Lismore City Council has announced a new campaign – ‘Back Lismore’ – in an effort to shift the area’s narrative away from ‘flood city’.
The initiative is a call to action and a storytelling platform aimed at reigniting excitement and pride in the region.
The Council said that everyone who lives, works, visits, or plays in the region is invited to embrace the many ways in which they can back Lismore.
Lismore City Council said that while not everything, nor everyone, is back where they want to be, Lismore is really starting to thrive again.
‘Back Lismore’ is designed to encourage residents and visitors to support local businesses, attractions, events and the vibrant community that makes Lismore unique.
Lismore City Council Mayor, Steve Krieg, said as the journey of recovery continues, the spirit of Lismore is as strong as ever.
“This campaign will showcase the collective progress made and the unity that has been the backbone of our great place,” Mayor Krieg said.
“Together, let’s celebrate Lismore and showcase the unity, pride and vibrancy of our community.”
Over a two week period from 4 October, a creative toolkit will be provided to all community members, including local organisations, businesses, educational institutions, artistic venues and community leaders.
This toolkit aims to empower the community to share their stories, experiences, and showcase the ways they can all back Lismore.
The campaign’s flexibility ensures inclusivity, allowing every individual and entity in the region to participate and share how they support and champion the region.
Lismore artist Kate Stroud, from Stroud de’ Signs, has joined the Back Lismore campaign.
Ms Stroud said that an unexpected invitation following the 2022 natural disaster led to a magical transformation. Her art studio, once nestled beneath her Queenslander home, was lost to the flood.
“From the waters emerged a collaboration of creative women in a shared space at The Outpost,” Ms Stroud said.
“Each ‘Back Lismore’ story highlights the strength of a community lies in its collective unity and support for one another.”
Other current community stories include Joel Jensen, the driving force behind Joel Jensen Constructions; Jen Ridolfi, the esteemed volunteer coordinator for Friends of the Koala; Brad Hicks, the dynamic leader of Fitness Kidz; with future contributions welcome.
The Back Lismore campaign will officially launch at the 2023 Elders Back Lismore Show on 20 October.
Featured image: Lismore locals and Mayor Krieg. Image credit: Lismore City Council.
