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Lismore News

Responding to a humanitarian disaster

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Janelle and Perrottet Lismore street walk

Rescue, Recovery, Rebuild, Adapt and Prepare: responding to a humanitarian disaster

By Janelle Saffin MP State Member for Lismore

 I RECENTLY made a detailed submission to the independent 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry Commissioners Professor Mary O’Kane AC and Mick Fuller APM, copying in the Legislative Council Committee’s inquiry into the flood response as well.

I’ve stated to NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet that he must accept the recommendations the Commissioners’ Independent Inquiry makes sight unseen.

Floods will happen again but preparedness is key.  We need to now create a model of adaption to disaster preparedness that addresses risk, structure and cognition that guides preparedness.  This requires skills, knowledge and attitude, and a total reorientation of how business is done.  The structure is hierarchical and it needs to be task oriented.  Everyone has a position but it is not clear who has a task, to put it in basic terms.  The framework described in the NSW Government’s own submission to the Legislative Council inquiry says it all.  Lots of framework but little else.

The word ‘unprecedented’ has been bandied about a lot and has become code for it was ‘unpredictable’. Therefore, ‘we could not have been prepared’. This is erroneous at best and an abrogation of responsibility at worst. NSW Government’s public agencies could have been better prepared, and part of that means working alongside the community so that our preparedness coalesces.

The people did prepare to be inundated according to the flood warnings officially received, but by the time the warning came that the flood was much larger than the 2017 flood, it was too late to do much, let alone evacuate.  People were trapped in their homes, in ceilings, on roofs and in the streets. Businesses that had lifted well above the flood warnings and earlier large flood levels were gutted.  Farmers lost massive amounts of stock, and soil, and suffered landslips as did many landholders and villages, cutting off access.

Tragically, five people lost their lives.

The agencies charged with rescue and recovery were barely prepared for ‘what was’ let alone ‘what if’.  The latter is a fundamental disaster preparedness principle. The tragedy that unfolded speaks to this. It was not within their contemplation. That is the NSW State Emergency Service, 000, and Resilience NSW, and therefore the NSW Government.

Locals with boats came out in droves to be told by the State Emergency Service not to enter the water, but thank God they ignored this exhortation, an edict without authority, that would have potentially led to more deaths. They acted to help save our lives. If preparing for ‘what if’ had been done, the State Emergency Service would have been able to utilise community rescue or our Tinnie Army as they are affectionately known.

There is a complete disconnect between what the NSW Government outlines its responsibilities are, how NSW Government’s public agencies carry out its responsibilities, and what happened here on the ground.

I make many recommendations in my submission but the NSW State Emergency Service must have a fundamental rethink about what their role is, what their resources are, and how to effect rescues. There needs to some overarching rescue body that focuses purely  on that and how to incorporate all resources, including community, and that is the role of the State Rescue Board of New South Wales, but not if Resilience NSW is at the helm.

The rescue was virtually a non-response, despite the wonderful efforts of local SES volunteers.

The catastrophic flood of 28 February 2022 decimated homes, businesses, farms, lands, rivers, and people’s state of being, only to be followed by the 30 March 2022 major flood. The magnitude of the impact is overwhelming, continuous and uncertain. It covers physical, economic, emotional and environmental.

The Northern Rivers requires a comprehensive flood recovery package if there is to be any hope for an estimated 14,500 internally displaced persons living in temporary housing, caravans or tents. Many of them were denied financial assistance after up to 4000 homes were deemed uninhabitable.

Thousands of inundated businesses are still boarded up across the region with proprietors and landlords pondering their futures. Thousands of employees are facing uncertainty and insecurity. I am told that an Economic assessment has been done but it is yet to see the light of day. That is wrong, as it should be in the public domain.

To move from these extreme conditions, we need to start the discussion on how Lismore will be reimagined and transformed into a city that is sustainable. Murwillumbah and other towns as well where needed. I like many have a great vision for the region’s rebuild but we need the plan and the infrastructure to support it.

We can and we must ‘build back better’, as I first stated to the Premier while we trudged around muddy streets in the immediate aftermath of the flood. I said that is the frame and we start there.

My full submission is expected to be published this week. Go to:

www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/listofcommittees/Pages/committee-details.aspx?pk=277

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Lismore Student Awarded Prestigious Scholarship to Pursue Academic Dream in Sydney

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St Andrew’s College

Lismore Student Awarded Prestigious Scholarship to Pursue Academic Dream in Sydney

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Riley Gallagher-Long, a resilient and ambitious student from Lismore, has been awarded a prestigious scholarship to live and study at St Andrew’s College, one of Australia’s most esteemed residential colleges, located within the University of Sydney. The scholarship, which is granted to only 40 exceptional students from rural and regional communities across Australia, will provide Riley with vital financial and academic support as he continues to pursue his Bachelor of Commerce at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).

This scholarship will cover key expenses, including accommodation, meals, and academic resources, allowing Riley to focus on his studies while immersing himself in the dynamic community of St Andrew’s College. It also provides access to leadership programs, cultural and artistic activities, and a robust support network that will prepare him for a bright future.

A Life-Changing Opportunity

For Riley, this scholarship represents far more than just financial support—it is a turning point in his academic journey. Reflecting on his recent challenges, Riley shared how the 2022 Lismore floods disrupted every aspect of his life:

“The floods turned my life upside down. I lost my home, school, and job. By the time I finished Year 12, I had little savings, and my family couldn’t support my move to Sydney. College felt completely out of reach, so I ended up in an unstable share house without a lease. It was isolating, and staying in the city to finish my degree seemed almost impossible.”

The scholarship has alleviated these pressures, giving Riley the stability and support he needs to succeed:

“This scholarship provides me with secure, high-quality accommodation and places me in a positive, ambitious community. It’s a relief to know I can focus on my studies without worrying about where I’m going to live. Being surrounded by like-minded, driven people at St Andrew’s College will motivate me to push myself academically and personally.”

Resilience Rooted in Lismore

Growing up in Lismore, Riley developed a deep sense of resilience and determination, traits that have shaped his outlook and drive to succeed.

“The experience of seeing my community rebuild after the floods taught me about perseverance and the importance of community support. My journey to university hasn’t been easy, but it has inspired me to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way,” Riley said.

He also expressed gratitude to the teachers, friends, and mentors in Lismore who supported him throughout his high school years:

“I’m incredibly thankful for the encouragement I received back home, which gave me the confidence to pursue my goals.”

Riley Gallagher-Long

Riley Gallagher-Long

A Vision for the Future

Riley is driven by a strong ambition to excel in the field of high finance and sees the scholarship as a key stepping stone toward achieving his goals:

“The opportunities provided by St Andrew’s College—its academic tutoring, leadership programs, and professional development initiatives—will help me build the skills I need to succeed in the financial sector. I’m particularly interested in supporting disadvantaged students like myself in the future, creating pathways for others to access higher education.”

He is eager to immerse himself in the rich culture and community of St Andrew’s College, which includes sports, arts, leadership initiatives, and student-led clubs. Riley was particularly drawn to the college’s ethos of fostering ambition and making a difference, which he sees as deeply aligned with his own values.

About St Andrew’s College

Founded in 1867, St Andrew’s College is a residential community of more than 380 students, postgraduates, and resident fellows, offering a rich and diverse environment for academic, cultural, and personal growth. The college has earned a reputation as a hub of excellence, supported by one of the most generous scholarship programs in Australia, providing $2.2 million annually to students in need.

The college’s alumni network includes some of Australia’s most accomplished individuals, including:

  • 19 Rhodes Scholars
  • Doc Evatt, former Australian High Court Judge and United Nations President
  • John Bradfield, the designer of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Entrepreneurs Robbie and James Ferguson, founders of tech company Immutable
  • Olympians and sports leaders, including Matilda’s representatives Clare Hunt and Clare Wheeler

Dr. Daniel Tyler, Principal of St Andrew’s College, highlighted the importance of the scholarship program and Riley’s selection:

“St Andrew’s recognises the unique challenges faced by rural and regional students in accessing higher education. These scholarships are strategically designed to ease those challenges and enrich our community with diverse perspectives and talents. Riley Gallagher-Long is a worthy recipient, and we look forward to seeing his contributions to our academic, sporting, artistic, and cultural programs.”

Advice for Rural and Regional Students

Riley offered words of encouragement for other students from rural and regional areas:

“Coming from a town like Lismore, it’s easy to feel like your options are limited, but nothing is out of reach. Dream big, work hard, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Pursuing unique passions beyond school or work can help you stand out as a well-rounded individual.”

A Bright Path Ahead

As Riley embarks on his journey at St Andrew’s College and continues his studies at UNSW, he is committed to making the most of this opportunity and giving back to the community that has supported him. With his resilience, ambition, and gratitude, Riley Gallagher-Long exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and determination, inspiring others to pursue their dreams against all odds.

For more information about St Andrew’s College and its scholarship programs, visit here.

 

For more local news, click here.

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Life-Saving Defibrillators for Lismore Electorate Sports Facilities

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Defibrillators Defibrillators for Lismore Electorate Sports Facilities

Life-Saving Defibrillators for Lismore Electorate Sports Facilities

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has applauded eight local sporting organisations for securing a share of $500,000 in NSW Government funding to install potentially life-saving defibrillators at their facilities.

“With more people participating in sport and active recreation across the Lismore Electorate, it’s essential that our facilities are equipped with these devices,” Ms. Saffin said. “I commend the recipients for prioritising the safety and well-being of their participants.”

Funding Recipients in the Lismore Electorate:

  • Cawongla District Tennis and Recreation Club Incorporated: Cawongla Tennis Club & Community Defibrillator – $2,345
  • Dunoon United Football Club: AED at Dunoon 2480 – $2,999
  • Flourish Projects Incorporated, Lismore: Defibrillator Installation for Community Safety – $3,000
  • Lismore GG’s Golden Rugby Club: Saving Players’ Lives – $2,290
  • Murwillumbah Croquet Club: Murwillumbah Croquet Club AED – $2,450
  • Northern United Rugby League Football Club, Lismore: Defibrillator on standby at Northern United RLFC – Improving survival rates with a rapid response – $2,999
  • Rainbow Roos AU Incorporated, Lismore: Fun & Inclusive Soccer For All – $2,499
  • Urbenville & District Bowling Club: Urbenville Bowls Club Defibrillator Project – $2,999

The funding was awarded as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, which provides up to $3,000 per organisation for the purchase, installation, and training in the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Since the program began, more than 2,500 devices have been distributed to sport and recreation organisations across the state.

“These defibrillators are crucial tools that can save lives in an emergency, and I’m proud to see so many local organisations taking steps to ensure the safety of their players, members, and spectators,” Ms. Saffin added.

 

For more local news, click here.

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Applications Open for $450,000 in Local Infrastructure Grants

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Community Building Partnership Program

Applications Open for $450,000 in Local Infrastructure Grants

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has announced that applications are now open for the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, with this year’s funding allocation for the Lismore electorate increased from $300,000 to $450,000.

The program supports local infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes while fostering community participation, inclusion, and cohesion.

“This enhanced program is a fantastic opportunity for not-for-profit organisation’s and local councils to secure funding for projects that meet community needs,” Ms. Saffin said.

Key Details for 2025 Applications

  • Eligible Applicants: Incorporated not-for-profit community organisation’s and local councils.
  • Grant Range: Between $10,000 and $100,000.
  • Eligible Projects:
  • Building, refurbishing, or repairing community infrastructure.
  • Purchasing freestanding equipment or vehicles.
  • Applications Open: Tuesday, 28 January 2025.
  • Applications Close: 5pm AEDT, Friday, 21 February 2025.

Ms. Saffin emphasised the program’s transformative impact.

“The program is highly competitive, but we’ve seen how grant success can truly change the game for projects that meet real community needs. I encourage all eligible organisation’s to apply and make the most of this funding opportunity.”

Since its launch in 2009, the Community Building Partnership Program has invested over $464 million into more than 20,900 projects statewide, making a lasting difference to local communities.

Detailed guidelines are available here. Successful applicants will be announced in August 2025.

 

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$5.6 million restoration of Lismore Library

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Ground floor entrance Lismore Library Lismore News

$5.6 million restoration of Lismore Library

 

By Samantha Elley

With younger children, Winnie, 5 and Sylvia, 3, snuggled up next to her in a lounge and older daughter, Juliet, 9 sitting in one of the cosy chairs of a disused fireplace on the first floor of the refurbished library, East Lismore mum, Lauren Onus, knows the importance of having Lismore library reopened.

“It’s wonderful,” said the East Lismore resident.

“I have six children and the older kids didn’t want to hang in the younger kids book section.

“(Before the library was re-opened) the libraries were separate and so we were in different spots.

“Now we can all be together.”

While the Lismore Pop-up Library on Molesworth Street and the children’s library in Lismore Central Shopping Centre served their purpose, they will now be closed and relocating to 110 Magellan Street in the newly refurbished Lismore Library.

Lauren Onus and her two girls Winnie, 5, and Sylvia, 6 at the Lismore Library

Lauren Onus and her two girls Winnie, 5, and Sylvia, 6

At a soft opening on Monday, with the rebuild still continuing, many Lismore residents made good use of the re-opened facilities.

With a baby time class going on downstairs, children enjoying the junior section on the first floor and adults taking advantage of the computers and non-fiction area on the top floor, it almost seemed like business as usual.

“I vividly remember the disturbing picture of the large pile of water-soaked books outside the library reaching up to the second storey,” said Lismore Mayor, Steve Krieg.

“In total, 30,000 books were lost.”

Lismore Area librarian, Michael Lewis, who is leading the internal design of the building, was pleased to show off the flood mitigation aspects of the renovated building.

“The journey to get from a flooded building in 2022 to the beautiful space we have today has taken a lot of work from so many people across the full level of government organisations and community groups,” he said.

“The intention behind this space is always to be flood aware.

“(On the ground floor) what you will see is a lot of bare walls and these have been chosen to stay there just as an easier way to hose these things out.

“We have a concrete floor with an epoxy resin.”

Baby time on the ground floor at the Lismore Library

Baby time on the ground floor

Cr Krieg confirmed that when the Governor-General Sam Mostyn visited a while a go, she insisted the bare walls stay as part of the completed picture.

Lismore City Council’s Project Manager for the building renovations, Brett Lee, said the internal brickwork that greets patrons as they enter, will keep its natural look, just needing a water-based sealant to complete the picture.

“The slab (on the first floor) is brand new as the old one snapped,” he said.

“This building sits on timber pile and obviously the reactions of the ground caused movement and the floor broke.

“(The new floor) is hoseable.”

An information centre is now located on the ground floor where a point of contact is available for library users as soon as they walk in.

Since the devastation of three years ago, Mr Lewis said the support from people has been overwhelming.

“People were coming from all walks of life to give books,” he said.

“One lady came from Gosford, camping all the way up the coast, wanted to help and gave us some books.

“Staff were crying at the generosity.”

The $5.6 million flood-resilient restoration was funded  through state and federal government provisions of $4.5 million, NSW government’s 2022 community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package, 2023 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package , State Library of NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grants, Lismore City Council and Rotary Sunrise.

The Lismore Central Shopping Centre community book swap will continue to operate.

 

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Lismore DCP Amendments Open for Feedback

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Lismore DCP Amendments Open for Feedback

 

By Robert Heyward

Lismore City Council has released proposed housekeeping amendments to its Development Control Plan (DCP) for community consultation. These updates aim to reflect legislative changes, align with Council strategies, correct errors, and improve clarity without altering the intent of the DCP.

The last DCP housekeeping amendments occurred in July 2022. This time, amendments are proposed for seven of the 22 chapters in Part A of the 2012 DCP.

Residents can view the proposed changes and provide feedback through the Lismore Your Say page or by emailing council@lismore.nsw.gov.au. Submissions close on 17 February 2025.

Updated Vegetation Management and Landscaping Guidelines

Lismore City Council has refreshed its Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) Guidelines and Landscaping Guidelines. These resources are now available on the Council’s website under the Building and Planning section.

The VMP Guidelines include:

  • Examples of required information.
  • Updated schedules for vegetation management works.
  • Performance criteria aligned with current legislation.

The Landscaping Guidelines feature updated graphics, a restructured layout, and a list of recommended tree species for use as street trees.

These updates aim to simplify the preparation of VMPs and landscape plans for developers and landowners.

Exemption for Relocating Dwellings to Rural Lots

Lismore City Council has secured an exemption from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI), allowing development applications to relocate dwellings to rural lots without a dwelling entitlement.

This exemption complements an initiative by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA), which enables community members to purchase relocatable homes.

Further details, including a list of available homes and relocation requirements, are available on the Council’s website.

Housing Grants to Boost Affordable Housing

Lismore City Council is offering $15,000 housing grants to eligible landowners to encourage the construction of affordable housing.

Key details:

  • 80 grants are available.
  • Allocations are on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The total funding pool is $1.2 million.

To check eligibility, visit the Council website or contact the Duty Planner. These grants are a part of the Council’s efforts to address housing shortages and support the community.

For more information on any of these initiatives, visit the Lismore City Council website or contact the relevant department directly.

 

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