Coonabarabran Driver Reviver will receive a much-needed makeover after receiving a Federal Government grant of over $100,000.

The funds will go towards a new shade structure, air conditioning, a water unit and new carpet.

Beverly Rayner, coordinator of the local Driver Reviver centre, said the grant money will be well utilised.

“We have roughly 6000 people come through our centre each year,” Mrs Rayner said.

“Its important to be able to give travellers somewhere to stop and rest and this grant money means we can make that stop a little more comfortable for them.”

Coonabarabran’s Driver Reviver Centre was a popular respite during peak holiday periods.

“Travellers should stop every two hours for a 15 minute rest - with Coonabarabran’s location being pretty close to two hours from both Dubbo and Tamworth, we can get quite busy at times,” she said.

Mrs Rayner said she expected the Coonabarabran site to remain busy even when the controversial bypass was built.

“Because of the observatory and the National Park, Coonabarabran will always be a popular destination and motorists will always be stopping here,” Mrs Rayner said.

While a new shelter has been ordered from Queensland, Mrs Rayner said the group had placed emphasis on using local tradespeople where possible.

“We’re not quite sure exactly when the work will commence as the COVID situation has slowed everything down, but it is meant to be completed by sometime in November,” she said.

Warrumbungle Shire Council mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan welcomed the news.

“This is great news for the town and all the travellers and motorists who travel through Coonabarabran,” Cr Doolan said.

“These upgrades will allow more comfort and safety for all of the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time to keeping our motorists safe, including the Coonabarabran Girl Guides.

“Thank you to all the volunteers for their continuous hard work in extreme weather conditions, I’m sure these upgrades will be very welcomed and looked after.”