Governor General Sir Charles Augustus Fitz-Roy consented to the first Act in Australia for Parks and Public Recreation in December 1854 and the Act came into force on January 1, 1855.

Only 46 days later on February 15, 1855, 640 acres in Nowra was dedicated Public Recreation Ground. A clear ten years before any other in Australia.

The trustees were announced in April 1859. 

There are a number of points of interest in and around the showground.

Hanging Rock Lookout has been a prominent landmark in Nowra since the town was established. It is more than 46 metres above the river and takes in a superb view up the Shoalhaven River. 

The grandstand was completed in January 1905, replacing the old one which stood at the southern end of the show ground. Various additions and renovations have taken place over the years.

The Monaghan Memorial Fountain was erected by the A & H Association in February 1912 in memory of John Monaghan in recognition of his 36 years continuous service to the association.   

Croquet Lawns The Nowra Croquet Club was formed in 1902 and a clubhouse was eventually built on an area where the covered cattle stalls were situated.

McKenzie Ticket Gate Hugh McKenzie constructed a gate with brick ticket selling office at the showground entrance at his own expense. In 1937, Nowra Council converted the ticket office into a lavatory.  

Want more from South Coast Register?

HISTORY: Nowra’s suspension bridge first of its kind

Nowra’s regatta history unveiled