LISMORE CITY COUNCIL NEWS ISSUE 286, 21 JULY 2025
LISMORE CELEBRATES NAIDOC
IN STYLE
Lismore’s NAIDOC celebrations at Crozier Field this month brought the community together for a brilliant day of culture, connection and local talent.
From the moving Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony to live sets by Mitch King and Blakboi, the event was a true showcase of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strength, vision and legacy.
Kids enjoyed rugby league clinics, hands-on crafts and cultural activities, while families mingled and explored the biggest line-up of stalls yet.
It was everything a great community event should be - welcoming, vibrant and grounded in the stories that shape this region. Thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate culture and connect with the community.
SLOW DOWN, KOALAS ARE ABOUT
It’s breeding season across the Northern Rivers, and our koalas are out and about, searching for love and new territory. Friends of the Koala is asking everyone to be extra careful on the roads to help protect these vulnerable animals during this important time. With ongoing habitat fragmentation koalas travel further and cross roads more often, increasing their risk of being hit by vehicles. Sadly, in 2024 alone, over 67 koalas were killed on roads in the Northern Rivers. For an endangered species, every loss is significant.
“During breeding season, koalas are on the move more than usual,” said Angie Brace, Regional Koala Officer at Friends of the Koala. “They need to cross roads to find a mate or new habitat, but this puts them in danger. Around 80 percent of koalas struck by vehicles don’t survive, even with emergency care.”
To help our koalas find love –and stay safe – Friends of the Koala urges drivers to slow down, especially at dawn and dusk when koalas are most active. If you spot a koala near or on the road, please call the 24/7 Koala Rescue
Hotline on 02 6622 1233 right away. Drivers should also take extra care in rural and semirural areas and keep dogs contained at night. With your help, we can keep these love-seeking koalas safe this breeding season!
COUNCIL TAKES PROACTIVE STEPS TO IMPROVE COMMUNITY SAFETY
Lismore City Council has closed the waiting room facility at the Transit Centre on the corner of Molesworth and Magellan streets following a joint assessment with NSW Police and local bus service providers.
The decision was made in response to ongoing concerns about unsafe and disruptive behaviour by a small number of individuals. Importantly, the public toilets at the site remain open and accessible for travellers.
Council’s Acting Chief Operating and Financial Officer Matt Potter acknowledged community safety is a shared responsibility, and said the closure reflects a coordinated response to protect the wellbeing of residents, businesses and visitors.
“We’re committed to working collaboratively with police and transport services to ensure safe and welcoming public spaces across the city.”
Council has also confirmed the Transit Centre site will be included in the concept planning for the Lismore CBD Precinct.
“This decision also gives us the opportunity to think long term. That corner of the CBD will be redesigned as part of our broader plans to revitalise and improve the city centre,” Mr Potter said.
“We want to create a safe, vibrant CBD and the community will have an opportunity to help shape what that looks like.”
Planning for the CBD Precinct will commence in the coming months, with community engagement to follow as part of the design process.
BROADWATER BRIDGE REOPENS AFTER MAJOR UPGRADE
Broadwater Bridge is open again, following a significant upgrade that has restored a key connection for residents, farmers and businesses across the Lismore and Richmond Valley Local Government Areas.
The $1.6 million project addressed the bridge’s biggest weakness: its outdated lift span, a relic from Barneys Point dating back to 1933.
Crews demolished the old timber and steel deck, removed the heavy checker plate and hydraulic lifting system and cleared out the original headstocks.
In its place, a modern concrete span was craned in, with precast deck units forming a stronger foundation for heavier loads. Fresh concrete barriers were installed, adding more strength and enhancing safety for everyone who crosses the Richmond River.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the bridge’s reopening is a win for locals who rely on it every day.
“This bridge is crucially vital for residents, farmers and businesses,” he said.
“It’s a great example of what councils can achieve when they work together for their communities.”
The upgrade was a joint effort between Lismore City Council and Richmond Valley Council, with support from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Acting Richmond Valley Council Mayor Steve Morrissey said the newlook bridge will continue to serve the region for decades to come.
“Broadwater Bridge isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about reconnecting communities and keeping the region moving,” he said.
Ark Construction Group took on the job, delivering the works on time and bringing a once-aging bridge up to scratch for the next generation.
Located on Broadwater Road over the Richmond River, drivers and freight operators can now cross the Richmond River with confidence, knowing the bridge is built to modern safety standards, plus is now rated for heavier vehicles, ready to handle today’s rural and freight needs without the old weight restrictions.
Photo: Top to bottom: Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg with Richmond Valley Council (RVC) General Manager Vaughan Macdonald and RVC Deputy Mayor Steve Morrissey enjoying the re-opened bridge in a sugar cane truck.
INVESTING IN LISMORE’S FUTURE
Lismore City Council has delivered a $2.78 million sewer relining program to improve vital wastewater infrastructure for Lismore homes and businesses across four key locations.
More than 5 kilometres of sewer mains and 1.4 kilometres of laterals were upgraded in Union Street, Bruxner Crescent, the Lismore Base Hospital precinct and Heritage Park, most with minimal disruption to the community.
While trenchless technology was used for most of the program, some areas required excavation due to pipe condition. In locations where trenchless methods were viable, Council crews and contractors strengthened ageing pipes without the need to dig up roads, footpaths or landscaping. Lateral pipes were lined using a resin-coated liner inserted and cured in place, while the larger reticulation mains were lined using a spiral wound method.
This involves mechanically winding a continuous PVC strip into the host pipe through existing manholes, forming a new pipe inside the old one. The liner interlocks to match the shape and diameter of the original pipe, with ends sealed to prevent infiltration. Service connections are reopened using robotic cutters. Both methods improve hydraulic performance, minimise environmental impact and significantly extend the life of the asset.
Relining means fewer blockages, fewer emergency callouts and less disruption for residents and businesses, plus it also protects our environment by reducing the risk of overflows.
While trenchless methods were used in most locations, traditional excavation was still necessary in areas where the infrastructure was too damaged for relining. In South Lismore, a significant pipe displacement beneath Norco’s delivery driveway meant a 5.5-metre dig was needed before relining could proceed. Council worked with Norco to time the works and maintain access throughout the process.
At Heritage Park, extra care was taken to manage site safety around the popular toddler play areas, and the popular train ride. Despite ongoing wet weather, Council worked closely with local contractors Interflow to remediate dig-up areas and complete the job with restoration works that improved the space for park users.
The delivery of this program reflects Council’s commitment to essential infrastructure and its community-first approach.
DEVELOPMENT CONSENTS ISSUED
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT
In accordance with the provisions of Section 4.59 of the Act and Clause 124 of the EP&A Regulation, notification is given that the undermentioned developments have recently been granted consent.
APPLICATION DETAILS
DA20/232-2 84 James Gibson Road, Clunes: Section 4.55(1A) Application to Modify Stage 1 of Development Consent 5.2020.232.1 to (1) amend the location, design and reduce the size of the primary dwelling, (2) delete the pool, cabana and carport, and (3) amend the location and design of the shed and driveway.
DA21/452-4 1112 Bruxner Highway, McKees Hill: Section 4.55(1A) modification to development consent 5.2021.452.2 to reposition the approved truck was bay location.
DA21/496-4 313 Wyrallah Road, Monaltrie: Section 4.55(2) modification to development consent 5.2021.496.1 to change the location, shape and size of the approved shed.
DA22/267-2 463 Wallace Road, Tuntable Creek: Addition of a porch and rear deck to approved dwelling plans.
DA22/315-2 6 Denbos Crescent, East Lismore: Section 4.55(1A) modification to development consent 5.2022.315.1 to change Condition No.13 to enable provision of above-ground electricity.
DA22/348-3 13 Simeoni Dive, Goonellabah: Section 4.55(1) modification to development consent 5.2022.348.2 to delete condition No. 7 requiring a S138 application. Approval is not required due to all works being proposed within the property boundaries.
DA24/69 11 Southern Cross Terrace, Goonellabah: To undertake the erection of a multi-dwelling housing development comprising seven (7) single storey units, including associated stormwater works, earthworks, retaining walls, driveways, parking areas, landscaping works and strata subdivision to create seven (7) lots.
DA25/57 379A and 407 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill: A Torrens title subdivision to create five (5) lots.
DA25/64 1545 Bangalow Road, Clunes: Use of relocated dwelling and proposed alterations and additions.
DA25/77 11 Duncan Road, Numulgi: New dwelling to form Dual Occupancy (detached), including a new driveway, removal of existing tiny home and an on-site sewerage management system).
DA25/89 65 James Road, Goonellabah: Shed with a building line variation to 11.89m to James Road.
DA25/100 7 2 Numulgi Creek Road, Modanville: Shed with a building line variation to 5m to Numulgi Creek Road.
DA25/109 10 Grace Road, Bexhill: Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling (demolition of existing deck and construction of new covered deck) and
DA25/89 65 James Road, Goonellabah: Shed with a building line variation to 11.89m to James Road.
DA25/100 7 2 Numulgi Creek Road, Modanville: Shed with a building line variation to 5m to Numulgi Creek Road.
DA25/109 10 Grace Road, Bexhill: Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling (demolition of existing deck and construction of new covered deck) and construction of a new shed.
DA25/11 77 Standing Street, The Channon: Structural repairs and reconstruction of hail damaged roof.
DA25/121 25 Baxter Lane, Tuckurimba: Dwelling.
DA25/123 176 Lindendale Road, Lindendale: Retaining wall and concrete slab.
DA25/125 12 Cowley Road, Dunoon: Above-ground swimming pool and covered deck.
DA25/13 0 7 Pamela Drive, Chilcotts Grass: Construction of a shed.
DA25/133 18 Holmes Circuit, Chilcotts Grass: Construction of a dwelling and retaining walls.
DA25/140 7 Cherry Lane, Goonellabah: Construction of a new single storey dwelling and swimming pool.
DA25/142 245B Connor Road, Tregeagle: Inground swimming pool and associated fencing.
Details of applications and consents, together with conditions attached, may be inspected at Council’s Corporate Centre during business hours or via DA Tracking at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT
As the consent authority, Council has received the following development applications for consideration.
COUNCIL DA REF: DA25/114
PLANNING PORTAL REF: PAN- 539129
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: The DA seeks to amend consent DA1998/7 for subdivision at 9 Fredericks Road, Caniaba (part of Perradenya Estate). The proposal includes 44 residential lots, a 1,000 sqm local centre lot, a 125 sqm lot with a caretaker’s office, two drainage reserves, vegetation buffers, protection of significant vegetation, revised access from Caniaba and Fredericks Roads, civil works, and updates to conditions of consent
PROPERTY: 9 Fredericks Road CANIABA 2480, LOT: 623 DP: 1269982
APPLICANT: Rous County Council
CONSENT AUTHORITY: Northern Regional Planning Panel
PUBLIC EXHIBITION & SUBMISSION PERIOD: 7 July 2025 – 18 August 2025
The following table identifies whether or not certain kinds of development are applicable to this Development Application:
The following table identifies whether or not certain kinds of development are applicable to this Development Application:
Kinds of Development: Applicable:
Designated development No
Nominated integrated development No
Threatened species development Yes
Class 1 aquaculture development No
State significant development No
This Development Application is Integrated Development. The following table identifies the approvals that are required and the relevant approval bodies for those approvals:
Integrated Development Approvals: Relevant Approval Agency:
Rural Fires Act 1997:
• authorisation under section 100B in respect of bush fire safety of subdivision of land that could lawfully be used for residential or rural residential purposes or development of land for special fire protection purposes
NSW Rural Fire Service
If you wish, you may make a submission to the Council in relation to the Development Application. Any submission wmust specify the grounds of objection (if any).
The above Development Application(s) and accompanying documents may be inspected at Council’s Corporate Centre, 43 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah, during ordinary office hours or via DA Tracking at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au .
Further information relating to written submissions is available on Council’s website. There are laws regarding the mandatory disclosure of political donations in relation to planning matters. Political donations disclosure reporting forms are available from the Department of Planning at www.planning.nsw.gov.au .
WHAT’S ON AT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY
Tax Help
From 22 July: Tuesdays at Goonellabah Library, Wednesdays at Lismore Library, and fortnightly sessions at the Mobile Library Nimbin stop every second Thursday.
Are your tax affairs simple? Do you earn around $70,000 or less? Get free help with your tax return from a Tax Help Volunteer. Talk to library staff or call your selected branch to discuss whether you are eligible and to make a booking.
Author Talk: P.A. Thomas
10.30am Thursday, 24 July at Goonellabah Library.
Byron Bay author P.A. Thomas presents The Sunbaker, his new beachside page-turner and the follow-up to The Beacon. Book now to hear about this latest murder mystery, why Thomas chooses local settings for his novels, and the inspiration behind his colourful characters. Bookings can be made via the Events page of the Richmond Tweed Regional Library website.
Micro Film reader
Those interested in local history will be pleased to know they have access to a Micro Film reader. The reader is located on the second floor of the Lismore Library, as part of the Local and Family History Research collection. Library members can look back at an extensive collection of archived newspapers, including a full collection of The Northern Star.
Bookable Meeting Rooms
Meeting Rooms are now bookable at Lismore Library. The smaller rooms, suitable for up to 6 people, are available for 2-hours at a time and are free. The large Function Room, with a 60-person capacity, can be rented for a fee. Community groups may be eligible for a discount. Please use the QR code to make a booking or visit the library and discuss with staff.
MEET LISMORE COUNCIL’S NEW GENERAL MANAGER
Eber Butron has been appointed as Lismore City Council’s General Manager.
Mr Butron has been Acting General Manager since the previous General Manager, Jon Gibbons, resigned for personal reasons.
Mayor Steve Krieg said: “I welcome Eber to the role which he has been doing since April. Eber joined Lismore City Council as Director of Partnership, Planning and Engagement in 2021 before being appointed Chief Community Officer."
“During his time at Council, Jon Gibbons, laid the foundations and created the framework to improve the efficiency of Council operations and develop a long-term financial plan to plot a pathway back to financial stability.
“Eber will now carry on this work as Council embarks on the biggest rebuild this city and local government area has seen. I know Council and the community will be in good hands.”
Mr Butron said he was looking forward to the challenges ahead and on delivering what the community told Council they wanted in the recent community sentiment survey.
“Lismore has a great future and I am looking forward to playing a part in delivering it,” he said.
RATES AND WATER REMINDER: SUPPORT AVAILABLE
Since the 2022 natural disaster, Lismore City Council has put community needs first, pausing all rates debt recovery to give residents time and space to get back on their feet. We know the past three years have tested everyone, and Council made the decision not to add further pressure during this period.
With our city steadily recovering, Council will return to normal debt recovery processes from September 2025, starting with reminder letters for anyone who misses the first 2025/26 instalment due after 31 August.
This gentle step is part of Council’s usual process, but we want everyone to know if you need support or want to talk about your options, now is the time to reach out.
Council’s Rates Team is here to help. If you are in arrears and arrange a payment arrangement with us, you won’t receive a reminder letter. We’re committed to working with every resident to find the right solution for their situation.
Don’t wait, if you think you’ll need extra time or support, contact Council now.
To get in touch, please call 6625 0500 during business hours.
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.