Local business owners are feeling an immediate financial impact from roadworks on the Princes Highway between Bomaderry and Berry.
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Silos Estate, based on the highway at Jaspers Brush, is not turning the profit it once was before the major, two-year-long project started, however, Silos co-owner Raj Ray refuses to view it as a burden.
Mr Ray and fellow co-owner, his wife, Sophie, are taking a long-term outlook.
“In the 12 years we have been here, that road has claimed 13 lives between Foxground and Bomaderry,” Mr Ray said.
“Sophie and I, we’d be personally devastated if anyone died outside our premises.
“This (road project) is a great thing. It’s not good for us now, but in a couple of years’ time the wheels will turn around. It’s going to be fantastic for the region. It makes the highway safer, it will bring more people to our region and it will do wonders for the Shoalhaven’s tourism industry.”
All Silos staff employed when roadworks started in September have retained their jobs.
“We’re fortunate we have a strong brand name,” Mr Ray said.
“We have a loyalty that comes from the helipad, electric vehicle charging stations, a history of weddings and high visitation from tour groups. We’ve had between 700-800 tour groups here this year.”
Silos produces wine and alpaca products and offers wine tasting, accommodation, fine dining and functions.
