This is my fourth attempt at writing a Christmas message, and it is a challenge, as 2024 has been such a difficult year in so many ways. It has also been such a good year in many facets, so to bundle it all up in a few hundred words is not easy, but I’ll do my best. 

There was a local government election this year, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who put their hand up to stand on the ballot. To past councillors who served in the previous term, thank you for giving your time. To those who were elected, seven returning councillors and three newly elected councillors, I look forward to the next four years progressing the aspirations of the community to make Lismore an outstanding place to work, play and live. 

I would like to recognise a very special person who was named Lismore Citizen of the Year for 2024, Mieke Bell.

The work that Mieke, through her organisation, the Winsome Foundation, has done over such a long period of time was truly worthy of recognition, and she has been a fantastic citizen of the year. I would like to thank you for all you do to make our community a better place to live.

I would also like to take a moment to congratulate Naomi Moran, former editor of the Koori Mail, now part of the NSW Treaty Commission. Our population is made up of such inspiring individuals, which makes Lismore a truly great place to live. 

Lismore's road to recovery has had many highlights over the past 12 months, with several roads and bridges upgraded or rebuilt, many kilometres of drains cleaned, repaired or renewed, and physical assets reopened or close to being handed over. None of this work would be at this stage without the dedication and efforts of Lismore City Councils executive team and officers. Jon Gibbons, Brendan Logan and Eber Butron have led an exceptional team of council employees and contractors to rebuild and revive so much that was damaged throughout our LGA.

2025 promises to deliver substantially more restorative work, which will benefit all of our residents both now and well into our future. 

We have also experienced sadness and tragedy during 2024. The loss of many wonderful people who made Lismore their home has had a profound impact on many lives. I need to acknowledge Paul O'Neill, whose life was cut tragically short but who had a huge impact across many sectors of our community.

To all the families and friends who have suffered the loss of a loved one over the past 12 months, this Christmas will be more difficult than most, and my thoughts and prayers are with you. 

As we pause to reflect on the year that was, it enables us to focus on what should be the most important thing in our lives, and that is our family and our friends.

For myself, I couldn't be more thankful for the love and support of my beautiful family: my wife Julianne and our kids Sam, Jess, Jorgi, Annie and Gabby. Personally, I can't wait to spend a few days enjoying each other’s company as a family.

I'm also looking forward to catching up with friends, both old and new, to celebrate not only Christmas but the joy of being together. Life really is everything you want to make it.

I truly believe we live in the best place on earth, and even though we all face challenges, it is how we respond that makes us who we are. I pray that everyone has a safe and enjoyable festive season and that the next year will be everything you want it to be. Most importantly, be kind to one another, and together, we can make 2025 a great year for Lismore. 

Steve Krieg

Mayor of Lismore