It's more than a decade since Rosie Johnston stood at Sculptures by the Sea, and dared to dream of an inland version.
A series of massive sculptures positioned along the Lachlan River between Forbes and Condobolin, drawing visitors from all over to our region.
"Just imagine, hidden amongst the magnificent Red River Gums, with a back drop of dry golden grasses and stormy skies spotted with screeching cockatoos," she recalled that original vision on Saturday.
It's now of course a reality, the vision fulfilled and Rosie given the honour of cutting the ribbon at the official opening on Saturday after the placement of the final sculpture.
There are now 13 installations along the stock route, from the goanna at Gum Swamp to Wandering at Condobolin, ranging from the timber tower to Bird in Hand at Jemalong.
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On Saturday, many of those who have been involved over the years gathered with community at Warroo, between two sculptures, to celebrate.
"All of these astounding pieces along the Lachlan capture the spirit of and strength of the region and stand as testament to the incredible artistry that this project has attracted," Rosie said.
"I am deeply grateful to everyone who believed in this vision and gave their time, talent, and passion to make it a reality.
"Today we we see the culmination of years of collaboration, creativity and community spirit."
With the support of Evolution Mining and Forbes Shire Council, the project grew through the annual sculpture acquisition prize, and then finally with a NSW Government grant that also made it possible to build new bird hides at Gum Swamp and to transform the former ambulance station into what will one day be an arts and cultural centre.
The sculpture trail also inspired Grazing Down the Lachlan, a major regional event that raises funds for the project.
Mayor Phyllis Miller on Saturday acknowledged it had been 10 years since community members came together to form the big red 'a' for amazing that took pride of place in Albion Park.
"From that first letter a a group of talented farmers and community members got together and not only created art with our amazing sign, they gave our community an identity," Mayor Miller said.
"This place is absolutely amazing and I want to say thank you publicly to Rosie Johnston.
"I hope it will continue to be the reason for many people to continue to travel to Forbes and to Condobolin for many many years to come."
Joe Mammen, General Manager of Evolution Mine's Cowal Operations, thanked all the artists whose work stands on the trail.
"We're an organisation which wants to truly partner with our communities, and see that sustaining benefit into the future, so to see such a fantastic outcome, to see something that's going to attract tourism, it's going to be here for a very long time, for generations yet to come, it's something we're very proud to be (part of)," he said.
Rosie acknowledged Sculpture Down the Lachlan had been nurtured by the tireless efforts of many passionate individuals over the years, but particularly acknowledged the contribution of Dr Keith Mullette, Wayne Richards and Kim Muffet.
