Governor’s visit inspires hope for the future

NSW Governor Margaret Beazley has returned to Lismore to witness the community’s recovery from the devastating 2022 floods and offer her support to those still rebuilding.

Seeing the region after the flood was one of the “saddest experiences” of her life, Governor Beazley said.

While the physical flood damage was being repaired, Governor Beazley said it may take longer to recover from the mental toll of the disaster.

“It doesn’t take long for those who have been through this flood for the memories to come back to them. You can see it in their eyes,” she said.

During her four-day visit, Governor Beazley toured several sites to assess the ongoing recovery efforts, including Norco’s rebuilt ice cream factory in South Lismore.

CEO Michael Hampson showed her the facility’s new flood-proofing upgrades, such as heavy waterproof doors designed to prevent future damage.

The factory, which had been severely impacted by floodwaters, now includes other innovative features aimed at protecting it from similar disasters.

“We want to see Lismore thrive and become the vibrant town that it really is,” Mr Hampson said.

“Apart from being a lovely human, it’s just great to have someone who is impartial to politics to come and see things and to understand from the people in the region so she can take that direct knowledge back to the environments where she operates.”

The visit to the region also saw Governor Beazley and Mr Wilson visit the Heritage Aviation Museum in Evans Head, the historic New Italy Museum, Richmond Valley and Kyogle councils, and the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange.

Governor Beazley will welcome His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla during their visit to Australia from 18 to 23 October.

While Lismore is currently not on the itinerary, some in the community are holding out hope.