT alternative has proven to be successful.

When I challenged these claims by providing these research articles, among others, regarding Swedish snus I was told that the only reliable source regarding oral tobacco and cancer is from NCI.

I asked if I could meet with someone at CCQ to discuss this further, but was only invited to call them if I had more questions regarding this topic.

On the phone, the first thing I was told that the conversation should be considered off-the-record. Not impressed, I still agreed to this as I thought I would be provided with some interesting information.

But alas, the call was a fruitless endeavour, as I was given the same statements again. That research from NCI is the only trustworthy research and any other research that says otherwise is not valid. Which is why I find it justifiable to divulge I had an off-the-record conversation with someone at CCQ.

A similar discourse has also been going on in Norway recently. Where the science that highlights Swedish snus to be successful as a smoking cessation alternative and less harmful than cigarettes has been blatantly ignored.

ENT Erik Zadig was very frustrated with the current discourse and decided to write about his experience with cigarettes and Swedish snus in Aftenposten.

“I have worked as an ENT for 30 years and during that time I have witnessed how smoking have caused cancer; orally, in the larynx, throat and other parts of the body. I can however not remember one single case where cancer was attributed to Swedish snus,” he wrote.

He also wrote that nicotine on its own is approved as a treatment to be used for smoking cessation. From that he can only assume it means nicotine is not considered to be very hazardous. Adding that Swedish snus is far less harmful than cigarettes, and it should be considered as an acceptable substance to be used for smoking cessation.

When talking about health and tobacco it is always a bit contested to talk with a tobacco company, but by ignoring them can also be a bit unfair. Which is why I decided to contact the largest and oldest producer of Swedish snus in Sweden, Swedish Match, to hear what they had to say about this.

Swedish Match Manager Public Affairs Johan Wredberg tells me pretty much the same what MEP Christian Engström and Dr Karl Olov Fagerström has already told me, that Swedish snus is far less harmful than cigarettes and even American oral tobacco.

The way Swedish snus is produced results in it containing very low levels of nitrosamines, much lower than American oral tobacco.

“Swedish snus has about 0.8-1.2 parts per million (ppm),” which is below WHO’s suggested level for consumables, 5 ppm.

He also forwarded a journal article to me, originating from Australia, [originally] called Supping with the devil, where the authors argue that allowing Swedish snus in Australia would have a positive impact on smoking cessation.

“Epidemiological modelling based on the Swedish experience indicates that there would be major public health gains if a substantial number of current smokers in other countries could also be persuaded to switch to this product,” Dr Gartner and Dr Hall writes.

This is supported by an article written by Prof. Robert Nilsson from last year, stating that there is no convincing data that shows Swedish snus to be a cancer risk as often claimed.

“A lot of consumables contain low levels of potential carcinogens, such as aflatoxins. When those levels are below a certain limit, those consumable are not labelled as carcinogenic. The same standard should apply to Swedish snus with low levels of nitrosamines.”

There is no secret that the consumption of tobacco products is not part of a healthy, staple diet. Nor is alcohol, but we tolerate moderate consumptions of alcohol and see to it that what is sold follows certain, strict guidelines and laws — such as in Sweden regarding Swedish snus.

This would be the most preferably approach for now. Not banning a product that is less harmful than cigarettes and that can be an alternative aid in smoking cessation.

More importantly, the debate surrounding it should be based on science and facts. Looking at all the data that is available and recent. Not letting choices and the debate be lead by bias and opinions.

The scientific research regarding cigarettes and American oral tobacco is in agreement, that both products are hazardous to your health and have a high likelihood to give you cancer.

The scientific research regarding Swedish snus on the other hand seems to slowly be proving it being less harmful than first thought, and more difficult to prove a strong link between it and cancer. What the researchers do agree on, regarding Swedish snus, is that more research needs to be done before we decide if it is linked to cancer or not.

Lastly, if smokers want to use Swedish snus as a possible smoking cessation alternative, especially if they have exhausted all other options, it should be legally, and easily, available to them. Until it is proven without doubt that Swedish snus is as bad as cigarettes — then we can talk about banning all tobacco products, not a select few as we are doing right now in some countries.

After a hiatus of a few years, the indie folk-pop band is back in town as part of a national tour ahead of their forthcoming album release in 2014. It’s been four years since the popular Queensland-based musicians did a tour of this magnitude. The Carousel tour will take them to their favourite venues in metro centres and see them showcase material from their new album of the same name, due for release in February 2014.

women in docs would easily be one of the country’s most well-respected independent acts. Featuring esteemed musicians Roz Pappalardo [acoustic guitar | vocals | harmonica | banjo] and West End local Chanel Lucas [acoustic guitar | vocals | bass | ukulele], their acoustic style has earned them fans around the world. They’ve toured rigorously and their stirring and humorous live performances have endeared audiences throughout North America, Europe, New Zealand and Canada.

Dubbed as festival favourites, women in docs have performed at the likes of SXSW, Shanghai Spring Music Festival, and the International Folk Festival in Germany to name a few. Back at home, they’ve been on the bill at the Port Fairy Folk Festival, Big Day Out, Woodford Folk Festival and Adelaide Fringe Festival.

The band first came to prominence in the late 1990’s with their debut self-titled EP. They now have seven releases under their belt, and their eighth, Carousel, is set for release on Friday 7th February 2014. The new album has been an ongoing work in progress by the girls – something they’ve penned and tweaked over the last few years. The result is a different look at women in docs, while still adhering to their roots.

Chanel says it’s been a process of three years of songwriting, recording, re-recording and hard work to create Carousel. With all the members of women in docs being based around Australia, it’s been a challenge combining everyone’s schedules and getting them together to record. “Roz and I have been writing songs every time we do get together – backstage at gigs, in rehearsal rooms, on airplanes, in the car on the way to gigs,” says Chanel. “We have even been sharing files via Skype and Dropbox – it really is an album created via modern technology. As a result, the songs are fantastic. We think it is our best yet. We have really focused on the songwriting and on working together as a team to create something that’s essentially women in docs. It is a polished, catchy set of tunes that we are very proud of.”

Roz says they are both really excited about sharing tracks from the new album with audiences on this tour. “I think the new songs capture a sense of maturity from us as songwriters, producers, touring artists and humans,” she says. “We’ve grown up a lot in the last few years that we’ve been off the road and our music careers have grown both as women in docs, solo artists and arts workers in a broader context. The shows will be fun, high energy and reflective at the same time. We’ll be playing the songs from our new album Carousel, along with some of our tried and true favourites, which we love playing as they’ve brought us many years of happiness.”

women in docs fans will be eager to see the band in concert. Prior to their recent touring hiatus, they were known as one of the hardest working touring bands in the business, constantly on the road. Roz says they are equally as eager to get back on the road again. “We love the road,” she says. “In fact, it’s the reason why we started women in docs in the first place – to travel, meet people and be inspired. We’re really looking forward to dusting off the Doc Martens, getting in the tour van and playing these venues. We’ve worked really hard to present this show in venues that we think reflect where we are with our careers and the kinds of songs we’re now writing. We think our audiences have grown with us – so we can’t wait to play some of our favourite venues and some venues we’ve always wanted to play.”

As they gear up for the run of dates, women in docs are also releasing the first single off of the album, the title track Carousel. Chanel says they chose this track as the first preview to the album as it was one they wrote together. “It’s about a common theme for women in docs – travel,” she says. “But it also explores the ideas of freedom, not being tied down and following your dreams. These are also themes within the album as a whole. The title of the song – Carousel – references a baggage carousel at the airport, but also the fun of a show-ride carousel. women in docs are known for their energetic live shows, sense of humour and fun, as well as our songwriting and harmonies. We hope that this collection of songs encompasses all of that.”

women in docs hit the road in November. Tickets are on sale now.

More info: http://womenindocs.wordpress.com/

Brisbane Performance:
Saturday 16th November 2013
Brisbane Powerhouse, Visy Theatre, BRISBANE QLD
http://brisbanepowerhouse.org

Residents and visitors alike will soon have the opportunity to experience a visit to the markets right in the beating heart of West End.

The exciting new Boundary Street Markets will burst onto the scene in the beating heart of West End from Saturday 16th November and every Saturday & Sunday thereafter.

Housed on the historic site of the old Peter’s Icecream Factory (now the Absoe site) on the corner of Boundary & Mollison Streets, the Boundary Street Markets will gather together an incredible group of over one hundred growers, food producers, local artisans and designers.

From 7am – 2pm every Saturday and Sunday, discover anything from art and artichokes to zebra statues and zippy bags – and everything in between.  Passionate traders will present their finest product in a bustling market that extends across the carparks and buildings of the historic site.

Every weekend, source the very freshest for your weekly fruit & veg shop, buy an exclusive gift or just have a fresh roasted coffee, while taking in the unique West End community vibe.

Situated on the corner of Boundary & Mollison Streets in the heart of West End, the markets are easy to access with the City Glider bus stopping right outside the door.  But you can catch the train, ride your bike, take a walk, or even drive…

Offering everything from local fresh and exotic growers and producers, including farm fresh produce, organics, herbs, flowers, bread, pastry, honey, seafood, meat, cakes, eggs, spices, teas, coffee, yoghurt, nuts, oils, deli, juices, icecream, muesli, pate, antipasto, candy, gelato, popcorn, gluten free.  PLUS homewares, eco products, jewellery, fashion, retro, handmade, antique traders, vintage, upcycled, recycled, knitters, stationery, kids style, tea makers, clothing, bohemian style, silversmiths, art, pottery, candles, body products, ink and so much more.

Every Saturday and Sunday commencing 16th & 17th November from 7am – 2pm.

Jump onto the website for more information.
www.boundarystreetmarkets.com.au

 

People’s Park in Boundary St a focus for community engagement.

On October 10, the Inner South Interagency Network (ISIN) held an event for the local West End Community as a part of Mental Health Day.

The local community was invited to join us for an afternoon of sausages, singing and fun activities at People’s Park in Boundary Street, West End.  The event was attended by a wide variety of people including those with a lived experience of mental ill health, local service providers and the general public.

Music was provided by the Richmond Fellowship’s Choir and a drumming circle supported by Reclink, drawing in passing crowds.  A free sausage sizzle, cold drinks and fruit were also provided to the general public.

Activities on the day included art and craft, yoga, hula hooping, juggling and a yarning circle.  Information about support services for those experiencing mental health difficulties was also available on the day.

The event was kindly funded by the local councillor Helen Abrahams, via the Suburban Initiative Fund.  Over 150 people attended the event and ISIN hopes to make the event an annual occurrence.

Ltyentye Apurte was named for a local stand of bloodwood trees and Keringke Arts is named after an important and ancient place that was formed when the ancestor Kangaroo was passing through this land. Several of the Keringke Artists have responsibilities associated with the Keringke Rockhole site.

Keringke Arts today produces a wide variety of art products, reflecting the colour, rhythm and ambience of the land that is home for the Eastern Arrernte artists. The artists are represented nationally and internationally in many collections, and the work is prized for its unique style and authentic connection to an ancient living culture.

Various painters have developed this style of painting at Keringke Arts over a twenty-year period. The artists use pattern, colour, shape and design to create paintings that depict country, culture and self.

What: Keringke Arts
Where: Woollongabba Art Gallery, Stanley St Woollongabba
When: 12 Nov ~ 21Dec
Opening: Friday 15th Novembrer 6 ~ 9pm

 

The opening scenes of Across the Universe neatly compare and contrast sixties USA with Liverpool England through a pastiche of scenes from the Cavern (the Liverpool club that nurtured the unborn Beatles) and a US school prom dance.

The stark difference between the post-imperial rust-bucket economy of the UK and the effervescent affluence of a coming of age USA may well be instructive for those comparing the US and China, but for Beatles fans, the glimpse of the claustrophobic curves of the Cavern and the regimented back streets of England’s industrial North are tantalizingly brief.

Good ol’ Freda is a new film that leads us through the portal of the Beatle’s fan club directly into that world. It is recreated lovingly through photos, reminiscences and contemporary footage. At the heart of this recreation is the Beatle’s secretary and mainstay Freda Kelly. She took over the running of their fan club in 1964 and was tapped on the shoulder by Brian Epstein to take on the formal role as his secretary.

“The music scene was a man’s world in the sixties and the only role for women was in administration. There was not much to aspire to other than being the secretary of the man at the top. As Brian Epstein’s secretary I did not have far to go, I just had to hang on.”

Freda had flings with some of the Fab Four but her kiss and don’t tell approach speaks volumes that are more delicious than if she had revealed blow by blow details that dominate the dollar-a-bonk, contemporary-romance genre driving Kindle sales.

Freda is fundamentally a decent human being. Loyal, firm and fair, she does not move to London when Epstein takes Fab Four headquarters there because her Dad is ill, lonely and worried about her. Rather than lose her stabilizing influence, Epstein splits headquarters, has a chat to old-mate Kelly and organizes a cross-England commute for Good ol’ Freda.

Pregnant with her second child and faced with a dysfunctional band following Epstein’s death Freda tells Apple management “I won’t be coming back to work. I’ve a life to get on with.”

Harrison replies, “Freda you were there at the beginning and now you’re going, maybe we should just end it here.”

And they did.

Her final editorial for the monthly Beatles magazine that she edited for more than a decade declared the Beatles formally disbanded. Her one page letter was reprinted around the world in every media available at the time.

Millions of people in their fifties and more remember that letter being read on the news, pored over in the playground and analysed from the pulpit.

Ultimately this is a nostalgic film, bringing back those memories for those millions.

It has another, powerful dimension, though. In an era when fame for fame’s sake and the instant gratification of always-on communications has raised a whole series of moral questions, Freda’s down to earth, honest love and respect for the fans cuts through the clutter.

I’m fascinated what today’s media-savvy, cyber-cynical pop-consumers may have to say about it. I’m not sure they’ll be flocking to Freda to find out. Perhaps it’s a family outing, three generations of Beatle fans can get together and reflect on the last fifty years of pop music.

‘Could be a thing.

What: Good Ol’ Freda: Australian Premiere Screening

When: November 7th, 6:30pm

Where: Brisbane Multicultural Arts Centre (BEMAC), 102 Main Street, Kangaroo Point

Tickets: $16 + free complimentary drink on arrival (beer, wine, non-alcoholic)

Buy tickets: http://goodolfredabrisbane.eventbrite.com.au/

Subscribers to Westender eNews had the opportunity to win free tickets to this screening. The prize was taken out by long-term Beatle fan, Mike Meade. Congratulations to Mike and his mate who will be enjoying a night out courtesy of Westender and Antidote Films.

To register for Westender eNews simply click here