THE pride of Muswellbrook Shire, the Blue Heeler, is back in his rightful home.
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But, unlike the previous incarnation, “Bluey” or “Hunter” – as he’s affectionately known by residents – will be there for some time.
That’s a promise from Dubbo artist Brett “Mon” Garling, who created the new-look $60,000, two-metre high, half a metric tonne statue.
“It will last forever,” he said.
“I’ve given it a 100-year guarantee.”
Mr Garling, widely regarded as an expert in the field of sculpture and casting, spend the past five months working on the “project”.
“It was a quick job,” he admitted.
“Usually, you allow yourself about half a year to do something of this magnitude.
“However, you still put your all into every job.
“As an artist, you definitely have a sense of pride, especially when your work is in the public’s eye.
“Everyone has to like it.
“And, from the early comments, the residents have been positive.”
Muswellbrook Shire mayor Martin Rush said it was great to have Bluey back in the Upper Hunter.
“This time as a ‘Bronzed Aussie’,” he explained.
“Although originally bred in the shire of Muswellbrook, he’s always been an Upper Hunter region tourism brand.
“And, of course, Bluey’s had a close affiliation with neighbouring Aberdeen.”
Council removed the former Blue Heeler statue from its plinth on Bridge Street in June.
“It had served its community well over a long time and drawn visitors from across the world,” general manager Steve McDonald said.
“Over recent years, the condition and fabric of the statue deteriorated to such an extent, council determined that it be removed.”
Meanwhile, Mr Garling’s association with the town looks set to continue into the new year.
“I’m currently working on a horse jumping trenches to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beersheba,” he said.
“It’s for [Muswellbrook Shire] council and the local Sub-Branch and will be unveiled in October, 2017.”