COUNCIL STREAMLINES LEADERSHIP TO STRENGTHEN DELIVERY FOCUS
Lismore City Council has introduced a new management structure designed to align decision making with frontline service delivery and the priorities of the city’s newly adopted Community Strategic Plan.
General Manager Eber Butron said the move was about clarity of purpose and alignment, positioning Council to deliver stronger outcomes for the community while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Left to right: Kulwant Singh-Pangly (Director Corporate Sustainability), Charlotte Foy (Executive Director Flood Restoration Portfolio), Matt Potter (Director Water Waste and Open Spaces), Eber Butron (General Manager), Graham Snow (Director Planning and Economy), Fiona Keneally (Director Roads and Infrastructure) and Sarah Sullivan (Director People and Community).
“For the first time in more than a decade we have a shared vision with our community and a structure designed to bring it to life,” he said.
The new flatter structure replaces two Chiefs and 11 Heads of Service with six Directors responsible for key areas of delivery. The change eliminates unnecessary layers of management, reduces organisational costs and brings leadership closer to service delivery operations.
“These reforms are not reactive, they are strategic, proactive and essential to making the most of the NSW Government’s post-flood investment and our own recovery momentum,” Mr Butron said.
“By consolidating leadership and embedding cross-functional alignment, we are reducing duplication, speeding up decisions, and delivering better value for our community.”
The change also removes silos and better aligns functional delivery areas to create consistency and embed clear accountability for delivering community outcomes across all service areas.
“This structure delivers a stronger, more diverse executive team establishing the kind of leadership structure that delegates more control to the frontline and sets a consistent standard for capability uplift across Council,” Mr Butron said.
“Good governance demands that we manage our resources wisely. This structural reform helps us do exactly that, reducing overheads, increasing value, and ensuring we are living within our means while delivering the services our city needs and expects.”
COUNCIL TAKES ZERO TOLERANCE APPROACH TO ABUSE OF STAFF
Lismore City Council is calling out the disgraceful behaviour of a small number of individuals who have recently vandalised facilities and abused, threatened and assaulted staff at the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre.
In recent weeks, Council staff have been sworn at, spat on and, most recently, assaulted when a group of juveniles threw urine-soaked paper at reception, cleaning and crèche staff. These are not pranks, they are acts of abuse and intimidation that have no place in our community.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said enough is enough.
“Our staff are locals, people who live and work in this community. They come to work each day to support our residents, not to be threatened or humiliated. Abuse of any kind will not be tolerated,” Cr Krieg said.
Council is taking a zero-tolerance approach to antisocial behaviour toward their teams.
Individuals who breach the facility’s Conditions of Entry and reasonable conduct codes will face bans, with incidents being referred to police where appropriate.
“These are grubby acts. Those who think this behaviour is funny or harmless need to understand it has real consequences,” Mayor Krieg said.
“Not only does it impact the wellbeing of our staff, but it also costs the community. Every act of vandalism, every incident of aggression, adds to the cost of cleaning, repairs and security.
The message comes during Safe Work Month, with Council’s “Your Behaviour Matters” campaign reminding residents that how we treat each other makes a difference.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe whether they’re working on our roads, in our libraries, or at our local sports and aquatic centres,” Mayor Krieg said. “Our message is simple -show respect, follow the rules, and remember that our staff are here to serve you. Abuse will not be tolerated in any form.”
Lismore City Council continue to work closely with the relevant state government agencies to support a safer community with Richmond Police District working to increase their presence around the Goonellabah shopping precinct and GSAC facility in coming weeks.
YOU R BEHAVIOUR MATTERS
There’s no excuse for abuse towards our Council workers
LISMORE SHINES AT LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT AWARDS
Lismore City Council is celebrating a big win at the Local Government Procurement Awards, picking up ‘Procurement Project of the Year’ for its Flood Restoration Portfolio – a dedicated Lismore City Council initiative working to rebuild, restore and strengthen community assets and infrastructure following the 2022 disasters. Presented during an awards dinner at Doltone House in Sydney, the accolade highlights excellence in procurement practice, with submissions evaluated on their financial, social and environmental impacts, as well as their potential for long-term benefit.
“This award is a proud moment for Lismore City Council,” Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said. “It’s a testament to the resilience and determination of our community and Council staff. Every project completed is a step forward for our community and our future.”
Charlotte Foy, Executive Director – Flood Restoration Portfolio, said:
“This recognition reflects the extraordinary effort, innovation and adaptability of our team.”
“The restoration of Lismore following the 2022 disasters is the most complex procurement challenge Council has ever undertaken. This win reaffirms that our approach to disaster recovery is not only effective but also leading the way. Learnings from our portfolio could be applied to other disaster recovery projects across Australia.”
Lismore City Council extends heartfelt thanks to government at all levels –local, state, and federal – for their unwavering support.
To date, 115 projects have been completed by the Flood Restoration Portfolio, including Lismore City Library, Lismore Regional Gallery and the landslip remediation of Woodlawn Road, with more than 180 now in development and construction.
For more information, visit www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/
L-R: Flood Restoration Portfolio team members Ben Hand, Darcy Chapman, Jeni Tucker, Charlotte Foy, Jessica Ferguson, Kyla White, Jennifer McEwen.
FOOD AND DRINK TRADERS LOCKED IN FOR NORCO EAT THE STREET 2025
We’re now less than a month away from the return of Norco Eat the Street and all food and beverage traders have been confirmed for this year’s event, taking place on Saturday, 15 November from 12pm to 7pm on Keen Street and in the Lismore Quad.
This year’s event will showcase an incredible range of local and regional food and beverage offerings, with nearly 40 food vendors on offer and 14 local drink suppliers set to feature in the Quad Bar area. Visitors can expect a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, all proudly representing the Northern Rivers’ vibrant food and drink scene. Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said there has been a strong focus on supporting local businesses again this year.
“We’ve given priority to traders within the 2480 postcode, ensuring local cafes, producers and hospitality businesses have a strong presence at the event,” he said.
“Alongside the vendors in the festival area, many of our CBD businesses will be open and trading from their shopfronts, so it’s a great opportunity to explore everything our city centre has to offer.”
The food line-up promises something for every taste, from mouthwatering BBQ meats to Asian-inspired dishes, Mexican favourites, Italian classics, vegetarian delights and decadent desserts.
“We’ve worked hard to make sure there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a quick bite, a sweet treat or a relaxed drink with friends in the Quad Bar,” Mayor Krieg added.
Beyond the food and drink, the day will be packed with live entertainment and activities, including a Pie Eating Competition, Barista Competition, Waiters Race, live music at the Planet Music Shop Show and music in the Quad curated by Holidaymaker Records.
In line with the event’s strong sustainability focus, this year’s bar will operate a reusable cup system, with cups collected and washed on-site to reduce waste and keep the festival environmentally friendly.
For the full list of food and beverage options and event details, visit www.visitlismore.com.au/eatthestreet
PARKS RENEWAL PROGRAM UPDATE
Over the last few months, planning and construction works have continued for Council’s Parks Renewal Program.
Tamarind Park, Dunoon
Since removing the old playground equipment at Tamarind Park, Council has made a number of general improvements to the park site. These include establishing footpath connections to the toilet block and bin slab, relocating underground electricity for the Rural Fire Service (RFS) building and removing a large gum tree. The removed gum tree had significant internal decay and posed serious safety concerns. Staff engaged Council’s Tree Officer to discuss the removal of the tree and offsetting the removal.
Spinaze Park, Tullera
Council thanks the community for the feedback provided during the consultation period, project staff have commenced the review of engagement data. The feedback and insight provided by community members will help inform decision making for the future of Spinaze Park.
Gainsborough Park, Goonellabah
Play equipment removal works are complete at the Gainsborough site. Staff are working to remediate the area with grass seeds at the next rain event. Residents were notified of the planned works in July and Council received one letter from a member of community opposing the works. A timely response was provided to the community member, answering questions and further detailing the need to remove the playground.
Decommissioning Smaller Parks
As part of the audit conducted on our parks across the Local Government Area, a number of small parks were identified as underperforming or falling short of the benchmarks highlighted in the Open Space Strategy. Park assets have been removed from the following sites: Apex Park (Lismore), Airforce Park (East Lismore), Barnard Park (Girards Hill), Meadow Park (South Lismore), Street Park (South Lismore) and Pritchard Parkn (North Lismore).
LOCAL TOURISM OPERATORS EXCEL
IN STATE TOURISM
AWARDS
Council congratulates this year’s local finalists in the NSW State Tourism Awards.
These prestigious awards celebrate the excellence, passion and dedication that make the NSW Tourism Industry shine.
• Contained in Nimbin Accommodation: Self-Contained Accommodation Lismore
• Lantern Parade (LightNUp Inc.): Festivals & Events
• Invercauld House: Business Events Venue Northern Rivers
• Rail Trail: Adventure Tourism & Tourist Attraction
Each year Council’s Destination Team encourage entries, offering guidance and assistance with entries to help raise the profile of Lismore as a destination. Council is thrilled to have four quality operators recognised in a variety of categories, putting Lismore in the State tourism spotlight.
Winners will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 in Sydney.
HAVE YOUR SAY: DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN
Council is developing the next Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2026–2030) and we want to hear from you.
The renewed DIAP will outline the key actions to be delivered by Council in our continued commitment to break down barriers to inclusive participation and protect the rights of people with disability in our communities. To help shape the plan, we’re asking for feedback from people with disability, their families, friends, carers, support services and advocacy groups.
Your input will help guide the actions Council takes over the next four years to make Lismore a more accessible and inclusive community for everyone.
Have your say and share your feedback at: Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030 | Your Say Lismore. You can also stay up-to-date with the development of the DIAP by signing up to our newsletter here: Stay connected | Your Say Lismore
Resilient Homes Expo - Lismore
Is your home eligible for flood resilient upgrades?
This free event is for Resilient Homes Program participants and community members to learn how to make your home safer and more resilient with a Resilient Measures grant.
At the Expo you can:
meet flood resilient design experts and explore retrofitting options and materials
run through your grant application process with our staff meet builders who can deliver resilient building services speak to council officers about development approval process discuss how to deliver successful resilient building and relocation projects
Whether you are just starting out or ready to begin works, this is your chance to connect with a professional, get practical advice, and learn how to make your home safer and more resilient.
Resilient Homes Expo
Location: South Lismore Bowling Club, 25 Wilson Street, South Lismore
Date: 10 November 2025
Time: 4 pm to 7 pm
REGIS TER HERE
www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and -agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/ our-work/events
Or scan the QR code to register
PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE
Section 38B of Roads Act 1993
Notice is given that Lismore City Council proposes to close part of SUFFOLK Road which dissects the property known as 5 SUFFOLK ROAD, BLUE KNOB (being Lot 1 DP577574).
Upon closure of the road, Council intends to sell the land to the adjoining landowner.
Any person can make submission to the Property Officer by 28 days from publication date of 29 October.
Please send submissions either by e-mail to: council@lismore.nsw.gov.au or by post to: PO Box 23A, Lismore NSW 2480 with correspondence marked ‘Proposed Road Closure – CDR24/1449’.
Under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration. Once the submission period is concluded, Council will consider all submissions and decide on road closure suitability.
MORE REASONS TO SHOP LOCAL
More businesses are participating in Lismore’s Loving Local Gift Card Program, giving you more reasons to shop local across the entire Lismore Local Government Area.
The gift cards make the perfect gift, giving you more choice plus every dollar supports our amazing local businesses. Offering everything from tasty eats, experiences and unique finds, there’s something for everyone.
There are now even more places to spend the Gift Cards. We welcome the new participating stores:
• La Noval Massage, Keen Street, Lismore
• Barbeques Galore Northern Rivers, Conway Street, Lismore
• Cones & Cream, Cullen Street, Nimbin
Check out hundreds of stores where you can spend the Loving Local Gift Cards HERE .
Gift cards can be purchase ONLINE or from the following retailers:
• Intersport Lismore, 78 Magellan Street, Lismore
• Toyworld, 65 Woodlark Street, Lismore
It’s the perfect way to share the love and shop local.
CONTACT US: 6625 0500
Corporate Centre: 43 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Post: PO Box 23A, Lismore, NSW 2480
Email: council@lismore.nsw.gov.au
Web: www.lismore.nsw.gov.au
Find us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.