Saving saviours

ABOUT 60 people showed their support for the upgrade of a 150-year-old Cranbourne church at a fund-raiser event this month.
The capital appeal for the St John’s Anglican Church facelift had passed $200,000 before the event on 17 June, and Reverend David Powys said he hoped it would reach almost $250,000 once donations from businesses were received.
Planning applications are about to be submitted, and include a worship centre to cater for 300 people and an education centre for church and community use while preserving the heritage church building.
Rev Powys said he hoped building would start in about 12 to 18 months.
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge was the guest speaker at the fund-raiser, and spoke about the master plans for the racing complex, which includes upgrades to the training centre.
Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon said it was inspiring to see parishioners as well as new and long-standing community members getting behind the upgrade of the church.
“The outcome will benefit the community and its youth tremendously. I applaud the work that Rev Powys and St John’s Anglican Church are doing,” Cr Stapledon said.
Donation inquiries can be directed to appeal treasurer Renice Giles on 5996 1094.