Flood concert for Northern Rivers residents
More than 13,000 Northern Rivers residents impacted by the unprecedented flooding will gather at Lismore Showground today for a free concert hosted by Lismore City Council and supported by the NSW Government.
The event called ‘One from the Heart’ will feature an exciting line-up of great Australian talent including Grinspoon, Paul Kelly and Dan Kelly, Jon Stevens, Lime Cordiale, Sheppard, Daryl Braithwaite, Darlinghurst and The Buckleys.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the concert will help provide some light relief for flood-affected communities after months of hardship.
“We know how tough the last few months have been, and the challenges residents across the Northern Rivers have faced. This free outdoor concert is a wonderful opportunity for people to come together and I hope it helps lift spirits,” Ms Cooke said.
“It’s important we find ways to help boost morale during the recovery process as residents and business owners continue to deal with the difficulties of clean-up, reconstruction and deciding what comes next.”
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin, who will be in attendance, said the concert is an opportunity for locals to enjoy the music of iconic Australian artists following a challenging start to the year.
“2022 has been tough for residents in Lismore and surrounding areas, and they have shown incredible resilience during this time of hardship,” Mr Franklin said.
“This free concert is an opportunity for locals to let their hair down and unwind to some of the most talented Australian music artists in the business, and I am so proud to be attending alongside them.”
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed the NSW Government’s contribution of $75,000 to the event.
"About a week after the second flood hit us on March 30, I was talking with Council staff about what we could do to lift community spirits and what we needed was a line in the sand moment that would mark a shift in the community’s mood of shock,” Mr Krieg said.
"I know there is a strong need for our community to come together. I want to thank the NSW Government for supporting and helping us stage this event.”
Tickets were provided free of charge to residents living in over 80 suburbs across the 2471, 2472 and 2480 postcodes.