His works can be seen in Adelaide’s Festival Hall and Rundle Mall, the National Gallery of Australia and the Lawrence Hargrave Memorial in Wollongong, as well as Sydney, Canberra, and the University of Wollongong.

But after living in the Highlands for a number of years, he wanted to give something back to the community - an $85,000 sculpture.

He donated the designs and waived his $50,000 commission fee.

JCA Steel Fabrication in Mittagong, the company behind many of Flugelman’s constructions, was chosen to build the 2.5 metre sculpture, which will mirror the colour and movement of the plaza.

Mittagong businesses Cranebiz and The Box Concrete Company were also chosen to install the work.

“It’s a wonderful statue and will give a little bit of a lift to the area,” Cr Juliet Arkwright said.

“[Mr Flugelman] is nationally and internationally renowned and this is his gesture of thanks to the Southern Highlands, where he made his life after coming here after World War II.”

The sculpture unveiling will be followed by the official launch of the Wine Arts and Roses Festival, which runs from this Saturday until November 15.

Featured events include the Arts Studio Trail, open gardens and winery functions.

Go to www.southern-highlands.com.au or phone 1300 657 559 for more information.