NEWS RELEASE
PREMIER OF NSW, AUSTRALIA
Slim Dusty Heritage Centre
May 29, 2008
Premier Morris Iemma today announced that his Government had approved the
funding to help the building of a lasting tribute to country music legend and
Australian icon Slim Dusty AOM MBE.
Premier Iemma announced that the NSW Government would provide $1.5
million to build the Slim Dusty Heritage Centre in Slim’s home town of
Kempsey.
It comes on top of the $300 thousand the Iemma Government had already
provided to the Slim Dusty Foundation through 12.08 hectares of Crown
land on the Pacific Highway at South Kempsey.
The money will add to the previous millions already pledged to the project by the
previous Federal Government and reaffirmed by the Rudd Government.
“The Slim Dusty Heritage Centre will enable the life story of a truly great
Australian to be preserved,” Mr Iemma said.
“This major tourist attraction will benefit the region, the state and the country.
“It will tell the story of Slim’s amazing career and showcase the legend of
Australian music.
“Slim’s dream was to have his and his widow Joy McKean’s vast memorabilia
from 60 years on the road looked after.
“I’m delighted to help make Slim and Joy’s collective dream a reality,” he said.
Premier Iemma also paid tribute to the successful fundraising efforts of the Slim
Dusty Foundation so far.
“Their efforts have been outstanding. The community has rallied behind a true
legend.”
Premier Iemma said the Slim Dusty Centre would lead to the creation 17 direct
jobs, with potentially hundreds more through construction, tourism and other
industries.
Mr Iemma said the Centre would also focus on helping young talent develop their
musical skills.
“Slim also wanted to see the Centre develop scholarships to assist young
musicians, especially indigenous talent,” Mr Iemma said.
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