Renovations connecting history and community

RENOVATIONS are well under way at St Andrews Portarlington Uniting Church, with modern facilities expected to open later this year.

The project combines restoration and renewal, aiming to preserve the historic character of the church while creating welcoming, multi-purpose spaces for the congregation and wider community.

Located on Fisher Street, the much-loved building is known for its striking geometric stained-glass façade, which has been a landmark in Portarlington’s townscape for many years.

The upgrades will see the distinctive features carefully protected while new sections of the church are designed to flow seamlessly from the original structure.

A spokesperson for the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Uniting Church in Australia, said the works were part of a wider commitment to ensuring historic sites remain active and accessible.

“The congregation of St Andrews Portarlington has worshipped on the land since around 1873,” the spokesperson said.

“This restoration and extension project is about preserving the character of the church building while creating new community spaces.”

The redevelopment will include an extension that provides modern amenities, flexible activity spaces, and improved accessibility features, ensuring the building can meet present and future needs.

During the renovation period, Sunday worship services have been temporarily relocated to the Portarlington Guide Hall.

The church community is looking forward to returning services to the building later in the year, celebrating both the completion of the renovations and more than 150 years of continuous ministry in the town.