Media Release

Monday 5 May 2008 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

‘Historic Helensburgh’ celebrates its coal-mining heritage

5 years after its inception, a 2.5m high bronze sculpture of a coalminer will be erected in Helensburgh town centre to celebrate its coalmining heritage.

The idea was born from a desire to embellish the emerging brand "Historic Helensburgh" which was launched on a large welcome sign situated at the town entrance on Lawrence Hargrave Drive. Since then this has been reapplied on a large community sign, serving all sports and community groups in the district, and will be included in various other aspects of the signage around the sculpture.

The figure was designed by local sculptor, Gaye Porter of Wombarra Sculpture Garden, and depicts a robust coalminer of the early 1900's, striding forward with a pick in one hand, and safety lamp held out in front. Helensburgh Coal, known then as Metropolitan Colliery, is the longest operating coalmine in Australia, founded in 1884 by Charles Harper, and was one of the first to start using the safety lamp.

Adjacent to the figure will be a large permanent display, providing a timeline and photographs that will add greater meaning and relevance to Helensburgh's claim to its "historic" title.

On the same day, Helensburgh Historical Society will be launching their website, as part of the same event, providing a comprehensive insight into the fascinating background of this coalmining town - that site is currently being completed, but will be available at www.HistoricHelensburgh.org.au.

This significant and unprecedented public art project has been funded by Helensburgh Coal and the United Mine Workers Union, in collaboration with Wollongong City Council, and represents a new beginning for Helensburgh and its community.

The unveiling will occur on Saturday 17th May at 11am, in the forecourt area outside Helensburgh Post Office, corner of Walker and Parkes St.  Representatives of the sponsors will be present along with the broader community, to watch the General Manager of Wollongong City Council, David Farmer unveil this impressive example of public art. Everyone welcome.
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For more information, please contact the Project Coordinator Scott Smith on (02) 4231 4100, Mobile 0416 050 049.
Photograph supplied

Issued by:

Lynda Starkey
Media Liaison Coordinator
Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce
Mobile: 0408 623 420