The upgrade of the Browns Creek pump station in downtown Lismore has taken another important step forward, with detailed inspections and GPS mapping of the creek’s underground pathway beneath Clyde Campbell Car Park now complete. 

Browns Creek has flowed through a concrete culvert since 1969, forming a 400‑metre hidden watercourse beneath central Lismore. The creek travels from an inlet near John Crowther Car Park, under Browns Creek carpark and through to the pump station beside Wilsons River. 

The recently completed investigations are a vital part of the project, providing accurate information to ensure future construction is safe, precise and responsive to both engineering requirements and environmental considerations. 

Inspections were completed through a collaborative effort between Lismore City Council staff, specialist contractors and NSW Police Rescue.

Detailed underground mapping confirmed the creek’s precise alignment, with the data now informing the next stage of works and ensuring the final design accurately reflects the infrastructure beneath our streets. 

Supporting local wildlife was also a key focus. 

Local ecologist Veronica Silver joined the group to identify microbat species known to roost within the pipe. Two species – the Little Bent‑wing and the Southern Myotis – are regular inhabitants of spaces like these. 

Veronica's involvement will help ensure the project continues to protect and support Lismore’s urban ecology while essential infrastructure improvements are delivered. 

With underground mapping now complete, the findings will feed into the final design of the new pump station, supporting Council’s ongoing work to strengthen Lismore’s resilience to future flooding. 

Construction is expected to begin later this year. 

For more information on Lismore City Council’s resilience efforts, visit https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Building-and-planning/Flood-Restoration-Portfolio/Flood-resilience.