HANDS OF FAME HISTORY

In 1981, members of the Gore Country Music Club first debated the idea of a Hands of Fame structure in the shape of a guitar to substantiate Gore’s claim of being the New Zealand capital of country music. Discussion began between club members of what, how, when and where the tribute should be. Errol Alison was approached, a New Zealand artist who lived in Gore, to draw up some design concepts. These plans were taken to the Gore District Council for approval to erect the structure where the brown trout stands now. This initial proposal was turned down and the discussion among club members continued.

In 1992, club members began collecting hand prints set in concrete of local and international country artists. These prints included Kenny Rogers, Slim Dusty, Patsy Rigger, Garner Wayne, Suzanne Prentice, Ricky Skaggs, Jade Hurley and many more. During the following years members continued to re-address the idea of a structure to display the Hands of Fame. A few years later the members asked Errol Allison for a new design that would depict what country music means to the people of Gore. Errol presented his design ideas and the project was adopted at a club meeting.

The Hands of Fame construction began in 2004 and all previously collected hand prints were installed - with spaces for future prints. Some of the integral club members, who supported in the final structure being erected, are:

Murray Bruce, Sue Bruce, Jessie McChlery-Tytler, Laurel Turnbull, Murray Kirk, Marlene Kirk, Gray Tytler & Audrey Winsloe.