MOMENTUM is building on the planned refurbishment of the historic Parish Hall on Thursday Island with the Restoration Committee now seeking an ‘honorary project manager’ to get the ball rolling.
The co-chairperson of the Parish Hall Restoration Committee, Chris Lemke, said public feedback had been fantastic but it was now time to get an idea of what the restoration will actually entail.
“We’ve had a very positive response but before we can go to council [for approvals] we need a project manager to put together the finer details,” Mr Lemke said.
“It will have to be someone who is qualified in undertaking this type of remedial work, maybe a builder who is looking to put something back into the community or a retired person who has experience in something like this.”
Local companies and organisations have jumped at the opportunity to help – Sea Swift has offered to transport goods free of charge and CEA Pathways training organisation has committed to $10,000 worth of materials and labour. There has also been more than $6000 donated to date.
“All the government departments and training organisations have been very positive because it’s a practical and reasonable project for them,” Mr Lemke explained. “And the Church is happy to oversee the project without having any direct input as long as we stick to their guidelines.” 
The Parish Hall Restoration Committee has been overwhelmed by the positive response to the project.
Although the hall belongs to the Anglican Church, Mr Lemke emphasised that all community members are welcome to be involved in the restoration, as it will be a valuable community asset once completed. In addition, funds raised by the PHRC will only be used on expenses directly associated with the hall’s restoration.
Persons interested in being the project manager can attend the next PHRC meeting on Thursday morning at 8am at the Grand Hotel restaurant, or contact Danica Lemke at the Office of Warren Entsch on 4069 1393 from 10am-2pm Monday-Friday.
Contributions of labour and materials will be gratefully accepted, and financial donations can be made at the TI branch of the NAB, or by direct deposit (BSB 084-951 Account 142-116-121).
