86 km north of Bathurst
Hill End marks the growth and decline of a mining town of the 1870s gold rush. The area is testimony to how people lived over 100 years ago, what materials they used to build their homes, hotels and churches, and also to the destruction of soil and vegetation that accompanied the feverish exploitation in the region.
The Foundation funded the restoration of old buildings, installation of visitor amenities and acquired land for reservation within the township.
Through support for Hill End’s artist residence the Foundation ensured that the preservation of Australian pioneering days benefits a vibrant cultural present.
Deserted after the gold ran out, Hill End became home to an artist community including Russell Drysdale, Margaret Olley, Donald Friend and Brett Whiteley.
Artists Paul Haeflinger and Jean Bellette owned a residence in Hill End, which today is known as Haeflinger’s Cottage. It was the artists’ wish the cottage should be used in a way that encouraged artistic development.
The exhibition The Artists of Hill End at the NSW Art Gallery, which was curated by Gavin Wilson, inspired a pilot project and established the parameters for the Artists in Residence Program.
Under Gavin Wilson’s guidance Foundation funds allowed the restoration of the cottage and promotion of the program.
