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Pacific Highway, New England Highway, John Renshaw Drive, Southern Freeway, Mount Ousley Road & Princes Highway (National Route 1) (Decommissioned)

Statistics:

• Length: 1149 km
  • Northern section: 668 km
  • Southern section: 481 km
• Northern Terminus:
  • Northern section: Gold Coast Highway (SR2) and Tugun Bypass (M1) at Tweed Heads West
  • Southern section: Princes Highway (Metroad 1) at Waterfall
• Southern Terminus:
  • Northern section: John Renshaw Drive (NH1) and New England Highway (NH15) at Beresfield
  • Southern section: Princes Highway (A1) at New South Wales / Victoria border
• Miscellaneous: Continues as Princes Highway (A1) in Victoria
• Suburbs, Towns & Localities Along The Route:
  • Northern section: Tweed Heads West, Brunswick Heads, Ballina, Woodburn, Maclean, South Grafton, Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Urunga, Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Kempsey, Coopernook, Nabiac, Bulahdelah, Karuah, Raymond Terrace, Hexham and Beresfield
  • Southern section: Waterfall, Bulli Tops (Maddens Plains), Mount Ousley, West Wollongong, Figtree, Unanderra, Berkeley, Dapto, Albion Park Rail, Oak Flats, Dunmore, Kiama, Gerringong, Berry, Nowra, Milton, Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Narooma, Bega, Pambula and Eden

Route Numbering:

• Former:
• Multiplexes:
• Road Authority Internal Classification: SH1 (Yallah to NSW-Vic Border), SH9 (Hexham to Beresfield), SH10 (Tweed Heads West to Hexham), 6006 (Waterfall to Bulli Tops and Mt Ousley to Yallah), MR95 (Brokers Nose to Mt Ousley) and MR513 (Bulli Tops to Brokers Nose) 1
• Decommissioned: 2013

General Information:

National Route 1 forms part of the main coastal route between Victoria and Queensland. The route features a mix of rural highway, arterial and freeway design standards. The route forms part of what is collectively known as Highway 1. It is Australia's coastal highway joining all mainland's state capitals and coastal towns circumnavigating the entire Australian continent. It is also the longest numbered highway in the world, covering more than 14 500 km.

In New South Wales, National Route 1 was truncated by National Highway 1 between Beresfield and Wahroonga, by Metroad 1 between Wahroonga and Waterfall and by M1 at Tweed Heads West.

Northern Section:

The northern section of National Route 1 took in a small section of New England Highway and the rest was made up by the Pacific Highway. The route varies from dual carriageway arterial and highway standard, to motorway standard and the rest is generally undivided rural highway conditions. The Pacific Highway is very well trafficked, and as a result notorious for a large amount of road trauma within the state. These crashes have resulted in more than 50% of the route being divided since the late 1980s.

• Pacific Highway:

The Pacific Highway section of NR1 runs between Brunswick Heads and Hexham, and also between Wahroonga and the Gore Hill Freeway at Artarmon. The northern section between Brunswick Heads and Hexham is a mix of dual carriageway, rural highway and urban arterial roadway. The southern section between Wahroonga and Artarmon is urban arterial standard and passes through one of Sydney's more affluent areas.

The highway traces its origins back to an early settler, George Peat, who owned the land between the Hawkesbury River and Mooney Mooney Creek. To provide access to his property, Peat began a ferry service across the Hawkesbury River in 1844 and surveyed, then constructed a road between Hornsby and Kariong in 1854. After his death in 1870, the ferry service was abandoned and the road fell into disrepair, finally closing to all traffic in 1899, following the completion of the Sydney-Newcastle railway.

Demand for a route between Sydney and Newcastle dates back to the early 20th century. When the only access was via the sea or via a long route through the town of Wiseman's Ferry. In the 1920s, the then Main Roads Board undertook a series of surveys to form an easier and more reliable route north from Sydney. In 1928 construction began on upgrading the old road and converting it to a modern standard, plus creating  a new route north, utilising some of the abandoned Peat's Ferry Rd, while improving the horizontal and vertical alignments. In May 1930 the ferry service across the Hawkesbury River was re-established to service the new road until such times that a bridge became necessary. June 1930 marked the completion of the concrete surfacing.

During the time of the Hornsby to Gosford contruction, improvements were made to roads between Gosford to Newcastle as part of the link. On May 17 in 1929, the route was named as the Great Northern Highway. The work from Hornsby to Gosford cost almost £1 million, however it was money well spent, reducing the trip from Sydney to Newcastle from 9 hours to 4 ½ hours.

• John Renshaw Drive:

This road links the Pacific Highway and New England Highway with the Pacific Motorway between Beresfield and Tarro, west of Hexham, and consists entirely of dual carriageway. The road is named after the Hon. J. B. Renshaw, M.L.A., who, during the 1950s, was Minister for Local Government and Minister for Highways.

Southern Section:

The southern section of National Route 1 is formed by 2 separate sections of the Southern Freeway, linked by dual carriageway Mt Ousley Road. At the end of southern segment of the Southern Freeway, National Route continues as Princes Highway. The route from Kiama to Sydney is a mix of divided road and freeway, the majority of the route from Gerringong to the Victorian border is undivided rural highway standard and undivided urban arterial within some towns, with some dual carriageway sections sporadically placed between Bomaderry and tourist areas immediately south of Nowra.

• Princes Highway:

The Princes Highway was formed from a string of roads linking Sydney to the Illawarra, which later was renumbered from National Route 1 to Metroad 1 in the Sydney area during the 1990s.

The Princes Highway section of NR1 formed a coastal route from Yallah, in Wollongong's southern suburbs to Melbourne and into South Australia. The route is a mix of urban arterial road, dual carriageway and also rural highway.

• Southern Freeway & Mount Ousley Road:

The Southern Expressway (later Freeway) and also Mount Ousley Road, ran between Waterfall in Sydney's south, bypassing Wollongong and ending at Yallah, in the Illawarra's southern suburbs. It is the main route between Sydney and Wollongong, and crosses the Illawarra Escarpment to the narrow coastal strip on which most of the Illawarra suburbs are built.

Multiplexes along the route include:

• State Route 88, for 5 km from Picton Road / Mt Ousley Road interchange to Mt Ousley Road at Mt Ousley
• State Route 157, for 2 kilometres between Oak Flats (from New Lake Entrance Road interchange) and Albion Park (Tongarra Road intersection)

History:

Pacific Highway:

• 1877: Construction of a 7 span timber bridge over Karuah River at Stroud. 2
• 1920s: Reconstruction of Lane Cove Road (Pacific Highway) between Boundary Street, Roseville and Pearces Corner, Wahroonga was undertaken in asphaltic concrete. It was the longest length of asphaltic concrete road then constructed by a local government authority. 3 North Sydney Council paved the Lane Cove Road (now Pacific Highway) from Milson's Point to Crow's Nest, and almost on to St. Leonards railway station, in cement concrete. The Ku-ring-gai Shire Council had also constructed the Gordon Road (now Pacific Highway) from Roseville to Pearce's Corner in bituminous concrete. 4
• July 1925: Commencement was made by the Hornsby Council in the construction of the Sydney-Newcastle Road (Pacific Hwy). Construction started at Berowra and worked towards Kangaroo Point at Brooklyn. Up to the 30th June 1926, 5 miles of road formation through mountainous country involving heavy rock cuttings and banks had been opened up, and more or less completed. 4
• 22 January 1926: Resumption of land at Kangaroo Point at Brooklyn for the eventual construction of a crossing of the Hawkesbury River. 4
• 1926: Construction begins on rebuilding Lane Cove Rd (Pacific Hwy). Works included relocating utilities, tram lines and the resumption of properties, pluse the widening of the route. Construction starts on Sydney-Newcastle Road from Mooney Point, and used unemployed labour from Sydney, Gosford and Newcastle Districts. Work also started on a deviation of approximately 6 miles in the vicinity of Catherine Hill Bay. The existing road was very badly located in regards to grades and curves. 4 Work on Newcastle-Maitland Road between Ironbark Creek at Sandgate and Mayfield completed, totalling 5.6 km. The construction used waste slag from the local steelworks. 5
• December 1926: Completion of reconstruction of Newcastle-Maitland Road in tar macadam, between Selwyn St and Hanbury St (SR121) at Mayfield. 5
• 1927: Reconstruction of Sydney-Newcastle Road between Wyong and Catherine's Hill Bay started. Work included a 13 mile deviation. Reconstruction in concrete of a 1.5 mile section of Newcastle-Maitland Road (Pacific Highway) at Hamilton begins. Completion of reconstruction of Newcastle-Maitland Road between Iron Bark Creek, Sandgate and Hexham railway station completed. 5
• June 1927: The completion of reconstruction of the North Coast Highway (now Pacific Highway) totalling 8 miles 64 chains (approximately 14 km) between Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads. Work consisted of the strengthening the existing foundation and adding a layer of bituminous macadam. 5
• 1928: Completion of Great Northern Highway (Pacific Highway) between Hawkesbury River and Gosford. Completion of 6 miles of roadway between Wyong and Catherine Hill Bay. Deviation of Great Northern Highway between Catherine Hill Bay and Swansea opened to traffic. Concrete paving of Great Northern Highway between Swansea and Adamstown began. 6
• 1930s: Construction of bridges along the Pacific Highway. Bridges were built over the Nambucca, Bellinger, Tweed and Clarence Rivers. 3 Reconstruction of pavement on ramps and overhead bridge on Great Northern Highway (now Pacific Highway) at Wickham. Work starts on the Koror a Deviation near Coffs Harbour. Paving of North Coast Highway (Pacific Highway) between South Grafton and Ulmarra in concrete and a 2 mile section 9.5 miles north of Murwillumbah. 7
• May 1930: A ferry service over the Hawkesbury River at Kangaroo Point established on the route of what is became the Pacific Highway from Hornsby to Gosford. 8
• 1931: Completion of the ferry docks at Hawkesbury River. Widening of Pacific Highway between Berowra and Hawkesbury River. Completion of concrete bridge over Stewarts River at the village of Johns River, completion of timber bridge of Khoribakh Bridge at Khoribakh Creek on what is now Bucketts Way. Completion of concrete bridge over the Brunswick River at Brunswick Heads, completion of timber bridge over Dunbible Creek at Dunbible, south of Murwillumbah. Reconstruction of road surface in concrete between Hookhams Corner at Wahroonga to Berowra. Great Northern Highway and the North Coast Highway were grouped together and renamed the Pacific Highway. 9 The MRB built a bridge over the Nambucca River at Macksville, which replaced a vehicular ferry.
• 1932 Widening of Pacific Highway between Hookhams Corner at Wahroonga to Hawkesbury River. Realignment of Pacific Highway between Falcon Street North Sydney and St Leonards railway station. Construction begins on large steel and concrete bridges over the Lansdowne River at Coopernook and over the Dawson River at Cundletown. On the Pacific Highway, between Mooney Point and Gosford, the shoulders of the road were surfaced with sandstone. Some minor widening was completed between Gosford and Wyong. Two new small concrete bridges were commenced over Cut Rock and Bangalow Creeks. A single span timber beam bridge was built over Cutty Creek, south of Port Macquarie. Between Port Macquarie and Blackman's Point, flood protection measures were put in place. In Macleay area, construction began on raising of a section of road and the construction of two three-span timber beam bridges, and two concrete culverts at Clybucca Creek, north of Kempsey. Construction of timber bridge over Holey Flat Creek at Moorland. 10 Widening of Pacific Highway in the Mt Ku-ring-gai and Willoughby area. 11
• 1933: Elimination of dangerous curves in the Raleigh area. Reconstruction of the highway between the Hexham Ferry and Raymond Terrace. Improvements to alignment and visibilty carried out on a 6 mile section of Pacific Highway near Port Macquarie. Drainage works commenced on the highway between Ulmarra and Cowper. Construction of the Kangy Creek Deviation at Wyong. Work began on construction of a reinforced concrete bridge over Kundibakh Creek along what is now Bucketts Way at Kundibakh. Completion of the Dawson River bridge at Cundletown. Dirty Creek Deviation work commenced, totalling 2 miles, eliminating sharp curves and steep grades. Drainage works completed in the Harwood area at Oak Flat. Work began on reconstruction of an 8 mile length of Pacific Highway over the Burringbar Range. Construction begins on a bridge over Terranora Inlet at Tweed Heads South (Boyds Bay), which included a lift span that was 54 feet long and featured reinforced concrete spans, totallung 420 feet in length. 11
• 1934: A narrow embanked northern approach to Swansea bridge was improved to standard and 1 mile of the Belmont-Swansea section was re-constructed. The Pacific Highway between the end of the extension to Dirty Creek deviation and Grafton was widened in sections and four open crossings were eliminated by concrete culverts. A start was made with the construction of a deviation 1.5 miles north of Gosford. The work, which is 2.3 km in length eliminated a level crossing and a section of road near Narara Creek which is subject to inundation during floods. South of Urunga, a deviation 1.8 km long was commenced to eliminate a section known as the Long Cutting. Near Ballina, the section between Burn's Point Ferry (along Burns Point Ferry Road and the Ballina-Lismore trunk road ((Bruxner Highway) recently bypassed by Ballina Bypass), a length of approximately 1 km, was reconstructed in cement concrete. The Pacific Highway on the northern side of Burringbar Range was deviated and reconstructed over a 2 mile length, eliminating one of the worst sections of the highway at that time. The new road provided a better curve radii and visibility, and a better gradient. Construction on a further section between 3 miles in length was also commenced. Erection of reinforced concrete bridges, each 150 feet long, were built over Bangalow Creek at Ourimbah and Cut Rock Creek at Lisarow, and a similar structure, 64 feet long, at Kangy Angy Creek at Ourimbah. Completion of two reinforced concrete bridges, 32 feet and 40 feet long along what is now Bucketts Way, at Double Creek south of Booral to replace a worn-out timber structure, and a concrete and timber bridge, 82 feet long, was completed at Laman's Creek at Stroud. Completion of a concrete bridge, 25 feet long, was constructed at 3¾ miles (6 km) north of Port Macquarie over Fernbank Creek, on what is now Hastings River Drive. Construction of a 3-span timber beam bridge, 105 feet long, was constructed at Christmas Creek at Fredrickton to replace a worn-out structure. Work begins on a bridge is under construction over the North Arm of the Bellinger River at Raleigh. The bridge consisted of three steel truss spans and five approach spans, the overall length being 455 feet. The main truss spans are supported on cylinder piers and the remaining spans on driven concrete piles. The start of construction of a timber beam bridge, 300 feet long, over Swan Creek, southwest of Ulmarra. Work commenced on the construction of a bridge over the North Arm of the Clarence River at Mororo. The bridge featured a vertical lift span, two steel truss spans with the total length of the bridge being 640 feet. Work on a bridge to replace the existing ferry at Chinderah commenced over the Tweed River at Barney's Point. The bridge consisted of two 140 feet truss spans, a 61 ft. 6 in. bascule span and rolled steel joist spans. With the exception of the deck of the bascule span, which was made of timber for lightness, the whole of the carriageway was concrete. 12
• 1935: Construction of a bow-string arch bridge on the Pacific Highway at Shark Creek near Maclean completed. It was the first in Australia (now bypassed by the main road but still retained). 3 The total length of the bridge is 151 feet, comprising two short approach spans and a bow-string girder span of 113 feet - the latter being the first of its kind to be built in Australia. 13 A deviation 1.5 miles in length was constructed at Wyoming just north of Gosford. This deviation replaced a section of road on which the alignment is tortuous and will avoid a level crossing over the main northern railway. Near Tuggerah, the construction of a deviation approximately 1 mile in length commenced, which eliminated two right-angle turns and improved the grade. Between Belmont and Swansea the pavement has was widened and the alignment improved, the completed work was 5 miles in length. Long Cutting Deviation south of Urunga opened to traffic. A further deviation 6200 feet long at the Short Cut between Urunga and Raleigh also completed. The construction of a deviation between 22 miles and 26 miles south of Grafton was completed from Unemployment Relief Funds. The steel and concrete bridge over the North Arm of the Bellinger River at Raleigh was completed and opened for traffic. This bridge consists of three steel truss spans each 100 foot long anil five reinforced concrete approach spans, the total length being 45 feet. The truss spans are on concrete cylinders to rock and the others on concrete piles. The bridge replaced a ferry service. The bridge over the North Arm of the Clarence River at Mororo was completed. The total longth of the bridge is 646 feet, and comprises two 120 feet steel trusses, one 56 feet vertical lift span and ton 35 feet approach spans. Construction commenced on a steel bridge over the Tweed River at Barney's Point. The bridge will be 625 feet long and contain a bascule opening span 63 feet long, two 140 feet steel trusses and eight approach spans. The work eliminated the ferry service at Chinderah nearby. The bridge over Terranora Creek (Boyd's Bay) completed. It comprises a vertical lift span 54 feet long and twelve steel beam approach spans. The bridge replaces a nearby ferry and the approach alignment was considerably improved. 13
• October 1936: Construction beings on a 5 mile deviation south of Burringbar. 14
• 1936: Construction of a bridge over the Throsby Creek at Tighe's Hill. The bridge consisted of two spans having a total length of 60 feet, and width of 40 feet between kerbs with two footways each 6 feet wide. The structure was on a short deviation to avoid the bad turn at the end of the previous bridge. A single span reinforced concrete frame bridge 50 feet long constructed over Stony Creek on the Pacific Highway near Telegraph Point. Completion of a bridge over Serpentine Channel near Harwood. The structure is 140 feet long and consists of three spans. Widening works commenced at North Sydney, Lane Cove, Turramurra and Hornsby. 14  Timber suspension bridge opened to traffic over the Hastings River near Port Macquarie.
• 1938: The reconstruction of the Pacific Highway over a length of approximately 5 miles between Stewart's River Bridge near John's River and Rossglen was completed. A commencement was also made with the reconstruction northerly from Rossglen to Heron's Creek, a distance of approximately 7 miles. Construction begins on a new bridge over the Camden Haven River at Rossglen. Upgrade begins on highway for 3 miles at Telegraph Point, a 17 mile section of highway heading south from South Grafton, bitumen sealing of a 4 mile section northeast of Ulmarra. Widening of Pacific Highway at Turramurra. 15 Construction of Peats Ferry Bridge at Brooklyn commenced.
• 1939: By this time, two thirds of the Pacific Highway was bitumen paved. 3
• 1944: Construction commences on four span reinforced concrete bridge over Karuah River at Booral. 2
• 9 March 1945: Gazette showing the route of the Pacific Highway was deviated via Brunswick Heads eliminating a section of road via Mullumbimby, previously part of the Pacific Highway. 2
• May 1945: Completion of Peats Ferry Bridge at Brooklyn.
• 1946: Reconstruction of the Pacific Highway from Ghinni Ghinni Creek in a northerly direction commenced totalling of 1.5 miles. 16
• Feburary 1946: Construction begins on the bridge over the Hunter River at Hexham. The bridge features a vertical lift span, and total length of the bridge is 843 feet and 4 inches. 16
• November 1946: Reconstruction of the Pacific Highway between Raleigh and Coff's Harbour was commenced. Approximately 12 miles of the Highway were reconstructed with a bituminous surface. 16
• 1947: Construction of a subway under the railway south of Crabbe's Creek. Construction of concrete bridge over Byron Creek at Bangalow. Consruction of concrete bridge and approaches over Coffs Harbour Creek. Construction of steel and concrete bridge over Hunter River at Hexham. 16
• 1948: The reconstruction of the eastern half of the carriageway of the Pacific Highway in cement concrete with an asphaltic concrete wearing course, completed between Crows Nest and St Leonards. Completion of reinforced concrete bridge over Coff's Harbour Creek. Length, 87 feet. 17
• 1949: The Commissioner for Road Transport ordered the installation of a set of pedestrian actuated traffic lights on the Pacific Highway at Lindfield Railway Station. 3 Reconstruction of the Kempsey Bridge over the Macleay River - work included four steel truss spans of 151 feet 6 inches with eight 40-feet beam approach spans. The total length is 917 feet. 18
• 1950s: Shortening of the Pacific Highway between Raymond Terrace and Taree. The first climbing lane for slow traffic was added on a section of the Pacific Highway south of Gosford by the DMR. 3
• 1950: Construction of a reinforced concrete bridge over Dunbible Creek, 8 miles south of Murwillumbah. Length 111 feet. Work began on a reinforced concrete bridge over North Coast Railway line one mile south of Murwillumbah. This bridge is 123 feet long. Commencement of work on a reinforced concrete bridge over Burringbar Creek. This bridge is 200 feet long and features five spans. 19
• 1951: Construction of reinforced concrete bridge over Bom Bom Creek and culvert in one approach at South Grafton. Total length 150 feet. Work commenced on a steel and concrete bridge over Lake Macquarie at Swansea. Construction of 2 bridges over Manarm Creek at Raleigh. realignment of approaches to railway subway at Stratford on what is now Bucketts Way. Construction commenced on deviation of Pacific Highway near Hexham railway station, work also included construction of the approaches to the Hexham Bridge over the Hunter River. Construction of concrete bridge over Allgomera Creek near Eungai. Construction of concrete bridge over Glenugie Creek near South Grafton. Construction of Tintenbar deviation. Construction of concrete bridge over the railway, 1 mile south of Murwillumbah. 20
• 17 December 1952: The bridge over the Hunter River at Hexham opened to traffic. 21
• 1953: Widening of Pacific Hwy between Blackmans Point and Telegraph Point. Work commences on a steel and concrete bridge over Lake Macquarie at Swansea. Work begins on the construction of two three span timber beam bridges over Stumpy Creek and Scrubby Creek at South Kempsey. Length of each bridge was 88 feet. Work also began on a seventeen span reinforced concrete bridge over Windeyer's Creek at Raymond Terrace. Length 340 feet. The widening of a half-mile section of the Pacific Highway over the Penang Mountain near Gosford to provide a third traffic lane was started. Construction of a deviation between two new bridges under construction at Stumpy and Scrubby Creeks at South Kempsey. Widening of Pacific Highway between Bulahdelah and Nabiac. Work began on the construction of a deviation between Holey Flat Creek and Pipe Clay Creek at Moorland. Realignment of Pacific Hwy between Holey Flat Creek and Stewarts River Bridge at Moorland, totalling 4.75 miles. Widening and resurfacing of Pacific Hwy between Stewarts River and Stoney Creek Bridge, totalling 3.25 miles. Bitumen sealing of Pacific Hwy between Woodburn and Mororo. Opening of Fernvale Deviation, totalling 4 miles, south of Murwillumbah. Construction of reinforced concrete bridge over Man Arm Creek overflow channel 1 mile from Repton. Length 144 feet. Start of work on bridge over Macleay River at Kempsey. 22 The new bridge replaced a timber one that comprised of four 154 feet timber truss spans and nine timber beam spans, and was 921 feet in length. 25 Work began on a reinforced concrete bridge 220 feet long over North Creek Canal at 1.5 miles west of Ballina and another reinforced concrete bridge 220 feet long over the same creek 1.5 miles north of Ballina. 22
• 1954: Construction of reinforced concrete bridge over Glenugie Creek 8 miles south of Grafton. Length 240 feet. 23
• 1955: Widening of the Pacific Highway to provide for six lanes of traffic between Broughton Road and Palmer Street at Artarmon. Broughton Road was truncated with the opening of Gore Hill Freeway (Metroad 2). Widening and reconstruction of the existing bituminous pavement to provide for six lanes of traffic between Clanville Road and Eton Road, Lindfield. A total length of 23 miles from Bulahdelah to Wang Wauk Bridge was reconstructed, with a further 5 mile section started between Wang Wauk and Nabiac. Widening of a 2.5 mile section of Pacific Hwy from Stoney Creek Bridge to Camden Haven Bridge at Kew. Widening of Pacific Hwy over Coolongolook Hill. Widening and realignment of Pacific Highway between Woodburn and Mororo. Construction of seventeen span reinforced concrete bridge over Windeyer's Creek near Raymond Terrace. Length 340 feet. Completion of reinforced concrete bridge over Allgomera Creek. Length 220 feet, to replace a bridge destroyed by floods in February 1954. Work began on a reinforced concrete bridge over Glenugie Creek 8 miles south of South Grafton. Length 240 feet. Construction of a reinforced concrete bridges over North Canal, 1.5 miles west and 1.5 miles north of Ballina, being 220 feet and 200 feet long, respectively. Work starts on a reinforced concrete bridge over Narara Creek at Gosford. Length 225 feet. Construction of a three span RSJ and concrete bridge 47 feet long, over railway line at Chatham. Duplication of the vehicular ferry over Clarence River at Harwood. 23
• 1956: Permanent vehicle weighing stations were established by the DMR at Gosford on the Pacific Highway and at Hexham where the Pacific Highway met the New England Highway. 3 Widening to 6 lanes along Pacific Hwy between Clanville Rd at Roseville and Eton Rd at Lindfield as well as in the vicinity of Fullers Rd (SR29) at Chatswood. Commencement of construction of dual carriageway road at Mt White, which was declared NSW's first motorway class road. Length 1.25 miles. Commencement of construction of a 19.5 mile length of Pacific Hwy from Wang Wauk River to Taree. Work started on Coopernook Deviation. Works commenced on a deviation north of Woolgoola to improve alignment in association with the construction of two new bridges. A deviation a half-mile long constructed on the northern approach to Shark Creek Bridge at Maclean to improve poor alignment. Completion of Devil's Pulpit Deviation near Tabbimoble. Completion of reinforced concrete bridge over Narara Creek, 2 miles south of Gosford. Length 225 ft. Completion of steel and concrete bridge over entrance to Lake Macquarie at Swansea. It featured a double-leaf steel bascule span with a clear opening of 55 ft. and twelve 40-ft. approach spans, the total length being 570 ft. Completion of reinforced concrete bridge over Glenugie Creek, 8 miles south of South Grafton. Length 240 ft. Completion of reinforced concrete bridge over McPhillips Creek, 4 miles south of South Grafton. Length 60 ft. Work started on 6 span steel and concrete bridge over Karuah River at Karuah, totalling 716 feet in length. Work commenced on a 4 span reinforced concrete bridge over Cureeki Creek, 30 miles south of Taree. Construction started on steel and reinforced concrete bridge over the Wallaniba River at Nabiac. Length 668 ft. 543 miles out of 574 miles of Pacific now with a bitumen surface. 24
• 1957: Widening of Pacific Hwy to 6 lanes between Eton Rd at Lindfield shopping precinct, distance of around 500 metres. Work began on the construction of additional lengths of climbing lane in three places on the ascent from the Hawkesbury River. The total length involved was 4500 feet. The construction of a length of 10.5 miles between Wang Wauk River and Bungwahl Creek was completed. Completion of a deviation 0.4 mile long just north of Woolgoolga, to connect two new concrete bridges. Reconstruction in River Street, Ballina, was commenced on a new route in approach to a new concrete bridge, over North Creek Canal west of Ballina. Construction of a reinforced concrete bridge over Stitts Creek at Purfleet. Length 100 feet. Construction of a steel girder and reinforced concrete bridge over Woolgoolga Creek at Woolgoolga. Length 105 feet. Work began on a four span reinforced concrete bridge over Cureeki Creek at Coolongolook. Length 160 feet. Work started on the six span steel and concrete bridge over the Karuah River at Karuah. Length 716 feet. Work began on the steel and concrete bridge over the Wallamba River at Nubiac. Length 668 feet. Construction started on a three span reinforced concrete bridge over Frys Creek, two miles north of Bulahdelah. Length 100 feet. Reconstruction of the reinforced concrete bridge over Wallarah Creek at Charmhaven. On the Pacific Hwy at Burns Point near West Ballina, additional ferry ramps and approaches were constructed close to the existing ramps so that a second ferry vessel can be operated in holiday and other periods when required by traffic. 25
• 1958: The bitumen surfacing of the Pacific Highway (576 miles in length) was completed. Completion of the 4 lane dual carriageway section of Pacific Hwy at Mt White. On one of these lengths, at Mt. White, at a length of 1.3 miles. Each carriageway is 22 ft. wide with shoulders five feet wide and are separated by a median zone of varying width. Construction between the Wang Wauk River and Bungwahl Creek was completed with bitumen surfacing, with the exception of the immediate approaches to a new bridge over the Wallamba River at Nabiac. In addition, a section from Bungwahl Creek to one mile south of Purfleet was completed with bitumen surfacing. The total length between Wang Wauk River and the northern end of the work is 19.6 miles. Completion of a reinforced concrete bridge over Cureeki Creek at Coolongolook. Length 160 feet. Replaced an old timber structure. Completion of a steel truss and concrete bridge over Karuah River at Karuah. Length 716 feet. This structure replaced a ferry. Work commenced on a four span reinforced concrete bridge over Boolambayte Creek at Bulahdelah. Length 100 feet. 26
• 1959: Construction of a new route for the Pacific Highway entering Newcastle was commenced. The new route started at Adamstown Heights, and followed Scenic Road for a short distance. It then followed a new location through hilly country for a length of about 1.5 miles, and connects with Railway Street, and thence into Stewart Avenue. The new location through hilly country was where construction work was required. On Charlestown Hill, immediately south of Scenic Road, a third lane has been provided over a length of one mile to ease traffic congestion. Widening from four to six lanes was completed between Boundary Street at Roseville and Roseville railway station. A footway was constructed on the bridge over the Nambucca River on the Pacific Highway at Macksville. Completion of a four-span reinforced concrete bridge over Boolambayte Creek, 5 miles north of Bulahdelah. The structure which was 100 feet in length and replaced an old timber beam bridge. Completion of a steel and concrete bridge over Wallamba River at Nabiac, comprising of 9 spans with a total length of 668 feet. It is a high level bridge and replaces a low level causeway. Widening of railway bridge on Pacific Hwy at Pymble commenced. Work started on a four-span reinforced concrete bridge over Coolongolook River at Wootton. It replaced an old timber beam structure. The length of the bridge is 120 feet. Work started to eliminate the level crossings on the Pacific Highway at Lisarow. 3 feet wide median strip added to the Pacific Highway through Gordon shopping centre. Channelisation work was commenced in North Sydney at the intersection with Alfred Street, McDougall Street, Ennis Road and Pacific Highway. 27
• 20 May 1960: The first road in NSW proclaimed as a motorway was the Pacific Highway near Mount White. 3 Restoration of abandoned tram track area from Victoria Cross, North Sydney, to Longueville Road, Lane Cove, was completed. Median zone kerbing was built between St. Leonards and Lane Cove and channelisation of the Falcon St / River Rd intersection at Crow's Nest was completed. Widening from four to six lanes was completed between Roseville railway station and Clanville Road, and median zone kerbing was provided between Boundary Street, Roseville and Lindfield. At Lindfield, pavement widening through the shopping centre was started. The provision of a six-lane divided carriageway from Bushlands Avenue, Gordon, to Ryde Road was completed. Reconstruction and pavement widening to six lanes between Warrigal Road and Turramurra railway overbridge begun. At Asquith, channelisation of the junction of the Pacific Highway and Jersey Street was commenced and widening of the pavement of the Highway to provide a divided six-lane carriageway through the shopping centre was being undertaken. The junction of the Pacific Highway and Berowra Waters Road was reconstructed and the pavement of the highway widened through Berowra shopping centre. At Mt. Ku-ring-gai and at two other locations immediately north, climbing lanes for slow moving traffic were constructed. Pymble Railway Overbridge was widened to provide a carriageway 48 feet wide and two footways. A two-span steel girder and concrete bridge over Bulga Creek five miles north of Karuah was completed. The bridge is 60 feet long and replaced an old timber structure. A four-span reinforced concrete bridge over Bundabah Creek, 8 miles north of Karuah was completed. The bridge is 100 feet long and replaced an old timber structure. Completion of a four-span reinforced concrete bridge 100 feet long over Coolongolook River at Wooton was completed. A three-span 75 feet long reinforced concrete bridge over Bungwahl Creek, 5.6 miles north of Nabiac was completed. Completion of a three-span reinforced concrete bridge 75 feet long over Koorainghat Creek, 8 miles north of Nabiac. A twelve-span bridge over the Macleay River at Kempsey was completed. The bridge is 917 feet long and is comprised of four steel truss spans supported on reinforced concrete cylinder piers and eight reinforced concrete girder spans supported on reinforced concrete piles. The bridge replaced an old thirteen-span timber beam and truss bridge. Work on a five-span steel girder and reinforced concrete divided carriageway bridge 320 feet long over Ironbark Creek started at Hexham. This bridge replaced a temporary five-span steel girder bridge. 28
• 1961: The Department of Motor Transport constructed a station on the Pacific Highway at Berowra to facilitate the checking of road transport vehicles. Between Newcastle and Hexham, a four-lane divided carriageway was provided over a total length of 2.6 miles. The work was carried out in two sections; a length of 1.5 miles between Maud Street, Mayfield and Ferry Road, Sandgate, and a length of 1.1 miles south from the junction with the New England Highway. At the junction of the Pacific Highway and the New England Highway, work was carried out on the channelisation of the intersection. Construction started on the Blackmans Point deviation, near Port Macquarie, the new road included a bridge over Hastings River and 6 miles of new alignment. The work also eliminated a vehicular ferry. Pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway between Highfield Road, Killara, and Bushlands Avenue, Gordon. Widening between Telegraph Road and Turramurra Overbridge and between Duff Street and Pearce's Corner, Wahroonga, was started. Construction of a kerbed median zone from Victoria Cross, North Sydney, to Longueville Road, Lane Cove, was completed. Between Pearce's Corner and Hornsby, work commenced on pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway. At the intersection of the Highway and Jersey Street, Asquith, construction of a channelised intersection and the provision of new ramps to the railway overbridge were completed. A new 16-vehicle ferry vessel with steel hull was put into service at Burns Point. As a result, the service at peak periods was operated by two 16-vehicle vessels operated in parallel. A three-span steel and concrete bridge 135 feet long was constructed to replace a single-lane timber bridge. The work also included two culverts in the approaches and one at Windy Drop Down Creek about 200 yards north of the new bridge. Work started on a three-span prestressed concrete deck bridge 115 feet long over what was then the new water supply channel (Balickera Channel about 8 miles north of Raymond Terrace. Work started on an eight-span prestressed concrete bridge 736 feet long, including a 83 feet steel vertical lift span, to replace the Burns Point Ferry at Wardell near Ballina. Completion of a four-span steel and reinforced concrete bridge 192 feet long over Upper Warrell Creek at Macksville. The new bridge replaced an old timber structure. Work started on a four-span steel girder and reinforced concrete bridge 180 feet long over Bonville Ck at Bonville. It replaced an old timber structure. 29 Port Macquarie bypassed.
• 1962: Pacific Highway in the Charlestown CBD upgraded to 6 lane dual carriageway. Four lane bridge over Ironbark Creek at Hexham opened to traffic. Bridge over Hastings River at Blackmans Point, north of Port Macquarie opened to traffic, replacing a vehicular ferry. Work also included 6 miles of new approaches. Completion of channelisation works at New England Highway and Pacific Highway junction at Hexham, Hookhams Corner (junction with Galston Road) at Hornsby and also Pearces Corner (junction with Pennant Hills Road) at Wahroonga. Widening completed to 6 lanes between Highfield Road, Lindfield and Bushlands Avenue, Gordon, between Telegraph Road and Heydon Street in Pymble, between Neringah Avenue and Bundarra Avenue in Wahroonga, and between Pearces Corner and Leonard Street in Hornsby. A footway was added to Boyds Bay Bridge on the Pacific Highway at Tweed Heads. Construction began on an eight-span prestressed concrete bridge with vertical lift span oyer the Richmond River at Wardell. The bridge, 736 feet long, forms part of a major deviation of the Highway between Wardell and Burns Point and eliminated the Burns Point ferry crossing from the Highway as well as the Wardell Ferry. Work began on the construction of an overbridge at Lisarow to replace a railway level crossing. Construction started on a five-span steel and reinforced concrete bridge 252 feet long over Ghinni Ghinni Creek 8 miles from Taree. The bridge replaced an old timber beam bridge. Construction commenced on a twelve-span reinforced concrete bridge 340 feet long at Woodburn. The bridge eliminated a single-lane timber bridge on poor alignment. Climbing lane added to the Pacific Highway south of Murwillumbah. 30
• 1963: Construction begins on bridges over the Richmond River at Wardell and over the Clarence River at Harwood, both eliminating the need for vehicular ferries. The relocated section of the Pacific Highway over a length of 79 miles between Twelve Mile Creek, near Raymond Terrace, and Taree opened to traffic. Work began between Wardell and Ballina, on the construction of a deviation of the Highway. Widening of the Pacific Highway between Bangalow and Tweed Heads. Pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway from Mowbray Road, Artarmon to Boundary Street, Roseville. Completion of a 12-span reinforced concrete bridge, 340 feet long, south of Woodburn. It replaced a narrow timber structure with a sub-standard radius curve on the northern approach. Work began on a six-span steel and reinforced concrete bridge, 363 feet long, over Duck Creek on the then new route of the Highway built between Wardell and Ballina. Climbing lanes were constructed on the Pacific Highway north of Bangalow. Advisory speed signs placed on approaches to curves along Pacific Highway between Gosford to Kempsey. 31
• 24 December 1963: The new route of the Pacific Highway between Twelve Mile Creek and Taree was completed with the opening to traffic of the section between Karuah and Bulahdelah. The section was designed for speeds of 50 miles per hour. The pavement width is 24 feet and featured a dustless surface. The new route allowed traffic to travel from Newcastle to Taree in about 2 hours 30 minutes compared with 3 hours 10 minutes on the old route (now Bucketts Way). 32
• 1964: Work started between Marks Street and Victoria Street, Belmont, on the construction of a divided six-lane carriageway. Pavement widening to provide a divided six-lane carriageway was completed between Mowbray Road and Boundary Street, Roseville and at Bent Street, Lindfield. Widening, reconstruction and the provision of a narrow median between Heydon Avenue and Woodville Avenue, Warrawee. Pavement widening between Asquith and Mount Colah to provide a four-lane carriageway. Conversion of a disused railway bridge over Wyong Creek at Wyong. The converted structure features five spans, is 314 feet long and carries two lanes of traffic. It replaced an old single lane timber bridge 268 feet long. Completion of the six-span steel and reinforced concrete bridge, 363 feet long, over Duck Creek near Ballina on what became a part of a major deviation of the Highway between Wardell and Burn's Point. Work commenced on Harwood Bridge over the Clarence River. A 34-span steel and concrete bridge 2,918 feet long, it eliminated the last ferry from the route of the Pacific Highway between Sydney and Brisbane and from the State Highway System of New South Wales. Channelisation of the junction of Pacific Highway and Glebe Road in Adamstown. 32
• 1965: The Highway was widened to 24 ft. and surfaced with asphaltic concrete between Wyong and John's Road, 2.5 miles north of Wyong. Improvement of crests on the Highway to increase sight distance south of Swansea. Construction of a four-lane divided carriageway between Marks Street and Victoria Street, Belmont, was completed and the widening and reconstruction of the Highway between Vincent Street and Murray Street, North Belmont, was commenced. Completion of the channelisation of intersections with the Highway of Brunker Road at Adamstown Heights, Glebe Road at Merewether, and Gordon Avenue, Hamilton. Pavement widening to 24 ft. was completed between Raymond Terrace and Windeyer's Creek. Widening and reconstruction between Twelve Mile Creek, 6 miles south of Karuah and Karuah completed. A climbing lane for northbound traffic was constructed 3 miles north of Karuah. Between Booral Road and Myall River at Bulahdelah the Highway was reconstructed and raised above flood level. Reconstruction of the Pacific Highway between Chatham Overbridge and Oxley Street, Taree. This work involved dual carriageway construction and channelisation of two intersections with Council streets. Reconstruction was completed immediately south of Macksville, providing improved access to Macksville from the south. The final seal was applied to the Wardell Deviation located between Wardell and Ballina. This deviation eliminated a ferry from the route of the Highway. It also eliminated a ferry from the Wardell-Coonellabah Main Road. Construction was commenced on a deviation at Newrybar which eliminated a narrow winding section. The length of the deviation is 1.3 miles and is located approximately 14 miles north of Bangalow. 33
• 1966: Completion of construction and bitumen surfacing of deviation through Buladelah. Completion of construction and bitumen surfacing of deviation and approaches, 4.6 miles long, to bridge over Clarence River at Harwood. Construction of six-lane divided carriageway between Vincent Street Belmont, and South Street Windale. Construction of divided four-lane carriageway from Boyd's Bay Bridge at Tweed Heads to the Oueensland border. Work started on bridge over Emigrant Creek on the Pacific Highway near Ballina, which replaced an old narrow truss bridge. Work began on bridge over Coldstream River near Ulmarra to replace a single lane bridge. Work started on the construction of an overbridge on the Pacific Highway at Moorlands, north of Taree to eliminate a railway level crossing. Completion of passing and turning lanes at the intersection of the highway with Warnervale Road at Wyong. Over a length of three quarters of a mile at near Catherine Hill Bay, completion of the widening the highway, eliminating a crest and improving alignment. An asphaltic concrete surface 24 feet wide was provided with a 44 feet wide formation. Reconstruction from Wallsend Road to Sandgate, which provided a continuous divided carriageway from Maude Street, Mayfield, to Ironbark Creek, a distance of approximately 3 miles. Work begamn on a divided carriageway between Ash Island Bridge and the Hexham deviation. Construction of a passing lane and improvement of the intersection of the highway with Richardson Road, one mile north of Raymond Terrace, completed. Work on the reconstruction of the highway through the village of Karuah was also completed. A deviation of the highway, one mile in length, was constructed through the township of Bulahdelah. This deviation provided a more suitable connection to the existing Myall River Bridge and relocated the highway from Stroud Street to Boolambayte Street. Work commenced on the construction of 2.8 miles of climbing lane over O'Sullivan's Gap Hill north of Bulahdelah. A length of the highway, 1.2 miles long, at Coolongolook was reconstructed and widened. Reconstruction of the highway with divided carriageways between Chatham Overbridge and Oxley Street, Taree, was completed. Reconstruction and strengthening of the highway through Cundletown completed. A commencement was made on reconstruction of the highway between Sapphire Beach and Moonee Beach. Reconstruction was commenced near Broadwater to improve a section of damaged and narrow pavement. Work commenced pavement widening and channelisation at the intersection of the highway with Herbert Street, St Leonards. Work began on a bridge over Cassons Creek near Corindi Beach. The structure comprises a nine-span concrete structure 207 feet long, 29 feet between kerbs. It replaced a single timber bridge 74 feet long. Channelisation of Pacific Highway and Oxley Street junction, Taree. Installation of advisory speed signs on Pacific Highway between Sydney and Newcastle, to cover curves having advisory speeds of 50 and 55 MPH. 8
• April 1966: Work commenced on relocation of five sections of the existing Pacific Highway between the Hawkesbury River and Cowan as a first step in clearing the way for the construction of the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway on the south side of the river. 8
• 20 August 1966: Opening of the Harwood Bridge over the Clarence River. It eliminated the last remaining ferry operating on the Pacific Highway. It was also the last ferry on State Highways. It replaced a ferry service that had been operating since 1885. The Harwood Bridge was then the third longest road bridge in NSW. 3
• 1967: Divided carriageways on Pacific Highway between Vincent and South Streets, North Belmont and between Maud Street, Mayfield West and the junction with the New England Highway at Hexham. Construction of approaches to the new railway overbridge at Moorland, north of Taree. Completion of bridge over Coldstream River on the Pacific Highway at Cowper. The structure replaced a single lane timber bridge. South of the Hawkesbury River, several lengths of climbing lanes were linked together to provide a continuous third lane for the southern ascent from the river. On this three-lane section, tidal flow arrangements for traffic were introduced in peak traffic periods. A levee bank was constructed on the eastern side of the highway just north of the junction with the Pacific Highway at Hexham. The levee bank was constructed to control the flow of water from the Hunter River during flooding. The intersection of the highway with Ida Street, Charlestown, was reconstructed to improve the flow of traffic. Completion of the channelisation of the junctions of the highway with Glebe Road and Gordon Avenue, Hamilton. The junction of the highway with Ingall Street, Mayfield, was also channelised. Continuous divided carriageways were completed between Maud Street and the junction with the New England Highway, 4.7 to 10.0 miles north of Newcastle. On behalf of the Department, Newcastle City Council completed reconstruction of the section between Wallsend Road and Radio Station 2HD. The Department completed construction of a half-mile length between Ironbark Creek and Hexham. Reconstruction raised this length of the road by approximately two feet, which will reduce flooding of the highway by the Hunter River. A commencement was made on the relocation of the highway north of Raymond Terrace to raise the road above the level of water in the Hunter District Water Board's storage reservoir at Grahamstown. The construction of a climbing lane on a section of the highway at O'Sullivan's Gap Hill, north of Bulahdelah, was completed. Completion of the construction of a median strip between Pulteney Street and Manning Street, Taree. The work involved relocation of public utilities and a War Memorial Clock. Work started on the channelisation of the intersection of the highway with the Kempsey-Armidale Road and on the construction of a median strip along Smith Street (Pacific Highway) between Forth and Belgrave Streets, Kempsey. Bellimbopinni, the Department reconstructed and widened the pavement to a width of 24 feet. Construction of approaches to a new bridge at Cassons Creek near Corindi Beach was completed. Construction of the southern and northern approaches to the new bridge over the Clarence River at Harwood, was completed. Construction of the approaches to Emigrant Creek Bridge and on the deviation from the bridge to the Burns Point turnoff. Emigrant Creek bridge also opened to traffic. The relocation of buildings was carried out on the proposed deviation at Newrybar. Construction of a climbing lane was commenced north of Brunswick Heads. Reconstruction and bitumen surfacing were completed between 7.0 and 8.3 miles north of Murwillumbah, eliminating a length of narrow, damaged pavement. Completion of the first stage of pavement widening and channelisation at the intersection of the highway with Herbert Street, St. Leonards. A commencement was made on the widening of the highway in order to provide a six-lane divided carriageway between Ryde' Road and Livingstone Avenue, Pymble. Between Mt. Colah and Mt. Ku-ring-gai, reconstruction was completed to provide four lanes of surfaced pavement and gravel shoulders. A three-span post-tensioned concrete bridge 238 feet long was constructed on the Pacific Highway, Mt White. The bridge carries two traffic lanes over the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway. Commencement of the construction of a single-span post-tensioned concrete bridge on the Pacific Highway at Brooklyn, over the route of the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway. The structure is 271 feet in length and was designed to carry three traffic lanes. Guardrailing was erected on both sides of the carriageway on the steel truss spans of the Peats Ferry Bridge over the Hawkesbury River at Brooklyn, to protect the trusses from damage by traffic, following the introduction of three-lane tidal flow. Completion of channelisation works at the junctions with George St, Hornsby, Brisbane Water Dr, West Gosford, Charlestown Rd, Charlestown, Channel St, Swansea, Wommera Av, Belmont, John Fisher Rd, North Belmont, Violet Town Rd at North Belmont, Maclean Rd, Maclean, Yamba Rd interchange at Maclean, the access road to Harwood and Harwood Mill. 34
• 1968: Construction of climbing lanes near O'Sullivan's Gap, north of Bulahdelah. Completion of the deviation at Newrybar. Pavement widening completed to provide a six-lane divided carriageway from Reserve Road to Albany Street, St. Leonards, including channelisation at the intersections of the highway with Herbert Street and Albany Street. Similar work was completed from Bridge Street to Livingstone Avenue, Pymble. Reconstruction of the highway was commenced from Mt. Ku-ring-gai towards Berowra to extend the four-lane carriageway to connect with the section of the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway being constructed at the time, south from the Hawkesbury River. The section of the highway from Murray Street to South Street, Bennett's Green, was provided with a divided carriageway. Similar work was commenced between South Street and Oakdale Road. At the completion of the latter section, four traffic lanes were available on the highway between Gateshead and Belmont. Completion of a median in Smith Street (Pacific Highway) from Forth to Belgrave Streets, Kempsey. Two crests were eliminated from the highway as a result of reconstruction at Dirty Creek. Construction and bituminous surfacing of the approaches to the new bridge over the Coldstream River, Ulmarra completed during the year. Near Tabbimobile, a commencement was made on the construction of the approaches to two new bridges being built. Reconstruction, prior to bituminous surfacing, was commenced near Woodburn to raise a section of pavement subject to flooding. The widening of cuttings started north of Brunswick Heads, to enable the construction of a climbing lane for slow-moving vehicles. Reconstruction and bituminous surfacing were completed on the approaches to a new box culvert at McLeods Creek, near the town of Stotts Creek, eliminating a section of highway with a timber bridge on inferior alignment. Work started on the extension of the bridge over Upper Warrell Creek. The bridge was extended southerly by four 39 feet spans and northerly by two 39 feet spans with steel girders and a reinforced concrete deck. Construction of a two-span, prestressed concrete bridge to carry southbound traffic on the Pacific Highway over the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway at Berowra was commenced. The structure is 208 feet in length. Channelisation of the Pacific Highway, High Street and Station Street junction at Hornsby. Channelisation also took place at the Pacific Highway and the junction of Old Woy Woy Road, Kariong, Rudder Street, Kempsey, Bruxner Highway, Ballina and Chinderah Road, Chinderah. 35
• March 1968: A deviation north of Raymond Terrace, near the Grahamstown Water Supply, was opened to traffic. 35
• 1969: Reconstruction and widening of the highway to provide four traffic lanes from Mt. Kuring-gai to Berowra and the construction of dual carriageways from Berowra to the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway interchange, were completed. Reconstruction and bituminous surfacing near Tabbimobile, including the raising of a section of pavement to alleviate flooding. Completion of a bridge to carry the Pacific Highway over the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway near the Berowra Interchange. Reconstruction commenced of the highway adjacent to the shopping centre at Asquith. Widening of the highway to four lanes was completed between Mt. Kuring-gai and the Berowra interchange of the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway. A divided carriageway was constructed between Berowra and the interchange. Provision of a section of divided carriageway between South Street, Bennett's Green and Oakdale Road, Gateshead was completed and a further section, between Ida Street, Charlestown and the Newcastle City boundary was commenced. Construction of a dual carriageway to provide six traffic lanes was completed from the southern boundary of the City to Lake Macquarie Road. Reconstruction of the highway between Richardson Road and Grahamstown Deviation was completed and reconstruction of a further section between Grahamstown Deviation and Balickera Channel was commenced. The Department commenced widening the formation to 44 feet, between Tea Gardens Road at Tea Gardens and Bulahdelah, to provide shoulders 10 feet wide for a distance of 18.2 miles. Work was commenced on widening the highway and strengthening the pavement in the Coolongolook area. Work was started on traffic islands at the intersection of the highway with Belgrave Street, Kempsey. Construction of a deviation at Korora was commenced. Completion of reconstruction near Woodburn to raise a section of pavement subject to flooding. Work commenced on the construction of a six-span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge, 211 feet long at Tabbimoble, over an unnamed creek. The two-lane structure replaced a causeway and a relief pipe culvert. Work started on the 2 bridges over Swan Creek, north of Grafton, to replace decking and improve the riding quality of the decks. These timber beam bridges were 303 feet and 93 feet long. Channelisation works performed at Pacific Highway and Sydney-Newcastle Expressway at the Berowra Interchange and at Brooklyn, Pacific Highway and Northcott Drive, Adamstown Heights, Pacific Highway and Groves Road, Windale. 36
• 1970: Completion of dual carriageways from Ida Street Charlestown to the Newcastle City boundary. Completion of reconstruction and bituminous surfacing near Sapphire Beach. This work replaced a section of road subject to flooding. Completion of a deviation at Tabbimobile including the construction of two bridges. Completion of bridge over Myall River at Bulahdelah on the Pacific Highway. A two-lane four-span prestressed and reinforced concrete bridge, 395 feet long with two footways, replaced a steel truss and timber beam bridge, 248 feet long. Work started on bridge over Lower Warrell Creek on the Pacific Highway near Macksville. Reconstruction and widening to a six-lane divided carriageway between Leonard Street and Edgeworth David Avenue was completed at Hornsby. Pavement reconstruction was completed within the shopping centre at Asquith. Reconstruction was completed for a distance of 2.3 miles from Grahamstown Lake Deviation to Balickera Channel. Regrading of a crest and provision of a climbing lane were commenced one mile north of Bulahdelah. Completion of traffic islands at the intersection with Belgrave Street, Kempsey. Construction of a deviation was commenced south of Macksville to provide approaches to a new concrete bridge being constructed over Lower Warrell Creek. The work was expected to form part of a future motorway. Construction of a deviation was commenced north of Macksville from the bridge over the Nambucca River for approximately 2.0 miles. The work involved a new crossing over Newee Creek and was expected to form part of a future motorway. Construction was concluded of a climbing lane on the Burringbar Range, south of Murwillumbah. Construction of a deviation was commenced at Condong, north of Murwillumbah. Construction of a channelised intersection was completed at the New South Wales / Queensland Border (Boundary and Clarke Streets) as well as Pacific Highway and Kahibah Road at Highfields. 37
• 1971: A deviation to the north of Coffs Harbour at Korora, which replaced a section of narrow pavement on sub-standard alignment, was opened to traffic. Completion of a six-span, two-lane reinforced and preslressed concrele bridge, 211 feet long, 10 replace a causeway at Tabbimobile. Construction of dual carriageways to eliminate a narrow winding section between Burns Road and Ourimbah Creek. Reconstruction was completed to provide dual carriageways between Robert Street and Ada Street, Belmont, including approaches to Cold Tea Creek Bridge. Work was completed on construction of dual carriageways between Ida Street, Charlestown, and Newcastle City Boundary. Dual carriageways now extend for a distance of 8.3 miles from Newcastle City Boundary to Cold Tea Creek Bridge at Belmont South. Work was completed on regrading of a crest and provision of a climbing lane 1 mile north of Bulahdelah. Construction of a climbing lane including widening of the existing pavement to a 44 feet formation with 24 feet sealed pavement was commenced north of Bulahdelah. Reconstruction and strengthening to provide 24 feet wide sealed pavement and 10 feet wide shoulders were completed in the Coolongolook area. Completion of reconstruction, with provision of medians and traffic islands, at the intersection with Belgrave Street Kempsey. Completion of a deviation 1.75 miles long on the approaches to a new bridge over Lower Warrell Creek approximately 2 miles south of Macksville. This work eliminated a section of road at Hunt's flat which was subject to flooding. Construction of a deviation was completed at Tabbimobile. This work included construction of a bridge and eliminated a section where blockages due to flooding frequently occurred. Reconstruction and bituminous surfacing were completed from Alma Street to Condong Creek, north of Murwillumbah. This work improved a section of narrow pavement. Completion of reconstruction between Boyd's Bay Bridge and the Queensland Border. Work commenced on construction of a six span prestressed concrete bridge over the South Arm of the Bellinger River at Urunga, the structure was 752 feet long, with two traffic lanes and replaced a timber truss bridge, 690 feet long. Channelisation completed at Pacific Highway & Anderson Drive at Beresfield and Pacific Highway & West High Street (Coramba Road) at Coffs Harbour (in conjunction with traffic signals). 38
• 21 May 1971: A ceremony was held on the site for the official opening to traffic of the new bridge over lower Warrell Creek on a deviation of the Pacific Highway near Macksville. 38
• 1972: Dual carriageways were opened to traffic over a length of one mile near Ourimbah Creek. Work commenced on the construction of a deviation between Telegraph Point and Smiths Creek, which replaced the a tortuous route through the Cooperabung Range. Construction of a deviation at Tumbulgum, north of Murwillumbah, was commenced. This work will bypassed the village and replaced a narrow winding section of road. A roadside weighing site was built on Pacific Highway at Telegraph Point,The provided heavy duty all-weather facilities for the weighing of heavy vehicles on portable weighing devices. Work completed on the reconstruction of a section of bitumen pavement in the kerbside lane between Pearce's Corner and Woolcott Street, Waitara, construction of the median and turning bays at Mt Kuring-gai railway station was completed. Construction of dual carriageways to eliminate a narrow winding section of road between Burns Road and Ourimbah Creek, north of Gosford, was completed. The work involved the widening of the existing bridge over Bangalow Creek. Work was commenced on construction of culverts and dual carriageways at Wyong. Widening to four lanes between Brunker Road and Scenic Road, Merewether, was completed. Reconstruction of the southbound carriageway between Kooragang lsland Rail Overbridge at Mayfield West and Wallsend Road, Sandgate, was completed. Widening of the formation to 44 feet including the extension of culverts between Coolongolook Gap and Wang Wauk River to provide 10 feet wide shoulders for approximately 3 miles was completed. The work also included the extension of the climbing lane at Coolongolook Gap. Work was commenced on a major deviation between Telegraph Point and Smiths Creek. The deviation replaced a section of road through the Cooperabung Range. The upgrade of the highway at Sapphire Beach was completed and opened to traffic. Construction of a climbing lane north of Brunswick Heads was completed. Construction of climbing-lanes on the Burringbar Range south of Murwillumbah was completed. Construction of a deviation at Tumbulgum north of Murwillumbah was commenced. The deviation bypassed the village of Tumbulgum. Completion of a six span pre stressed concrete bridge over the Kalang River (former south arm of Bellinger River) at Urunga. The structure is 752 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. It replaced a timber bridge 690 feet long. Work commenced on construction of a 13 span pre stressed concrete bridge over the Wilson River at Telegraph Point. The structure is 1836 feet long and provided two traffic lanes and one footway. It replaced a timber bridge with steel lift-span 405 feet long and eliminated the railway level crossing. Completion of channelisation of Pacific Highway, Ryde and Mona Vale Roads, Pymble. 39
• 13th March 1972: Bridge over the Kalang River on the Pacific Highway at Urunga opened by the Minister for Highways. The structure is 752 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. It replaced a timber bridge 690 feet long. 39
• 1973: Work started on dual carriageways between Naru Street, Marks Point and Robert Street, South Belmont. Widening was completed near Karuah. Widening of formation to 44 feet was completed between North Arm Cove and Bulahdelah. Work was commenced on the construction of climbing lanes between Purfleet and Rainbow Flat south of Taree. Work commenced on the construction of a deviation, being the approaches to a new bridge over Wilson River and the North Coast Railway at Telegraph Point. Work commenced on the construction of a deviation 2.2 miles long immediately north of Macksville to include a new bridge at Newee Creek. Work commenced on the approaches for a new bridge at Teague Creek, 5.9 miles north of Macksville. Reconstruction at Sapphire Beach was completed. Reconruction commenced between Sapphire Beach and Emerald Beach and completed Emerald Beach and Sandy Beach. Reconstruction was completed between Tintenbar and Knockrow. Construction of a deviation at Tumbulgum was completed. Work commenced on upgrades at Chinderah. The Department commenced construction of a five span prestressed concrete bridge over Newee Creek, north of Macksville. The structure is 387 feet long, will provide two traffic lanes and replaced a one lane timber bridge 178 feet long. Channelisation of Pacific Highway and Stewart Avenue, Mayfield West. Climbing lane added Pacific Highway, near the turn-off road to Catherine Hill Bay. 40
• 17 April 1973: Bridge over the Wilson River at Telegraph Point, new bridge and deviation on the Pacific Highway were opened by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Highways, Sir Charles Cutler. 41
• 1974: Work was completed on a section from Barries Creek to Smiths Creek. Work commenced on reconstruction through the Cooperabung Range. Construction of a deviation 3.5 km long immediately north of Macksville was completed. A 1.5 km section of upgrade work was opened to traffic from Emerald Beach to Woolgoolga. Reconstruction was completed between Tintenbar and Newrybar. Construction was completed of a five span prestressed concrete bridge over Newee Creek north of Macksville. The structure is 116 metres long, provides two traffic lanes and replaced a one lane timber bridge 54 metres long. Construction of dual carriageway between Burns Road and Ourimbah Creek at Ourimbah, was completed. Construction of dual carriageway between Ada Street and Robert Street, South Belmont, including approaches to Cold Tea Creek Bridge, was completed. Construction of dual carriageway between Oakdale Road and Oxford Street, Gateshead, was commenced. Reconstruction and bitumen surfacing 7.3 metres wide from Balikera Channel to Twelve Mile Creek, near Raymond Terrace, was commenced. Widening of formation and extension of culverts near North Arm Cove, was completed. Construction of climbing lane, including widening of existing pavement between Bulahdelah and O'Sullivans Gap was completed. The construction of climbing lanes was completed at Rainbow Flat and Koorainghat. Reconstruction of the intersection with Wingham Road and Victoria Street, Taree including medians on each approach. Work was completed on the construction of a deviation between Blackmans Point and Telegraph Point, in approach to a new bridge over the Wilson River, and on a further section from Barries Creek to Smiths Creek, at Kundabung. Preliminary work commenced on upgrades through the Cooperabung Range. The construction of a deviation 3.5 km long, immediately north of Macksville, was completed. In addition to providing flood-free approaches to a new bridge over Newee Creek, on a greatly improved alignment, this deviation considerably improved the northern approach to the bridge over the Nambucca River at Macksville. Approaches were constructed at Nambucca Head for a new bridge over Teague Creek. Widening of the concrete pavement and resurfacing with asphaltic concrete at Ulmarra was completed. Channelisation at the junction of Pacific Highway and Walker Street, North Sydney and also Pacific Highway, Stewart Avenue and King Street, Newcastle. 41
• 17 April 1974: A thirteen span prestressed concrete bridge over the Wilson River at Telegraph Point, was opened to traffic. The structure is 560 metres long, provides two traffic lanes and one footway. It replaced a timber bridge 123 metres long with a steel lift-span and eliminated a railway level crossing. 41
• 1975: Roadworks associated with the construction of a new bridge to carry the Pacific Highway over the railway line at St Leonards were completed. Work commenced on improvements at the junction of College Crescent and Pretoria Parade with the Pacific Highway (Jordans Corner) at Hornsby. Construction of a turnout to Old Sydney Town on Pacific Highway at Somersby. Separation of traffic with provision for turning traffic was provided at Pacific Highway and Lucca Road, Wyong. Construction of dual carriageways between Robert Street, South Belmont and Naru Street, Marks Point completed. Improvements to the intersection at the junction of Pacific Highway, Charlestown Road and Ida Street, Charlestown were commenced. Improvements to the realignment and width at Stewarts Corner, in Lord Street (Pacific Highway), Kempsey. Completion of construction at Coffs Harbour at the site of the a replacement railway overbridge. Reconstruction from Emerald Beach and Sandy Beach was opened to traffic. Work started on a dual carriageway construction between 30.3 km to 30.6 km north of Murwillumbah. Preliminary work commenced in preparation for reconstruction of the Pacific Highway in cement concrete at Clybucca Flat. 42
• 1976: Improvements to the intersection of the Pacific Highway with College Crescent and Pretoria Parade at Hornsby were completed. Construction commenced on the approaches to the duplicate bridge at Ourimbah Creek at Ourimbah. Widening to provide 7.3 m of pavement on existing alignment at several locations between Wadalba and Lake Munmorah was commenced. Reconstruction and bituminous surfacing from Balickera Channel to Twelve Mile Creek was completed. A deviation in the approach to a new bridge at Two Mile Creek, Failford, was commenced. Partial opening of the deviation over the Cooperabung Mountain near Telegraph Point. Reconstruction was commenced between Bellimbopinni and Clybucca with continuous reinforced concrete pavement. The concrete pavement was completed at Clybucca. Completion of the reconstruction and widening to provide dual carriageways immediately north of Coffs Harbour CBD. Reconstruction was completed and construction of a deviation at Double Crossing Creek at Emerald Beach. Construction of the approaches to a new bridge over Swan Creek commenced. Construction of a new carriageway for northbound traffic at Oak Avenue at Stotts Creek was completed and reconstruction of the south bound carriageway commenced. Completion of the reconstruction of dual carriageways Tweed Heads South. Work was completed on the improvement of the junction of the Pacific Highway with Showground Road at Gosford. The construction of a slow speed lane for northbound traffic at Wallarah Hill at Bluehaven, was commenced. Construction of approaches to the bridge over Traynors Creek 3.7 km north of Bulahdelah, was commenced. A shor
• t length of approaches was constructed to a bridge-sized reinforced concrete box culvert over Bundacree Creek, at Nabiac. Reconstruction was carried out of a short length between immediately north of Kempsey, to raise the Highway to the level of a then new flood levee bank, which was constructed by the Kempsey Shire Council. Improvement to the junction of Pacific Highway and Tucabia-Tyndale Road, Tyndale to provide a passing lane and acceleration and deceleration lanes was completed. Reconstruction of junction of Pacific Highway with Coraki-Woodburn Road at Woodburn was completed. Reconstruction at Billinudgel was completed. 43
• 1977: Construction of additional lanes between Ryde Road and Bridge Street, Pymble to provide three through lanes and a right turn storage lane at Ryde Road was completed. Construction of a second carriageway to provide dual two-lane divided carriageways between Doyalson and Gwandalan was commenced. Pavement widening and construction of dual carriageways was commenced between Swansea Bridge and Docker Street, Marks Point. Construction of a deviation on the approaches to a new bridge at Two Mile Creek was completed. Construction of a deviation over the Cooperabung Mountain was completed. Channelisation of the junction of Pacific Highway and North Sapphire Beach Road, Coffs Harbour, plus Pacific Highway and Kanangra Drive, Kanwal. A pedestrian bridge over Pacific Highway at Mt Kuring-gai was completed. Reconstruction was commenced at Mt. Pennang to improve the junction with Wisemans Ferry Road. Construction of the approaches to the duplicate bridge at Ourimbah Creek was completed. Construction of the approaches to the widened bridge over Kangy Angy Creek was completed. Strengthening of pavement and shoulders was completed from Kangy Angy Creek to Tuggerah. Construction was commenced of an auxiliary lane at Johnson Road, Tuggerah. Pavement widening to 7.4 m was completed at various locations between Kanwal and Catherine Hill Bay. Construction was commenced of an auxiliary lane, including reconstruction of failed pavement between Kanwal and Toukley turn off. Construction was completed of a climbing lane at Wallarah Hill. Improvement of curves was commenced at Violetown Road and Old Belmont Road, North Belmont. Reconstruction of the intersection with Dudley Road, Chariestown to provide storage and speed-change lanes was completed. Improvements were completed to the intersection at the junction with Charlestown Road and Ida Street, Charlestown. Reconstruction and bituminous surfacing was completed from Balickera Channel to Twelve Mile Creek. Construction of the approaches to a bridge over Traynors Creek was completed. Pavement widening was commenced between Boolambayte Creek and O'Sullivans Gap. Pavement strengthening with asphaltic concrete was commenced over O'Sullivans Gap. Widening to provide an auxiliary lane for southbound traffic from Hugh Street to near Scenic Drive at Merewether was completed. Construction of a deceleration lane, median, kerb and storage lanes was completed from 1 km west of Wallsend Road and Ironbark Creek at Sandgate. The reconstruction and widening of distressed pavement was commenced at Nabiac. Completion of the reconstruction of a short length of highway between the new bridges over Browns Creek and the Chatham Railway overbridge. Construction was completed of a deviation on the approaches to a new bridge at Two Mile Creek. Work was commenced on the establishment of a rest area near Moorland. Widening of the approaches to the bridge at Herons Creek was completed. Reconstruction of the approach to Raleigh Bridge was completed at Raleigh. Strengthening of existing pavement and provision of a northbound climbing lane was completed near Repton at Perrys Hill. Work was completed on the road approaches and two cell reinforced concrete box culvert at Boambee Flood Channel. Construction of the approaches to Swan Creek Bridge was completed. Reconstruction and widening, including provision of climbing lanes, was commenced near Bangalow. Reconstruction and strengthening was completed on a section of Pacific Highway at Burringbar. This included raising one section of pavement above flood level. Intersection improvements carried out at Pacific Highway and Second Lane, north of Kempsey, Pacific Highway and MR152. north of Grafton, Pacific Highway and North Sapphire Road, north of Coffs Harbour and Peats Ridge Road and Pacific Highway. Ourimbah. Channelisation works commenced at Pacific Highway and Somersby Road, Kariong. Pacific Highway and Lismore Road, at Bangalow. Pacific Highway and Croki Road. Extension of Clearway zone along Pacific Highway, from Pearces Comer to Bobbin Head Road, Pymble. Sections of Pacific Highway converted to Priority Road: Parkway Road Swansea to Stewart Avenue at Newcastle, New England Highway at Hexham to to Wang Wauk River (116 km), Pacific Highway from Nambucca Heads to Queensland Border (366 km) and Pacific Highway from Wang Wauk River to Nambucca Heads (236 km). 44
• 9 September 1977: Upgrade of signals at Pacific Highway and Ridley Street, Charlestown (set 929). 44
• 15 February 1978: Installation of traffic signals at Pacific Highway with Shirley Road and Clanville Road, Roseville (set 1252). 44
• 11 May 1978: Decommissioning of signals at Pacific Highway, south of Livingston Street, Belmont (set 167). 44
• 13 May 1978: Upgrade of signals at Pacific Highway and Fullers Road. Chatswood (set 175). 44
• June 1978: Upgrade of signals at Pacific Highway and Wallsend Road. Sandgate (set 876). 44
• 27 July 1978: Upgrade of signals at Pacific Highway and Smart Street, Charlestown (set 930). 44
• 1970s: In a bid to prevent ribbon development, the Pacific Highway north of Coffs Harbour was proclaimed a Motorway, thus controlling the number and location of access points and indiscriminate frontage development. 3
• 1980s: "S" lanes were provided on the Pacific Highway between Hornsby and St Leonards. This facilitated right hand turn lanes without the need to rebuild the road.
• 1983: Duplication begins of Hexham Bridge at Hexham.
• December 1990: Opening of Stage 1 of the Herons Creek Deviation to traffic. Stage 1 runs from Ryans Road to the Oxley Highway. 45
• November 1993: Opening of Stage 2 of the Herons Creek Deviation to traffic. Stage 2 runs from Stills Road to Houston Mitchell Drive. 45 Construction of the Raymond Terrace Bypass commenced. 46
• December 1994: The first stage of the Bangalow Bypass was opened to traffic. This was a single carriageway with overtaking lanes for both northbound and southbound traffic. 47 Bridges were constructed over the Byron Bay Road, Byron Creek and the North Coast Railway Line. A bridge was also constructed at the northern end of the bypass, taking southbound highway traffic destined for Bangalow and Lismore over the new highway. All major earthworks for the second carriageway were undertaken during the first stage of the Bangalow Bypass, to ensure minimal disruption to local residents during construction of Stage 2.
• January 1995: Construction starts on the Raleigh Deviation. 48
• 1990s: The Tarro and John Renshaw Drive Interchanges on New England Highway were opened to traffic.
• 21 October 1996: The southbound carriageway of Chinderah Bypass was opened to traffic. 49
• 29 November 1996: The northbound carriageway of Chinderah Bypass was opened to traffic. Flyovers carry the Pacific Highway traffic across Wommin Bay Road and Chinderah Road, whilst an interchange provides access to local roads at Chinderah Road. The bridge over the Tweed River at Barneys Point, costing $10.2 million, provides six vehicle travel lanes and a combined walkway / cycleway. 49
• January 1997: Work starts on the Korora Hill Reconstruction, 5 km north of Coffs Harbour. 50
• August 1997: Work commences on the 4.8km upgrade to dual carriageway from Wang Wauk to Bundacree Creek. The project involve: duplication of the existing single carriageway to provide dual carriageways, improvements to the intersection with Wang Wauk Road and Provision of U-turn facilities and parking bays at appropriate locations. 51
• 7 November 1997: The Waterfall Way overbridge within the Raleigh Deviation, was officially opened to traffic. 52
• December 1997: The 14.5 kilometre construction of a dual carriageway bypass of Taree partially opened to traffic. 53
• 10 December 1997: The second carriageway of Bangalow Bypass was opened to traffic. Work also included duplication of bridges constructed under Stage 1. 54
• 15 December 1997: Korora Hill Reconstruction opened to traffic. The 1.5km upgrade of the Pacific Highway to four lanes extends between Bruxner Park Road and the Old Coast Road at Korora Hill, 5 km north of Coffs Harbour. Work involved widening and reconstruction to provide a four lane divided road with a landscaped median strip. Work also included a replacement footbridge over the highway outside Kororo Publc School. The bridge was named after a local school student, Luke Bowen, who was involved in a tragic accident on the day prior to the opening of the footbridge. 50
• 1998: The 7.5 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade of the Pacific Highway at Taree to Coopernook opened to traffic. 55
• May 1998: Traffic was diverted onto a 1.8 km section of the new northbound carriageway of the Wang Wauk to Bundacree Creek upgrade. This enabled rehabilitation and reconstruction to be undertaken on the existing highway, which is now the new southbound carriageway. 51 The 4km of realigned highway between Gap Road in the south and Tuckmobil Canal opened to traffic. The project included a southbound overtaking lane and improved intersections. The major portion of the new road runs to the west of the existing highway, while the northern section is located to the east. The northern end has been partially constructed over a flood plain and the southern end runs through slightly undulating land. A number of sharp crests and bends were eliminated by the work. 56
• 5 June 1998: Brunswick Heads Bypass Stage 1 opens to traffic after stop-start construction as a result of a contractor going into voluntary administration. The upgrade provides a 3.4 km bypass of Brunswick Heads including two bridges, fauna underpasses and wildlife fencing. The first stage was a single carriageway with at-grade intersections. 57
• 3 July 1998: Duplication of Herons Creek Deviation opens to traffic. 45
• August 1998: Construction of the Raymond Terrace to Karuah Upgrade commenced. 53
• 17 September 1998: Raleigh Deviation opened to traffic. The Raleigh Deviation upgrade provides 8km of divided carriageway between the Kalang River near Urunga and Pine Creek State Forest. The project included construction of major twin bridges over the Bellinger River. New bridges were also built at Boggy Creek, Man Arm Creek, Waterfall Way, and North Bank and Valery Roads. 48
• 16 October 1998: Ewingsdale to Tyagarah upgrade project opened to traffic. The upgrade provided over 4.3km of dual carriageways, and extends from just north of the Byron Bay turn-off to north of the Tyagarah Railway Bridge. The project included construction of twin bridges over Tyagarah Creek, as well as new duplicate bridges over the Casino/Murwillumbah Railway and Tyagarah Swamp. 58
• 10 December 1998: All major works on Wang Wauk to Bundacree Creek upgrade complete, with both carriageways open to traffic. 51
• 17 December 1998: Raymond Terrace Bypass opened to traffic. The upgrade provides a 7.6km divided dual carriageway bypass of Raymond Terrace, and starts just south of Masonite Road at Heatherbrae and extends northwards near Rangers Road. 46 Duplication of Eungai Deviation opens to traffic, with new southbound carriageway commencing operation. 59
• February 1999: Construction started on the Ewingsdale Interchange at the Myocum Road / Ewingsdale Road intersection (Byron Bay turn-off). 60
• October 1999: The 23 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Bulahdelah to Coolongolook was opened to traffic. 61
• August 1998: Construction of the Raymond Terrace to Karuah Upgrade commenced. 62
• February 1999: Work commences on the Tyndale Realignment. 63
• 2000: The 0.8 kilometre upgrade of the Pacific Highway to dual carriageways between Bray and Arthur Streets, Coffs Harbour opened to traffic. 64
• May 2000: The final section of the Taree Bypass opened to traffic. 53 Construction work on the Yelgun to Chinderah Freeway began. The Yelgun to Chinderah Freeway includes 3 interchanges, 11 overbridges including two arch bridges, 39 highway bridges, 36 cuts and fills, 2 fauna overpasses, 3 fauna underpasses and 2 rest areas. 65
• June 2000: Tyndale realignment is opened to traffic. The upgrade included realignment of the existing highway over a length of 900m to provide two 3.5m wide lanes with minimum 2m wide sealed shoulders, an intersection with both right and left turn lanes and a short entrance road into Tyndale village, a roundabout on the existing highway to accommodate traffic movements into, from and within the village, a service road to two industrial properties at the southern end of the work and adjustments to the existing service road at the northern end of the work and extensive landscaping works including provision of picnic facilities. 63
• August 2000: The 0.8 km upgrade from Bray to Arthur Street, Coffs Harbour opened to traffic.
• 4 September 2000: Ewingsdale Interchange opens to traffic. 60
• 1 December 2000: Raymond Terrace to Karuah Upgrade opened to traffic. The upgrade provides 18km of dual carriageway conditions and continues north from the Raymond Terrace Bypass. The project extends from the northern end of the Raymond Terrace Bypass near Rangers Road to a point 1.5km south of the entrance to the Karuah Golf Club. A new northbound carriageway was constructed to the west of the old Highway, with the old highway reconstructed to form the new southbound carriageway. 66
• 2001: The 5.3 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Lyons Road and Englands Road opened to traffic. 67
• February 2001: Completion of Ewingsdale Interchange. 60
• May 2001: The 5.3 km Lyons Road to Englands Road Dual Carriageways opened to traffic.
• July 2001: The 11.7 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Coolongolook and Wang Wauk was opened to traffic. 68
• December 2001: Opening of the dual carriageway Tandy's Lane upgrade. 69
• 4 August 2002: Official opening of the Yelgun to Chinderah Freeway, which bypass the winding Burringbar Range and the town of Murwillumbah. The route is 28.5km of four-lane, divided carriageway. It runs from Dirty Flat Road at Yelgun to north of Oak Avenue, just south of Chinderah. The freeway shortened the Pacific Highway by 14.5km. 65
• May 2004: Halfway Creek realignment and duplication opened to traffic. 3.4 km in length, the upgrade included new access to roadhouse and realignment of the highway and an additional carriageway. 70
• 19 September 2004: The 9.8 km Karuah Bypass opens to traffic. The bypass features a total of 11 bridges with a 200m incrementally launched bridge over the wetland to Horse Island and a 600m bridge from Horse Island over the Karuah River. 71
• July 2005: Lakes Way Interchange opened to traffic. 72
• 2006: The upgrading of 9.7 km of the Pacific Highway between Bundacree Creek and Failford Rd, Possum Brush, near the township of Nabiac was completed. 73
• 22 March 2006: The 4.2 kilometre bypass east of Coopernook village (north of Newcastle) opened to traffic. Work involved the construction of a four-lane divided road, with new twin bridges over the Lansdowne River and Coopernook Creek. 74
• April 2006: Construction begins on Tugun Bypass, which crosses the NSW-QLD border. 75
• 4 November 2006: Bundacree Creek to Possum Brush upgrade, 9.7 km in length, opened to traffic.
• November 2006: Construction started on Bonville upgrade to Pacific Hwy. 76
• February 2007: Work begins on Sections 2 and 3 of the 23 km dual carriageway between Karuah and Bulahdelah. 77
• 11 July 2007: The 8.6 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Brunswick Heads to Yelgun was opened to traffic. 78
• May 2008: Construction begins on Ballina Bypass. The route is 12 kilometres of dual carriageway, extending from south of Ballina at the intersection of the Bruxner and Pacific highways to north of Ballina at the intersection of Ross Lane at Tintenbar. 79
• June 2008: Tugun Bypass was opened to traffic. The 7 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade included four lanes with the provision to be upgraded to six. Grade-separated interchanges were constructed at Stewart Road, Currumbin and at the Tweed Heads Bypass, Tweed Heads West. The project includes a 334 metre tunnel underneath the Gold Coast Airport's runway extension and twin bridges over Hidden Valley. 80
• September 2008: Bonville upgrade was officially opened to traffic. There are 19 bridges on the project with a combined length of 1.2 kilometres. The longest bridges are over Bonville Creek and are 164 metres. 76
• December 2009: Work starts on the Banora Point Upgrade. The upgrade extends over about 2.5 kilometres from the northern end of Barneys Point bridge to the southern end of the Tweed Heads bypass. 79
• June 2010: Work starts on the Kempsey Bypass. The route is 14.5 kilometres in length, and extends from the existing dual carriageway south of Kempsey to the existing dual carriageway at Eungai Rail. The bridge over the Macleay River and floodplain will be 3.2 kilometres long, making it the longest bridge in Australia. 79
• July 2010: The 33 kilometre dual carriageway upgrade from Coopernook to Herons Creek opened to traffic. It generally followed the existing highway and included a western bypass of Moorland, Johns River and a eastern bypass of Kew. 81
• August 2010: Construction begins on 8.5 kilometres of four-lane divided road with an eastern bypass of the Bulahdelah township. Work also begins on the Sapphire to Woolgoolga upgrade, to provide a four-lane divided highway extending about 25 kilometres from Campbell Close (at Sapphire) to Arrawarra Beach Road (at Arrawarra). 79
• March 2011: Construction of the Herons Creek to Stills Road upgrade project begins. The Cumbalum to Ross Lane section of Ballina Bypass was opened to traffic. 79
• 1 March 2011: Ballina Bypass (Pacific Highway) opens to traffic, just after 4:30 pm. The Northern Star, First Cars Try Ballina Bypass, 2 March 2011
• 31 October 2011: Traffic in both directions shifted to upgraded and new carriageways as part of the 2.5 km Glenugie upgrade. Part of the works included a new southbound carriageway as well as realignment where required. 82
• November 2011: The second stage of Ballina Bypass from Teven Road to Cumbalum interchange was opened. 79
• December 2011: Work starts on the Devil's Pulpit upgrade on the Pacific Highway. The work includes the upgrading of about seven kilometres of highway between Grafton and Ballina. 79
• 2012: Works start on the 17 kilometres of four-lane divided road from the northern end of the Ballina bypass at Ross Lane to the existing Ewingsdale interchange. 79
• May 2012: The final section of the Ballina Bypass project, which separated the Bruxner and Pacific highways, was opened to traffic. 79
• June 2013: Completion of Bulahdelah Bypass. 83
• July 2013: Work commences on Fredrickton to Eungai upgrade. 84

New England Highway:

• 1993: National Highway 15 replaced by National Route 1 between Tarro and Hexham.
• 2013: National Route 1 replaced by A1 and duplexed with A43.

John Renshaw Drive:

• 1993: The extension of the Sydney-Newcastle Freeway (NH1) was brought through to Beresfield, requiring a link from NH1 to NR1. John Renshaw Drive was used for the link.

Princes Highway:

• 1834: Bulli Road laid out by Major Mitchell
• 1844: a pass up the Illawarra Escarpment was discovered by Captain Westmacott. This became known as Westmacott's Pass and later Bulli Pass. It was the main entry to the Illawarra from the north.
• 1858: First bridge over Macquarie Rivulet at Albion Park Rail.
• 1868: The first wheeled vehicle traversed Bulli Pass.
• 1860: A site for the bridge over Mullet Creek was selected by the architect, Mr Weaver.
• August 1861: A bridge over Mullet Creek was opened, it was built of local timber and was twenty feet wide. It was hoped that this structure would be permanent but photos from later years show the ford still in use and another bridge was under construction in 1890.
• 1872: First bridge over Minnamurra River at Dunmore.
• 1881: construction of the Nowra Bridge over the Shoalhaven River.
• 1896: Construction of the original timber bridge over Pambula River, along what became the Princes Highway. 85
• 1900: Construction of a bridge over the Moruya River. 2
• 1920s The Princes Highway between Oak Flats and Dunmore was constructed. 86
• 1925: Work begins on widening Cooks River Road (later Princes Highway) from Cooks River bridge to the railway bridge at St Peters. Reconstruction of Princes Highway of various lengths between Bulli and and Mount Brown near Dapto. Other construction and realignment carried out in Nowra and between Bega and Eden. 4
• 7 June 1926: the Princes Highway comes under a federal and state government £ for £ funding scheme, thus recognizing the importance of the highway as major route.
• 1926: Work to replace Bode's Bridge over Fairy Creek on Princes Hwy at Fairy Meadow begins. 5
• April 1926: The reconstruction of the section of Princes Highway between Fairy Creek and Bellambi, a length of just over 3 miles, was started.
• September 1926: Earthworks begin on the Mount Brown Deviation. 5
• 1927: Upgrade between Fairy Creek and Bellambi completed, with the exception of a concrete bridge at Angel Creek. Realignment of the approach to what is now the old bridge over Mullet Creek at Brownsville, providing an easier curve and better line of sight. 5 The Princes Highway was laid through Unanderra as a bitumen road.
• March 1927: Completion of replacement Bode's Bridge in reinforced concrete. Also the completion on a 1.25 km section of Princes Hwy from Bode's Bridge to the beginning of Crown St (Princes Hwy) in North Wollongong. Work started on a 1.5 km reconstruction of Crown Street West (Princes Hwy), from Gladstone Avenue to Powell Street. 5
• July 1927: Construction begins on a new 60 by 28 feet oil driven vehicular punt over the Clyde River at Batemans Bay. It replaced an existing punt that had been running continuously without overhaul for over 11 years. 5
• 1928 Completion of Tom Ugly's Bridge over Georges River, replacing a vehicular ferry. Reconstruction of Princes Highway from Loftus towards Waterfall covering a distance around 8 km using bituminous macadam pavement. 7
• 1929: Widening and resurfacing of Princes Highway at Blakehurst, Sylvania, Rockdale, Kogarah, Alexandria and Engadine. Commencement of road surfacing of Princes Highway between Waterfall and the location of the present day Southern Freeway interchange at Helensburgh (The Dummies). 7
• 1930s Reinforced concrete bridges built along Princes Highway over Tullian Creek at Meroo Meadow, Wandandian Creek at Wandandian, Tomerong Creek at Tomerong, Stewarts Creek at Tomerong and Allsopps Creek at Brogo near Bega. Construction of bridge over Wagonga Inlet, Narooma. 7
• 1931: Upgrades made to the intersection with Prince's Highway and Appin Road at Bulli Tops. Replacement of Angel's Bridge over Angel's Creek (now Towradgi Creek) at Corrimal and Fairy Tree Creek (now Cabbage Tree Creek) at Fairy Meadow. Widening of level crossing at Unanderra and deviation of Princes Highway between Oak Flats and Shellharbour (Dunmore). 9
• 1932: One of the last steel bridges built by on-site assembly of pre-riveted sections was the steel bascule bridge at Narooma over Wagonga Inlet on Princes Highway built. The Commissioner for Road Transport authorised expenditure to build a pedestrian bridge across the Princes Highway opposite Arncliffe Public School. A newer bridge has replaced it, though the footings of the old bridge are still existant. 3 Construction of concrete bridge over Spring Creek at Kiama, widening of Bulli Pass, a short deviation (2150 feet long) was constructed at Palwambra Mountain, between Mogo and Moruya. The former road was very narrow, and had steep grades and poor alignment. On the Princes Highway, North and Kinghorn streets, Nowra (1-2 miles), were tar-surfaced, and a short length through Bodalla was similarly treated. Minor widening between East Lynne and Benandra, between Benandra and Bateman's Bay, between Bateman's Bay and Mogo, north of Narooma, south of Bega, at Jiggamy Hill, at Salt Water Creek bridge, north of Eden, and between Eden and Shadrack's Creek. 10
• 1933: Completion of footbridge over Princes Highway outside the Arncliffe Public School. Large amounts of tar surfacing was carried out between Kiama and Nowra. Sections of gravel pavement were surfaced with tar through Mogo, Bodalla and Cobargo. ¾ mile of gravel with tar paving of the approaches to the bridge over the Wagonga River at Narooma was completed and a length of 9 miles reshaped and brought to standard; four sharp turns were eliminated by improvement over a length of 1 mile, and ¾ mile of narrow formation was widened. Widening of the was also carried out for a length of 321 metres near Bega. A concrete causeway with culvert was constructed in the near Bega to take low water flow, replacing two narrow and deep stone causeways. Nearly a mile of road was reconstructed in extension of the deviation constructed in 1932 at Pollwombra Mountain. A deviation of 3481 feet long was completed at Ulladulla, eliminating two right-angled bends. Near Eden, three new timber culverts were constructed, replacing bridges which had been washed away by heavy floods during January 1933, and the bridge at Palestine Creek at Eden, which had been damaged, was repaired and extended by an additional 25 foot span. 11
• 1934: Bitumen sealing of Princes Highway (Carp Street) in Bega town centre and on the bridge over Bega River, plus sealing works in the Pambula town centre. Realignment of a 3 mile section of Princes Highway in the Dumnore / Minnamurra area, plus widening and realignment of Princes Highway between Tomerong and Milton. Work began on a 2 mile deviation at Conjola to improve grades and alignment. Realignment and widening work also performed between Narooma and Central Tilba in 3 locations. 12
• 1935: Construction of the bridge over Victoria Creek, south of Narooma. 87 Improvement of bends and widening of formation Of Princes Highway between George's River and Waterfall. Widening at Samways Corner on Bulli Pass. Between Tomerong and Milton, realignment and widening was completed. The construction of a deviation 2 miles 680 feet in length at Conjola from funds provided by the Unemployment Relief Council was completed. Considerable improvement was made in both alignment and grade. Work started between Corunna and Central Tilba on a length of 1 mile of narrow winding road, which was widened and reconstructed on a new alignment. Commencement of widening and straightening of a narrow section over McLeod's Hill between Quaama and Brogo River. 13 Construction of prestressed concrete bridge at Dignams Creek.
• February 1936: Work starts on a 11.75 mile deviation between Milton and Bateman's Bay, and eliminated a narrow and tortuous route of the Highway over the Cockwhy Range between Termeil and Cockwhy Creek. 14
• October 1936: Completion of a deviation between Kiama and Berry, known as the Broughton Creek and Butchers Hill Deviation. Work started on Gerringong Deviation to eliminate the level crossing over the South Coast railway line. 14
• 1937: Planting and landscaping program started along Princes Highway. Immediately north of Merimbula, construction of a deviation to reduce the steep approach into the town, and to improve the alignment on an adjacent section immediately north of the deviation. 14
• 1938: Completion of the Princes Highway deviation at Gerringong. Construction of bridges on Princes Highway over Conjola Creek at Conjola, Higgins Creek south of Termeil, Yackungarrah Creek near Ulladulla, Couria Creek at Tilba Tilba and Sams Creek near Cobargo. Widening of Princes Highway at St Peters and Rockdale. Addition of footway to bridge over Shoalhaven River at Nowra. 15
• 1939: by the middle of the year, 300 miles (or 50% of the then highway) had been paved with bitumous surface.
• 1946: As part of an overall transport improvement plan for the Illawarra, road reservations and planning put in place for "motorway bypass routes" between Bulli and North Wollongong, and bypassing Wollongong CBD through to south of Dapto. The bypass routes were eventually constructed as Northern Distributor (now Memorial Drive) and Southern Freeway. 104
• 1947: Completion of Princes Hwy upgrade covering 5.25 miles between Batemans Bay and Mogo. 16
• 1948: Work began on the reconstruction in concrete of Princes Highway between Tom Uglys Point and Belmore Road (Now King Georges Road) at Blakehurst. Work commenced on upgrading the Princes Highway between Mogo and Moruya, which included a 6 mile deviation. Works began on the construction of a steel and reinforced concrete bridge over the Tuross River at Bodalla. Length of 630 ft. Construction of concrete bridge over Millards Creek at Ulladulla. 17
• 1949: Completion of the reconstruction of Princes Highway between Batemans Bay and Moruya. Work begins on upgrading the Princes Highway between Moruya and Bodalla. Construction began on the steel and concrete bridge over the Clyde River at Bateman's Bay (length 1008 feet). 18
• 1950s: Reconstruction and re-routing of sections of the Princes Highway from Narooma to Bega was undertaken. 3
• 1950: Completion of the reconstruction of Princes Hwy at Blakehurst. Work began on widening Princes Hwy to 6 lanes using cement concrete between President Av at Kogarah and Rocky Point Road at Kogarah. Work began on reconstruction of Princes Hwy between Cobargo and Brogo River at Brogo, a length of 14 miles. Sealing of a 4 mile length of Princes Hwy at Frogs Hollow, south of Bega. 19
• 1951: Widening and addition of a footway to a concrete bridge over American Creek on the Prince's Highway, Kembla Grange. Construction of reinforced concrete bridge over Broughton Mill Creek at Berry. Length 240 feet. Construction of reinforced concrete bridge over Muddy Creek at Rockdale. Construction starts on a concrete bridge over Jerramadra Creek near Batemans Bay. 20 Widening of Princes Highway at Kogarah, between Kogarah Bay Creek and Park Road, for a distance of approximately 500m. 20
• 30 May 1952: Gazettal of Princes Highway between Tom Ugly's Point and Syvlania. 20
• 1953: Widening of Princes Hwy to 6 lanes between Catherine and Bay Streets, Rockdale. Work began on the construction of a reinforced concrete bridge over Lawler's Creek 6 miles north of Narooma. Length 114 feet. Major repair works made to bridge over Minnamurra River at Minnamurra near Kiama, which included replacement of piles, girders, cross beams, decking and several truss members. 22
• 1954: Work commenced on the steel and concrete bridge over Tuross River at Bodalla, totalling 630 feet in length. Construction began on a prestressed concrete bridge over Corunna Lake near Narooma. 23
• 1955: Widening of Princes Highway on the western side of the original pavement between Cook's River Bridge and Forest Road at Arncliffe to provide for six traffic lanes in all. Reconstruction of the junction of the Princes Highway and Port Hacking Road at Sylvania. The pavement on both roads was widened to carry two moving lanes in each direction, and median strips were constructed to channel traffic through the junction. Work commenced on reconstruction of the junction of Princes Highway and Toolijooa Road at Toolijooa. Work included better approaches to crest and increased visibility at the intersection. Work commenced on bitumen sealing between Wolumla and Pambula. Completion of a reinforced concrete bridge over Lawler's Creek 6 miles north of Narooma. Length 114 feet. 23 Opening of steel girder and concrete bridge over Jerramadra Creek near Batemans Bay.
• 1956: The Princes Highway bridge over Burrell Lake designed. 88 Bitumen surfacing on Princes Hwy between Sydney and Eden totalling 305 miles out of 321 miles. Completion of widening works to 6 lanes on Princes Hwy between Cook's River Bridge at Wolli Creek and Forest Rd at Arncliffe. Completion of junction upgrade with Princes Hwy and Toolijooa Rd at Toolijooa. Construction of a deviation 6.75 miles in length immediately south of Narooma was commenced. Completion of a reinforced concrete bridge over Broughton Mill Creek at Berry. Length 250 ft. 24
• 21 November 1956: bridge built by the Department of Main Roads over the Clyde River at Bateman's Bay was officially opened for traffic by the Hon. J. B. Renshaw, M.L.A., Minister for Local Government and Minister for Highways. The bridge replaced the only remaining vehicular ferry on the Princes Highway between Sydney and the Victorian border.
• 1957: The first post-tensioned concrete bridges built by the DMR were completed on the Princes Highway over Corunna Lake and Nangudga Lake near Narooma. 3 Reconstruction began on a narrow and steep section of the Princes Highway immediately north of the town of Kiama, to provide a wider bitumen surfaced pavement and a climbing lane for slow moving vehicles. Reconstruction of the junction with Bolong Road at Bomaderry, including acceleration and deceleration lanes on the Highway, resulting in improved visability. Construction of a deviation 2.25 miles long, which included the approaches to the new bridge over the Tuross River near Bodalla. Construction of a deviation east of the then existing Princes Highway between 1.25 miles and 8 miles south of Narooma. Work was commenced on the construction of a deviation eight miles in length between Bega and Alsop's Creek to eliminate a section of road subject to frequent flooding and of poor alignment and grading. Completion of the steel and concrete bridge over the Clyde River at Bateman's Bay. Length 1,008 feet. The structure, which replaced a ferry service, features ten spans, including a lift span. Completion of steel and concrete bridge over the Tuross River at Bodalla. Length 630 feet. Completion of bridge comprising prestressed concrete superstructure on reinforced concrete piles over Corunna Lake. Length 180 feet. Work on a six span prestressed concrete bridge over Burrill Lake. Length 180 feet. 25 The first post-tensioned concrete bridges built by the DMR were completed on the Princes Highway over Corunna Lake and Nangudga Lake near Narooma. 3
• 1958: The low-level Princes Highway bridge and 150 metre long causeway over Burrill Lake built. It is a composite prestressed unit bridge with six spans of 9.14 metre each and an overall length of 54.86 metres. The bridge has a carriageway that is 8.5 metres wide with a 1.53 metre footway on the western side of the bridge. 88 At Tomerong, south of Nowra, a deviation was commenced to improve the alignment of the northern approach to Stewart's Creek Bridge. Completion of the deviation of Princes Hwy, south of Narooma. The construction of separated carriageways between George's River Bridge and Port Hacking Road was commenced. Completion of a bridge over Burrill Lake comprising prestressed concrete piles, pre-stressed concrete girders, reinforced concrete deck and handrails. Length 180 feet. It replaced a timber beam bridge. Work started on a steel and concrete bridge over Double Creek near Brogo. Length 450 feet. 26
• 1959: Completion of a deviation at Tomerong to straighten the previously winding alignment of the northern approach to Stewart's Creek Bridge. Pavement widening to provide a divided carriageway was completed between George's River Bridge and Port Hacking Road. Work commences on a prestressed and reinforced 3 span concrete bridge over Cooks River at Tempe. Work started on a 4 span prestressed reinforced concrete bridge over Cabbage Tree Creek at Fairy Meadow to lift the highway above the flood level. Work started on a three-span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge at Cobargo, 225 feet long, to replace an old timber beam bridge over Narira Creek. Work began on a new 180 feet long bridge over Coopers Gully on a deviation at Bega. It will replace an old timber structure. Work started on redecking Nowra Bridge over Shoalhaven River. The timber planks were replaced with asphaltic concrete on a corrugated steel deck. Flashing lights, fencing and upgraded signage added to the level crossing of the Royal National Park branch line, which crossed the Princes Hwy at Loftus. 27
• 1960: Reconstruction and channelisation of the junction of the Princes Highway and Mount Ousley Road at North Wollongong completed. Reconstruction and channelisation of the junction of the Princes Highway and Five Islands Road at Unanderra commenced. Reconstruction of the abandoned tramway area at Newtown Bridge and channelisation of the intersection were completed. Restoration of the abandoned tramway area between May Street, St. Peters, and Cook's River was completed and construction of a median strip commenced. Pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway between Forest Road and Spring Street, Banksia, was commenced. Completion of a four-span prestressed girder and reinforced concrete bridge 120 feet long over Cabbage Tree Creek at Fairy Meadow. The new bridge featured a carriageway of 42 feet replaced an old four cell box culvert with carriageway of 20 feet, and raised the road above flood level. A steel and reinforced concrete bridge 180 feet long, with steel girders over Coopers Gully, was completed on the new route of the Princes Highway (State Highway No. 1) between Alsop's Creek and Bega. Work started on widening of the reinforced concrete bridge over Byarong Creek at Figtree. The width of the carriageway was increased from 20 feet to 42 feet and two footways 5 feet wide added. Construction of 3 feet wide median strip on Princes Highway from May Street to Canal Road at St Peters. 28
• 1961: Completion of the reconstruction and channelisation of the junction of the Princes Highway and Five Islands Road at Unanderra. Completion of a bridge over Double Creek, and the full length (8.16 miles) of the reconstructed and bitumen surfaced deviation between Alsop's Creek and Bega was made available to traffic. Restoration of the abandoned tramway area between Cleveland Street and St. Peters was completed. Between Rocky Point Road and Park Road, Kogarah, reconstruction and pavement widening commenced. A kerbed median was provided between May Street, St. Peters and Cook's River; Gertrude Street and Forest Road, Arncliffe; Park Road and King George's Road, Blakehurst; and Townson Street and George's River Bridge. Completion of a three-span bridge over Narira Creek with a reinforced concrete substructure and prestressed concrete superstructure, 225 feet long, at Cobargo. The new bridge replaced an old narrow timber beam bridge. Work started on a three-span steel and concrete bridge 116 feet long over Shadracks Creek, which replaced an open crossing at 3 miles south of Eden. 29
• 1962: Pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway with kerbed median between Forest Road and Spring Street, Banksia, was completed. Channelisation of the intersections of the Highway and Park Road, Kogarah; Church Street, Blakehurst; and Belgrave Street, Sylvania, was completed. A kerbed median was provided near Rocky Point Road, Kogarah; near Tom Ugly's Bridge; and at Hotham Road, Kirrawee. Pavement widening between Belgrave Street and Port Hacking Road, Sylvania, was completed. Reconstruction and channelisation of the junction of the Princes Highway and Lawrence Hargrave Drive completed. Towradgi Creek Bridge on the Princes Highway was widened from 20 feet to 42 feet and two 12 feet footways were added. Advisory speed signs for curves were erected along Princes Highway between Sydney and Nowra. Completion of channelisation works at the junction of Princes Highway, Bulli Pass and Lawrence Hargrave Drive at Bulli. 30
• 1963: Climbing lanes were constructed on the Princes Highway at Bombo Hil. Reconstruction and bitumen surfacing of the Princes Highway south of Eden. A bridge carrying Mt Keira Road over the new road was completed. Widening and sealing of Princes Highway between Eden and Victorian border. Work started on pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway with kerbed median between Port Hacking Road and Young Street, Sylvania. A footway 434 feet in length was added to the existing bridge over Wagonga Inlet at Narooma. Automatically operated flashing-lights at the two level crossings at Unanderra on the Princes Highway were installed. 31
• 1964: An area formerly occupied by tram tracks in City Road (Princes Highway) between Cleveland Street and Carillon Avenue was reconstructed. Pavement widening to provide a divided six-lane carriageway between Banksia Avenue and Bay Street Rockdale, was completed. Pavement widening to provide a divided six-lane carriageway between Port Hacking Road and Young Street, Sylvania, was started. Construction of a climbing lane at Waterfall and a deviation south of Helensburgh was commenced. The bridge over Charcoal Creek on the Princes Highway at Unanderra was widened. Construction of a five-span concrete bridge, 371 feet long, to replace an old single lane timber truss bridge over Minnamurra River was commenced. Work was commenced on the construction of a steel and reinforced concrete bridge over Moruya River at Moruya. The structure was 892 feet long and replaced a timber bridge subject to flooding. Construction was commenced on a nine- span reinforced concrete bridge, 916 feet long, over the Towamba River at Kiah to replace an old single-lane, low-level timber bridge. Curve advisory speed signs installed on Princes Highway between Nowra and the Victorian Border. 32
• 1965: Completion of a five-span reinforced concrete bridge, 371 feet long, over the Minnamurra River north of Kiama. The new bridge replaced an old single-lane timber-truss bridge. Completion of a two-lane reinforced concrete bridge 916 feet long with steel girders on single column piers over the Towamba River at Kiah. This structure replaced an old single-lane, low-level bridge and was named The Jack Seiffert Bridge after the late Mr J Seiffert, MLA. Work began on a two-lane bridge over the Nullica River, 4 miles south of Eden. Length is 448 feet long, comprising 6 continuous reinforced concrete box girder spans, and replaced an old low-level single-lane timber bridge. Work started on a new crossing over Wallagaraugh River at Timbillica, replacing a narrow, low-level timber structure on poor alignment. The replacement is a two-lane bridge, 687 feet long, with six spans. Channelisation of intersection of Princes Highway and Rocky Point Road at Blakehurst. 33
• 27 May 1965: A dustless surface was applied to the last length of gravel pavement of Princes Highway between Eden and Victorian broder, providing a dust free surface between Sydney and the border. 33
• 1966: Work started on the construction of deviation from south of Eden approaching the replacement bridge over Nullica River and to replace a winding length of highway. Construction began on six-lane divided carriageway between Holt Road, Sylvania, and Waratah Street, Sutherland. At Figtree, between London Drive and Benney Avenue, the highway pavement was widened to a width of 42 feet between kerbs. A commencement was made on improving the intersection at Northcliffe Drive, at Kembla Grange and also on providing a climbing lane on Mt Pleasant south of Kiama. Work was in progress on widening of the carriageway and replacement of an arch culvert near Farmer Street, in Kiama. The intersection of the highway with Fern Street at Gerringong, was improved. Widening of the cutting south of Broughton Creek Bridge, at Berry. In conjunction with the construction of a new bridge over the Moruya River at Moruya a two-mile section of the highway was reconstructed. Work commenced on widening to a six-lane divided carriageway the section of the highway between Holt Road Sylvania, and Acacia Road Sutherland. Widening to a six-lane divided carriageway of the section between Pitt Street and Farnell Avenue, Loftus, was completed. A climbing lane was constructed near Sublime Point, at Bulli Tops. Construction of channelised intersections at City Road and Cleveland Street at Darlington, Princes Highway and Sutherland Bypass (Merton Street) at Sutherland, and Princes Highway and Farnell Avenue at Loftus. 8
• November 1966: A deviation of the highway near Boydtown, south of Eden, was opened to traffic. This length included the new bridge over the Nullica River. The old route of the highway was narrow and winding and included a low-level bridge subject to flooding. 34
• 1967: Work started on the Ghosts Creek Interchange on Princes Highway at West Wollongong. Completion of a climbing lane for slow-moving vehicles on the southern side of Mount Pleasant, south of Kiama. Completion of a deviation two miles in length, south of Eden. The work included the construction of a new bridge over the Nullica River. Construction of a six-lane divided carriageway on Princes Highway between Holt Road and Acacia Road, Sylvania. Completion of bridge over Moruya River, replacing a temporary timber structure. Work started on the interchange with the Southern Freeway at West Wollongong. Reconstruction of the highway on improved alignment and grade was commenced between Collaery Road and Collins Creek, Woonona, Construction started on kerbside lanes between Hobart Street and Sturdee Avenue, Bulli and between Victoria Street and Flagstaff Road, Unanderra. Completion of kerbside lanes between Five Islands Road and Central Road, Unanderra. Widening of the carriageway and replacement of a narrow arch culvert with a 3-cell 5 feet diameter reinforced concrete pipe culvert near Farmer Street, Kiama, completed. The southern approach to the bridge over the Clyde River at Bateman's Bay was reconstructed and the intersection at the southern end of the bridge improved. The pavement was widened from 20 to 22 feet from Bateman's Bay to Moruya. Work commenced on the widening of the pavement and shoulders and improvement to alignment and riding qualities immediately north and south of Narooma, including the raising of the pavement to improve drainage along the Narooma Flat. Work started on the reconstruction at the intersection of the highway with Darlington Road in Darlington. Completion of the widening of the intersection with Heathcote Road to provide a four-lane divided carriageway on the highway at Heathcote. Extension of a climbing lane near the turnoff to Woronora Dam at Waterfall was completed. A climbing lane, completed at Waterfall, near the current day end of the Southern Freeway. A climbing lane was provided between at Bulli Pass. The carriageway was widened to four lanes at Bulli. A prestressed and reinforced concrete footbridge over the Princes Highway at Sylvania was completed. The footbridge is 6 feet 8 inches wide and consists of a three-span concrete prestressed slab 120 feet long precast in three sections, together with a straight and a spiral reinforced concrete ramp providing access to the slab ends. The total length of the structure on the centreline is 297 feet 3 inches. No previous structure existed. Completion of the bridge over Wallagaraugh River at Timbillica, 2 miles north of the Victorian border. Channelisation completed at the intersection with Clyde Street at southern approach to Batemans Bay Bridge. 34
• 1968: Reconstruction and bitumen surfacing on improved alignment near Oak Flats railway station, including improvement of the intersection with Tongarra Road. Traffic signals to be installed at the intersection of the highway with Cleveland Street and Darlington Road at Darlington. Completion of pavement widening to provide a six-lane divided carriageway from Catherine Street to President Avenue, Kogarah, and from Holt Road, Sylvania to Oak Road, Kirrawee. A commencement was made on reconstruction between Anzac Parade and Numantia Road, Engadine. The work included a deviation of the highway via Railway Parade. Work started on a deviation near Waterfall to eliminate several sharp curves on the existing route of the highway. The completed work included a climbing lane for southbound traffic. Work started on kerbside lanes to provide a carriageway 42 feet wide between Mt. Keira Road and Highway Avenue, at West Wollongong, including channelisation of the intersection of the highway with Mt. Keira Road. Completion of kerbside lanes between Victoria Street and Flagstaff Road (now Berkerley Road), Unanderra, and between Unara and McCabe Streets, Dapto. Work commenced on the widening of the pavement and formation and improvement of the grade between Bomaderry Creek and Shoalhaven River, on the northern approach to Nowra. Channelisation of the junction with Cleveland St, Sydney. 35
• 1969: Reconstruction completed between Colliery Road and Collins Creek, Woonona, to provide improved alignment and grading. To eliminate several sharp curves on the previous route of the highway, the Department completed construction of a deviation near Waterfall. The work included the provision of a climbing lane 0.5 mile in length for southbound traffic. Conditions for traffic were improved at Maddens Plains by providing improvements to the alignment and lowering a crest. At the top of Bulli Pass, work was commenced on the provision of a climbing lane between the junctions of the Princes Highway with the Appin Road and Mt. Ousley Road. Work began on reconstruction of the approaches to the railway overbridge at North Wollongong to provide improved alignment and grading. Completion of kerbside lanes to provide a carriageway 42 feet wide between Mt. Keira Road and Highway Avenue at West Wollongong, including channelisation of the intersection of the highway with Mt. Keira Road. Work started on kerbside lanes to provide a carriageway 42 feet wide between MacCabe Street and Avondale Road, Dapto. Completion of the widening of the pavement and improvement of the grade between Bomaderry Creek and Shoalhaven River on the northern approach to Nowra. Work started along Carp Street, Bega on reconstruction and lowering of the pavement in the business section of the town. Work began on the Kiah deviation, which extended from the Boydtown turn-off to the northern approach to the Towamba River Bridge at Kiah, south of Eden. At the junction of the Princes Highway and Edrom Road at Kiah, work commenced on pavement widening to provide 1000 feet of passing lane for northbound traffic and 4000 feet of climbing lane for southbound traffic. Channelisation carried out at Prince's Highway and Railway Parade (south) intersection, Engadine. 36
• 23 April 1969: The Princes Hwy deviation at Engadine was completed and opened to traffic. 36
• 1970: Construction of a climbing lane was completed at the top of Bulli Pass between the junctions with Appin Road and Mt. Ousley Road. Work started on a five-span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge over Macquarie Rivulet at Albion Park Rail. The bridge is 375 feet long and provided two traffic lanes. Completion of the widening of Princes Highway between Cardiff Street. Engadine and Whitton Street, Heathcote. Completion of th reconstruction of the approaches to the railway overbridge at North Wollongong on improved alignment and grading. Reconstruction and widening both immediately north and south of Narooma. This work included improvement to the alignment and grading between the Water Tower and Cemetery Road, Narooma. Reconstruction was completed between Bay Street and Catherine Street, Rockdale, together with the intersection of Harrow Road and the intersection known as Seven Ways. Construction started on retaining walls and associated works at Black Cutting Hill, north of Rothery Street, Bellambi. Reconstruction was commenced of the southern approach to the bridge at Abernethys Creek at Bomaderry to improve alignment and grading. Construction started on a climbing lane for northbound traffic on Mortons Hill to the north of the junction with Bolong Road at Bomaderry. Completion of replacement and construction of the pavement, kerb and gutter, footpaths and drainage and relocation of utilities in Carp Street (Princes Highway), Bega. Pavement widening was completed at the junction with Edrom Road, Kiah. The work provided additional lanes to facilitate turning movements by heavy timber traffic. 37
• 1971: Construction commenced on the Quaama deviation. The deviation bypassed the village of Quaama and form the approaches to a replacement bridge over Dry River. Work commenced on the first stage of the Sutherland By-Pass via Acacia Road, Kirrawee. Reconstruction was completed between Oak Road and Auburn Street, Kirrawee. A major deviation was underway south of Farnell Avenue, Loftus, the deviation will included a new bridge over South Coast Railway line. Completion of the reconstruction between Old Bush Road, Engadine, and Jennings Road, Heathcote. Work commenced on construction of dual carriageways between Heathcote and Waterfall. Work was commenced on construction of a passing lane for northbound traffic at the junction with Lawrence Hargrave Drive. Work commenced on approaches to the new bridge at Macquarie Rivulet including improvement to the junction with Illawarra Highway. Reconstruction of a short length of pavement on improved alignment, including provision of a short climbing lane, was completed south of the turnoff to Toolijoa. Completion of the reconstruction of approaches to the bridge at Abernethy's Creek at Bomaderry on improved alignment and grading and also completed construction of a climbing lane for northbound traffic on Morton's Hill, north of the junction with Bolong Road. A final seal was applied to the pavement and shoulder widening work between south of Narooma including improvement to alignment and grading between the water tower and Cemetery Road. Replacement of footway decking on the bridge over Shoalhaven River at Nowra. Channelisation of the junction of Princes Highway and Farnell Avenue, Loftus. 38
• 1972: A roadside weighing site was built on Princes Highway at Narrabarba, 25 km south of Eden. Completion of the first stage of the bypass around Sutherland via Acacia Road, Kirrawee. Completion of the reconstruction between Old Bush Road, Engadine and Jennings Road, Heathcote, including a major intersection with Heathcote Road. At Engadine Railway Station construction of a pedestrian subway has commenced. Work started on deviations at Mullet Creek, at Brownsville, and at Parma Creek, South Nowra, both of which works will included new bridges. The deviation at Quaama opened to traffic. Work commenced on construction of the first stage of a by-pass at Bega, which will was planned to provide a flood-free route around the town. This deviation involved the construction of a replacement bridge over the Bega River. Completion of a five span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge over Macquarie Rivulet at Albion Park Rail. The structure is 375 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. It replaced a timber bridge 166 feet long. Construction of rest area on old highway alignment at Minnamurra River at Minnamurra. Completion of an improved alignment and widening to 42 feet between kerbs between Sturdee Avenue and Hobart Street, Bulli. Work started on an eight span composite steel and concrete bridge over Whelan's Swamp. The structure is 482 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and was part of the Kiah Deviation of the Princes Highway. Channelisation of Princes Highway and the intersection with Acacia Road at Kirrawee as well as Princes Highway and the intersection Heathcote Road at Heathcote. 39
• 1973: Completion of a two span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the southbound carriageway of Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. The structure is 367 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. Completion of a deviation between Farnell Avenue, Loftus and Old Bush Road, Engadine, including a new bridge over the South Coast Railway to replace an old bridge on a narrow winding alignment. Construction of a pedestrian underpass was completed at Engadine Station. This included adjustments to railway buildings and was associated with the construction of the deviation of the Highway at Engadine. Completion of two prestressed concrete bridges (one of eight spans and one of four spans) to carry the Princes Highway over Mullet Creek was completed by contract. The main structure is 602 feet long and the approach structure 120 feet long. They provide two traffic lanes and one footway and together they replace two timber bridges and one reinforced concrete bridge 210 feet, 122 feet and 147 feet respectively. Construction of an eight span composite steel and concrete bridge over Whelans Swamp south of Eden was completed. The structure, 482 feet long, provides two traffic lanes and is part of the Kiah Deviation of the Princes Highway. Completion of a rest area on the Princes Highway south of Batemans Bay. Channelisation of the junction of Princes Highway and Port Hacking Road, Sylvania. Completion of adjustments to the intersection at Gannon Street and Princes Highway, Tempe. A section of the deviation at Mullet Creek at Brownsville was completed. The final seal was placed on the deviation at Quaama. Work commenced reconstruction at Frogs Hollow south of Bega. Completion of construction of the Kiah deviation south of Eden, eliminating three miles of narrow winding road. Work commenced on construction by contract of a twenty three span prestressed concrete bridge over the Bega River at Bega. The structure is 2046 feet long, will provide two traffic lanes and one footway and replaced a one lane timber truss bridge 433 feet long. 40
• 1974: A two span prestressed concrete bridge was completed to carry the southbound carriageway of Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. The structure is 112 metres long and provides two traffic lanes. A 108 metre long, two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway was completed at Maddens Plains. It provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Reconstruction of Princes Highway between Miowera Avenue and Bunyala Street at the intersection with King Georges Road, Blakehurst was completed and the final stage of the Sutherland bypass between President Avenue and Princes Highway at Loftus was commenced. Reconstruction of the Princes Highway at Frogs Hollow south of Bega was completed and work commenced on the Wolumla Bypass. Work was started on a four span prestressed concrete bridge over Jaspers Creek, at Jaspers Brush, north of Nowra. The structure is 43 metres long, provides two traffic lanes and replaced two timber bridges 15 metres and 8 metres long. Completion of grade separation of Princes Highway and McKell Avenue, Waterfall. Channelisation of Princes Highway and Bundarra Street, Waterfall. 41
• 1975: Reconstruction of the Princes Highway was completed between Northcliffe Drive and Dapto, a total length of 3.84 km incorporating the deviation for the new Mullet Creek Bridges. Channelisation of the junction at Northcliffe Drive was also completed. 42
• 29 September 1975: The 23 span prestressed concrete girder bridge over the Bega River at Bega completed. The bridge is 623.6 m long, provides two traffic lanes and one footway and replaced a one lane timber truss bridge 132 m long. 43
• 1976: Construction was completed on the final stage of Sutherland Bypass. Reconstruction was completed between Heathcote and Waterfall to provide dual carriageways to link with the Southern Freeway south of Waterfall. Work commenced on the reconstruction at Meroo Meadow to provide improved alignment and grading, including the approaches to the then new Tullian Creek Bridge. Construction of the deviation south of Nowra, including the approaches to the new Currumbene Creek Bridge, was completed. A climbing lane for southbound traffic near Dignams Creek was completed. A second climbing lane for northbound traffic immediately north of Bega was also completed. Work on Stage 1 of the Bega Bypass was completed in association with the new bridge over the Bega River. Work commenced on the reconstruction of the section of highway between Kerrisons Lane and Candelo-Bega Road, south of Bega. The construction of the Wolumla Bypass was completed. Construction of a climbing lane for northbound traffic immediately north of Eden was commenced. At Jaspers Brush, a four span prestressed concrete plank bridge over Jaspers Creek was completed. The structure is 42.7 m long, provides two traffic lanes and replaced two timber bridges 15 m and 8 m long. A seven span prestressed concrete girder bridge was constructed over Currumbene Creek, 10.3 km south of Nowra. The structure is 150.3 m long, provides two traffic lanes and replaced a timber beam bridge 26.5 m long which was retained for local use. Channelisation of the intersection of Princes Highway and The Seven Ways, Rockdale. 43
• 1981: Duplication of Nowra Bridge.
• 1984: Stewart Creek bridge at Tomerong widened. 89
• 1998: The Roads and Traffic Authority completed studies to reduce the width of the reservation between Campbell Road, St Peters and the Cooks River. The study identified a reservation wide enough for a future arterial road to service the adjoining industrial zoned land and to provide local traffic relief to the Princes Highway. 105
• October 2002: Work begins on the construction of an overtaking lane for the Princes Highway at Alsops Creek at Brogo. 106
• November 2003: Construction begins on North Kiama Bypass
• 26 November 2005: The $179 million, 7.6 kilometre North Kiama Bypass (Princes Highway) from Dunmore to Bombo opened to traffic, eliminating a winding section of the highway at Minnamurra as well as removing through traffic from residential streets in Bombo, Kiama Downs and Minnamurra. 90
• 16 March 2008: The $17 million project to replace Pambula River Bridge and its approaches was opened to traffic. 91
• September 2008: The replacement Conjola Creek Bridge and approaches (Stage 1) on Princes Hwy near Ulladulla opened to traffic. The new two-lane, two-way bridge is approximately 15 metres west of the old bridge. 92
• October 2008: Northbound on-ramp from South Kiama Drive (former Princes Highway) to current alignment of Princes Highway (Kiama Bypass) opened to traffic. 93
• 12 November 2008: The upgrade of the four kilometre length of the Princes Highway between Forest Road and Jervis Bay Road opened to traffic. Works included widening the highway to four lanes from just south of Forest Road to Jervis Bay Road. Duplication of the two-lane bridge over Currambene Creek. Provision of a wire rope safety barrier in the median strip between opposing lanes of traffic. Upgraded highway intersections at Comberton Grange Road, Parma Road and Falls Road including u-turn facilities at Forest Road, Comberton Grange Road and Parma Road. Patching and repaving of the road surface for the full length of the work plus construction of bus bays for both northbound and southbound directions near Parma Road and Falls Road. 94
• February 2009: Southbound off-ramp to South Kiama Drive (former Princes Highway) from the current alignment of Princes Highway (Kiama Bypass) opened to traffic. 93
• 21 October 2009: The $108 million Oak Flats to Dunmore upgrade of the Princes Highway was opened to traffic. The roadway provides four lanes divided carriageway, two lanes in each direction with a grade separated interchange linked to Shellharbour Road. The realignment of the highway between Oak Flats and Dunmore links to the North Kiama Bypass. 95
• April 2010: Completion of the upgrade and realignment of Princes Highway at Conjola Mountain, near Ulladulla. The new alignment is 3.5km long, with a speed limit of 100km/h, a northbound overtaking lane, widened shoulders, and divided carriageways separated by wire rope safety barriers. 92
• March 2011: Construction work commenced on the $3.7 million replacement of Nangudga Lake Bridge, on the Princes Highway south of Narooma. 96
• July 2011: Work commences on Princes Highway upgrade at Victoria Creek, south of Narooma. Work includes the removal of a number of tight bends and provide an overtaking lane in both directions, making it a much safer road for all motorists. The 3.2 kilometre upgrade also includes a new bridge over Victoria Creek, a new U-turn facility and demolition of the old bridge. 97
• August 2011: Work begins on Bega Bypass. The route bypasses the town centre between the Bega River bridge and Finucane Lane. 98
• 1 November 2011: Construction starts on the upgrade of the Princes Highway at South Nowra. 99 Construction Commences on Princes Highway South Nowra, 1 November 2011 The upgrade is between Kinghorne Street and Forest Road at South Nowra. The upgrade involves upgrading 6.3 kilometres of the Princes Highway to four lanes. 100
• 16 December 2011: Completion of the single carriageway replacement of Nangudga Lake Bridge, on the Princes Highway south of Narooma. 96
• August 2012: Work begins on the Gerringong Upgrade of the Princes Highway. The upgrade will upgrade includes 7.5 kilometres of upgraded highway and include two new interchanges with access to Gerringong and Gerroa. 101
• November 2012: Work started on Princes Hwy upgrade between Gerringong and Toolooja. 102
• June 2013: Construction of roundabout at the junction of Princes Hwy and South Head Rd at Moruya. 103

Mount Ousley Road:

• 1940s: Mt Ousley Road was built as an alternative route to Bulli Pass and the Princes Highway. 3
• 1962: Advisory speed signs for curves were erected along what became Mount Ousley Road between Bulli Pass and Wollongong. 30
• 1963: Construction on the section of Southern Expressway from Phillips Avenue to Ghosts Creek (Princes Highway) and on the road to link Mt Ousley Road with the new road. 31
• March 1964: Mount Ousley Road was connected to the now former F6 Freeway at Gwynneville.
• 1966: Completion of the construction of a climbing lane on Mount Ousley Road, 2.7 miles in length, to join with the link road to the North-South Arterial Road (now Southern Freeway) at North Wollongong. Construction was through difficult terrain and necessitated the widening of the formation to occupy a second span under Mt Pleasant Road overbridge and adjacent divided carriageway construction. The work required also the provision of 25 000 square yards of additional pavement; four retaining walls totalling about 500 feet in length; 3400 lineal feet of mountain type kerb and gutter; 4300 lineal feet of protection fencing and 6300 feet of subsoil drainage. 8
• 1967: Near the top of Bulli Pass, a commencement was made on the construction of climbing lanes over the section on Mt Ousley Road 3km from the Princes Highway junction. 34
• 1968: Channelisation works completed on Mount Ousley Road, at the intersections with Princes Highway at the top of Bulli Pass and with Wilton Road near Mt Keira. The construction of a climbing lanes, for slow-moving vehicles, completed on Mount Ousley Road, near the top of Bulli Pass. 35

Southern Freeway:

• 1946: As part of an overall transport improvement plan for the Illawarra, road reservations and planning put in place for "motorway bypass routes" between Bulli and North Wollongong, and bypassing Wollongong CBD through to south of Dapto. The bypass routes were eventually constructed as Northern Distributor (now Memorial Drive) and Southern Freeway. 104
• 1951: Space reserved in the County of Cumberland Planning Scheme for construction of the Southern Freeway (F6). 105
• 1959: Work commenced on the construction of a deviation of the Princes Highway to form a by-pass of the Wollongong CBD. The deviation commenced at North Wollongong and rejoined the Princes Highway a little south of the junction of the Mt. Keira Road and the Princes Highway. The deviation was setup a restricted access road, and eventually formed part of the Southern Freeway and Northern Distributor (now Memorial Drive). 27
• 1961: Completion of Wollongong CBD Bypass (now Memorial Drive and Southern Freeway) between Foleys Lane (now University Av) at North Wollongong and Phillips Avenue at West Wollongong. 29
• 1962: Southern Expressway open to traffic to the interchange with Phillips Avenue and Robsons Road at West Wollongong. 30
• 1966: Duplication of the carriageway of the section of the north-south arterial road (now Southern Freeway) between North Wollongong and Ghosts Creek to provide a four lane divided carriageway. Work begins on the construction of dual carriageway from the Princes Highway at Ghosts Creek, West Wollongong to Gladstone Avenue, Figtree. 8
• 1967: Work started on the Ghosts Creek Interchange on Princes Highway at West Wollongong. 34
• 1968: Completion of Ghosts Creek Bridge over North-South Arterial Road (later Southern Freeway). 35
• 1970: Construction commenced on the section of Southern Expressway between Gladstone Avenue, Figtree and Five Islands Road, Unanderra. Bridges were required at five sites along this section. Completion of a pedestrian bridge over the Southern Expressway at Byarong Avenue, Mangerton. A new six-span prestressed concrete footbridge. 315 feet long. Work started on a single span reinforced and pre-stressed concrete bridge at The Avenue at Figtree. The bridge is 227 feet long and designed to provide five traffic lanes. Work commenced on a reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge to carry the future route of Masters Road over the Southern Expressway at Mt St Thomas. The bridge is 262 feet long and provided two traffic lanes. Work began on twin three-span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Expressway over the current route of Five Islands Road at Unanderra. The bridges are 230 feet long and were designed for two lanes for southbound traffic and three lanes for northbound traffic. 37
• 1971: Work started on Southern Expressway between Waterfall and Bulli Tops. 38
• 1972: Work on extending Southern Expressway from Gladstone Avenue, Figtree, to Northcliffe Drive, Berkeley. Completion of twin three span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Expressway over Princes Highway at Helensburgh. The structures are each 152 feet long and designed to provide six traffic lanes. Completion of twin three span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Expressway over Princes Highway at Stanwell Tops. The structures are each 168 feet long and together they're wide enough for six traffic lanes. Completion of a single span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge to carry The Avenue over the Southern Expressway at Figtree. The structure is 227 feet long and provides five traffic lanes and one footway. Completion of a two span reinforced and prestressed concrete bridge to carry the now current route of Masters Road over the Southern Expressway at Figtree. The structure is 262 feet long and provided two traffic lanes. Completion of three bridges to carry the Southern Expressway and an unloading ramp over the AIS (Australian Iron & Steel) Railway and Access Road at Unanderra, the twin bridges carrying the Expressway are each 195 feet long and designed to provide six traffic lanes. The third bridge carrying the ramp is 183 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. Completion of twin three span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Expressway over the current route of Five Islands Road at Unanderra. The structures are each 230 feet long and together they're designed to provide five traffic lanes. Work started on a two span pre stressed concrete bridge to carry Cawley Road over the Southern Expressway at Waterfall. The structure is 207 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. Work commenced on a two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry the Southbound carriageway of Princes Highway over the Southern Expressway at Waterfall. The structure is 367 feet long and provides for two traffic lanes. Work began on a two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry Princes Highway over the Southern Expressway at Maddens Plains. The structure is 353 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Work started on a three span prestressed concrete bridge to carry the southbound off-loading ramp of the Southern Expressway over the northbound carriageway of Princes Highway at Bulli Tops. The structure is 221 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. Construction commenced on a three span composite steel and prestressed concrete bridge to carry Berkley Road over the Southern Expressway at Unanderra. The structure is 217 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Construction started on a three span composite steel and prestressed concrete bridge to carry Flagstaff Road over the Southern Expressway. The structure is 217 feet long and provides two traffic lanes and one footway. 39
• 1973: Construction of a three span composite steel and pre stressed concrete bridge to carry Berkeley Road over the Southern Freeway was completed. The structure, 217 feet long, provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Construction of a three span composite steel and pre stressed concrete bridge to carry Flagstaff Road over the Southern Freeway was completed. The structure, 217 feet long, provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Completion of a two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry Cawley Road over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. from Sydney. The structure is 207 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. Completion of a two span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the southbound carriageway of Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. The structure is 367 feet long and provides two traffic lanes. 40
• 1974: The section of the Southern Freeway approximately 3.2 km in length between five Islands Road and Northcliffe Drive was opened to traffic. A two span prestressed concrete bridge was completed to carry the southbound carriageway of Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. The structure is 112 metres long and provides two traffic lanes. Construction was completed of a two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry Cawley Road over the Southern Freeway at Waterfall. The new structure is 58 metres long and provides two traffic lanes. A 108 metre long, two span prestressed concrete bridge to carry Princes Highway over the Southern Freeway was completed at Maddens Plains. It provides two traffic lanes and one footway. Work was completed on a single span prestressed concrete bridge to carry The Avenue, over the Southern Freeway at Figtree. The structure is 70 metres long and provides five traffic lanes and one footway. Construction of toll plaza at Waterfall on Southern Freeway. A new Toll Office building wa erected at Waterfall at the commencement of the Southern freeway which also accommodated computer equipment for both a toll and a fog warning system. Work started on twin three span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Freeway over the access road from Gladstone Avenue to Herne Estate, Figtree. Each structure will are 30 metres long and provide space three traffic lanes. Channelisation of junctions with Five Islands Road and onloading southbound ramp for F6 Southern Freeway at Unanderra and also Northcliffe Drive and onloading northbound ramp and offloading southbound ramp for F6 Southern Freeway at Berkeley. 41
• 1975: Introduction of a driver aid system on the then Southern Freeway between Waterfall and Bulli Tops. It was operated from the offices adjacent to the toll booths at Waterfall. Click here for the brochure explaining how to use the system. Work commenced on the 6.1 km long section of the Southern Freeway, extending south from Northcliffe Drive, Berkeley to Kanahooka Road, Dapto which will included bridges over Mullet Creek. A three span prestressed concrete box girder bridge was completed to carry Appin Road over the southern end of the Waterfall to Bulli Pass Tollwork. The structure is 129 metres long and provides room for six traffic lanes. To carry Masters Road over the Southern Freeway at Figtree a two span prestressed concrete girder bridge was completed. The structure is 80 metres long and provides two traffic lanes. Twin three span prestressed concrete girder bridges to carry Southern Freeway over Five Islands Road at Unanderra were completed. Each structure is 70 metres long and provides two traffic lanes. Twin three span prestressed concrete box girder bridges to carry Southern Freeway over the Australian Iron and Steel Railway Siding at Unanderra were completed. Each structure is 61 metres long and provides four traffic lanes. 42
• 23 June 1975: A 1.9 km length of Southern Freeway, between Gladstone Avenue, Figtree and Five Islands Road, Unanderra was opened to traffic. Each end of the work was connected to the local street system. During the construction of this length eleven structures were built and the Byarong Creek channel was diverted into American Creek. 42
• 24 July 1975: The Southern Freeway between Waterfall and Bulli Tops, opened to traffic. Construction cost was $30 million. It was officially opened by the then Premier of New South Wales, the Hon. T. L. Lewis, M.L.A. 43
• 1976: Twin three span prestressed concrete bridges were completed, carrying the Southern Freeway over Princes Highway at Helensburgh. Each new structure is 46.3 m long and provides three traffic lanes. To carry the Southern Freeway over Princes Highway, Stanwell Tops, twin three span prestressed concrete bridges were completed. Each structure is 51.2 m long and provides three traffic lanes. A two span prestressed concrete girder bridge was completed and carries the Southern Freeway over the southbound off loading ramp at Bulli Tops. The structure is 67.3 m long, and provides four traffic lanes. Construction started on twin ten span prestressed concrete bridges to carry the Southern Freeway over Mullet Creek, at Kembla Grange. Each structure is 250 m long and provides four traffic lanes. Work commenced on a two span reinforced concrete bridge to carry Harvey Street over the Southern Freeway at Dapto. The structure is 46.9 m long and provides two traffic lanes and two footways. Work commenced on twin three span prestressed concrete bridges over Northcliffe Drive at Berkeley. Each new structure will be 67.2 m long and will provide four traffic lanes. 43
• 1977: Work proceeded on the section of Southern Freeway between Northcliffe Drive at Berkeley and Kanahooka Road, Dapto including the approaches to the new Mullet Creek bridges and the bridges over Northcliffe Drive. Completion of twin 10 span prestressed concrete voided slab deck bridges over Mullet Creek at Kembla Grange. Each structure is 250 m long and provides three traffic lanes. Completion of twin three span prestressed concrete voided slab deck bridges over Northcliffe Drive at Berkeley. Each structure is 67.2 m long and provides three traffic lanes. 44
• November 1977: The then Minister for Highways announced that the F6 corridor would be abandoned except for the section between Campbell Road, St Peters and Miranda. 105
• September 1987: The Minister for Roads formally abandoned the section of the F6 corridor between Farnell Avenue, Loftus and Waterfall. This reservation travelled mainly through the Royal National Park. 105
• 6 September 2002: The then Minister for Transport and Roads, Carl Scully MP, announced that the the construction of a 20 kilometre section of the Southern Freeway would be abandoned in favour of a public transport corridor and recreational uses. 105

Click here for the former National Route 1 alignment along Bradfield Highway and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Click here for historic photos of the alignment along Bradfield Highway and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Click here for historic photos of Princes Highway in Sydney and Wollongong.
Click here for historic photos of Pacific Highway Sydney and Newcastle.

1 Roads and Traffic Authority, Schedule of Classified Roads and State & Regional Roads, 31 January 2011
2 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1944-45
3 RTA Thematic History, 2nd Edition, 2006
4 Main Roads Board, Annual Report, 1925-26
5 Main Roads Board, Annual Report, 1926-27
6 Main Roads Board, Annual Report, 1927-28
7 Main Roads Board, Annual Report, 1929-30
8 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1965-66
9 Main Roads Board, Annual Report, 1930-31
10 Main Roads Board Annual Report, 1932
11 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1932-33
12 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1933-34
13 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1934-35
14 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1936-37
15 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1937-38
16 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1946-47
17 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1947-48
18 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1948-49
19 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1949-50
20 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1951-52
21 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1952-53
22 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1953-54
23 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1954-55
24 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1955-56
25 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1956-57
26 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1957-58
27 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1958-59
28 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1959-60
29 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1960-61
30 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1961-62
31 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1962-63
32 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1963-64
33 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1964-65
34 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1966-67
35 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1967-68
36 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1968-69
37 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1969-70
38 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1970-71
39 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1971-72
40 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1972-73
41 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1973-74
42 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1974-75
43 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1976-77
44 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1977-78
45 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Herons Creek Deviation Duplication
46 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Raymond Terrace Bypass
47 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Bangalow Bypass
48 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, Completed Projects, Raleigh Deviation
49 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Chinderah Bypass
50 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Project Fact Sheet, Korora Hill Reconstruction
51 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Wang Wauk to Bundacree Creek
52 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Raleigh Deviation
53 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Taree Bypass
54 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Bangalow Bypass
55 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Taree to Coopernook
56 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Gap Road
57 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Brunswick Heads Bypass (Stage 1)
58 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Ewingsdale to Tyagarah
59 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, Completed Projects, Eungai Deviation
60 Roads and Maritime Services, Project Fact Sheet, Ewingsdale Interchange
61 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Bulahdelah to Coolongolook
62 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Raymond Terrace to Karuah
63 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Tyndale Realignment
64 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Bray - Arthur St, Coffs Harbour
65 Roads and Maritime Services, Yelgun to Chinderah Freeway Official Opening Brochure
66 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Raymond Terrace to Karuah
67 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, Completed Projects, Lyons Rd - Englands Rd Duals
68 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Coolongolook to Wang Wauk
69 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Ballina to Tweed Heads, Completed Projects, Tandy's Lane
70 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Halfway Creek
71 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Karuah Bypass
72 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, The Lakes Way Interchange
73 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Bundacree Creek to Possum Brush
74 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Coopernook Bypass
75 Transport and Main Roads (Queensland), Projects, Tugun Bypass Project
76 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, Completed Projects, Bonville Upgrade
77 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Karuah to Bulahdelah Sections 2 And 3
78 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Ballina to Tweed Heads, Completed Projects, Brunswick Heads to Yelgun
79 Roads and Maritime Services, Pacific Highway upgrade Monthly achievement report, May 2012
80 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Ballina to Tweed Heads, Completed Projects, Tugun Bypass
81 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Completed Projects, Coopernook to Herons Creek
82 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway Upgrade, Coffs Harbour to Ballina, Completed Projects, Glenugie Upgrade
83 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway upgrade, Hexham to Port Macquarie, Bulahdelah upgrade
84 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Pacific Highway upgrade,Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, Frederickton to Eungai
85 Roads and Maritime Services, Community Update, Pambula River Bridge, May 2006
86 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Oak Flats to Dunmore - Realignment of the Princes Highway, Recent Project History
87 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Princes Highway Upgrade At Victoria Creek
88 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Burrill Lake
89 Tomerong Local History, A Short History of Tomerong
90 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, North Kiama Bypass
91 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Pambula River Bridge
92 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Conjola Mountain
93 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Kiama Bypass Access Ramps
94 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Forest Road to Jervis Bay Road
95 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Completed Projects, Oak Flats to Dunmore - Realignment of the Princes Highway
96 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Nangudga Lake Bridge Replacement
97 Roads and Maritime Services, Media Release, Major Work Starts on Princes Highway at Victoria Creek
98 Bega Daily News, 2 August 2011
99 Roads and Maritime Services, Media Release, Princes Highway Upgrade, South Nowra, Final Draft Report
100 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, South Nowra
101 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway Upgrade, Gerringong Upgrade
102 Roads and Maritime Services, Gerringong Upgrade, Community Update, November 2012
103 Roads and Maritime Services, Projects, Princes Highway upgrade, South Head Road
104 Department of Main Roads, Annual Report, 1945-46
105 Parsons Brinckerhoff, F6 Corridor Public Transport Use Assessment Final Draft Report, September 2004
106 Bega Daily News, Road Work At Alsops Creek, 11 October 2002.

Last updated: 15-Dec-2019 13:07

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