The rollout of a new 10-kilometre fibre optic network allowing for the remote activation of Lismore’s vital flood pumps during future weather events is now complete.

Designed to improve safety and responsiveness, the network is part of a significant program of flood restoration works that is being undertaken to transform the city’s aging flood infrastructure. 

These works also include upgrades to the Browns Creek, Magellan Street and Gasworks Creek pump stations, which will happen later in the year. The Browns Creek upgrade includes a building addition, which will house four new submersible pumps with greater capacity than the existing two pumps.

Delivered by Australian Fibreoptic Solutions, Fibre Connect is one of 10 major projects managed by Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio – Resilience program. 

This project was funded by the Australian Government’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program 22-23, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories and Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain, said, “The completion of Lismore’s Fibre Connect network is a powerful example of how targeted investment in smart infrastructure can build resilience in communities vulnerable to natural disasters. 

“This project, funded through the Australian Government, delivers real-time capability that will help safeguard lives and property during future flood events. 

‘It’s a testament to what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support regional recovery and long-term preparedness.”

NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “This is a transformative moment for Lismore. The completion of the Fibre Connect network means our community is now better equipped to respond to future flood events with speed and precision. 

“Remote activation of our flood pumps will help protect lives and property, and the data-led insights it provides will strengthen our resilience.

“I commend everyone involved in delivering this vital infrastructure, which marks a major step forward in modernising our flood response capabilities.”

Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg said, “The ‘Fibre Connect’ project is a giant leap for the city, which, thanks to the remote monitoring and surveillance capability it unlocks, gives Lismore a powerful tool to make data-led decisions. 

“Workers will still be required for onsite checks, but we'll now have the ability to control the pumps from a safe distance, whether it’s from a council office or a remote worker logging on from a laptop at any location.

“We’ll also have more flexibility with how they're operating the pump stations, being able to turn them up and down and respond to the stormwater catchment more effectively.”

Australian Fibreoptics Solutions Director Paul Asquith, said, “Australian Fibreoptic Solutions has a long and proud history working with Lismore City Council for the past 15 years. We have enjoyed working within the community and are extremely happy to see the town being restored to its vibrant best, post-2022.

“Australian Fibreoptic Solutions is pleased to have delivered the project for Lismore City Council to assist in the remote access to the pump station control systems.”