Mayor eyes growth and resilience as Lismore moves beyond flood narrative

In the third instalment of our Mayors of the Northern Rivers series, Lismore mayor Steve Krieg reflects on leading the city through the long recovery from the 2022 floods and the challenge of rebuilding both infrastructure and confidence in the city’s future.

Mayor Steve Krieg says the past four years have left little room for reflection, as he continues to lead Lismore through the long aftermath of the 2022 floods and the challenge of rebuilding both the city and its identity.

Instead, the focus has remained firmly on recovery, while trying to return to the core work of council.

“I haven’t had a lot of time for reflection, to be honest,” Krieg said.

“You learn a lot when you’re thrown in the deep end and if I could change a few things I probably would, but first and foremost it’s been about maintaining my honesty and integrity.

“We’re really focused as a council first and foremost on rebuilding after the flood.

“We’re progressing really well in that aspect of it, but it’s also about getting back to business as usual and what we were elected to do which is improving financial sustainability, strengthening our road network and delivering core services in the most efficient and positive way we can.”

 

 

The role has come with personal strain, with Krieg describing the toll public life has taken on his family and business.

“I’ve probably become a bit more guarded over the last four-and-a-bit years because I have opened myself up and copped a bit of flak,” he said.

“There’s pressure on your family, on your business, and the public commentary can be tough.

“But that’s part of putting yourself in the public sphere. It’s something I didn’t fully appreciate at the start.”

While flood recovery remains ongoing, Krieg said the next phase for Lismore is about shifting how the city is seen, both internally and externally.

He said there had been steady progress, despite ongoing budget pressures and rising costs, with recent financial work giving council greater confidence in its direction.

At the same time, he pointed to signs of momentum returning to the city, including major events and renewed use of public infrastructure.

The Rumble on the River skateboarding event, held at the city’s new skate park, stood out.

“To see that skate park fully activated with a national event was unbelievable,” he said.

“There were plenty of question marks when it was first proposed, but seeing it come to life like that was a real highlight.”

 

 

Lismore is also preparing to host the return of Groovin the Moo, while venues such as Crozier Field and Oakes Oval are positioned to attract larger sporting fixtures.

Krieg said the broader goal is to re-establish Lismore as a destination, rather than a place defined by disaster.

“We’re really focused on bringing events back and positioning Lismore as a destination again,” he said.

“I drove past City Hall the other night, it’s nearly ready to be handed back, and it was lit up, the fountains were going. It looked amazing.”

He said changing perceptions of the city would be critical in the years ahead.

“Every major city has cyclones, earthquakes, floods and horrible events that shape them, but it shouldn’t define them,” he said.

“People shouldn’t look at Lismore as a flood town or as victims. What’s happened has happened.

“We’re built on a floodplain, that’s well known, but it’s about building resilience and continuing to grow and thrive.”

 

 

Krieg said long-term priorities remain focused on economic growth, housing and restoring Lismore’s role as a regional hub.

“We want to change the narrative and show that Lismore is a viable place to invest, to live and to build a future,” he said.

“As a father, I want my kids to be able to afford to live here, to enjoy great facilities and opportunities without having to leave.”

Looking ahead, he said he hopes residents will see clear progress across the city.

“I’d like people to see a marked improvement in our roads, more affordable housing, and major projects like new schools and community infrastructure up and running,” Krieg said.

“I’d love to see our CBD thriving again, more events locked in for the future, and Lismore recognised as a vibrant, enjoyable place to live.

“There’s a lot to do, but if people can look back and say we’ve made a positive difference, then we’re on the right track.”