In the cold, hard light of day, last night's Richmond River High Campus fire will leave former students and staff more dejected as photos show the full extent of the damage.

Fire and Rescue NSW reported their crews worked through the night to contain the fire that was due for demolition, in North Lismore.

At approximately 6.30pm on Friday, more than 50 firefighters and ten fire trucks responded to numerous Triple Zero (000) calls to a fire in a building in Lake Street, with reports of flames and thick smoke.

On arrival, crews were faced with a large expanding fire in a large building located at the front of the school that was impacting adjoining buildings. Firefighters successfully established cut off points and contained the fire.

NSW Police assisted with establishing a 150-metre exclusion zone, with road closures in place on Lake Street, Winterton Parade, Pitt Lane and Bridge Street, and the public was advised to avoid the area.

The intensity of the fire led to a building collapse at the front of the school, which added to the complexity of the operation.

(Photo: RRHC)

The fire was contained after approximately 2.5 hours, however firefighters then turned their efforts to protecting adjoining buildings and extinguishing hotspots.

Crews rotated through the night and into the morning. A FRNSW Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) drone was used to assist in identifying and extinguishing remaining hotspots.

Several firefighters were treated at the scene for suspected dehydration and heat exhaustion by NSW Ambulance Paramedics, and one firefighter was transported to Hospital as a precaution, and has since been cleared and released.

The cause of the fire is unknown and is being treated as suspicious. The site will be handed over to NSW Police today, who will investigate the origin and cause of the fire, with assistance of FRNSW investigators.

As police investigate the incident, Richmond River High Campus Principal Luke Woodward took to its Facebook page to express his and the community disappointment.

"As we grapple with the devastation caused by the tragic fire at our beloved Richmond River High School on Lake Street, we are reminded of just how much this place means to all of us.

"For generations, it has been more than just a school. It has been a home, a gathering place, and a foundation where so many of us took our first steps toward our futures. It is a symbol of who we are, of the stories we carry, and of the incredible bonds that have been formed within its walls.

"The loss we feel is immense, but the spirit of Richmond River High School lives on in each of us. It lives in the stories we carry, the friendships we cherish, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way. The memories we share are indestructible, and no fire can take away what has been built within our hearts. The stories you’ve shared so far have been a beacon of strength and love for everyone. Each memory, every photo, and every word is a testament to the enduring power of our community.

"We are so grateful for your willingness to share and for the love that continues to pour in. These moments are what connect us, what remind us that the heart of Richmond River High is forever alive. Please continue to share your stories, your memories, and your support. Together, we will ensure that the spirit of this school is never lost. In times like this, it’s vital that we continue to take care of ourselves and each other.

"We are a community built on resilience and love, and together, we will rise above this challenge.

"We are RRHC Resilient!"