28 February 2022 is a day that the residents of Lismore will never forget. The city was hit by a catastrophic flood that caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, and it affected not only Lismore but also surrounding areas.
As we mark the flood’s one year anniversary, it is a time for reflection, healing, and looking towards the future.
The Lismore flood’s aftermath
After the heavy rainfall, the water level of Wilsons River rose rapidly and this resulted in severe flooding throughout the city, with many people forced to evacuate their homes and businesses. Including Toy Kingdom (now Toyworld) Lismore.
Homes and businesses were destroyed, and many people lost everything they had. The infrastructure of our beloved city was severely damaged, with roads and bridges washed away, and essential services like electricity and water disrupted.
In the immediate aftermath of the flood, emergency services worked tirelessly to rescue those in danger and provide essential supplies to those affected. The community response was incredible, with people coming together to provide support and assistance to those in need. This included setting up shelters, providing food and water, and helping with the clean-up effort.
One year later, the community is still working hard to rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by the flood. However, progress has been made, with many homes and about 60% of businesses now back up and running. Much of the city's infrastructure has also been restored, allowing people to move around the area more freely.
Lismore community’s gathering of reflection and healing
Source: https://www.visitlismore.com.au/whats-on/event/Gathering+of+Reflection+and+Healing/11717
To mark the first anniversary of the flood, the community is coming together for a Gathering of Reflection and Healing. The event will take place on 28 February 2023 at 6-8pm on Mortimer Oval Cnr Uralba and Brewster St. The service will be hosted by the Salvation Army and will provide the community with the opportunity to reflect, commemorate, and heal. The Lions Club will also be hosting a barbecue throughout the evening.
This is will be a space for people to come together to remember those who lost their lives in the flood and to show support for those who are still dealing with the flood’s aftermath.
If you are interested in attending the Gathering of Reflection and Healing, you can find more information here.
In addition to the Gathering of Reflection and Healing, the Lismore community will be holding other events to remember the flood and to ensure that it is never forgotten.
This will include:
- February 28 to March 5: Wellbeing hub at the Quad;
- March 2: Welcome party for the Bowilzilla skate event at Nimbin;
- March 3: Flea circus skate event at GSAC;
- March 4: Open CBD gathering, with CBD businesses, food vendors, local artists, roving entertainers, and four live music stages around the block, while will be closed to traffic; and
- March 5: Community concert at the Turf Club for those in Lismore LGA.
The two final events are:
- March 11: Community Cricket 20/20 with former Australian Test cricketers, led by Adam Gilchrest, playing with local senior and junior cricketers at Oakes Oval; and
- March 19: Opera in the Gardens at the Lismore Turf Club, with well-known international performers and orchestra.
The Lismore flood of 2022 was a significant event for the community, causing extensive damage and disruption. However, the community response was incredible, with people coming together to support one another and rebuild. While there is still much work to be done, may this day be a reminder that the Lismore community is strong, resilient, and united in the face of adversity. Over the next couple of weeks we'll be sharing how we got our flag-ship store re-opened after seven months, and what we uncovered beneath the many layers ... it's been quite a journey, and the new look Toyworld has been welcomed with love and open arms from Lismore and Northern Rivers residents and holiday makers in the area. Follow us on our socials to stay up to date!
