New school underway for South Lismore

STUDENTS have turned the first sod to signal the construction new permanent buildings for Lismore South Public School and Lismore South Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool.

The new flood-resilient buildings were designed to meet long-term needs and minimise potential disruption from future flood events, including early evacuation.

Both schools are being rebuilt at their original Phyllis Street site following the 2022 floods. They will include 13 modern permanent classrooms, a library, a multipurpose hall, undercover learning and play areas, and a games court.

Manufactured offsite, the new buildings will be delivered and installed by crane onto a flood-resilient steel platform, in early 2026.

For the third time enhanced planning powers have been exercised by the Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, under section 68 of the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act 2022 to fast track the reconstruction.

Saffin said the project was an investment in the future of the South Lismore community and ensured the students had the facilities that reduced disruption from future floods.

The school and preschool are being rebuilt on the current site with flood resilient design and materials. Image: SUPPLIED

“Rebuilding Lismore South Public School and Lismore South Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool is a central part of the recovery work the Minns Labor Government is undertaking to create more resilient communities following the 2022 floods,” Saffin said.

“I want to acknowledge the incredible resilience and strength of the South Lismore community, who have faced significant challenges. Together, we’re building back a better, brighter, and more resilient future.”

Lismore South Public School principal Larissa Polak said that breaking ground on the rebuild was an exciting moment for our entire school community.

“It’s the start of a great new chapter that’s going to be beneficial for our students, staff, and the Lismore South community for generations to come,” Polak said.

“This rebuild will deliver resilient school buildings to cater to the needs of our community, and we look forward to seeing our future school take shape.”

Jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Infrastructure Betterment Fund has funded nine school rebuilds to date including South Lismore.