Eurobodalla Shire Council has been sealing and reconstructing parts of the gravel road in a staged program for the last two years at a cost of $790,000, and the final 1.4 kilometre section was completed earlier this month.

Tilba Chamber of Commerce representatives Pep Wall and Phil Elton were on hand with residents Ron and Tralee Snape to mark the achievement with mayor Lindsay Brown last week.

“It will make a real difference,” Ms Wall said.

“It means residents and visitors have a safer and easier drive on Punkalla Road.

“Our visitors want to head out to the bush and now the road is suitable. It makes a real difference to recommending the drive to visitors and is fantastic for tourism in the area.

“It adds to the enjoyment of people coming to town. It’s more than just the village now, they can experience the whole Tilba area.”

Ron Snape, whose home and business is located on the road, was quick to point out the safety benefits of the fully sealed road.

“In the event of a fire or other emergency, it’s now much safer for the 200 residents out this way,” he said.

Tralee Snape, a Rural Fire Service volunteer confirmed that the road will cut response times down for emergency services.

“I never thought I’d see it in my lifetime, but here it is. It’s just lovely.”

Mayor Lindsay Brown agrees.

“It’s a great win for the Tilba community,” he said.

“Previously visitors wouldn’t venture onto the road because it was dirt.

“Now that it’s sealed its safer for all motorists, including the school bus. Council recognises the needs of smaller communities and this will make a big difference for the community of Tilba and its visitors.”