New book celebrates the humans of Lismore

A new book celebrating the stories of more than 400 Lismore locals will launch at the Lismore Regional Gallery on Thursday, December 12. The 312-page publication, more than 10 years in the making, began as a passion project inspired by the popular Humans of New York initiative.

Denise Alison, the book’s creator, said she was motivated to showcase the diversity and resilience of the community.

“The Humans of New York; I love that page, and I love that idea of just everyday people on the street being able to share their stories where they normally wouldn’t be able to – just giving everyone a voice.”

Ms Alison had no formal training as a writer but loved sharing stories.

“I left school in year 10 and I’ve always liked English. I’ve just loved people and stories.

“I’ve been a photographer since I was a teenager – weddings and bands and portraits and I just love talking to people.”

The stories first appeared on the Humans of Lismore Facebook page and a selection will feature in a 312-page book.

Ms Alison said sharing stories brought the community together.

“I think people care more about each other if they know some of their story. You can look at somebody and you have no idea what they’ve been through, but all of a sudden, now they know their name and their story,” she said.

One person she interviewed said the feedback on his story was heartening.

“Darryl Deeley from the Keen St vets said usually people don’t hear those comments because they’re said at their funeral – all the beautiful comments that he got about how he’s loved and how he saved their animals or whatever. What he meant to them.”

The community helped fund the book’s printing, and those who contributed to the GoFundMe are recognised alongside the stories.

Ms Alison has collected hundreds more stories and hints there may be another edition in the future, but for now, Humans of Lismore launches on Thursday, December 12 at 6pm at the Lismore Regional Gallery. There will be a Q&A session with the author, music, and refreshments.

You can order the book at humansoflismore.com.au