Susanna Freymark
Amy Kenny’s favourite spot to sit at the home she shares with her parents on Simpkins Creek Road is out on the back patio, facing soft green hills.
The property is so lush and green from all the rain and while the countryside looks stunning, the road to Amy’s house isn’t – it’s a mess.
About 30 residents live on the no through road and there is a family day care centre at one of the homes. There is no other road in or out.
The road is littered with potholes filled with water, plus ruts, and is slippery to drive even in a 4WD.
“I’ve never seen it this bad,” Amy said.
“I’m scared.”
Amy has lived on Simpkins Creek Road with Nancy and Pete Bloomfield for 10 years.
The council graded the road three years ago, according to Amy.
“Drainage is a big issue,” she said.
“I’ve tripped on the road.”
There is a bridge and three causeways along the slippery road.
Amy is frustrated with her attempts to get an answer from the council after Nancy, 70, sent more than 10 emails.
Kyogle Council general manager Marcus Schintler said he could confirm that the council is planning to undertake the work as soon as possible.
“The elements that we need to use for temporary bridging are currently employed at another bridge site until the end of May,” he said.
“It will then take up to two weeks to relocate and establish the temporary bridge at Simpkins Rd, after which there will be access available for our heavy equipment by mid-June.
“Providing we do have agreeable weather by mid June we should be able to carry out the road and drainage repairs throughout the rest of June, perhaps into July to finish the work.”
Amy would like to see some temporary work to reduce the severity of the water damage on the road such as fill in the potholes.
“What happens if a car rolls over?” she said.
“Where is the accountability?”
For now, Amy and her family and neighbours feel isolated and are frustrated by the poor condition of their road.
Shaz Lotz said she has lived on the road for 28 years.
“We have never experienced Simpkins Creek Road this bad, it is getting worse and very dangerous,” she said.
“Kyogle Council, remind me what exactly we get for our rates money?”