Browns Creek Pump Station – In Progress
Browns Creek Pump Station is the most recognisable of the four pump locations in Lismore’s current flood resilience network – a focal point for the community and media during significant rainfall events.
| Funding |
Funded by the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program 2022-23, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority |
| Status |
In progress |
| Timeframe |
Expected completion Q4 2026 |
| Disaster |
AGRN1012 |
Built in the 1970s and tasked with pumping stormwater from the low-lying Lismore basin into Wilsons River, the station is set for an essential modernisation, which will see construction of a new pump station alongside the existing one, to house four powerful submersible pumps.
Combined, these pumps will deliver four to five times the pumping power of the existing two.
Remote monitoring, operation and surveillance of the pump station will be possible, thanks to the recent rollout of a new fibre optic network linking Lismore's pump stations.
Together, these enhancements will improve catchment response to local rainfall when river levels rise.
The existing Browns Creek Pump Station
Concept design for the new Browns Creek pump station. Subject to change.
Location: 7 Molesworth Street, Lismore
What’s happening at Browns Creek pump station?
A new pump station will be constructed adjacent to the existing facility. It will house four new submersible pumps – boosting pumping capacity of the station by four to five times. Mechanical trash screens will also be added to protect the pumps from debris. Combined, these upgrades will help expedite stormwater removal near homes and businesses.
When will work commence?
Following a comprehensive tender process (due to begin in October 2025), it’s expected construction of the new Browns Creek Pump Station will commence in early 2026.
What will happen to the existing Browns Creek pump station?
The existing Browns Creek station will remain operational throughout the new build. Once the new facility is online, the old building will be refurbished, primarily to house electrical equipment and the reconditioned flood gate but will no longer contain any pumps.
Will there be disruptions during construction at Browns Creek?
Yes, there will be construction impacts on Molesworth Street. However, our approach is to reduce the impact on the community as much as possible. For example, extension of the levee wall to encompass the new site will be prioritised, while the existing pump station will remain operational throughout construction, to ensure Lismore is not left at risk.
Why has the upgrade taken so long?
Upgrading a flood pumping station is a significant undertaking requiring detailed analysis and design to ensure the right approach is selected. Early procurement for items with a long lead time has commenced. In addition, the new pump station has necessitated upgrades to the electrical network, with this now in the advanced design stage.