Lismore’s RiverTime celebration was the final event Richmond RiverFest 2025 where thousands came together across the catchment to celebrate and care for the Richmond River.
RiverTime Lismore was a joyful community celebration by the banks of the Richmond River featuring live music, weaving, kids’ art, and cultural performances, the culmination of a month long festival that hosted more than 30 events across the catchment – from Wiangaree to Ballina – engaging community members in activities celebrating river health, connection and collaboration.
The power of community-led action
Festival organiser Dr Kristin den Exter, from Richmond Riverkeeper, said the event showed the power of community-led action. ‘Richmond RiverFest is about reconnecting people with place – celebrating the river that gives us life, and the communities who care for it.
‘We’ve seen artists, scientists, farmers, school groups and Traditional Custodians all come together with one shared message – “our river matters”.’
This year’s festival featured a strong cultural and creative focus, including weaving circles led by women from across Bundjalung Country, school and community planting days with over 3,500 trees planted, paddles, and live music powered by renewable energy.
Richmond RiverFest is presented by Richmond Riverkeeper in partnership with local councils, community groups and organisations dedicated to the health of the catchment.
Photos Lisa G
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
