By BRIDGET COOK
ST JOHN’S Anglican Church has called on the community to help fill a funding gap to ensure the restoration of its 100-year-old hall can go ahead.
The Cranbourne church was dealt a blow in December when a promised $100,000 Federal Government grant towards the planned project was withdrawn.
Through the work of local MPs, $30,000 of that amount will now be received but the church still needs $80,000 for the full renovation to go ahead.
The church has been aiming to restore its century old heritage parish hall for community use for the past three years.
The project will cost $455,000, and the church has managed to secure $375,000 through support from the City of Casey, a local business, donations and fundraising.
Church Vicar, The Reverend Dr David Powys, said more community support was now needed to ensure the planned project reached its full capacity.
“The difference is just under the amount now needed if this hall is going to again become a comfortable and affordable community facility,” he said.
“This is where the local community has an opportunity to save the project, and particularly to make sure that the hall gets a kitchen.
“Community minded or heritage keen donors may like to assist.”
Reverend Powys said the hall was built 1913 for £113 and has been the venue for numerous Cranbourne groups and events over its 100 year history.
“Situated adjacent to Cranbourne’s main business district, close to Cranbourne’s bus hub and now served by excellent parking facilities, this hall will be a great facility for community groups,” he said.
“The plans include generous provision for groups to store their own equipment, and modern kitchen and bathroom facilities, whilst restoring the outer appearance to the way it looked 100 years ago.
“St John’s is actively seeking support from trusts, local businesses and individual donors to find the $80,000 required to complete the whole project.
“With less than this the hall will have to go without its kitchen, air-conditioning and storage area partitions until the funds become available.”
Anyone wishing to contribute can contact Reverend Powys on 5996 8461.
