Lismore News

Photo essay on Lismore’s flood survivors is Sydney bound

Published

3 years ago

21 October 2022

JeffG

Photo essay on Lismore’s flood survivors is Sydney bound

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin has arranged for some of award-winning photojournalist Jacklyn Wagner’s stunning portraits of the city’s flood survivors to be displayed at NSW Parliament House next month.

The exhibition, ‘Through the heart … a flood of fears and tears’, which could be described as Wagner’s love letter to Lismore and its resilient spirit, will be opened by Ms Saffin in Sydney on 8 November and runs until 24 November.

Ms Saffin said she is thrilled that 25 portraits from a much larger body of work – 100 images taken in local homes during the mud army’s post-flood clean-up – will be showcased in the halls of Parliament.

“This exhibition will keep the issue of flood recovery in the spotlight because there is still so much to do in ‘building back better’ and it documents a tragic event in our history with great empathy and sensitivity,” Ms Saffin said.

Ms Saffin thanked NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and NSW Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin MLC for taking a personal interest in the community-led project and supporting the exhibition.

Jacklyn Wagner, a former chief photographer at The Northern Star and photographer for the Our Kids calendar (now in its 21^st year), described her photo essay as an organic project which grew out of the adrenalin-filled weeks following the February 28 flood.

“I carried just one camera, one lens, a notepad and pen, and I thank all the people who welcomed me into their homes, 90 per cent of which had never flooded, and who shared their personal stories,” Wagner said.

“It’s been a labour of love for me and local writer Jennie Dell, who is helping me with editing the captions for the photographs and penning an introduction for the exhibition itself.

“I’m grateful to Janelle Saffin; she really is a pocket rocket when you want to get something done, and to the Premier for responding so genuinely to the photographs; I could tell by reading his letter to me that he’d really looked at them.

“It is hoped that sometime next year we will be able to exhibit all 100 images at Parliament House.”

Local businesses assisting Wagner mount the upcoming exhibition include Jon Paterson owner of The New Camera House (printing); Rhonda Armistead of Armistead’s Quality Framing (framing); Soren Hjorth of Grafiti Design Studio (graphic design); and Chas Glover (art installer). All were slammed by the floods but are rebuilding their businesses.

Below are captions for three photographs to accompany this media release and a backgrounder, About the collection by Jacklyn Wagner:

FROM THE HEART: Lismore MP Janelle Saffin introduced photojournalist Jacklyn Wagner to Premier Dominic Perrottet in State Parliament this week as Jacklyn prepares for the upcoming exhibition.

JILL Witham has lived in her South Lismore home for six years.

“I was rescued from my neighbours’ roof from where I watched my own home go under”. Photo: Jacklyn Wagner

SIMON Robinson lives in South Lismore. A collector of fine art and vintage wares specialising in fine paper, books and fabric, Simon lost ninety percent of his collection.

“I thought we were doomed, and I rang a friend to say goodbye. I dropped my phone in the water after my last goodbye phone call”.

Simon remembered a gable at the front of the house and from there hours later was rescue by two civilians in a boat.

About the collection by Jacklyn Wagner

I was not at home when disaster struck Lismore on February 28, 2022.

My daughter was expecting a baby. We were needed on the Gold Coast and had left town a few days before. We watched the catastrophic rain event in horror from afar. Our beautiful grandson Tommy was born days after the flood came up. Then we went home.

We listened to the stories of close relatives and friends, who had themselves been impacted by the dangerous, dirty waters now surrounding our town. Some told us of how they had joined the “mud army” – civilian rescuers, in any watercraft they could use, saving hundreds of townsfolk who had been at risk of their lives.

Walking and driving around the streets, I soon had a feel for what was unfolding. There was an adrenalin-like energy; hundreds of people were helping each other in countless ways.

In the back of my mind were the first stirrings of what I might do photographically. I decided I would just let it come to me. A fortnight later, I woke up one morning and knew exactly what I needed to do.

I would document the actuality of residents in their ruined surroundings, if they would let me, exactly as I found them.

I would simply ask them – people who had lost everything or saved something; people who now needed to start reclaiming their homes and lives – if I may take a picture of them. No lights, no paraphernalia – just a picture.

I knew it was important to document these moments in time, but had no thought or even concern about what might become of my work.

I didn’t know how I would be received, but many years’ professional experience as a photojournalist in this town has given me confidence. Armed with my camera and notepad, I felt fearless.

I drove to South Lismore and stopped at the first house where there was a car parked outside.

There was a woman at home. I introduced myself and told her what I was doing. I explained I had no idea what would become of this work, but that I felt it was important and would end up somewhere significant.

She welcomed me into her unliveable, flood-devastated home. She thanked me for my interest and foresight.

(That first person I photographed for the project was Suzanne Johnson, who features in the collection. Her family had lost everything, including their dogs).

From that day I drove most days to the flood-affected areas in Lismore and knocked on doors. Only once was I rejected. Between three and sixteen weeks post-flood, I covered just shy of 100 homes.

The time I spent with people was around twenty minutes. They were photographed in their home and I took notes as they talked about whatever was in their heart that day.

The words I will use to accompany the images in the exhibition will be simple, succinct and often something said by the subject of the image; a heartfelt quote.

I photographed people as I found them. Many cried, most were hurting deeply – and six months later, most still are.

I stopped photographing, 16 weeks post-flood, for two reasons: to limit the proposed exhibition to 100 images, and to capture it in a distinct bubble of time.

Those initial post-flood months now have passed. Though little has improved in our landscape, it has changed. New days are dawning, bringing new waves of hope and hopelessness.

Six weeks after the disaster I was once again having a screw removed from my tyre. I had been so often in the flood-affected areas, parking near piles of debris where there was an abundance of screws and nails from the clean-up. Along with others I became a regular at the tyre shop.

While waiting there, I received a catch-up call from my friend, Dr Chris Ingall. I told him of my project.

Dr Ingall just happened to be hosting newly elected Lismore mayor Steve Krieg and his family at his home. Mayor Krieg had lost his family home and two businesses to the flood.

It was suggested I put some images together and give them to the Mayor, who was travelling to meet with the NSW Premier, and with the Prime Minister, to discuss the disaster.

Unable to have anything printed, or copies made, in Lismore and surrounds, because so many businesses had been destroyed, I went to Sydney.

Officeworks in Mittagong promptly printed a collection of some of the images I had done. I had three copies made: one for the Premier, one for the Prime Minister, and one for me.

I hurriedly brought them back, met with the Mayor and gave him the two copies to deliver….which he did.

The first was presented to the NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet. Some days later I received a letter from him. I knew by the wording he had really looked at the images and I could feel he was moved. He understood their importance.

I am so grateful for that letter; it gave me the determination to push ahead.

Later I also had a copy of a selection of images made for our State MP for Lismore, Janelle Saffin. We spoke at length, which helped with my vision to take the collection of images forward.

This 100-image body of work is just one aspect of the disaster that has confronted our community. I believe it is highly significant now and into the future.

It comprises a comprehensive representation of the Lismore community – long-term residents, even some third and fourth generations, homeowners, newcomers, renters, young families, artists, people with disabilities. One thing they share is their deep love of community. The decisions that lay ahead are difficult for them, on many fronts.

I have made a group email of all the people I photographed and as promised kept everyone up to date with anything related to the images. I have full records of individual subjects with their addresses and contact details.

This data will become vital and fascinating information that will allow for future follow-ups, to see what has become of those one hundred individuals, their homes, streets and communities.

The project was gentle, the participants have shown such courage and for that I really thank them.

I hope this can be an exhibition that makes them realise that through my images they will never be forgotten.

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Breaking News

Lismore Set for Construction Surge as $46 Million in Developments Approved in March

Published

1 week ago

17 April 2025

JeffG

Lismore Poised for Construction Boom with $46 Million in Development Approvals in March

Lismore is entering a period of rapid construction growth, with more than $46 million worth of Development Applications (DAs) approved in March alone, propelling the total value of developments for the 2023–24 financial year toward an expected $100 million milestone—a figure typically achieved only in a strong full year.

Mayor Steve Krieg Lismore City described the March approvals as a “phenomenal sign of business confidence” in the city’s future, noting that the 34 DAs approved included not only significant local projects but also new developments driven by external investors who recognise Lismore’s growth potential.

Among the notable March approvals were:

A $8.5 million office development in the CBD
A $2.7 million community facility
Two large-scale residential projects by the Arch Diocese
Stage 2 of Eastwood Estate, a $10 million development comprising 176 residential lots

“These are not just rebuilds—they are entirely new investments from outside Lismore,” Mayor Krieg said. “It’s a sign that confidence in our economy is returning, and Lismore is once again seen as a smart place to invest.”

He praised Council’s planning team for their efficiency, with 80% of DAs approved within expected timeframes and an average approval time just under 80 days, well ahead of many other regional councils.

Following the devastation of the 2022 flood event, Council has focused on sustainable urban growth and resilience. A recent audit of Lismore’s inner CBD shows that occupancy rates have remained stable despite ongoing economic pressures.

“These figures show we’re not just rebuilding—we’re growing,” Mayor Krieg added. “Lismore is open for business and ready for long-term investment.”

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Breaking News

Lismore Man’s $100,000 Keno Win

Published

1 month ago

21 March 2025

JeffG

Lismore Man’s $100,000 Keno Win Leaves Him Sleepless with Excitement

A Lismore retiree is still coming to terms with his incredible $100,000 Keno win, revealing that excitement kept him awake all night after checking his numbers and realising his life-changing fortune.

The Northern Rivers resident secured a Keno Classic 15 Spot prize in draw 838, drawn on Wednesday, 19 March 2025. While many winners dream of lavish holidays, new cars, or mortgage-free living, the Lismore man has decided to bank the full amount for the future, ensuring financial security in his retirement.

A Night to Remember at Lismore Workers Club

The lucky winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased his ticket at the Lismore Workers Club, 231 Keen Street, Lismore. He was enjoying a meal with a close friend when he realised something extraordinary had happened.

“I’m still in shock! It caught me off guard,” he admitted. “I didn’t sleep a wink last night! I was absolutely flabbergasted.”

The win unfolded in a moment of disbelief, with the retiree struggling to process the reality of his numbers appearing on the screen.

“It happened so quickly—I could barely comprehend what was going on. I looked at the results and immediately recognised a lot of my numbers, which are based on my grandchildren’s birthdates.”

Sitting across from his friend at the Lismore Workers Club, he turned and said:

“I think I just won $100,000!”

His friend, equally stunned, responded: “What?! Wait, what? Take a picture!”

The winner spoke highly of the Lismore Workers Club, which had reopened last September after the devastating floods.

“We love this club. They’ve been great to us, and we’re proud to be members.”

A Responsible Approach to a Life-Changing Win

Despite the temptation to splurge, the Lismore retiree has chosen to save his winnings for the future.

“I’m going to put the prize into the bank and let it sit there. Being retired and on the pension, I want to make sure I make the most of this windfall.”

He expressed deep gratitude to Keno and Lismore Workers Club, saying:

“Thank you, Keno! Thank you, Lismore Workers Club!”

Club Celebrates Major Win

Lismore Workers Club duty manager Jye Livingstone said the atmosphere was electric when the major win was announced.

“Knowing that we sold a major Keno-winning entry brings a lot of joy to our team. It’s always exciting to see our patrons win big—it’s a moment we won’t forget.”

The buzz quickly spread among the club’s patrons, with the lucky winner showered in congratulations.

“Our customers love hearing about big wins like this. It creates excitement and hope that they might be next.”

It had been some time since the venue witnessed such a significant win, making this $100,000 victory even more special.

“Congratulations to the lucky winner! We wish him all the best with his winnings.”

Keno’s Winning Streak in NSW

The Lismore man’s win is just one of many life-changing Keno prizes won in New South Wales and the ACT.

In 2024, Keno players across the eastern states of Australia secured more than 76 million wins, totalling over $1.19 billion in prize money.

Last year alone, Keno crowned 23 millionaires and multi-millionaires, who collectively took home more than $54.9 million.

11 of those major winners were from NSW and the ACT, including an East Maitland dad who won a staggering $6.6 million.
Players in NSW and the ACT won a combined $599.2 million across 38.9 million winning Keno tickets.

With so many big wins happening across the country, the Lismore Workers Club winner is living proof that anyone can hit the jackpot!

Could You Be the Next Big Winner?

With Keno wins happening daily, could you be next? Visit your local club or venue and try your luck—you never know when you might strike it rich!

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Breaking News

Chris Minns Must Get His Facts Straight Before Calling for Demolition of Lismore Homes

Published

1 month ago

12 March 2025

JeffG

Chris Minns Must Get His Facts Straight Before Calling for Demolition of Lismore Homes

NSW Premier Chris Minns’ comments on 2GB radio today were an attempt to shift blame away from failed recovery efforts following the 2022 floods. Instead of addressing the real issues, he targeted the peaceful occupants of Pine Street buyback homes, misrepresenting their situation and ignoring the complex realities of Lismore’s housing crisis.

Key Facts About Pine Street Residents

✅ Evacuation Was Handled Responsibly – Pine St residents evacuated early before the official SES evacuation order, proving that communities can live safely and responsibly in buyback houses.

✅ No Extra Burden on SES – The SES would have visited Pine Street regardless since an owner-occupier still lives there. Occupants left in an orderly manner, requiring no additional resources.

✅ Residents Are Not Exploiting Social Housing – No one on Pine Street is trying to jump the queue. Instead, they found their own housing, reducing the demand for social housing.

✅ There is No Power Connection – Occupants offered to pay for water but have received no response from the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

✅ Former Owners Were Promised Relocation, Not Demolition – Residents sold their homes believing they would be relocated for future use. Demolishing them would be a traumatic and unnecessary loss.

✅ Residents Are Willing to Cooperate – Pine St residents have openly communicated with the RA, stating they will vacate when relocation happens. They are caretaking the homes in the meantime.

✅ Lismore Residents Need Recovery, Not Distraction – This community is exhausted. People just want to rebuild their lives and businesses, yet Minns focuses on eviction threats instead of real leadership.

✅ SES Volunteers Live on Pine Street – This further proves that responsible, community-minded people occupy these homes.

Community Voices: What Lismore Residents Are Saying

Tina, 52-year-old single mother and Pine St resident

“We invite Chris Minns to meet with us and discuss the complex intersections of the housing and climate crises. If he came, he’d see that we evacuated neatly and safely. We are doing no harm—we are providing a positive service to the community. Dialogue, not demolition, is what we need.”

Miriam Torzillo, resident of Wotherspoon St, North Lismore

“If the Premier truly cared about safety, he would push the Reconstruction Authority to help homeowners relocate instead of forcing them to wait for the failed Resilient Lands program. Many who barely survived the 2022 floods received no buyback, house raise, or retrofit. Where is the fairness in that?”

Antoinette O’Brien, Reclaim Our Recovery

“Previous owners were assured their houses would become housing for people in need. Demolishing them is devastating and senseless. Instead of evicting people in a housing crisis, Minns should focus on relocating all buyback homes out of the floodplain and increasing public housing.”

“Pine St was carefully and responsibly evacuated. Demolishing these valuable community assets won’t solve the housing crisis. The fact that people are living there highlights how dire the situation is.”

Andrew George, Reclaim Our Recovery

“Minns talks about ‘fairness.’ But where is the fairness in South Lismore residents receiving no buybacks, house raises, or retrofits?”

“What about the $57 million spent on Reconstruction Authority salaries—including executive director salaries averaging $344,000? Or the $2,500 per year spent per boarded-up buyback house on security and maintenance (source: Questions on Notice, March 2024)? If homes are occupied, that money is saved. Yet, Minns is scapegoating people seeking shelter.”

“The government should issue occupation licenses until the houses are ready to be moved.”

Stop the Evictions – Focus on Real Recovery

Chris Minns should redirect his focus toward real recovery solutions, rather than blaming displaced residents. Threatening demolitions won’t fix Lismore’s housing crisis. Supporting relocation, increasing public housing, and ensuring transparency in recovery spending will.

The Lismore community deserves better.

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Breaking News

Withdrawing from the floodplain has failed – it’s time for real flood mitigation

Published

2 months ago

28 February 2025

JeffG

Withdrawing from the floodplain has failed – it’s time for real flood mitigation

Three years ago, our community faced Australia’s biggest natural disaster since Cyclone Tracy. The devastating floods tore through Lismore and the Mid Richmond, destroying thousands of homes and businesses – leaving an entire community with serious questions about its future.

In the aftermath, there were only two approaches that could have been taken: remove everyone from the floodplain, or keep them there and implement serious flood mitigation measures to lower the height of the next flood.

The NSW State Government chose the strategy of removing those in danger from the floodplain. This has failed.

Over 2,000 homes were identified to be unsafe. We are now in a position that less than half of the homes identified will be bought back. Some families who accepted a buyback, have purchased new properties back on the floodplain, highlighting the failure of this plan.

Individuals and families had nowhere to live and had to make decisions about their immediate future. Some people started putting money back into their homes and commenced renovations immediately. Others decided to sell their properties on the private market. The new property owners did not qualify for the buyback.

After the completion of the buyback program, maybe 900 of the 2000 homes identified by the NRRC will have been bought back. This means over 1000 homes will remain on the flood plain. Those individuals and families will be no safer and are still at risk. The CBD, industrial estates, businesses, villages, farmers and the road network are no safer.

The strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain has failed. Flood mitigation is the only strategy that will give the region a sustainable future and safety.

Over $800m has been spent on the original strategy of withdrawing from the floodplain. None of this money has lowered the level of the next flooding event. This means no home, business or industrial estate occupant, is in any safer.

Our path ahead must include a public commitment to flood mitigation. CSIRO will release a report this year, looking at practical scenarios that include engineering solutions to mitigate future flooding. This work is crucial.

If the community knows a metre or more will be taken off future events, they will invest and live in confidence in the Northern Rivers.

The McKell Institute’s Cost of Extreme Weather Report found that between 2005 and 2022, the Federal Government spent $23.99 billion on disaster recovery and relief, while only $1.51 billion was allocated for disaster prevention. This imbalance must change. Flood mitigation is the best prevention option for the Northern Rivers to grow and prosper. It will also save future governments—and therefore taxpayers—billions of dollars by reducing the impact of future disasters. The 2022 disaster alone is measured as a $15 billion event.

The Government at all levels must act. Decision-makers now will determine whether the next major flooding event in this region kills people, destroys lives financially, or if the region has been made safer. Mistakes have been made, and significant public funds have been spent with marginal return. This can be rectified with a real commitment to flood mitigation and a clear vision for the region’s future.

Watch the Interview: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ktfXZLc-mst5ROIzjsXMrrFN91xYcHMv/view

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Breaking News

Man Dies in Hospital a Month After South Lismore Crash

Published

2 months ago

27 February 2025

JeffG

Man Dies in Hospital a Month After South Lismore Crash

South Lismore, NSW – A 19-year-old motorcyclist has died in hospital, nearly a month after a serious crash in the state’s north.

Emergency services were called to Casino Street, South Lismore, around 10:40 am on Saturday, 25 January 2025, following reports of a collision between a motorcycle and a sedan. The impact ejected the rider from his motorcycle.

Paramedics from NSW Ambulance treated the rider at the scene before he was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital in critical condition.

The driver of the sedan, an 80-year-old woman, and her 82-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries and were transported to Lismore Base Hospital for treatment.

A crime scene was established, and officers from Richmond Police District, assisted by crash investigators, launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Last Monday (25 February 2025), police were notified that the motorcyclist had succumbed to his injuries at Gold Coast University Hospital.

A report is being prepared for the Coroner.

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