With many businesses still rebuilding and recovering from the floods, break-ins and theft is the last thing they want to deal with. However, a recent rise in crime has left local businesses feeling vulnerable and frustrated.

Rachel and Jason Sipple own and operate Just Ride Cycles at the Wyrallah Road Shopping Centre in East Lismore. They have been targeted four times since the 2022 floods.

Jason said they got hit two nights in a row last week, costing them over $10,000 in stock and $9,000 in property damages.

“They smashed the front glass door to get in on the first night, we had it fixed the next day, and then they smashed it again to get in the next night,” he said.

“Police have been great, they were actually here within minutes because they heard the alarm, but they were too quick.”

“It’s been a good response from the community too, the [Facebook] post has been shared around a bit, and people are calling saying they’ve seen different bikes… they’re not ours, but at least people are trying.”

“Wyrallah Road Primary School have been broken into just down the road as well… we don’t know if they are the same kids, but it is just insane.”

It is a similar story at the Lismore City Bowling Club, which has been broken into twice in 10 days in April after 10 years with no history of break-ins.

Sharon Pepper volunteer and Bar Manager at the Lismore City Bowling Club told the Lismore App a rock was thrown through a glass door on two separate occasions.

The first was shortly after a Tropical Fruits event when computers and electronic gear were stolen with the club itself losing an iPad and the tip jar. One of the stolen iPads was later found in the bushes in Goonellabah.

Then, 10 days later thieves returned to steal $3000 to $4000 worth of alcohol as well as breaking the spirit cupboard, cool room door and throwing rocks over the ladies' toilet.

"It's awful, especially after what we've been through with the flood. We've never been a wealthy establishment, just for us to be up and running is a momentous effort from us all. To be broken into two weeks in a row is violating, that's what it is. It's an awful feeling for all the staff and volunteers."

As the club struggled to reopen and now trying to establish itself in the community, it cannot afford contents insurance. Going forward, Sharon said they will have security cameras to help identify any thieves that try to break in again.

Sharon said police have been down to the club twice and taken fingerprints but have not heard anything further.

The Lismore App understands a CBD premise in the Strand Arcade had tiles taken away from its roof which meant recent rain collapsed the ceiling causing more damage to another relatively new business.

The Lismore App approached the Richmond Police District for comments on recent crime but has not received a response at this time in what was a busy day for our police force.

If you witness a crime in action or have knowledge of one, call Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.