The Lismore Showground isn’t just a critical local community asset that plays host to a number of major events each year, but has also been used as an evacuation centre during past natural disasters in the region.
Approximately 1.1 kilometres of Lismore Showground’s roads have been repaired and upgraded as part of a $1.4 million investment by Crown Lands to revamp its internal road network.
The showground’s original concrete roads were constructed in 1974 and had deteriorated and were no longer fit for purpose. Heavy vehicle and pedestrian use over the years had resulted in uneven surfaces, potholes and loose gravel, with flooding causing more damage. The uneven surface also meant the roads were not accessible for parents with strollers and people with a disability and their carers. Six roads across the network have now been fully replaced, allowing for a much easier and enjoyable visitor experience.
This upgrade has ensured that the internal roads are much safer and more accessible, allowing visitors of all ages to come and enjoy the livestock shows, motorcar racing, farmers markets, school events, carnivals, and all the other community events held at the showground.
‘Lismore Showground has been the bedrock of our community for over 100 years. It’s the heart of our town, where people gather both during good times and the bad,’ said Lismore Showground and North Coast National Secretary Mark Sollom.
‘Unfortunately, the old concrete road network that ran through the park was becoming a significant safety concern. Now our roads have been brought into the 21st century meaning more people can access the educational, agricultural and community events we hold at the showground.’
Lismore Showground was badly impacted by the devastating floods that impacted many communities across the Northern Rivers region. The work was funded by a $645,000 COVID Stimulus grant and a $200,000 Showground Stimulus Fund contribution. The showground also received a $585,000 Treasury Managed Fund Flood Insurance payment to help repair the roads which were badly waterlogged and damaged.
‘Our community has been hit hard the last few years, but we always come together at Lismore Showground,’ Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said.
‘About 75 per cent of the roads across the showground are now brand new. This is a major investment that is another example of the NSW government and local community coming together for the betterment of all.’
A geo-fabric bed was installed across the network to stop potholes forming and mitigate the risk of erosion, before a new road base and asphalt was laid down. A new drainage system was installed which removed water and trip hazards from the road complex. Excavated concrete and road base fill was recycled into an overflow car park as a recycling and sustainability initiative. An electric entry gate was also installed as part of the project.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, ‘Showgrounds are a vital resource for regional communities hosting everything from agricultural shows to farmers markets, music ‘This $1.4 million investment to upgrade the road network at Lismore Showground has improved this historic community venue and will help bring a resilient community even closer together.’
