The Northern Rivers Conservatorium (NRC) is set to embark on the largest program of capital works in the organisation’s history.

Incredibly, NRC returned to fully refurbished and flood-resilient teaching and admin spaces within 5 months of the February 2022 flood event. However, there is still much to do.

The program of works will further the recovery from the 2022 floods and enhance the future resilience of both the infrastructure and the organisation, supporting NRCs ongoing significant contribution to the Northern Rivers region.

The works are proudly funded by the NSW Government, with total funding of $4.8 million through Create NSW’s Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package and Creative Capital funding programs.

The major items in the program of works include:

• Installation of a goods lift
• New roof and solar panels
• Recovery and upgrade to car park and grounds
• Reclamation of ground floor spaces
• Upgrade and refurbishment of the Concert Room
• Upgrade to fire system (almost complete)

Over the past year, the Board and Management of NRC have been working with a design team of local experts coordinated by Project Manager Richard Mason. Having recently received approval of their development application through Lismore City Council, NRC is now at the ready.

The Conservatorium will remain operational throughout and will work with the team from Bennett Constructions to keep the music playing while the ‘reclamation and resilience’ works to their beautiful heritage building and grounds are completed.

As Christopher Leach PSM, the Chair of the NRC said, “NRC is the proud custodian of one of the oldest community buildings in the centre of Lismore and the single largest provider of quality music education in the Northern Rivers. These works will ensure students have an environment that is both attractive and optimal for their journey in music”.