Wickepin and Districts Sports Club

Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates an association with sporting identities and clubs both past and present.

Physical Description

The cream brick construction has a relatively flat gable metal deck roof, and extensive tinted aluminium framed glass overlooking the bowling greens on the south side.

History

Bill Hemley was the original instigator of the first showgrounds site in this vicinity, which was subsequently taken over by the Greater Sports Committee for football and the races. The Wickepin race club had previously held meetings at the Mungerungercutting site but pressure from the Wickepin Greater Sports Ground resulted in a move to this site.
By 1926 a proposal was put to the Roads Board for a golf course on the old showgrounds site, and by 1939 much of the land had been acquired from Mrs Durack, for the 18 hole course and club house which was a much used facility by the members and associates (women).
In 1935 the Tennis Club constructed tennis courts next to the Town hall, and in 1958 hosted the inaugural District Championship. In 1964 and 65 the first bowling greens were established, and the Bowling Club joined the Upper Great Southern League in 1965. In 1967 the Golf club and Bowling club combined and the club rooms were constructed. In 1968 the second bowling green. In 1978 the Golf and Bowling club amalgamated with the sports club, making this facility the centre of golf, bowls, tennis, netball and basketball.
In 1980 the club hosted the State hard-court tennis Championships. In 1986, a function at the club paid tribute to Norm King, having served local government for 31 years, and he was honoured by being the first "Freeman" of the Wickepin Shire. Keith Doncon is a respected member of the club with sporting tributes spanning from 1963 to 1990. He played in an All-Australian football team in 1966, has represented the state in 100 bowls games, and won the best
country bowler twice.
Foss's sign is due south of the original football field site, and the grand stand which was originally located in the vicinity was where the show was held, the horse stables were located in the vicinity of the sugar gums.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact
Authenticity: High degree

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

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