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 Yamba
- Maclean - Lawrence - Grafton
Distance: approx. 66kms
Grade: Easy
Map: click
Facilities: Fuel and food available at Yamba,
Maclean,
Lawrence & Grafton
A scenic drive along the fabulous Clarence River is a must for
the visitor looking for an appreciation of the largest river on the
east coast. This drive follows the mighty Clarence River from the beautiful
seaside town of Yamba to the historical tree
lined city streets of Grafton. This drive
description is written from Yamba to Grafton but can be just as
easily done in reverse.
Leaving Yamba you cross over Palmers Island on your way to
Maclean. You will pass some of the many
cane fields that line the roads of the Maclean district,
sugar cane growing and refinery
being one of the major local industries.
 As you approach Maclean along River Street you will start to see
tartan painted power poles along the roadside. These denote the clan
tartans of various Scottish families in Maclean. These will continue
all the way along River Street. While in Maclean take the time to
visit the beautifully restored Boulevard area, the local Scottish
souvenir shop, the Stone
Cottage Museum, the Scottish Cairn and the beautiful hilltop lookout.
Turn right from River Street and cross over McFarlane Bridge onto
Woodford Island. Follow the Lawrence Road until you come to the
Lawrence Ferry. Use this free vehicle ferry to cross the Clarence
River and into Lawrence. At Lawrence
there is an excellent riverside park area to stop for a break or you
can get a meal at the local hotel. The local radio
museum is open to the public.
Just after you leave Lawrence heading south toward Grafton, turn
left onto Riverbank Road so as to follow the Clarence River more closely.
After about 6km this road joins back up to the Southgate-Lawrence
Road. Turn left and continue heading for Grafton.
Just before reaching Southgate you can turn left onto the Great
Marlow Road again more closely following the Clarence and passing
the charming Strontian Park. This road will come back to the
Southgate-Lawrence Road where you turn left and continue into
Grafton. This road is quite narrow so please be considerate of
oncoming traffic.
 If you chose not to turn on the Great Marlow Road you will pass
through the small community of Southgate. 7km past Southgate on the
right hand side of the road is the historic
Alumny Creek School Museum.
Markets are held here on the last weekend of every month.
If you are driving this route from Grafton to Yamba, you can follow
the signs for Tourist Drive 22. This tourist drive goes as far as
Maclean.
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