ABOVE: Lismore Timezone Watchmakers in recent floods. Photo: Contributed
Lisa and Matt Rankin’s clock and watch repair shop in Lismore was flooded and they have made the decision to relocate to Casino.
“We can’t afford more floods,” Lisa said.
They are the fourth generation to run the 100-year-old Lismore Timezone Watchmakers business, carrying out the expert repair of most types of clocks and watches as well as selling new watches and clocks.
“We have had a number of our customers reach out to us to see if their valued watches and clocks survived the flood. Yes, they did,” Lisa said.
Some of their stock supply and shelving was ruined but they are getting on with making sure their new location at 100 Barker St will be ready for the April 1 opening.
They are considering rebranding but will operate as Lismore Timezone Watchmakers for now, Lisa said.
“This business is our life. We are passionate about what we do and truly value all of our suppliers and customers. We are so grateful to everyone who has reached out to offer their assistance in whatever way they could.”
It wasn’t only the impact of the floods that initiated the move to Casino.
“Matt is a local Casino boy and is part of the RFS and RSL Club.”
“I think Casino will thrive a little,” Lisa said about businesses relocating after the floods at Lismore.
She had heard there may be a bridal shop and coffee shop considering Casino as a new place to run their business.
Richmond Valley Council general manager Vaughan Macdonald said they too had heard of businesses moving from Lismore.
“We are not aware of a specific number of businesses considering moving to Casino or the Richmond Valley Council area. Council has developed a reputation as being a progressive and positive council to deal with and the current situation we face won’t change that,” Mr Macdonald said.
Any business relocating to the Richmond Valley was advised to contact the council’s economic development team on 6660 0300 so the council can assist them in a smooth transition into any premises in the Richmond Valley.
“It’s important that businesses check out existing development consents for potential business premises and if they fit with those conditions no further approvals may be required.
“Our Planning and Building Certification teams are working closely with impacted residents across our area but will make time to assist businesses considering setting up in Casino or other parts of the Richmond Valley,” Mr Macdonald said.
Lisa and Matt had advice for anyone with flood damaged clocks.
“It is certainly possible to rescue a mechanical clock from flood damage if acted upon quickly,” Lisa said.
What you need to do:
- Do not attempt to pull the movement apart. This can cause more issues when repairs are being done and can be dangerous with the springs under pressure!
- Flush out the movement as much as possible with fresh clean water
- Spray movement generously with WD40 or silicon spray or anything of that nature that will repel water (this will reduce the damage that can be caused by untreated rust)
- This will stabilise existing damage and prevent any further damage until it can be seen to properly.
- Keep the clock in a dry warm environment to prevent mould growing on the case.
and then