Back Lismore - a community campaign

Published on 04 October 2023

In response to the community's call for a shift in narrative from 'flood city' to 'open', Lismore City Council is proud to announce the ‘Back Lismore’ campaign.

This initiative is a call to action and a storytelling platform aimed at reigniting excitement and pride in our region.

Everyone who lives, works, visits, or plays in our region are invited to embrace the many ways in which they can back Lismore.

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 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,” he said.

“Together, let's celebrate Lismore and showcase the unity, pride and vibrancy of our community.”

Over the next fortnight, a creative toolkit will be provided to all community members, including local organisations, businesses, educational institutions, artistic venues and community leaders.

This toolkit will empower everyone to share their stories, experiences, and showcase the ways we 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, is one of many familiar faces that has joined the Back Lismore campaign.

Kate said “an unexpected invitation following last year's 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.”

"Each Back Lismore story highlights the strength of a community lies in its collective unity and support for one another,” she said.

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.

For more information on how you can Back Lismore visit www.backlismore.com.au. You can also find Back Lismore on Facebook, don’t forget to like and follow the page.

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