A $3.6 m upgrade for Millie Road

The highly anticipated transformation of Millie Road (Shire Road 001) has been completed this month.

The major project encompassed approximately 6.5km of existing unsealed road with major pavement upgrades and a new sealed surface.

“This marks a major milestone in enhancing the quality and functionality of Millie Road for the benefit of the community and commuters,” a spokesperson for Narrabri Shire Council said.

“A substantial investment of $3.6 million, of which $3.49 million was acquired through the NSW government’s Fixing Local Roads Program, has been made to enhance the safety and efficiency of the road, addressing the previous substandard alignment issues.

“The intersection improvements, drainage enhancements, and upgraded signage have also been seamlessly integrated into the project, elevating the integral link for freight transportation and overall driving experience.”

During a visit to the newly completed roadworks, Narrabri Shire Council mayor, Ron Campbell expressed his admiration for the Infrastructure and Delivery team’s accomplishments.

“The completion of Millie Road stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the team,” Cr Campbell said.

“It is amazing to see the road not just restored but upgraded to such an impressive standard.”

Infrastructure delivery director Eloise Chaplain who oversaw the project and travels through the area daily on her commute to Narrabri also went out to inspect the road, along with the shire’s general manager Robert Williams.

As she reflected on the expanse of the project, she was struck by fond memories spent droving along the stock route.

“When I was younger, I spent a lot of time droving cattle across the plains, and alongside the once gravel road,” she said as she pointed out a spot where she remembered once falling off her horse.

Cr. Campbell also has an attachment to the area where he spent much of his childhood, as his parents ‘Pud’ and Julie Campbell drove the bus on the Millie Road Route for 45 years.

“That bus route was my whole life growing up, and it’s amazing to see how far the road has come from the dirt and gravel,” said Cr. Campbell.

“I’m going to have to bring my mum out here for a drive, she’s not going to be able to believe it.

“The difference it has made is incredible.

“Our mission is always to build better, and in this case, I think we have done it.”