Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology
The Honourable Robert Schwarten

Thursday, November 05, 2009

CHURCH BELLS RING OUT AGAIN IN INNISFAIL

The bells of the Mother of Good Counsel Church in Innisfail will ring again today after a government grant helped fund its restoration.

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten said the Queensland Government matched the Cairns Diocese’s contribution of $19 250 toward the restoration work through the Community Memorials Restoration Program.

“As a memorial, the church has had a strong connection with the Innisfail community since 1928 and we are pleased to contribute funds to maintain it,” Mr Schwarten said.

“The Community Memorials Restoration program provides dollar-for-dollar assistance to help local government, parishes and community organisations to restore memorials and monuments of historical or social significance.”

“In its three years of operation, the program has brought to attention Queensland’s rich history by preserving more than 250 memorials across the state.”

Mr Schwarten said reflecting on the state’s history had been an important part of Queensland’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

“The Mother of Good Counsel Church is a significant structure which was completed in 1928 and is one of a number of important buildings providing a prominent contribution to the townscape of Innisfail.

“In 2006 Cyclone Larry extensively damaged part of the church and destroyed the bell ringing mechanism. Subsequently the bell was removed for restoration.

“With a newly installed bell mechanism, the ringing of the church bell will reintroduce a lost sound to Innisfail.”

Mr Schwarten said the architecture of the church was designed to withstand the cyclonic climate.

“The simple Gothic details of the church are typical of the inter-war style, featuring pinnacles and lancet windows with no intricate molding or tracery.

“The structure innovatively employs structural concrete as a decorative material strong enough to withstand most inclement weather.

“I am glad this funding has allowed some of the ‘battle scars’ of Cyclone Larry to be repaired.”

The Community Memorials Restoration Program is managed by the Department of Public Works.

Media: Minister's Office 3237 1184

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