Stone carvings unveiled on Pensioners Hill

Located on Pensioners Hill, the four heritage sculptures depict a famous Aboriginal from the period before European settlement, an underground coal miner, a pioneering woman and local agricultural activities. 

The project, which started in 2008, has seen four large stones come to life with carvings significant to indigenous culture and the rich heritage of the Gunnedah community.

Designed by Uralla-based artists Carl Merten and Joan Relke, the sculpture project was co-ordinated by Rotary Club of Gunnedah West, with a $28,000 contribution from BHP Billiton Caroona Coal Community Fund.

Both sculptors have a strong connection to the Gunnedah district, after creating the magnificent miners’ memorial in Wolseley Park, which has now become a major tourist drawcard.

Other project supporters included Gunnedah Shire Council, Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group, Red Chief Lands Council, Namoi Valley Independent, Josh and Belinda’s Takeaway and CT and JM Sills.

The Heritage Sculptures will be officially opened by Caroona Coal’s Head of Projects, Stephen David, with morning tea to follow at the Rotary rotunda.

Mr David said BHP Billiton had supported the project because of the contribution it would make to the region’s long-term development. 

“The project demonstrates the Gunnedah community’s innovative approach to establishing a tourism asset by preserving its cultural heritage for future generations,” he said.

“BHP Billiton’s support of this initiative is part of our commitment to invest in local community projects, through the Caroona Coal Project Community Fund, with more than $3.9 million invested in local projects in Quirindi and Gunnedah to date.” 

Sculptor Carl Merten said the transformation of the large stones at Pensioners Hill took four years and hundreds of hours of community support to complete.

“This remarkable ‘history in the making’ project would not have been possible, without the long-term commitment of Rotary Club of Gunnedah West, members of the community and local businesses,” Mr Merten said.

“It has certainly attracted many visitors who have all been impressed by the sheer scale and content of the project, and the transformation of the site with landscaping and tree planting.

“It is the generosity and hospitality of the Rotarians involved in carving and assisting Joan and myself that has made this experience so memorable.”

Joan Relke has especially enjoyed exploring the universal serpent symbol, which appears on the reverse side and unites the stones. 

“I have really enjoyed working with the Gunnedah community and am delighted with the opportunity to take part in the project,” she said..