Restoration of the two historic windows on the northern facade of St John's Anglican Church has recently been completed, thanks to a grant from the Bendigo Bank's Community Enterprise Foundation, and some generous private donations.
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The chairman of St John's Parish Council, Roland Walsh, said this week that these windows were an important part of the fabric of the historic church and a significant memorial to district pioneers.
"The grant from Bendigo Bank and the generous private donations have enabled us to ensure their preservation for at least another 100 years," he said.
The windows were restored by glass craftsman Jeff Hamilton and his team from Hamilton Design Glass at a cost of a little under $40,000.
Of this amount, $11,000 was contributed by the Enterprise Foundation.
Jeff has indicated that he appreciated the opportunity to be engaged in the restoration work.
"Barring any untoward and unpredictable incident, these two fine windows should grace the church intact and without leaking or sagging for a good 80 years and possibly longer." he said.
This work required complete removal of the windows and transportation to the contractor's studio in Surry Hills, where they were carefully dismantled, cleaned, polished and re-assembled for return and replacement in the church.
All this work was achieved without damage to the glass panels and with additional work which will guarantee that the windows will continue to fulfil their valued artistic reputation.
Members of the Parish Council are now engaged in the restoration of the church's lych gate, with work expected to commence this month.
The congregation of St John's will return to public worship on Sunday, August 30, when a service of Holy Communion will be conducted in the hall (where it's warmer), by the Rector of Young, Archdeacon Neil Percival.
All are welcome, and special arrangements will be in place for the service, which will commence at 11.30am.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown, parishioners have continued to worship in their own homes, so this celebration will be the first time for some weeks that they have gathered in a group.