A FRESH beginning for the Broke and Milbrodale communities has been celebrated with the opening of a new $2.4million Broke Bridge over Wollombi Brook.
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A large crowd gathered on the concrete structure last Sunday to cheer as the official ribbon cutting was conducted by Broke stalwart Neil McNamara, Mayor of Singleton John Martin, and Member for Upper Hunter George Souris.
The crowd also farewelled the old wooden Herbert Street Bridge which had served the area well for decades.
An official ceremony was held in Broke’s Taggart Park, with a welcome to country being delivered by Singleton Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation representative Denise Hedges.
Mr McNamara, who was driven to the ceremony with his wife Joan in a vintage Jaguar car, gave a detailed history of the brook’s crossings leading up to the present day.
As a shire councillor in the 1950s, Mr McNamara was involved in obtaining funding for the old wooden bridge.
A mix of people, both local and from afar, took part in the day’s activities that included market stalls, a barbecue lunch and jumping castle for children.
Leading up to the day a colouring competition was run in conjunction with The Argus and winners were announced on Sunday.
They are 11 – 12, Gracie Fernance, Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas lights pass, 10 – 9 Andy Lambkin, movie pass, 8 – 7 Emily Powell, movie pass, 6 – 5 Caitlan Tyndal, movie pass, infants Dane Wilson, movie pass, Emily Powell best of the best hamper, Issac Malonie Christmas lights pass achievement award.
