July 2024 Update

Our Refurbishment Project continues to make steady progress. The Property Development Committee assisted by Paul, our Project Manager, meets weekly to keep the Project on track. Erica, our Architect, is working with the dozen or so sub-consultants to complete the Preliminary Design drawings, which should be completed shortly, and to prepare documents for the District to supplement the re-zoning and subdivision application of our land for sale.

In the last few weeks, the energy consultants conducted a blower door test to estimate our current energy usage, and the structural engineers measured the dimensions of the structure and beams to check loading (see photo – they hired a personnel lift, which we also used to change the lights in the sanctuary), the geotechnical engineers drilled core samples of soil to check the foundation conditions (see photo above). Our heritage consultant completed a “statement of significance” report (requested by the District).

In late June we completed a preliminary application for possible funding through the Federal Government’s GC Wood program, which promotes the renovation of timber buildings, although we have yet to hear if we need to submit a more detailed application. St Catherine’s has begun to draw down the Diocesan bridging loan to make progress payments to consultants and the PDC has prepared a quarterly report to the Diocese to keep them advised of our progress. We have also continued discussions with real estate agents on strategies for the sale of the church land. All-in-all, it’s been a very busy couple of months – many thanks to all involved in this endeavour!

Text and photos by Chris Wensley