Light at end of the tunnel

LISMORE Lantern Parade director Jyllie Jackson has expressed gratitude for the support offered by a local company following a public call for assistance.

Jyllie Jackson: We’ve always worked on the principle of sourcing our goods and services locally wherever possible, and it’s good to see the community respond in kind.

LISMORE Lantern Parade director Jyllie Jackson has expressed gratitude for the support offered by a local company following yesterday's public call for assistance.

"I got a call from Hurford Hardwood and they are giving us a very generous donation," said Ms Jackson.

The parade survives on local sponsorship and the hard work of its volunteers, but is thousands of dollars short of covering unexpected costs presented by the last-minute venue change.

"We can't skimp on safety and we have to have power, lighting, and toilets at the new site," said Ms Jackson.

"It's hand-to- mouth and it's scary, but we don't let things like that discourage us. It's a special event and we're pulling out all stops to make it work."

Ms Jackson also said she was grateful for the current sponsors and "all the little things that people do to help".

"It's wonderful and we really appreciate it. Our theme is always gratitude," she said. "We've always worked on the principle of sourcing our goods and services locally wher- ever possible, and it's good to see the community respond in kind."

If the weather stays dry, Lismore City Council will open up the area around Jolly Field for parking on the day.

Originally published as Light at end of the tunnel