Nenke Park

Statement of Significance

Nenke Park has historic, social and representative cultural heritage significance. The grounds are an
important focus for all recreation and sport that occurs in the Kukerin district Home to Agricultural shows for many decades, the Kukerin community showed dynamic thought by introducing Trachmach's vintage machinery display which revitalised the annual show. The name Nenke Park represents the long and hard working association Berthold Nenke had with the Kukerin Agricultural Society.

Physical Description

Some of the notable features of this place include:
• Oval, a grandstand, sports pavilion, bowling green, stables, exhibition halls
• Original buildings constructed of corrugated iron on timber frames (catering shed and exhibition hall)
• Vintage agricultural machinery on the grounds
• Oval is grassed and reticulated
Some obvious modifications include:
• Recently built pavilions

History

The Showgrounds were originally cleared and prepared as a space for the people of Kukerin to play sport. The grounds were officially opened on 16 October 1922 with their first Agricultural Show. The Kukerin Shows have been held there since that time. VDC parades were held when the show was closed during World War II. The Showgrounds are now home for Trachmach displays.

The Kukerin Show, as well as the Showgrounds have been managed by the Kukerin people. The park was named after Mr Berthold Nenke in 1937, in appreciation of the 15 years he served as Secretary of the Recreation Committee from 1922-1937. Money has been raised over the years by holding social functions, as well as from the profits of crops that have been donated. A football grandstand and change rooms were built in 1962. The Nenke Park Pavilion was opened in 1979, containing a modern kitchen for catering purposes, an assembly area, a bar, an office, football change rooms and indoor toilets.

In 1985, with the difficulty of maintaining the old agricultural show concept, the Tracmach Fair was introduced with an emphasis on vintage machinery, stalls, children's displays, an Art Show and the Creek Bed Rally (once televised internationally). Wool entries continue to be judged in the Mick Pike Pavilion. Many people donate their time generously to make the annual show a success. These include Bob Lukin, organiser of Tracmach and David Dawson who has been the secretary of the association for over 20 years. Despite the many changes, the original catering shed and exhibition hall still stand.

The oval, built in 1991 as a result of joint community effort, is used for football, carnivals and school sports.

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.