Coal mining unionists and environmentalists Vernon Moffitt (1924-2001) and Joyce Moffitt (1930-1999) will be celebrated with the unveiling of a plaque, followed by a barbecue lunch, on Sunday, June 30, 1pm at the Lithgow State Heritage Mine Park, 3A State Mine Gully Road, Lithgow.
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"Vern was an early supporter of the mining museum and provided wise advice to the museum board in its early days. Both are also remembered for their work in protecting the Gardens of Stone," State Mine's Ray Christison said.
Former mayor of Blue Mountains City Council Jim Angel said Vernon Moffitt (1924-2001) was a "revered coal miner unionist".
"His wife Joyce Moffitt also worked for the coal mining union and is remembered as the 'face' of the Lithgow office.
"She was a passionate environmentalist calling for the protection of the endangered Bathurst copper wing butterfly. Together they were a formidable team. Vern and Joyce Moffitt are forever associated with the long campaign to protect the pagoda landscape around Lithgow, known as the Gardens of Stone, that is located within and next to the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area."
CRUMA paid tribute to the legacy of the pair.
"The life of Joyce and Vern Moffit is steeped in many stories: her story and history. Their dedication remains a model for all trade unionists," said Vince Ashton, Secretary, Combined Retired Union Members Association (CRUMA).
A 'Solidarity' Dinner will be held at the Lithgow Workies Club, 3-7 Tank Street, Lithgow, on Saturday, June 29, 6pm for 7pm. The public is welcome.
A visit to Dobbs Drift Lookout has been arranged prior to the 1pm Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park Celebration on Sunday 30 June. Dobbs Drift Lookout is a short distance from the Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park.
A coach has been arranged to pick up Sydney guests to take them to Dobbs Drift Lookout at Lithgow Railway Station at 11.15am (the train departs Central Railway Station at 8:24 am). A second coach pick will be at the Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park, 3A State Mine Gully Road at 11:30am.
At Dobbs Drift Lookout, bagpipe playing will be heard, as guests view Lithgow's spectacularly beautiful pagoda landscape.
