Clarence MP Richie Williamson lodges request to rename Shirley Way after trailblazing local woman Shirley Adams (OAM)

After years in the making, a late “true blue Grafton-ite” could soon have her name etched into the town’s fabric in full if the community has its way. See the latest plans to honour Shirley Adams OAM.

The new Grafton bridge.

After years in the making, a late trailblazing “true blue Graftonite” could soon have her name etched into the town’s fabric in full if the community has its way.

The road crossing the Balun Bindarray Bridge (new Grafton bridge) could soon have its named changed from Shirley Way to Shirley Adams Way in recognition of Grafton’s first female mayor, Shirley Adams OAM.

Shirley Adams (OAM) died at the age of 89 after racking up a mountain of achievements in the community. Picture: JoJo Newby.

In November 2022, the approaches and two lanes crossing the bridge were named Shirley Way because the Geographical Names Board of NSW would not accept the inclusion of the mayor’s surname.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson has renewed the push to rename the section of road.

“Shirley Way was never the intention – it was always Shirley Adams Way in recognition of Grafton’s first and only female mayor and the works she did not only in local government but across the community,“ he said.

“I’ve spoken to (her husband) … and family and they are very supportive and excited about the opportunity”.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson has thrown his support behind the push.

Clarence Valley Council’s general manager Laura Black said the bid was supported by staff and councillors.

“This will commemorate a unique person who served our community and council with distinction for many years,” she said.

“There are many Shirleys, but only one Shirley Adams OAM.”

Tributes poured in from across the region when Ms Adams passed away in 2020, aged 89.

Then-Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis described her “a true blue Graftonite”.

“She loved, and she wore the Grafton colours with fierce loyalty whenever we met and wherever she went,” he aid.

“She believed in etiquette and protocol and as mayor of Grafton she set the bar high.”

John Adams, Shirley Adams and Bob McFarlane cut the cake at the Red Cross centenary celebrations in Grafton. Picture: Clair Morton.

Ms Adams served on Grafton City Council between 1974 and 1987 as well as 1996 to 2004.

On top of being the first and only mayor of the City of Grafton, she was elected deputy mayor of Clarence Valley Council in 2005 and was the first female chair of the Country Mayors Association of NSW.

Ms Adams was also the city’s Jacaranda Queen in 1952, the Jacaranda Festival president in 1976 and 1977, the guest of honour in 2008, and a life member.

She was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 1989 and was involved in Girl Guides, the United Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheels, Grafton Historical Society and the Country Women's Association (CWA).

The road crossing the bridge could soon be named Shirley Adams Way.

In response to Mr Williamson’s request, Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison has started a compulsory process which could pave the way for the renaming.

As part of the process, community members must be given the chance to provide feedback.

The Clarence Valley community has until March 1 to have a say on this proposal by emailing Transport for NSW: [e-mail]