Whiteley, who is well known for her contribution to the Arts and her well-known ‘Secret Garden’ in Sydney, will be involved in the two-day event for the first time.

“I am really excited to be taking part in the Sculptures in the Garden event.

”I am passionate about both art and beautiful gardens so for me, it made perfect sense to be involved,” Ms Whiteley said.

Past events have seen Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, renowned sculptor, Paul Selwood and respected art scholar, Edmund Capon AM OBE open the event.

Sculptures in the Garden Founder, Kay Norton-Knight is excited about Whiteley’s involvement.

“Wendy is renowned and well respected in the art world and having her involved is a real feat, Norton-Knight said.

“Art is such an important part of Australia’s culture and to be able to create an event such as Sculptures in the Garden for not only locals but people from all over NSW and interstate to enjoy, shows a real appetite for how important art is in people’s life and how far they will travel to see such quality work.

"We are really proud of the turnout each year and expect this year to be bigger and better than ever, we truly believe that what we’re creating will one day be likened to something as popular as Sculptures by the Sea.

“Since submissions opened last month, we have had some amazing talent enter work and I think Wendy will be really impressed with the quality and variety of the sculptures on display,” she added.

Submissions are being accepted until Friday, September 7 with judging to take place by a selection committee on October 5 and winners to be announced at the opening of the event on Saturday, October 6.

The not-for-profit event has all gate proceeds retained by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

Funds provided by sponsors are used to acquire works for the Mudgee region’s public sculpture collection.