LISMORE CITY COUNCIL NEWS ISSUE 292 15 OCTOBER 2025
COUNCIL RECEIVES FIRST OF EIGHT NEW GARBAGE TRUCKS
The first of eight new state-of-the-art garbage trucks has arrived in Lismore, marking a major step forward for the city’s waste services. Funded through a $5 million NSW Government grant, the new fleet will restore reliability to collections disrupted since the 2022 floods.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin joined Mayor Steve Krieg and Council staff to unveil the first truck, celebrating a milestone in Lismore’s ongoing recovery.
The funding has allowed Lismore City Council to retain its waste operations in-house, safeguarding local jobs and ensuring continued employment for waste collection staff. The grant forms part of the hundreds of millions invested by the NSW Government to support regional recovery, including $23.4 million provided to Council by the Office of Local Government for disaster recovery efforts.
Council currently delivers 15,500 residential and commercial waste services, collecting about 45,000 bins every fortnight. The remaining trucks will roll out across the Local Government Area in the coming months.
Equipped with advanced technology, the new trucks will enhance safety, streamline maintenance, and enable tracking of collections to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Minister Hoenig said the upgrade was vital for restoring reliable waste collection: “It may not be glamorous, but waste collection is one of the most important services councils provide. These trucks will ensure efficient, secure waste management for years to come.”
Minister Saffin praised the project as a practical recovery measure: “This new fleet supports local jobs and helps rebuild essential civic infrastructure — a strong, visible sign of Lismore’s renewal.”
Mayor Steve Krieg described the delivery as “a game changer for Council and community,” thanking the NSW Government, the United Services Union and Council staff for their support. “Our old fleet was unsustainable. This modern upgrade will ensure dependable waste services, safer working conditions, and long-term financial sustainability.”
$1.98 MILLION GRANT FOR URBAN RAINFOREST RESTORATION
Lismore will soon see its urban rainforests and waterways rejuvenated through a transformative $1.98 million Rainforest to River project aimed at restoring 42 hectares of critically endangered lowland rainforest across 16 sites. The initiative will protect native wildlife, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen community connections to nature.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the project represents a major environmental milestone. “By restoring our rainforests and waterways, we’re creating a healthier, more vibrant environment for our community and future generations,” he said.
Funded through the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, the project also includes more than $1 million in cash and in-kind contributions from 17 partners, including Lismore City Council, Landcare groups and First Nations organisations.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt, said the investment reflects the Albanese Government’s commitment to protecting local ecosystems. “With so many native species relying on our rivers, wetlands and estuaries, restoring these environments is essential for long-term sustainability.”
The Rainforest to River project will focus on key biodiversity hotspots along the Wilsons River and Browns Creek catchments, improving the condition, extent and connectivity of native vegetation while addressing threats such as flooding, weed invasion and pollution.
Culturally informed restoration will see Widjabul Wia-bal Elders lead ceremonies and yarning circles, ensuring traditional knowledge guides on-ground work. Community tree planting events and educational programs will also encourage public participation in local conservation efforts.
Together, these activities will help establish a connected riverside green corridor linking parks, wetlands and riverbanks throughout Lismore.
The first community events will include the Wilsons River Landcare planting on Saturday 12 October, the South Lismore Duckpond planting on Saturday 18 October, and the River Time launch and tree planting on Sunday 26 October — part of Richmond Riverfest, celebrating the rivers, cultures and communities of the Northern Rivers.
In addition, Goonellabah Tucki Landcare Inc. has secured over $300,000 to restore riparian rainforest along Upper Tucki Tucki Creek.
The Rainforest to River project is proudly funded by the Australian Government in partnership with Lismore City Council, Rous County Council, Landcare groups, First Nations organisations and local environmental partners.
Azure Kingfisher & cover (Koala) photos: Iain Stych
LARGE-SCALE LISMORE LANDSLIP REPAIRS NOW UNDERWAY
Major landslip restoration works are now progressing across Lismore, marking the start of a multi-year program to reconnect communities impacted by the 2022 natural disasters.
The first priority roads include Stony Chute Road, Cawongla Road, Oakey Creek Road, Terania Creek Road and Wyrallah Road/ Emily Street. Up to 60 damaged sites will be repaired by late 2027 through joint Commonwealth and NSW Government funding under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Construction is being delivered by CMC Hull JV, a partnership between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings, which has established a site office and storage yard on Blue Knob Road, north of Nimbin.
Motorists are advised to expect increased truck movements, noise and dust while works are underway and to follow all traffic controls.
Project schedules and updates are available on Council’s new Project Pipeline at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Lismore City Council thanks residents and visitors for their patience as it works to rebuild, reconnect and restore vital road links across the region.
‘LIFT THE LID’ BIN INSPECTION PROGRAM
IMPROVE YOUR RECYCLING
Lismore City Council, in partnership with North East Waste, is bringing back the ‘Lift the Lid’ program to help residents reduce contamination, improve recycling, and increase resource recovery across the Lismore LGA.
During the weeks of 13 and 20 October 2025, volunteers will walk selected streets to inspect bins. Bins containing incorrect items will receive a red “oh no” tag with tips on how to sort waste properly, while correctly sorted bins will get a green “awesome” tag and be entered into a draw to win a $150 Loving Local Gift Card. The program educates residents on using the red, yellow, and green bins correctly.
Key reminders include:
FOGO bin: only food scraps and garden waste — no pizza boxes, tea bags, newspaper, or fibre-based containers
Batteries & aerosols: never in kerbside bins; take to the Lismore Recycling and Recovery Centre
Yellow bin recyclables: keep items loose — no boxes or soft plastic bags
Even though Lismore’s Materials Recovery Facility closed in 2024, recycling, FOGO, and cardboard are still processed at specialist facilities to keep resources out of landfill.
For detailed guidance on what goes in each bin, disposal locations, and non-recyclable items, check Council’s website www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.
A Frequently Asked Questions page is also available. This hands-on campaign helps residents adopt sustainable waste practices, protect the environment, and get rewarded for doing the right thing.
RICHMOND RIVERFEST 2025
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Celebrate the rivers, culture and communities of the Northern Rivers with these free and engaging events:
Science in the Club: Nature-Based Solutions for Flood Resilience
Thursday, 16 October, 7–9pm, Lismore Heights Bowling Club
Explore how nature-based solutions can reduce flood impacts and restore river health. Hear from Associate Professor Roslyn Prinsley (ANU) and Louissa Rogers (Richmond Landcare Inc.) about local and global flood mitigation strategies. Nibbles provided; dinner and drinks available for purchase.
Living Memory Coraki: Portraits by the River
Saturday, 18 October, 8.30–10.30am, Riverside Park, Coraki
Join local photographer Elise Derwin to have your portrait taken by the river. Share stories, connect with community history, and contribute to a living archive of Coraki locals gathering ‘where the waters meet’. Morning tea provided.
South Lismore Duckpond Spring Planting
Saturday, 18 October, 10am–2pm, Duckpond, South Lismore
Plant wetland species and grasses to restore local habitats. All equipment supplied; bring gloves, hat and water bottle. Hosted by South Lismore Duckpond Landcare Group with Rainforest to River Project support.
Channon Community Planting Day
Sunday, 19 October, 9am, The Channon Tavern Riverbank
Help plant over 1,100 trees and sedges along Terania Creek. Learn deep-stem planting techniques and meet fellow community members. Catered lunch and music provided. Registration essential. These events are part of Richmond RiverFest 2025, celebrating our rivers and community stewardship.
For more information and to register, visit: www.richmondriverfest.com.au
JOIN COUNCIL AT THE LISMORE SHOW
Lismore City Council will be at the 2025 Elders North Coast National Lismore Show from 16–18 October, ready to connect with the community at the William Smith Pavilion.
Visitors can meet Councillors during Listening Posts on Thursday and Friday from 3pm–5pm and Saturday from 9am–12pm, explore flood restoration updates, and enjoy interactive waste education displays in partnership with North East Waste.
Council staff will also be on hand to answer questions, share resources, and showcase current projects that are shaping the region’s future.
Traffic changes will be in place during the Show, with Alexandra Parade westbound only from the First War Memorial site to Dunoon Road and closed to heavy vehicles. Residents from Modanville, Dunoon, The Channon, and Whian Whian are advised to use Cusack Road or Terania Street to reach the CBD.
Across the three days, the Show promises plenty of fun, with circus acts, live music, fireworks, animal judging, showbags, and family-friendly activities. Visit northcoastnational.com.au for details.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSIONS
Learn, connect and explore at your local library this October with a series of free community sessions designed to inform and inspire.
Monday, 20 October, from 2pm–3pm at Goonellabah Library
Join the My Aged Care Information Session to understand the upcoming changes to aged care services. Whether you’re receiving support or just starting to explore options, hear from a Community Liaison Manager from Dovida Home Care Services and an Aged Care Specialist Officer from Services Australia.
Wednesday, 22 October, from 2pm–3pm at Goonellabah Library
Curious about artificial intelligence? Tea & Tech: Find out about A.I. will show you how AI tools can make everyday tasks easier-from planning holidays and writing messages to finding recipes, books and hobbies.
Every Tuesday, from 1.30pm–2.30pm at Lismore Library Writers of all kinds are welcome at Shut Up & Write!® Lismore Writing Meetups, a relaxed global initiative that helps you focus, write and feel accomplished-without pressure or distractions.
Discover, learn and connect at your local library this October.
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS FOR LISMORE CITY LIBRARY
Lismore City Library has entered a new era with the completion of its restoration, marked by the installation of a new lift that ensures full accessibility for all community members.
Restored by Bennett Constructions in collaboration with BKA Architecture, the project has not only revitalised the building but strengthened its resilience with improved materials, construction methods and water resistance. Since reopening in February, the library has once again become a hub for connection, learning and creativity, offering quiet zones, charging stations and flexible seating for study, work and relaxation.
The $5.6 million restoration was funded through State and Federal flood recovery programs, State Library of NSW grants and Lismore City Council contributions.
Complementing new features such as the children’s reading tree and entry mural, a striking stairwell artwork by Rebecca Kocass, Luke Close and Annette Deal celebrates the community’s recovery spirit.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the lift marks “the finishing touch” on a project that makes the library truly inclusive.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “The shelves are full, the energy is back -this library isn’t just open, it’s thriving.”
Every community has its unsung heroes — the people, groups and teams who make Lismore a better place through passion, service and commitment. Now is your chance to celebrate them by nominating for the 2026 Australia Day Awards. These awards honour those who inspire and contribute to our city across sport, arts, community service, environmental action, education and local enterprise. Award categories include:
• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Services in the Community (Individual)
• Services in the Community (Group)
• Junior Sportsperson
• Sportsperson
• Sports Team/Club
• Environment
• Arts/Culture
• Academic Excellence (new)
• Contribution to Economic Excellence (new)
YOU R BEHAVIOUR MATTERS
There’s no excuse for abuse towards our Council workers
Lismore City Council is committed to treating the community we serve with respect. We expect the same respect towards Council staff to be reciprocated by our community.
Issues and situations will often arise that may challenge us. And not everyone will agree with the required course of action. However, there is no excuse for abuse towards Council workers, whether that be in our call centres, out in our parks and gardens, or while collecting your waste. This month, in line with National Safe Work Month, Council is launching the ‘ Your Behaviour Matters’ campaign, designed to remind our community that the way our staff is treated is important to us. It is simply unacceptable that anyone should work in an environment where they feel threatened by the community they are here to support.
Many are locals like you, who are as passionate about the city they call home as they are about the community to which they belong. Find out a bit more about three of our staff members in candid interviews you can view online on our website at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Council offers several customer service channels for the community to report complaints.
Call: 02 6625 0500
Email: council@lismore.nsw.gov.au
Mail: PO Box 23A, Lismore NSW 2480
Visit: 43 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah, NSW 2480 (open 8:30am to 4:30pm)
Complete an online form on our website.
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
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