Fast-tracked construction begins on new Richmond River school project

CONSTRUCTION has begun on the fast-tracked Rivers Secondary College, Richmond River High campus in Lismore, with the school set to relocate to a new, flood-resilient site next year.

The original campus was damaged beyond repair during the 2022 floods, forcing students and staff to operate from temporary facilities at Lismore High School.

The new campus will be built on elevated land on Dunoon Road in North Lismore, with enhanced planning powers under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act used to fast-track the project.

NSW Minister for Disaster Recovery and Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said it was encouraging to see construction underway on a project shaped by community input.

“The school community told us they wanted to retain a college campus that meets the needs of North and South Lismore and the surrounding villages, and that maintains the open rural feeling. Looking at the designs, that’s exactly what is being delivered.

“The new Richmond River High campus will be a school designed for this community, by this community, and built to be flood-resilient and support Lismore’s students well into the future.”

Once complete, the campus will include 36 classrooms, specialist learning spaces, workshops, a library, multipurpose hall, performance spaces and new sports fields, with buildings located on higher ground overlooking green spaces.

The design has also been informed by Connecting to Country consultation recognising Bundjalung culture.

Principal Luke Woodward said the start of construction marked an important milestone.