Federal Government Contribute To Slim And Joy Statue Appeal

The Slim And Joy Statue Appeal Committee has recevied a $30,000 grant from the Federal Government, which has now taken the fundraising efforts for the Slim and Joy Statue Appeal over the halfway mark.

The statue, which is to be erected in the Australian country music capital of Tamworth, will recognise the large contribution Slim Dustry and Joy McKean have made to Australia's musical heritage.

Chairman of the Slim and Joy Statue Appeal Committee, John Sommerlad said, "Their active involvement over four decades has helped the Tamworth Country Music Festival become one of the world's major music events...They played a pivotal role in helping the city develop its Country Music Capital brand."

Mr Sommerlad also expressed his gratitude for the $30,000 contribution for The Slim and Joy Statue, "It was an honour for me to act upon the request of the Slim and Joy Statue Committee to seek a $30,000 contribution. I congratulate the committee and its efforts and thank the Federal Government for its contribution along with all the other very kind contributors to the statue."

The statue will be created by renowned sculptor, Tanya Bartlett, and will be unveiled in January 2014. The project will cost a total of $180,000 to complete.