Gradys Gap

The Inspiration behind the building of the Lions Road

"The story of a dream and the way it became a reality"

The McPherson Range forms the eastern section of the border between New South Wales and Queensland. This rugged range runs between Wallangara in the west and Point Danger in the east. There are three gaps in the range, one of these is The Richmond Gap which is directly in line with Grafton, Casino, Kyogle and Brisbane.

Early 20th Century-Settlers crossed the McPherson Range at Richmond Gap moving cattle and pigs between the Upper Richmond River and Gradys Creek. The search for a route across the range had been going on for a long time, and this is when Jack Douglas Hurley (JD) got involved.

Jack was a person who enjoys a challenge, so in 1969 when the then shire engineer told Jack he was wasting his time trying to get a road through the McPherson Ranges to Brisbane, Jack took up the challenge!

Jack had an uncanny way of getting along with people. In his efforts to raise awareness of the need for better road communications to Brisbane, he solicited help from parliamentarians, the general public, local machinery operators, suppliers of various needed items, his Lions Club, government departments etc. He made lasting friendships with these people.

Jack worked hard and long to have the Lions Road, as it is now named, built. It is a credit to his resourcefulness, determination, planning and commitment. He always stated "it was a combined effort", but the project would not have been completed without his leadership, drive and encouragement. The last section of the Lions Road was sealed on Jack's 80th Birthday on 7th February 1997. Lets see how this story of a dream became a reality.Read more