The tourist town and rural service centre of Kurri Kurri is located about 15 km from Cessnock and 150 km from Sydney in the Hunter Valley Region of New South Wales. Kurri Kurri has a rich heritage as an historic coal mining town. Coal Mining commenced in 1891 exploiting the South Maitland Coalfields, but the mine was closed in the 1950s. Today, the community of Gloucester is focused on tourism, mixed agriculture, beef cattle and dairy, as well as vineyards and wineries. In the 1970s, an aluminium smelter began operating and this provides employment for the local community. A unique aspect in the town is the famous Mural Project that showcases the local heritage of Kurri Kurri and district and is a tourist attraction. To date, more than 37 murals have been completed and are displayed in Kurri
Kurri, and in the surrounding villages of Greta, Abermain, Pelaw, Heddon, Main and Weston. Visitors should get a copy of the booklet entitled `Mural Walking Trail Guide` and take the walk accompanied by local volunteers that have been trained as guides. Some of the many local activities, attractions and events in the district of Kurri Kurri include: # Kurri Farmers Markets # Weston Art Show # Kurri Youth Art Exhibition # Buchanan Gallery # Richmond Main Mining Museum. Cessnock and Newcastle have the major entertainment venues in the area.