The landfill at Lismore City Council’s Recycling and Recovery Centre has reopened today, more than three years after the 2022 floods caused extensive damage to the facility.
The project marks a major milestone in Lismore’s recovery, with the landfill now back in operation ahead of schedule.
“This reopening is another important milestone in Lismore’s recovery journey. It shows what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to deliver practical outcomes for our community,” said NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin (pictured, centre, with Mayor, Steve Kreig).
“The 2022 floods caused immense damage to critical infrastructure like this landfill, so it’s fantastic to see it restored and operating again.
“We are building back better where we can and ensuring a more sustainable and self-sufficient Lismore.”
Originally established in the 1960s, the landfill at the LRRC on Wyrallah Road has served as the central disposal facility for Lismore’s residual waste for decades.
Following extensive damage in the 2022 floods, the Federal and NSW Governments provided $15.6 million under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Works were managed by Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio, with a further $3.6 million provided through the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, delivered under the DRFA to support more resilient reconstruction.
The restoration included drying the flood-affected cell and reinstating environmental safeguards, including the replacement of the cell floor lining system.
“NSW Public Works provided technical and administrative support to Lismore City Council’s extensive repair of Cell 2B at the Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre and are pleased with the positive outcomes achieved by Lismore City Council for their community,” said NSW Public Works Executive Director, Drew Varnum.
Council is also progressing long-term planning for future waste management, with investigations underway into a new regional landfill that can service the community for the next 50 years.
“Restoring our landfill has been a complex and challenging task, and I want to sincerely thank the contractors and Council staff who’ve worked tirelessly to make this happen,” said Mayor, Steve Kreig.
“Their commitment has not only delivered a vital piece of infrastructure back to our community but also helped reduce the financial burden of transporting waste out of the region.”
