Chinocup Siding (Site)

Uses

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Statement of Significance

The fprmer railway siding, now only a site, has historical, social and cultural significance in that the railway greatly widened opportunities for the district both economically and socially, greatly reducing the communities dependence on horse and dray and mailcoach. The siding is a reminder of the extension of the railway from Nyabing to Pingrup.

History

After World War I, the Government set about extending the railway from Nyabing to Pingrup. The rail, a 21 mile line, commenced construction by the PWD in 1922 and the official opening took place on 28th October 1923. However, regular services did not commence until about a week later, on 8th November.

Condition

Site only

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Holland's Track

Child Places

• 11408 Holland's Track, Kondinin
• 17755 Holland's Track, Pingrup
• 06216 Holland Track Memorial
• 07021 Holland's Track, Holt Rock
• 12787 Holland's Track, Newdegate

Values

Holland’s Track marks a significant event in the Western Australian Gold Boom of the 1890s as its cutting created a direct route from Broomhill to the Goldfields, which enabled communication and transportation with the south-western portion of the colony in Albany and allowed for travelling prospectors from the eastern states to directly access the Goldfields via their initial docking point in Albany.

Holland’s Track was fundamental in the development of Coolgardie Townsite enabling supplies to be transported from Albany and the eastern states.

Holland’s Track is the life’s achievement of Richard John Holland, who never received any formal acknowledgment or compensation for his work, and who is memorialised in the various landmarks along the route that still bear the original names he gave them.

Holland’s Track was an important access road for the development of wheat-farming properties in the 1920s.

Holland’s Track is a major recreational tourist route for four-wheel drive travellers in Western Australia who specifically travel on the route to experience the original journey John Holland and his companions took.

Statement of Significance

Holland’s Track marks a significant event in the Western Australian Gold Boom of the 1890s as its cutting created a direct route from Broomhill to the Goldfields, which enabled communication and transportation with the south-western portion of the colony in Albany and allowed for travelling prospectors from the eastern states to directly access the Goldfields via their initial docking point in Albany. Holland’s Track is the life’s achievement of Richard John Holland, who never received any formal acknowledgment or compensation for his work, and who is memorialised in the various landmarks along the route that still bear the original names he gave them. Holland’s Track was an important access road for the development of wheat-farming properties in the 1920s. Holland’s Track is a major recreational tourist route for four-wheel drive travellers in Western Australia who specifically travel on the route to experience the original journey John Holland and his companions took.

Physical Description

John Holland, in his 1906 Report, which was later published in the Coolgardie Miner on 1 October 1936, outlined the distance he travelled as 320 miles from Broomehill to Coolgardie. This equates to roughly 515 kilometres. The current Holland Track which is well-documented and mapped for tourists is roughly 680 kilometres. The tourist route identified as Holland’s Track extends roughly 680 kilometres north-east from the Broomehill townsite to Coolgardie. It traverses a variety of differing native bush landscapes and runs through farming, pastoral and mining areas. This track runs approximately along the original route that was cut by John Holland in 1893. Overall the tourist route is predominately true to the historical route apart from some exceptions in the southern portion of the track after Nampup and close to the end of the track leading up to Victoria Rock. The southern and northern sections of the tourist track differ in accessibility for vehicles. The southern section, which is referred to as John Holland Way, is suitable for two-wheel drive travel along both sealed and unsealed roads, while the northern section, which veers off from John Holland Way at Emu Rock, Kondinin, is four-wheel drive only. The northern portion of the track was re-cut in 1992 as part of the celebrations of the Holland Track centenary. Along the track are a series of prominent landmarks that were named and recorded by John Holland on his initial trek. These landmarks are important markers for those travelling.

History

On the 17th September 1892, the discovery of gold 120 miles east of Southern Cross initiated a rush that attracted prospectors from across the country. Men in Albany and surrounds were keen to join the rush after it was initially announced in September 1892. Several parties attempted to cut a track towards the Goldfields straight away, with the aim to shorten the journey by two to three weeks. However, none were successful and all unanimously described the land as impenetrable. Despite this, and despite the increasing words of warning, John Holland, a sandalwood cutter local to the area, was not deterred and was confident a track could be cut in a small number of months. As a leaseholder in the area and an experienced bushman who had travelled across the land in search of sandalwood, Holland knew how to locate water and survive expeditions into the local landscape. He therefore felt confident he could successfully locate the best route to the goldfields and cut a track in relatively good time. Holland had been planning his expedition since the initial discovery of gold in September 1892. He was eager to begin straight away, but unlike others who attempted the feat before him he knew the summer months were approaching and it would be the worst time to set off. Holland instead waited until a cooler time of year and gathered a team together in the meantime. Joining John Holland were three local men, John Carmody, David Krakouer and his brother Rudolph Krakouer, who was the financer of the expedition and second in command. The official starting point for the expedition was Broomehill, which was already easily accessible from Albany along the Great Southern Railway. It was from here that the men gathered equipment for their 680 kilometre trek, which included ‘five W.A. ponies, a light dray, a 100 gallon tank [of water], and from five to six months provisions‘. The party, led by Holland, set off from Broomehill for Bayley’s Rush (Coolgardie) on the 14th April, 1893. The group had covered around 680 kilometres in two months and four days, cutting the longest cart road in Western Australia at that time and lessening the journey from Albany by a fortnight. Despite this achievement John Holland and his companions received no official acknowledgement and no compensation from the Government. Their only solace was the knowledge that the track enabled thousands of prospectors, both local and from the eastern States, to travel easily from the southern portion of the State. The track was in regular use up until March 1896 when the railway line from Fremantle was extended to Coolgardie and officially opened on the 23rd of that month. As the new extension connected Fremantle Port, supplies and travellers arriving in Western Australia were easily transported by train and Holland’s Track became a secondary route that was rarely travelled. Furthermore, with the onset of WWI, mining declined significantly and so people were less inclined to travel to the Goldfields. Today the two portions of Holland’s Track are used regularly by 4WD enthusiasts and holidaymakers.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

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Nampup Soak

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

The Nampup soak has great historical significance to the settlement and development of the Shire of Kent as it was the location of the first land grant in the area, and associated with two of the first settlers.

Physical Description

Marked by a large granite rock that was placed on site by the shire, which is to become a memorial for the site.

History

In 1876 Henry Haywood and John O'Flaherty were granted land around the Nampup Soak - Nampup being the original name for Nyabing. In 1904 the Nampup (Nyabing) Soak was officially recorded by Surveyor F M Bee, and in 1912 the soak was gazetted and name changed from Nampup to Nyabing.

Condition

Site only

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Rabbit Proof Fence No 2 and No 3

Child Places

• 07144 Rabbit Proof Fence
• 06997 Boundary riders hut - Site
• 24861 Emu Barrier Fence
• 24843 Yard trap rabbit proof fence
• 24671 Rabbit Proof Fence No. 2

Condition

Good - although it varies along the route

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 07144 Rabbit Proof Fence
• 06997 Boundary riders hut - Site
• 24861 Emu Barrier Fence
• 24843 Yard trap rabbit proof fence
• 24671 Rabbit Proof Fence No. 2

Statement of Significance

The Rabbit Proof Fence has historic and representative cultural heritage significance. The Fence was a major attempt by the WA Government to prevent the pestilence of rabbits, an introduced animal to Australia. The Rabbit Proof Fence No.2 divides the Shire of Dumbleyung and has had a marked influence on the history of land development in the region. Names of roads in the district east of Dumbleyung reflect the effect of the Fence with Fence Rd and 125 Gate Rd being two examples. The fence, though extremely long and crossing many Local Government Areas throughout WA, had a particularly strong influence over land development patterns in Dumbleyung and is representative of early government attempts to help sustain agriculture.

History

In the late 19th century rabbits which were not established in WA, were recognised as a possible menace to agriculture. The rabbits were travelling from the eastern seaboard at a rate of 35 miles a year and the Western Australian Government formed a plan to try and prevent the pests entry. A decision was made to construct a rabbit proof fence from the 80 Mile Beach in the north, through the Great Sandy Desert to end at Starvation Beach near Esperance in the south. When Rabbit Proof Fence Number One was completed in 1903, it was the longest unbroken line of fence in the world. However, on its completion rabbits had already appeared west of the barrier. Another fence was therefore hurriedly erected roughly 60 miles parallel inside the first. It was built in the period between March and July 1904. The fence was constructed of jam posts placed 12 feet apart with wire netting of which the lowest 6 inches were dipped in coal tar and buried (towards the east) to prevent the rabbits from digging under. A wide clearing either side provided for a fire break and access for boundary riders. The second fence built divided the Dumbleyung district. The fence was kept in order by Government employees. Riders were employed to check the fence, using bicycles for transport. Gates in the fence needed to be opened and closed each time and location was often determined by the gate number (eg. 125 Gate Rd). The many gates made collection of water difficult for some farmers who had to travel many miles to a water supply. The first rabbit proof fence was abandoned in 1916 when it was obvious it had failed and that more time was needed maintaining the second fence. By the 1940s it was realised that the rabbit proof fence had failed but the gates were still patrolled and fines were issued if left open. This vigilance was maintained into the 1950s In 1959 the Rabbit Proof Fence Department was finally disbanded and the gates were left permanently open. At the same time myxomatosis was introduced which greatly reduced the rabbit population. Today the rabbit proof fence is still referred to as 'the fence'. Though no longer a physical divide, people still talk in terms of their community being east or west of the fence.

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Nyabing Honour Roll

Uses

Creation Date

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All Saints Community Church

Condition

The MI notes the condition as good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The All Saints Community Church was the second of only 2 churches built in the Shire of Kent [the other church in the townsite of Pingrup - see P04]. It has social significance to the town in contributing the the social and cultural growth of the community and fulfilling the religious needs of the church -going community.

Physical Description

A partly rendered brick structure with asbestos sheet roof, timber framed windows and decorative brickwork.

History

In 1911 the first official religious service was held in the shire, the service conducted by Reverand J Morcam (Presbyterian minister) in Nyabing town. It was not until June 1947, however, that a public meeting was held for the purpose of hearing views on building a church. Plans did not go ahead until 1964 when the Nyabing Community Church Association formed to plan a church. The church was dedicated in 1967 to All Saints and the first Anglican wedding was held in October of that same year [Keith and Christine Butcher - married by Fr Mark Kirby].

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: high

Condition

Good

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War Memorial and Garden

Condition

The MI notes condition as good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The War Memorial is a reminder to the town and its visitors of those who served in the World Wars. It therefore has much historical and social significance to the local community. The memorial also has aesthetic significance, being set in an attractive park and well maintained by thecommunity.

Physical Description

Rough-cut granite stone with plaque set into a low, rendered concrete block wall and flagpole.

History

Plaque reads: In 1957 the present war memorial was unveiled. In 1991 the park was upgraded, with the Nyabing Primary School adopting the park and contributing to the design. Twenty-six trees were planted by the children at this time.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: high

Condition

Good

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Golf Course and Club House

Condition

The MI notes condition as poor.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The original golf course site has historic and social significance, being a source of community interaction and recreational activity.

Physical Description

Simple corrugated iron clad structure with free standing masonry chimney.

History

In 1940 the Nyabing Golf Course was established with a 9 hole golf course. Mr C Francis was president and Mr C Manuel was secretary. The original course was later abandoned due to constant flooding, and a new 18-hole golf course established about lOkms west of the town.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: low

Condition

Poor

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School (Second)

Condition

The MI notes condition as fair.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The former school building has historical and social significance with its association with the education of the children in the town and outlying region. It also has some aesthetic significance,as a simple weatherboard building in mostly original condition, set in a natural landscape, and still functioning as an educational resource.

Physical Description

Small rectangular shaped single roomed timber framed building, clad in weatherboard to window sill height, then asbestos sheet, with a corrugated iron roof. Three double hung windows - 12 panes.

History

In 1912 the Nampup Progress Association called for a school to be built for the 14 local children of school age. This small corrugated iron school (located in Martin Street) was opened in the on 2nd February 1915. Owing to growing numbers, this second school was built and on 26th January 1924 opened with 30 pupils. By 1949 there were 24 pupils and smaller schools in the district were closing. By 1951 there were 46 pupils and a bus service was operating for the school children. Some classes moved to CWA room and the hall. In 1953 the number of pupils had grown to 81, and senior students moved to the new school for the last term with head-teacher Ray Aitken. (The new school was officially opened in 1954.) The junior school continued on here until 1963 when the new school was extended to accommodate them. The Rural Youth then used the building until 1966 when the building was utilised by the Brownie Guides and later the Girl Guides. From 1986 it has been used as a kindergarten.

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School (first)

Condition

The MI notes condition as fair.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The former school building has historical and social significance with its association with the education of the children in the town and outlying region. It also has some aesthetic significance, as a simple weatherboard building in mostly original condition, set in a natural landscape, and still functioning as an educational resource.

History

In 1912 the Nampup Progress Association called for a school to be built for the 14 local children of school age. This small corrugated iron school (located in Martin Street) was opened in the on 2nd February 1915. Owing to growing numbers, a second school was built and on 26th January 1924 opened with 30 pupils. It was then used by the Road Board as offices until the new ones were built at the hall.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: moderate

Condition

Fair

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Chinocup Road Dam No 225

Uses

Creation Date

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School - Nyabing Primary

Condition

The MI notes condition as good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The school has historical and social significance with its association with the education of the children in the town and outlying region.

Physical Description

Asbestos clad and asbestos roof with in-filled verandas.

History

The school was opened in July 1954 and in 1963 extensions were made, [refer also N25]

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: moderate Integrity: high

Condition

Good

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Rifle Range Site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Rifle Range site has social significance, providing recreation for the community, a place to meet and interact and also provide some competitive sport. All this contributes to strengthening the ties of a local community, particularly with the voluntary labour given to establish the facility.

History

The Nyabing Rifle Club was formed in August 1912 and the Rifle Range was opened in 1915. It was formed by Ernie Gaby, and the community had busy bees to clear and prepare the range.

Condition

Site only

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Agricultural Society Hall

Condition

MI notes condition as fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Agricultural Show is an important annual event in the Shire of Kent, and one which has had, over the years, positive social and cultural implications in the shire. The hall is therefore representative of this event.

Physical Description

A simple single storey structure clad in corrugated iron, displaying a basic symmetry with a truss roofed hall and lean-to, skillion, additions.

History

The first Agricultural Show in the Shire of Kent was held in November 1922. The following year , 1923, the Nyabing Agricultural Society was formed and by 1925 the shire had built their exhibition hall. In 1934 additions were made to the hall and in 1953 further extensions were made with the addition of a new bay which spanned the full length of the north wall. This facilitated wool displays, hence why it is also referred to as the exhibition hall. In 1949 the Nyabing Agricultural Society officially changed its name to the Kent District Agricultural Society.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: high

Condition

Fair

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Dams - Recreation Ground

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

Town dams have much historical and social significance as they enable irrigation systems to be established for both townsites and agricultural lands. They provide water to the people, particularly important to remote areas where the rainfall is quite low.

History

The second Nyabing Dam was constructed in 1962 at a cost of 14,000pds.

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Football Changing Shed

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

The Football Changing Shed has high social and historical significance, representing one of most popular and earliest established sports in the shire.

Physical Description

Football changing shed located near Football Grounds which are part of the Nyabing Recreation Reserve. Brick walled structure with sheet roofing in simple utilitarian style.

History

The Kent District Football Club was formed in 1952, and from 1952 to 1963 the club represented both Nyabing and Pingrup. In 1954 the Kent District Football Club was admitted to the Katanning Football Association, and had a membership of more than 100. In 1964 Pingrup formed a separate club, which eventually led to the Nyabing Club crossing to the Ongerup Football Association 8 years later in order to reattain strength. The original changerooms were replaced with new ones built in 1971.

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Old Roads Board Office

Uses

Creation Date

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Recreation Ground and Centre

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Recreation Ground is an important site both historically and socially, hosting many important sporting and other event, including the agricultural show. It represents the needs of the local region and its people to interact, socialise and exhibit skills and products.

History

In 1915 a large area was selected for the Recreation and Show ground, the first agricultural show being held in November 1922. In 1991 the sports pavilion was extended through the efforts of volunteer labour, and completed by July 1991.

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Quartermaines Dam No 212

Uses

Creation Date

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Cemetery (1928) and Gateway

Condition

The MI notes condition as good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The cemetery is an important site, historically, for the town of Nyabing, where many of the early pioneers have been buried. A visit to the cemetery can build a picture of the history of the town (and shire) by following the names and dates inscribed on each headstone.

Physical Description

The gateway is constructed from random field stone approximately 1200mm high, flanking a pair of white iron gates with words Nyabing (l.h.s.) and Cemetery (r.h.s.). The cemetery is simple in for with cream brick ashes wall in the north-west corner and two benches of wooden slates and iron frame.

History

The cemetery was gazetted in 1928 and in 1943 the Kent Roads Board [sic.] took control of the both the Nyabing and Pingrup cemeteries.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: high Integrity: high

Condition

Good

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