The campaign to have a statue honouring the legendary pit horses of the South Maitland Coalfields built in Kurri Kurri is gaining momentum.
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Following a successful concert in August featuring the Brothers3, the committee has now raised about $28,000 in the two years since it formed.
A spot in Rotary Park has been earmarked for the statue, near the miner statue.
The committee has partnered with Towns With Heart, with the aim to add to the visitor experience in Kurri Kurri by complementing the murals project.
The statue will provide an educational display that informs about the important role of pit horses in coal mines, while demonstrating a significant component of local history.
While the campaign for the statue has come along way, there is still a long way to go – the committee estimates it will cost about $100,000 to construct and install.
Its next big event will be held at the former Buchanan Gallery on Saturday, November 18.
Owner Janet O’Donnell ran the gallery in the old schoolhouse for many years, and while it is no longer operating, she still hosts the occasional event at the property.
She wanted to support the Pit Horse Statue Project, and it was decided the venue would be a great place to hold a car boot sale.
The former gallery will host a spinning and weaving display on the day, and there will also be a vintage car display, a sausage sizzle, and entertainment by the Bellbird Country Music Club band and walk-up artists.
Some beautiful art works, an old saddle, records, and Pit Horse Statue Project merchandise are among the items that will be for sale.
Car boot sale sites cost $10 and can be booked by calling Fay on 0429 395 211.
The gallery is located at 796 Buchanan Road, Buchanan and the event will be open to the public from 8am to 4pm, with entry by gold coin donation.
All are welcome, and people are encouraged to bring chairs or a picnic blanket to stick around and enjoy the music.
Inquiries about the Pit Horse Statue Project can be directed to Towns With Heart on 4936 1909.
Donations to the project can be made online at www.gofundme.com/pit-horse-statue.
