Lismore City Council has resolved to explore funding opportunities to support a safe, accessible and long-term home for the world-renowned Hannah Cabinet.
As part of today's 2026/27 Budget deliberations, Council adopted a Notice of Motion to include a $0 line item enabling Council to pursue external funding opportunities for the investigation of a suitable future location for the cabinet.
The Hannah Cabinet was created by Lismore master craftsman Geoff Hannah OAM over six-and-a-half years and is widely regarded as one of Australia's most significant pieces of contemporary decorative furniture. Standing eight feet high, it features 34 types of timber, four rare shells, 17 precious and semi-precious stones, 18 doors, 140 drawers and intricate marquetry panels.
The cabinet became part of the Lismore Regional Gallery collection following a major community fundraising campaign to keep the work in Geoff Hannah's hometown.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the adopted motion recognised the significance of the Hannah Cabinet as both a major cultural asset and a symbol of Lismore's creativity and resilience.
"I recently had the pleasure of visiting Geoff Hannah and seeing this amazing creation as it continues through the restoration process," Mayor Krieg said.
"The amount of time, effort and love that has gone into the Hannah Cabinet is extraordinary. This is a Lismore asset, but it is also a world-class piece of craftsmanship.
"Geoff's work is held in important collections around the world and includes two artefact boxes made for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Coach. His skill is exceptional, and this cabinet deserves to be protected and celebrated."
The Hannah Cabinet was damaged during the 2022 natural disaster. Restoration work is currently underway, involving Geoff Hannah OAM, local craftsperson Colin Fardon and specialist conservators, with completion expected by late 2027.
Mayor Krieg said Council had a responsibility to consider the cabinet's future carefully.
"After speaking with Geoff, it is clear there is a need to explore the most suitable long-term home for this remarkable work," he said.
"We want the Hannah Cabinet to be accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy, but we also need to ensure it is safe and protected after many years of careful restoration.
"This motion allows Council to explore funding opportunities and consider all options, including whether future investment could support flood-resilient cultural storage and display space."
No additional Council funding has been allocated at this stage. The adopted $0 line item enables Council to seek external funding and investigate options for a suitable long-term solution.
