The rollout of a new 10-kilometre fibre optic network allowing for the remote activation of Lismore’s vital flood pumps during future weather events is now complete.
Designed to improve safety and responsiveness, the network is part of a significant program of flood restoration works that is being undertaken to transform the city’s ageing flood infrastructure.
These works also include upgrades to the Browns Creek, Magellan Street and Gasworks Creek pump stations, which will happen later in the year.
“This is a transformative moment for Lismore. The completion of the Fibre Connect network means our community is now better equipped to respond to future flood events with speed and precision,” said NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin.
“Remote activation of our flood pumps will help protect lives and property, and the data-led insights it provides will strengthen our resilience.
“I commend everyone involved in delivering this vital infrastructure, which marks a major step forward in modernising our flood response capabilities.”
Lismore City Council Mayor, Steve Krieg welcomed the completion of the rollout.
“The ‘Fibre Connect’ project is a giant leap for the city which, thanks to the remote monitoring and surveillance capability it unlocks, gives Lismore a powerful tool to make data-led decisions,” said the Mayor.
“Workers will still be required for onsite checks, but we’ll now have the ability to control the pumps from a safe distance, whether it’s from a council office or a remote worker logging on from a laptop at any location.
“We’ll also have more flexibility with how they’re operating the pump stations, being able to turn them up and down and respond to the stormwater catchment more effectively.”
Delivered by Australian Fibreoptic Solutions, Fibre Connect is one of 10 major projects managed by Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio – Resilience program.
“Australian Fibreoptic Solutions is pleased to have delivered the project for Lismore City Council to assist in the remote access to the pump station control systems,” said Australian Fibreoptics Solutions Director, Paul Asquith.
This project was funded by the Australian Government’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program 22-23, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.
