Opening of the Big Engine Shed

The Big Engine Shed at the Heritage Park was one of the first projects developed at the park with the installation of big diesel engines that had worked in the sawmilling industry on the West Coast. Several engines have been added including one that powered pumps for the Kumara water supply, one that provided standby power for the Kaniere Gold Dredge and one that powered a Japanese fishing boat fishing off the West Coast. All of the old engines have been restored to working order and are run on some open days. Approximately four years ago our “big engine man”, Gordon McMillan presented a proposal to upgrade the big engine display and add a “Wow!” factor.

The main source of funds came from a Lotteries Grant but to qualify for that a significant amount of seeding finance was required. This was raised from a MDI grant through Westland District and Development West Coast and a grant from Heritage West Coast. We are very grateful for the assistance provided by those organisations.

Gordon’s vision was to get all the machines to tell their own stories, backed by a stunning sound and light show. Timaru company “Vibrant Lighting” was engaged and made and installed all the lighting effects and computer controls for the show. Local companies, Katabatic Creative and Dave Kwant provided much of the video and photographic and visual content.

Our own team of Gordon, Keith Houston and Ian (Gilby) Gilbertson led the job of lining the shed walls and preparing them for “wallpapering” with massive photos of bush and sawmilling scenes. These historic photos were enlarged and installed by SignLink Graphics.

The old dirt floor in the building was concreted by local builder Matthew Fairmaid and his team.

The script for the show was written and developed by Gordon. Members also provided the voices that were recorded and added to the visual effects.

After many frustrations and delays including Covid, in early April the commissioning of the whole show took place and on Saturday 30 April President Bruce Hackett welcomed about 50 invited guests to the Park and Gordon officially opened the new Big Engine Shed Experience. Guests were then taken to the new show and had an opportunity for a general look around the Park including a train ride. At noon the public was welcomed to also take in the new show.

So, come check us out and as always new members are very welcome

Text and images supplied by Westland Industrial Heritage Park

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