FNQ Cannabis

THE GOOD OIL

Paul Makin

Journalist

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Rose and Peter from Mossman say medical marijuana is a godsend. Picture: Paul Makin

In a groundbreaking development, medical marijuana is becoming increasingly accessible in Australia, offering hope to patients in need of its therapeutic benefits.

This miracle painkiller, prescribed by doctors to treat specific medical conditions, is now providing relief to individuals like Peter from Mossman. Unlike recreational marijuana, medical marijuana is subject to strict regulation, with availability limited to patients holding valid prescriptions. Nonetheless, a black market for this medication persists, with some patients resorting to clandestine methods, including mailing cash payments.

For Peter (65) and his partner Rose, their journey to obtaining medical marijuana has been entirely legal. They consulted a doctor who prescribed it, and the medication was shipped from Melbourne to Mossman. Having recently relocated to the region, the couple attests to its effectiveness in managing Peter's anxiety and sleep deprivation. Peter shared his experience with Newsport, stating, "For a year now, I've been on CBD oil for my anxiety and THC for sleep, and there's a synergy between the two; they complement each other, and the result has been amazing in my case.

THC and CBD oils work together to give Peter relief from his anxiety and lack of sleep. Picture: Paul Makin

" A Federal Government survey carried out in 2016 found out that older people, particularly those aged 60 and over, were most likely to use cannabis only for medicinal purposes, while people in their 20s were least likely to use it for medicinal purposes. 

The Origins

Medical marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, contains over 100 different chemicals known as cannabinoids. The two primary cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, commonly referred to as the "high," associated with marijuana. In contrast, CBD is non-psychoactive and promotes relaxation. Even medical marijuana containing THC is carefully dosed to minimize the "high" feeling. While research into cannabinoid benefits is ongoing, preliminary findings suggest that medical marijuana can effectively treat anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, seizure disorders, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis without causing addiction.

A Milestone 

A significant milestone in the medical cannabis landscape has been achieved in Far North Queensland with the opening of the Wild Leaf Dispensary at 321 Sheridan Street in Cairns. Federal MP Warren Entsch hails this development as a monumental breakthrough and a sign of progressive change. He shared, "My conviction to have its benefits recognized was fuelled years ago during a trip to Alaska, where I observed the tremendous positive impact these dispensaries have in local communities” Mr. Entsch emphasized the need for harmonizing legislation across states while expressing his belief that medical cannabis will pave the way for a more compassionate healthcare system. Peter and Rose, along with many locals, are enthusiastic about the Wild Leaf Dispensary's opening, echoing the sentiment that Australia should follow the example set by dispensaries in the United States, like the Reef Dispensaries in Las Vegas. When this reporter visited these dispensaries, I discovered not only do they provide a wide range of high-quality marijuana products but also contribute to shrinking the black market and generating substantial revenue for their states. ‘We’ll now look at getting my medical cannabis in Cairns and look forward to visiting the Wild Leaf Dispensary” said Peter. Figures obtained by the Greens in a survey show that the legalisation of cannabis would generate more than $28 billion in government revenue in the first decade after legalisation.

Watch out!

While Peter and Rose, along with countless others, hold on to hope for expanded access to medical marijuana in Australia, there’s a stark disconnect between government policies and community support.  In a glaring example of this divide, the state of Queensland maintains a zero-tolerance stance on drug driving, even when individuals are using medically prescribed THC. Under Queensland law, driving with THC in one's system, even if prescribed by a doctor, is deemed an offense. A first-time offender could face a maximum fine of 14 penalty units or, upon conviction, a prison sentence of up to 3 months. This stringent approach underscores the challenges of state-federal cooperation. It's worth noting that in 2016, the Australian federal government enacted legislation allowing registered healthcare professionals to prescribe various cannabis-based products to patients. However, the situation on the ground in Far North Queensland reveals a stark contrast, where individuals using medical marijuana can find themselves treated as criminals by Police who are, in fairness, simply enforcing existing laws. The disconnect between federal policy and state-level enforcement highlights the need for a more unified and coordinated approach to the issue of medical marijuana in Australia, as the nation grapples with the complex interplay between patient needs and legal restrictions.

The syringe Peter uses to take the oil orally. Picture: Paul Makin
Only a small amount is needed to settle Peters anxiety and give him a good night’s sleep. Picture: Paul Makin
MP Warren Entsch firmly believe that medical cannabis will enable a more compassionate and progressive healthcare system in Australia. Picture: Paul Makin
A Reef Dispensary in the United States where even Seniors get discounts. Picture: Supplied

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