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
