You may be unaware that Lismore has a thriving hearing-impaired community, or maybe you have taken an Auslan course to converse more easily through the Australian dialect of sign language for your friend or family member.

Whichever end of the spectrum you sit, you may find it interesting to learn that the Lismore LGA has the highest per capita Auslan-qualified sign language communicators than any other Australian LGA.

Enter the new Silent Hands Cafe on Woodlark Street.

Founder and owner of Silent Hands, Lilly says everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the food and friendly atmosphere.

Set on Woodlark St, (number 49) across from Toyworld and ANZ Bank, the cafe has a large and inviting space where people can sample delicious food, engage with both verbal and Auslan conversation, or to buy Auslan resources or homemade products such as pickles and preserves.

Lilly's journey as a restauranteur began in Guyra, NSW near Armidale when she decided to open a Silent Hands there. Since moving up to Lismore, and after seeing the vibrant deaf community in action, she decided this place was important to create here, too.

The venue feels warm and welcoming the minute you enter, and the hours, menu and offerings are dynamic, so regular visits will most certainly bring fresh experiences, in what you are able to sample, buy or choose to dine on, on the night.

Lilly told the Lismore App " I want my cafe to be able to cater to a lot of different dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian etc. In Guyra, many customers came simply for my homemade cakes and jams/relishes as I use special blends that make them taste amazing.

"Customers in Lismore are now discovering my cakes and have been coming back for more."

Lilly added, "I run a side business selling Flavourista which is Australian-owned and made, based in QLD. All products are gluten-free, nut-free and I use them in all my cakes and meals. I've been working in Flavourista now for a couple of years and love it, I have products on display so customers can take a look and order if they like an item."

"There will be some special events coming up soon that I'll announce on our Facebook Page, and also on the blackboard in the cafe, I will be holding High Tea Auslan classes."

Lilly says she is still looking for staff and is adjusting her opening hours according to staffing, but will be open currently from 7:30am to 4pm Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays closed Tuesday, and open for extended hours on a Thursday 7:30am to 6pm.

Unlike many other venues and retailers in Lismore Lilly has opted to serve the community on weekends as well, even past the midday cut-off which is great for the community, she will be open 7am to 2pm on Saturday and 7am to 1pm on a Sunday.