It is hard to imagine that only a few months ago people could canoe down this street. The aftermath of cyclone Debbie hit Lismore hard at the end of March, with major flooding ripping through the main CBD, when the Wilson river broke the levy in the middle of the night.
Nestled in the northern rivers region of Australia, Lismore is a gem of a place that I have been visiting for the past fifteen years. It is artistic, raw, earthy, completely intriguing and a haven for individual style. Last week, despite many of the shops still gutted from the flood, it was awesome to see the place pulsating with creative energy once again. I was there to see the annual Lantern Festival.
Every year around the winter solstice, Lismore closes off the main streets to host a gorgeous evening street parade complete with live music, art and markets. In the wake of such recent devastating flooding it was inspiring to see a strong community, with a resilient heart, rally together and put on another spectacular free public show.
Well done Lismore. It was a perfect evening.
Until next time
xx Isabella