Rodney Stevens
The road that approaches and crosses the new Grafton Balun Bindarray Bridge will be renamed Shirley Adams Way in recognition of the first female Mayor of Grafton City Council and long-time Jacaranda Festival supporter, Shirley Adams OAM.
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, because, at the time, the Geographical Names Board of NSW only accepted naming the approaches Shirley Way.
The Adams family requested the approaches be renamed “Shirley Adams Way” to properly recognise Shirley Adams and ensure her memory lives on.
After the election of the NSW Labor Government in March 2023, Minster for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison kickstarted a special process to allow for Shirley Way to be renamed Shirley Adams Way, in line with the family’s request.
After a public consultation took place earlier this year, Minister Aitchison last week approved the change in name and Shirley Adams Way will be the new name of the road from late July.
Ms Adams was the first female mayor of the then Grafton City Council, a former Jacaranda Queen, Jacaranda Festival President in 1976 and 1977, a Jacaranda Festival life member and was deeply involved in NSW Girl Guides, the United Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheels, Clarence River Historical Society, Country Women’s Association, and many other organisations.
She was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 1989.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said last Friday she was pleased to approve the renaming of Shirley Way in Grafton to Shirley Adams Way.
“This is a fitting tribute to Shirley Adams OAM who served as Grafton’s first female mayor and was also the first woman to lead the Country Mayor’s Association of NSW,” she said.
“In recognition of her services to local government and the Girl Guide Movement, Ms Adams also received a medal in the Order of Australia (OAM).
“To honour Shirley’s legacy, it’s only right we rename this road.
“It’s come after years of campaigning and advocacy and is a great win for Shirley’s family and the broader Clarence Valley community.
“Everyone has always wanted the road to be renamed Shirley Adams Way and I am pleased that the NSW Labor Government has been able to make this happen.”
Ms Aitchinson thanked Clarence MP, Richie Williamson and Clarence Valley Council for their ongoing advocacy regarding the name change.
“I am in awe of Shirley’s service to the Grafton and Clarence Valley communities,” she said.
“In coming weeks Transport for NSW will install new signage to mark the changing of the road name and the team will work with relevant organisations to notify them of the change.
“I’ve spoken to Shirley’s daughter Virginia, and she is just thrilled.
“I’m looking forward to visiting Grafton to meet with Shirley’s family and friends to celebrate the renaming of the road when the new signs go up.”
Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson said he strongly supported and advocated alongside Clarence Valley Council for the renaming after the Geographical Names Board of NSW only accepted naming the approaches Shirley Way.
“It just makes sense. The name Shirley Adams is synonymous not only in Grafton but across the Clarence Valley and it is a fitting tribute to a remarkable lady and a dear friend who was a staunch advocate not only for her local community, but in encouraging women’s participation in public life and decision making,” he said.
“Shirley had a burning desire to make Grafton a better place and had a genuine love for the people of the city.
“I know her husband John Adams OAM and family are incredibly proud as is the community of Shirley’s legacy.
“The renaming of the road is a fitting tribute in honour and recognition of her service to local government, the girl guide movement and the wider community, and I look forward to the road officially being renamed with her family in the very near future.”