back to listingThe Lions Road

An Initiative of the Kyogle Lions Club

The Lions Road is a shorter scenic link between Beaudesert Qld and Grafton NSW, passing through the exquisite World Heritage Border Ranges Nation Park and overlooking the unique and historically significant Spiral Loop railway line (the Border Loop)

This scenic tourist road is one of the most memorable experiences you’ll encounter on your journey to or from the Northern Rivers region of NSW.

You can access the Lions Road by travelling via the Summerland Way linking Brisbane and Coffs Harbour.

From the North: 24km south of Beaudesert Queensland, turn left into Running Creek Road off the Mt. Lindesay Highway at Innisplain.

From the South: 19km north of Kyogle turn right into Wilsons Avenue off the Summerland Way at The Risk.

History of The Lions Road

Local organizations had tried since the opening of the interstate railway in 1930 to have a road built along the same direct route to Brisbane via Richmond Gap, lowest geographical point, 1,250 feet in the McPherson Range. Finally an announcement was made in 1966 that a decision on the route would be made in 1967 with work on construction starting in 1969. When the Government walked away from this commitment in 1969 the Kyogle Lions Club undertook the promotion of the road as a community project. With the unyielding drive of Mr. Jack Hurley the best route was selected with club deciding in 1971 to build a low standard jeep (4 wheel drive) track as a means of lobbying for support. With many offers of assistance from companies and the community, a dirt road suitable for cars was eventually built and opened in December 1971.

It was a massive undertaking for a service club. 11km of road over the rugged McPherson Range, 56 sets of pipes, 3 bridges and 12 cattle grids. When the Queensland Border was reached, the Beaudesert Lions Club came on board and injected new life into the project. The Army later helped by reconstructing 2km in Qld. Over 100,000 vehicles per year use the road and donation boxes at the Border gates are well supported. This money has enabled the Lions to approach government bodies with an offer to contribute to seal the surface, which was completed in 2002. All money for roadworks is given to the Kyogle Council and Beaudesert Shire Council (Now Scenic Rim Council). The club concentrates on amenities and rehabilitation.

The story is told in detail in a book “The Lions Road” available at Rathdowney and Kyogle Visitor Information Centres, Cougal Park B&B, Paradise Valley, Ripples on the Creek Restaurant, Cougal & Wiangaree Stores, Kyogle Newsagency and the Kyogle Lions Club – P.O. Box 56 Kyogle, 2474. The cost of this book is $28.00 with all proceeds going to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. So far $40,000 has been raised (as at December 2006)

detailed information

Location	The Lions Road 19klms north of Kyogle turn i nto Wilsons ave, at The Risk.
Contact	02 6632 2700 Kyogle Visitors Info Centre 7 days a week