The restoration of Kiama’s oldest operational building, and the first permanent church of any kind built in the Illawarra, is nearing completion, despite almost $50,000 more being needed to finance the project.

“Our fundraising campaign raised about $105,000 [the majority from Church member offerings] which is excellent,” says Cliff Mason.

“With the $100,000 NSW Government grant, we have been able to cover all but about $48,000 of the total cost, the latter coming out of Church funds.

“We are hoping Kiama Council may see its way clear to making a donation towards retaining Kiama’s oldest building, but that remains to be seen. Private donations are still welcome.”

The old Lecture Hall now has a new roof and gutters, new hardwood flooring, new ceiling sections, new skirting boards and ducted air conditioning. A damp course has allowed all salt to be removed from walls, and  re-plastering and painting.

The exterior is now closer to the original colour.

The front doors are yet to be replicated and a new kitchenette installed.

Details: Contributions can be direct deposited to the following Westpac account: BSB 032689 A/c 220359 or send a cheque to the UCA—Kiama Heritage Restoration Fund to PO Box 140, Kiama