The Clarence Valley community is being invited to have its say on a final proposal to rename ‘Shirley Way’ to ‘Shirley Adams Way’ over the Balun Bindarray Bridge (new Grafton bridge).
From 16 February, Clarence Valley Council will advertise the proposed renaming of the roadway on the Summerland Way from the roundabout on Big River Way, South Grafton to the traffic lights at the Clarence Street intersection in Grafton.
In November 2022, the approaches and two lanes crossing the Grafton bridge – officially named the Balun Bindarray Bridge – were named Shirley Way in recognition of the first female mayor of the Grafton City Council and long-time Jacaranda Festival supporter Shirley Adams.
At the time the Geographical Names Board of NSW only accepted naming the approaches Shirley Way.
The Adams family, supported by Clarence Valley Council and local MP Richie Williamson, has requested the approaches be renamed “Shirley Adams Way” to ensure properly recognise Shirley Adams and ensure her memory lives on.
Now in response to the request, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison has initiated a compulsory process which could allow for the potential renaming of the road to occur.
As part of the process, community members must be given the chance to have their say on the proposed renaming and once a set feedback period ends, the renaming will be one step closer to becoming a reality.
Feedback from the community on this name change proposal can now be emailed to Transport for NSW at region.north@transport.nsw.gov.au. The deadline for the feedback period is 1 March and once feedback is considered, a decision on the renaming proposal will be announced.
Minister for Regional Roads and Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
“I am proud the NSW Government is working to ensure a fitting tribute for the memory and legacy of trailblazing Shirley Adams OAM who served the Grafton and Clarence Valley communities for decades as Grafton’s first female mayor and the first female chair of the Country Mayors Association of NSW.
“Ms Adams also received a medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition for her services to local government and the Girl Guide Movement.
“It is only right that one of the city’s most important pieces infrastructure be named in Ms Adams’ honour.
“Well done to Clarence Valley community for the preserving and honouring the memory of Ms Adams.”
Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black said:
“Clarence Valley Council is extremely pleased that Transport for NSW is taking the steps to rename ‘Shirley Way’ to ‘Shirley Adams Way’. This will commemorate a unique person who served our community and council with distinction for many years. There are many Shirleys, but only one Shirley Adams OAM.
“The renaming of ‘Shirley Way’ to ‘Shirely Adams Way’ is supported by Clarence Valley councillors and staff. Councillors have worked tirelessly to ensure Shirley is remembered for her community achievements and decorated local government career. We look forward to working with Transport for NSW to achieve what will be a great outcome for the Adams’ family and the community.”