More than $186,000 raised in St John’s Church fundraising appeal for church repairs

MORE than $186,000 has been raised through St John’s Church fundraising appeal at Pinjarra to help protect a piece of Murray’s history.

Shire president David Bolt said the significant amount of money had been raised over just two months, a tangible representation of the significance of the church and churchyard to the community.

“Not only has the Murray community rallied but also members of the public from further afield including several other States, further demonstrating the importance of the Pinjarra icon,’’ he said.

Cr Bolt said the building had been secured under public ownership, thanks to the Anglican Diocese of Bunbury and the Pinjarra Anglican Church community.

The appeal including a quiz night, raffle and tax deductible donations was launched in May to raise $400,000 for restoration works, particularly the repair of roof damage.

The quiz night earlier this month was a sell-out with 274 participants raising $7650.

More than $4900 was raised through the raffle.

Donations are still welcome and can be made through the appeal web page at savestjohns.com.au

The Shire of Murray has also committed $50,000 towards the appeal.

Funding support from government agencies will now be sought for the remaining amount.

Once restored, the building will be made available for community, tourism and education opportunities.