LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin’s strong advocacy over the past two years has paid off for the Northern Rivers Conservatorium with a $277,000 State grant to make its heritage building more accessible.
Ms Saffin welcomed Government MLC Ben Franklin’s announcement that the grant would fund a lift so that people with disabilities can access all three levels of the building in Lismore’s Central Business District.
“The Con came to me for help on several occasions and I made direct representations to NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro, meeting with responsible policy advisers to explain the need, to ensure it stayed on the Government’s radar,” Ms Saffin said.
“The Conservatorium has a track record of successfully securing over $600,000 in funding to upgrade its teaching, administration and performance spaces, so I was confident this missing piece of infrastructure had a good chance of being funded.
“This much-needed project includes the installation of a lift, and upgrade of amenities and grounds to meet modern day accessibility standards.”
Ms Saffin paid tribute to the tenacity of the Northern Rivers Conservatorium’s Executive Director Anita Bellman and her dedicated staff.
“The Con plays a significant role in enhancing the educational, cultural and social vibrancy of the Northern Rivers community,” Ms Saffin said.
“Once completed, the lift project will allow for true inclusion and participation for all, and over time attract more members by aligning its physical spaces with the excellent education services it provides.”
Friday, 18 June 2021.
