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The closure of the Flood Recovery Centre at Carrington Street on February 8 marks a signifcant milestone in Lismore’s recovery journey, following nearly two years of dedicated service in assisting the community after the devastating foods of February 2022.

As the Recovery Centre concludes its operations, the NSW Reconstruction Authority will step in to provide ongoing food-related assistance from the same location at 14 Carrington Street.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg expressed gratitude for the Centre’s role in supporting foodaffected residents and businesses throughout the Lismore LGA, emphasizing that its closure signifes progress towards recovery.

Mayor Krieg acknowledged the invaluable contributions of staff, volunteers, and community members who supported the Centre’s operations, particularly during the challenging initial period following the disaster.

The Centre offered essential services such as grant support, recovery assistance, emergency accommodation, and mental health services, playing a crucial role in aiding the community’s recovery process. With declining visitation rates in recent months, it is evident that the Centre has fulflled its mission of supporting Lismore residents and businesses.

Initially located at Southern Cross University’s V Block, the Centre was relocated multiple times before settling at 14 Carrington Street within the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s offces in November 2023.

Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons emphasized the collaborative effort between agencies and the dedication of staff and volunteers as key to the Centre’s success.

One notable achievement of the Centre was the distribution of over 1,729 GIVIT vouchers to address various community needs, including beds, white goods, and essential supplies like petrol and groceries.

To further support residents, essential services are available, including the Disaster Response Legal Service, Uniting Recovery Support, Social Futures: Recovery Connect, Lismore and District Financial Counselling Service, and Head to Health, providing assistance and resources for ongoing recovery efforts.

Resilient Lands Program Too Slow Too Slow

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan (pictured) has said the Resilient Lands Program announcement today is “to slow for our community. Most families who were fooded have already made their decisions. They have sold and moved from the area. Or they have sold and bought another house, sometimes back in the food area. Or they have renovated and are staying in their home.”

“It will be 4 years post the disaster before anyone is relocated and living on the land announced today.

Releasing 400 blocks of land should be a yearly goal of councils and a normal course of business. Today’s announcement that 400 homes will be available 4 years after the event is not something we should be self-congratulating ourselves for. This is too slow for the families who were fooded 2 years ago,” said Mr Hogan.