'Toowoomba's Heritage Treasures'

Appeal launched for historic hall

 

For 100 years St Luke's Church Hall has served Toowoomba as a meeting place for community events.

 

Listed on the register of the National Trust of Queensland and the Queensland Heritage Register, the hall was chosen for the book of Toowoomba's Heritage Treasures in 2008.

 

Its distinctive design came from Toowoomba architect Harry Marks and the hall was erected following the laying of the foundation stone on May 28, 1910.

 

Incorporated in Mr. Marks' design were the unusual roof-top ventilators topped with crosses which he patented and which are said to be reminiscent of Byzantine onion cupolas.

 

At 100 years old, the hall is showing some signs of wear.

 

Recent inspections have revealed the need for external maintenance, replacement of downpipes, guttering and roof sheeting as well as repainting of the exterior.

 

Inside, sections of the timber floor need attention.

 

To facilitate these restorations, a conservation appeal committee has been formed with the aim of raising $100,000.

 

Dr John Standley, acting chairman, said Environmental Resources Management Australia finalised roof repair guidelines in February this year and tenders for the work would be called as soon as funds were available.

 

The centenary appeal was launched last week at a meeting which attracted many supporters.

 

Donations to the appeal are now being sought and can be made at St. Luke's parish office, corner of Ruthven and Herries Streets.