Meeting Minutes 2026

February 2026

THE ANGLICAN PARISH OF NUMURKAH-NATHALIA

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

3rd FEBRUARY 2026 – NUMURKAH

  1. Chairman: Archdeacon The Venerable Melissa Clark, welcome and opening prayers at. 2.00 pm
  2. In Attendance: Archdeacon The Venerable Melissa Clark.

Present: John Stammers, Heather Stammers, Elaine German, Barb Fischer, Olga Parry, Ken Parry, Rob Elliott, Wendy Watson, Lou Hamon.

  • Apologies.  Nil.
  • Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Parish Council Meeting 2nd December 2025

MOTION: Minutes be accepted as a true and correct record.

Moved: R. Elliott.         Seconded:  O. Parry.                                     Carried.                     

  • Business Arising:
  1. Public Meeting Nathalia. To be scheduled, and fully minuted
    1. Subdivision and sale of spare land. Public meeting required to advise on the proposed sale of Lots 4 & 5.

            5.   Correspondence.

Inwards:

  1. Archdeacon Mel Clark.
  2. Karinya: Thank you.
  3. Crimcheck.
  4. Benedictine Abbey: Order form.
  5. Bishop: Diocesan Arrangements & Leave.
  6. Brendan Prentice: Wakiti.
  7. Anglican Overseas Aid: Receipt.
  8. Vicar General: Bushfire Appeals.

MOTION: Moved R. Elliott. Second E. German That Parish donates $1000 to support bushfire victims of Yarroweyah fires through Cobram Lions.                                                                              Carried

  • Safe Church Training.
  • Palm Cross Orders: x 29

Outwards:

  1. Archdeacon Mel Clark.
  2. Brendan Prentice: Wakiti Moira Shire Rates.
  3. Benedictine Abbey.
  4. Palm Cross order form: x45
  5. Palm Cross order confirmations
  6. Registrar: Parochial Info & declarations 2026

MOTION: Correspondence inwards be accepted and outwards adopted.

Moved:    L. Hamon.  Seconded: K. Parry.                                                    Carried

  • Financial Report

MOTION: That the financial report be accepted, and accounts passed for payment,

                      Moved:   W. Watson.           Seconded:    J. Stammers.                                         Carried

7. GST Business – Move that the following fundraising activities be input taxed.

                       Catering: Nil.

                       Hall Hire: Nil.

Funerals: Nil.

Fundraising: Nil.

           MOTION: Moved that the fund-raising activities be input taxed.

           Moved:                        Seconded:                                                Carried.

8. Churchwarden’s Reports.

                       St. George’s:

  • Terry Brown (Austclean) has been contracted to clean the St George’s Church and the Hamon centre on a monthly basis. (first Thursday/Friday)
  • Maintenance of office door lock and rekeying garage door locks pending.
  • Fire extinguishers checked.

                                    Holy Trinity:

                                    No report.

MOTION: That the Churchwarden’s Reports be accepted.

Moved: R. Elliott.                 Seconded:  H. Stammers.                        Carried.

9.    Mission & Ministry.

  • We are indebted to Elaine, Olga and Heather for taking Morning Prayer on a number of occasions during the last 5 weeks when a priest has not been available.
  • Chatty Café resumes this Thursday 5th February.

10 .  Other Reports.

Safe Church Officers Report.

  • Test & Tag to be undertaken.

                        Inter Church Council.

  • World Day of Prayer March 6th St Johns.

                        Fund Raising.

  • Two street stalls, March 13th and 17th July to be booked.
  • Social Dinner to be investigated.

         MOTION: Those reports be accepted.

         Moved:      O. Parry.              Seconded:  K. Parry.                                           Carried

11.  General Business.

  1. Palm Crosses. 29 orders received for 3915 palm crosses, raising $3,500.
  2. Revd. Helen Malcolm illness. Revd. Helen now home being discharged from hospital
  3. Archdeacon The Venerable Melissa Clark to conduct services on 15th February and Ash Wednesday 18 Feb 10am at St George’s. Bring last year’s palm crosses.
  4. Sermon for Kids subscription raised.
  5. Shrove Tuesday 7pm.
  6. Mothering Sunday: Bev Patrick and Pat Simpson to be contacted re seminal cake and bouquets.
  7. Diocese meeting for Parish office-bearers and Prish Councillors Saturday 14th February 9am-3pm Wangaratta.

Meeting closed with Grace  3.10 pm.

Next Meeting:  TUESDAY 3rd MARCH 2026, 2pm at NUMURKAH.

3rd MARCH 2026

THE ANGLICAN PARISH OF NUMURKAH-NATHALIA

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

3rd MARCH 2026 – NUMURKAH

  1. Chairman: Archdeacon The Venerable Melissa Clark, welcome and opening prayers at. 2.00 pm
  2. In Attendance: Archdeacon The Venerable Melissa Clark.

Present: Ven. Melissa Clark, Rob Elliott, Olga Parry, Keith Parry, Elaine German, Heather Stammers, John Stammers, Wendy Watson, Lou Hamon.

  • Apologies.  Barb. Fischer.
  • Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Parish Council Meeting 3rd February 2026

MOTION: Minutes be accepted as a true and correct record.

Moved: H. Stammers.   Seconded:  E. German.                                    Carried.                     

  • Business Arising:
  1. Public Meeting Nathalia. Scheduled 24th February. (See 7.)
    1. Subdivision and sale of spare land. Public meeting required to advise on the proposed sale of Lots 4 & 5.

Public to be advised of a meeting 15th March 12pm via Facebook to discuss subdivision.

  • Diocesan Workshop.

          6.  Correspondence.

Inwards:

  1. Anglican Development Fund:
  2. Bond Deposit Rectory: $1,078.47
  3. Parish Centre insurance cash settlement $6,882.30
  4. Holy Trinity insurance cash settlement $14,150.58
  5. Registry: Advocate submissions.
  6. Crimcheck.
  7. Archdeacon: Rev. Barrie Slatter.
  8. Palm Cross orders:
  9. Archdeacon Matthew Healy: Diocesan Workshop.
  10. Cobram Lions Club: Thank you for donation.
  11. Michael Milne: Financial Report.
  • Registry: Trust Funds 31/12/2025

Claude Hamilton Bequest:          $4,970.99            ($5,074.38) 

Purpose: Holy Trinity’s. General. 

Mavis Rice Bequest:                     $12,909.44       ($13,177.97) 

Purpose: All Saints Barmah. General. 

Nathalia Est. M.S. Pyper:            $1,176.65            ($1,201.12) 

Purpose: For religious and charitable purposes Nathalia. General. 

Yalca Porter Bequest:     $3,478.73            ($3,551.09) 

Purpose: To benefit the Minister of the Parish. Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah L Hamon Trust:            $24,971,44       ($25,490.88) 

Purpose: Maintenance of Columbarium & gardens at St. Georges,   Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah A Heap Memorial Prize:  $3,320.97       ($3,390.05) 

Purpose: Annual gift of 2 bibles St, Georges. Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah Archibald Trust       :            $4,262.22          ($4.350.87) 

Purpose: Prize for boy and girl by St. Georges Sunday School. 

Numurkah: Lou Hamon Eucharist:            $10,623.59       ($10,844.59) 

Purpose: Maintenance of vestments, linen, vessels St Georges) 

Nathalia Term Deposit:  $27.00             ($27.56). General. 

Common Fund 4 

Sale of 44 Chapel Street Nathalia:            $158,600.99     ($161,900.13) 

Purpose: Capital works. Sale of Land. 

Sale of 2 Lawford Street, Barmah $29,841.92     ($30,462.68) 

Purpose: Capital works. Sale of Land. 

  1. Community Networking Night. Wednesday March 11.
  2. Archdeacon confirming attendance at Parish Council.
  3. Revd. Helen Malcom: Health update.

Outwards:

  1. Parish Council minutes.
  2. Palm Crosses confirmation of orders.
  3. Cobram Lions Club; Bush fire donation.
  4. Archdeacon Matthew Healy: Diocesan Workshop.

MOTION: Correspondence inwards be accepted and outwards adopted.

Moved:    L. Hamon.  Seconded:       R. Elliott.                                Carried.

  • HOLY TRINITY NATHALIA

Public Meeting held on 24th February, 2026 at10.30am

At Parish Hall, Nathalia.

Rob Elliott, Church Warden from Numurkah, opened the meeting with Prayer.

Attendance: Rob Elliott (chair), Heather Stammers (minute secretary), Helen Rankin, Wendy Baxter, Nola Smith, Mary Muntz, Fay Brown, Tony Cleave, Marjorie Smith, Vic Dohnt, Colin Crane, Ross Smith, Andre Buchner, Kaylene Sowden, Keith Hansen

Rob read a comprehensive background of Holy Trinity, Nathalia’s, struggle with only 4 regular communicants who through illness and age were no longer able to maintain weekly services and lately monthly services. Parish Council had been informed of their decision that it was no longer viable and they expressed their desire to close the Church. Although the community had been informed by word of mouth, and Facebook, they were informed that a process needed to be undertaken, including a public meeting.

Parish Council met at Holy Trinity with Bishop Clarence and Archdeacon Melissa, and the process has been followed with the wish of the Parishioners to close and deconsecrate the church being taken to Parish Council.

Finances have also been a large consideration regarding their viability.

Questions were asked as follows:

· What will happen to the contents of the Church, eg. Vestments, Vessels, Linen, Lecterns, Alter, Sanctuary Lamp, Aumbrey etc.

o Rob advised they would be kept in safe storage at St Georges after the deconsecration of Holy Trinity and donated to Parishes in need.

· What will happen to the furniture items donated to Holy Trinity by parishioners.

o Rob advised that items of furniture with a plaque will be returned to descendants. Any fixed items will need to be approved by Bishop in Council.

· Helen Schier has expressed her desire to have the stained glass window returned to her family. It was donated by her Aunt along with some other items with family names on them.

o Rob advised that that was the understood to be the process, however it will go to Bishop in Council for their decision on any permanent fixtures.

· Helen also expressed her desire to let the parishioners know that the decision was not their fault but that it was a sad time for the church.

o Rob advised that furniture with a family plaque will be given to the descendants or the plaque only.

· Will the Memorial Boards go to the RSL or the Historical Society. As this is the only Heritage listed item on the property enquiries will be made as to the most suitable place.

· Attendance Statistics were read and the average attendance was around 4 parishioners. If a combined service with the Uniting Church was held the attendance was approximately 14 (4 from Holy Trinity).

· Question from Helen and others about the future of the buildings and land. Is it possible it could be used for the community.

o Rob advised that it would not be possible as the Diocese would have to approve.

The distribution, donation or sale of the following items:-

Sketches in the Parish Centre

Honour Board of past priests

Items to be decided by Parishioners.

Rob advised that Fr Gunnar Rippon had taken services in the parish in exchange for free accommodation, however, Holy Trinity is no longer sustainable due to cost of utilities at Nathalia (approx. $5000 per year) and share of overall parish costs (including insurance, travel, ministry fund, general running expenses etc.) being at least $9000 per year. A ½ time priest plus parish expenses would cost the Parish approx. $90 – 100 k per annum and a full time priest plus parish expenses would cost approx. $140,000 k).

All agreed that if the church is unoccupied without maintenance, it would deteriorate.

Any further meetings to be advertised in The Advocate, Facebook, Local Newspapers and the Red Gum Courier (suggestion of another article about todays meeting be submitted to the Red Gum).

It was again stated that the stained glass window should go to the descendants of Mrs Schier.

Rob advised that when the property was sold 1/3 of the proceeds would be retained by the Diocese and 2/3 would be held in trust in the Diocese for ministry. Question was asked whether there is any leeway for how the parish use the money.

Mary Muntz has been given a suit case full of photos from past events. Parish to decide what will happen to them.

It was suggested that a sign on the door should be put up stating ‘No services until further notice’.

The process going forward will be that the minutes, the list of attendees and the relevant minutes will be forwarded to Archdeacon Melissa who will take it to Bishop in Council.

Helen Rankin moved that:

A vote of thanks and acknowledgement of past priests who spread the word of God, and the Parishioners and families be acknowledged for the many years of service to the Parish of Nathalia and the Nathalia community.

Seconded by Fay Brown

Meeting closed at 11.28.

MOTION: That the Parish Council request Archdeacon Melissa Clark, on behalf of the Parish Numurkah-Nathalia, respectfully request that the Bishop in Council, following the wishes of the remaining parishioners, consider the deconsecration and closure of Holy Trinity, 36 Robinson Street, Nathalia.

Moved: L. Hamon.                                   Second:  O. Parry.                                                                Carried

  • Financial Report

MOTION: That the financial report be accepted, and accounts passed for payment,

                      Moved:   W. Watson.           Seconded:      K. Parry.                                     Carried

9. GST Business – Move that the following fundraising activities be input taxed.

                       Catering: Nil.

                       Hall Hire: Nil.

Funerals: Nil.

Fundraising: Show Us Ya Wheels. $800, Palm Crosses.

           MOTION: Moved that the fund-raising activities be input taxed.

           Moved:   L. Hamon.               Seconded:   J. Stammers.                 Carried.

10. Churchwarden’s Reports.

                       St. George’s:

Revd. Helen Malcolm illness/return

Community meeting re Holy Trinity closure – occurred last Tues 24 Feb

Thankyou to Show Us Ya Wheels for $800 donation.

Letter of thanks be forwarded to Show Us Ya Wheels

                                    Holy Trinity:

MOTION: That the Churchwarden’s Reports be accepted.

Moved: R. Elliott                  Seconded:  E. German.                            Carried.

11.  Mission & Ministry.

  1. Fr Barrie Slatter to conduct services during Lent.
  2. Thank you letter Cobram Lions for donation to Yarroweyah bush fire relief.
  3. Home Communion at Nathalia to be considered.

12 .  Other Reports.

Safe Church Officers Report.

  • Test & Tag to be undertaken.

                        Inter Church Council.

  • World Day of Prayer March 6th St Johns 10.30am.

                        Fund Raising.

  • Moira Shire has approved 2 street stalls – 13 March, 17 July at the Community Kiosk, Numurkah. Extra help needed with baking.
  • Social Dinner to be investigated.                              

MOTION: Those reports be accepted.

         Moved:  H. Stammers.                  Seconded:    W. Watson.                             Carried

13..  General Business.

               1. Holy Trinty inventory (see attachment).

2.  Palm Crosses. Orders for 6,170. Manufacture commenced.

3. Shrove Tuesday – thanks to pancake makers

4. Mothering Sunday – flowers and simnel cake. Pat Simpson & Bev Patrick contacted.

5. ANZAC Day wreath laying. Win Knight unable to continue.

6. Beanies for Mission to Seafarers to be made again.

Meeting closed with Grace   2.53 pm.

Next Meeting:  TUESDAY 7th APRIL 2026, 2pm at NUMURKAH.

7th APRIL 2026

THE ANGLICAN PARISH OF NUMURKAH-NATHALIA

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

7th APRIL 2026 – NUMURKAH

  1. Chairman: Churchwarden Rob Elliot welcomed those present and led an opening prayer at. 2.05 pm
  • Present: R. Elliott, W. Watson, J. Stammers, B. Fischer, O. Parry, K. Parry, L Hamon.
  • Apologies.  H. Stammers, E. German.
  • Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Parish Council Meeting 3rd March 2026

MOTION: Minutes be accepted as a true and correct record.

Moved: W. Watson.      Seconded:  J. Stammers.                               Carried.      

  • Business Arising:
  1. Public Meeting: see Mission & Ministry.

          6.  Correspondence.

Inwards:

  1. Numurkah Secondary College – ANZAC Day
  2. Archdeacon Mel Clark: Public meeting
  3. Thanks for notification of palm cross order dispatch x 14
  4. Bush Church
  5. Archdeacon Mel Clark: Bishop in Council meeting.
  6. Archdeacon Mel Clark: H.T. Deconsecration.
  7. Revd. Helen Malcolm: Update.
  8. ACNC: Annual Statement required.
  9. ACNC: Annual Statement submitted.
  10. Bishop: Letter.
  11. Anglican Church of Australia Directory.
  12. Jack Clark: Local school Chaplain.
  13. Crimcheck.
  14. Anglicare.
  15. Palestinian Christians in Australia.

Outwards:

  1. Parish Council Minutes
  2. Archdeacon Mel Clark: Public meeting report.
  3. Notification of palm cross order dispatched x 39
  4. Letter of thanks: Dean Graham, Show Us Ya Wheels
  5. Letter of thanks: John Decker, palm cross organisation.
  6. Letter of thanks: Pat Simpson, Mothering Sunday bouquets.
  7. Letter of thanks: Bev Patrick, Mothering Sunday simnel cake.
  8. Registrar: Synod representatives nominations & certificates.
  9. ACNC: Annual Statement.

MOTION: Correspondence inwards be accepted and outwards adopted.

Moved: L. Hamon.      Seconded: O. Parry.                                                   Carried.

  • Financial Report

MOTION: That the financial report be accepted, and accounts passed for payment,

                      Moved:   W. Watson.           Seconded:     K. Parry.                                    Carried

9. GST Business – Move that the following fundraising activities be input taxed.

                       Catering: Nil.

                       Hall Hire: Nil.

Funerals: Lucy Pope. 27th March.

Fundraising: Street stall, Palm Crosses.

           MOTION: Moved that the fund-raising activities be input taxed.

           Moved:   L. Hamon.               Seconded:   J. Stammers.                 Carried.

10. Churchwarden’s Reports.

                       St. George’s:

Rectory back fence repairs needed; neighbour contacting Tristar Fencing.

                                    Holy Trinity:

                        Nil.                             

MOTION: That the Churchwarden’s Reports be accepted.

Moved: R. Elliott.                 Seconded:  B. Fischer.                             Carried.

11.  Ministry & Mission.

  1. PUBLIC MEETING HELD 15th MARCH 2026, HAMON PARISH CENTRE NUMURKAH

Present: Rob Elliott (chair), Lou Hamon (minute secretary), Elaine German, Glenda Elliott, Heather Stammers, John Stammers, Rob. Watson, Pat Petzke, Win Knight, Beverley Patrick, Leonie Decker, Susan Slatler, Barb Fischer, Barrie Slatler.

Churchwarden Rob Elliott chaired the meeting.

Rob Elliott opened the meeting explaining the background to the Concept Development and Investment Potential from the Diocese re surplus land at St. George’s Numurkah.

Discussion ensued with the following questions and points raised.

  • Liability of infrastructure costs of water, sewerage, power and fencing.
  • Concept acceptable due to maintenance of grounds required.
  • Question whether the land is zoned Residential.
  • Possibility of subdividing into one block to attract a higher price.
  • With local knowledge, question the valuation by Diocese Real Estate Agent.
  • Questions re disbursement of funds raised by sale.
  • Question re the availability of sewerage to block.

MOTION:  Endorse Bishop in Council suggestion that land be subdivided and sold.

Moved: Beverley Patrick, Seconded: Elaine German.         Carried.

Archdeacon Ven. Melissa Clark.

16th March 2026

I can answer some of the questions for the congregation: 

The liability of costs falls to the parish but the diocese can probably assist with a loan until sale (this will need to be confirmed by the Bishop though).  An approximate cost of up to $40,000 has been suggested by the agent.

It is currently zoned commercial zone 1 but there are other residential blocks in the same area, that have also been subdivided, so there is precedence for this kind of thing. 

The Diocese has secured the services of the one agent – they have experts all around the state – the price may seem on the lower side as the valuation is about 12 months old now, and they have quoted all properties on the conservative side I’ve noticed. 

Disbursement of fund are the same as Nathalia would be.  One third goes to the Diocese, two thirds in trust within common fund 4, from which up to 80% of 80% of the quarterly interest can be drawn for the parish to pay for ministry support. 

This matter is on the agenda for the meeting on Thursday so hopefully I’ll have two lots of good news for you on Friday!

20th March 2026

Great news for you – the two motions for the parish: the church in Nathalia and the block in Numurkah, went through Bishop in Council unopposed.  

This means that the church I still technically open until we have a date for deconsecration, but it is definitely on the way to being resolved.  When I have a date for you I’ll let you know so we can advertise this final and significant event. 

24th March 2026

I had a meeting with the bishop today and we talked about having the deconsecration service at Nathalia on Saturday 9th of May at 11am.  This is not official yet, as the Executive committee need to sign of on it, so please don’t advertise yet.

This is purely for parish council to put it (quietly) in the parish diary.

I’ll be able to officially confirm this after the 23rd of April when the Executive meets. 

  • Deconsecration of Holy Trinity Nathalia.

        Possible date Saturday 9th May 11am. To be confirmed. See above.

  • Beanies are being kitted by some members of Chatty Café for Mission to Seamen
  • Chatty Café to hold their next meeting in the Hamon Centre on Thursday 16th April, 10:30am.
  • Process of distributing funds donated to Cobram Lions for bushfire relief effort started.

12 .  Other Reports.

Safe Church Officers Report.

  • Test & Tag to be undertaken.

                        Inter Church Council.

  • Ecumenical Dawn Service Easter Day.

                        Fund Raising.

  • Street Stall 13th March very successful raising $1,222.
  • Social Dinner to be investigated.                              

MOTION: Those reports be accepted.

         Moved:  O. Parry.                 Seconded:  K. Parry.                                            Carried

13..  General Business.

               1.  Palm Crosses. 43 orders 7,400 palm crosses raising $6350

  • payments received.

2    Welcome back to Rev Helen; much appreciation for her ministry during the last few days of Lent and Easter.

MOTION: That a motion of thanks to Rob Elliott be recorded for his work during Lent and Easter in preparing the services.

Moved: L. Hamon   Seconded: W. Watson.

3   ANZAC Day wreath – Pat Simpson will make the wreath, Wendy Watson to lay the wreath.

4   Thank you letter to Barrie Slatter?

MOTION: Moved a letter of thanks be sent to Revd. Barrie Slater for conducting five services at St. George’s.

Moved: R. Elliott.     Seconded: J. Stammers.                                   Carried.

Meeting closed with Grace at  2.48  pm.

Next Meeting:  TUESDAY 5th MAY 2026, 2pm.

5th May 2026

THE ANGLICAN PARISH OF NUMURKAH-NATHALIA

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

5th MAY 2026 – NUMURKAH

  1. Chairman: Ven Melissa Clark, Archdeacon.
  • Present: Ven. M. Clark, H. Stammers, J. Stammers, E. German, R. Elliott, W. Watson, B. Fischer, L. Hamon.
  • Apologies.  O. Parry, K. Parry.
  • Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Parish Council Meeting 7th April 2026

MOTION: Minutes be accepted as a true and correct record.

Moved: J. Stammers.              Seconded:  R. Elliott.                         Carried.

  • Business Arising:
  1. De-Consecration of Holy Trinity, Nathalia.
    1. Rectory fence. Awaiting repairs.

          6.  Correspondence.

Inwards:

  1. Archdeacon Mel: Apology.
  2. NCLS: Church Life Survey.
  3. Archdeacon Mel: De-consecration draft service.
  4. Victorian Energy compare.
  5. Crimcheck

Outwards:

  1. Parish Council Minutes
  2. Numurkah Secondary College: ANZAC Day.
  3. Pat Simpson: Letter of thanks.
  4. Archdeacon Mel: De-consecration draft service.
  5. Rev. Barrie Slatter: Letter of thanks.

MOTION: Correspondence inwards be accepted and outwards adopted.

Moved:   L. Hamon.               Seconded:       W. Watson.                                   Carried.

  • Financial Report

MOTION: That the financial report be accepted, and accounts passed for payment,

                      Moved:   W. Watson.           Seconded:    H. Stammers.                                   Carried

8. GST Business – Move that the following fundraising activities be input taxed.

                       Catering: Nil.

                       Hall Hire: Nil.

Funerals: L. Haack.

Fundraising: Palm Crosses.

           MOTION: Moved that the fund-raising activities be input taxed.

           Moved:   L. Hamon.                           Seconded:   R. Elliott.                             Carried.

9. Churchwarden’s Reports.

                       St. George’s:

Rectory back fence repairs needed; neighbour contacting Tristar Fencing. Not sure where we are at with this.

                                    Holy Trinity:

            De-consecration:

 . Marj Smith to do the reading and psalm

· Nola Smith to read the intercessions

· Nola & Marj have chosen the hymns – Nola to play

· 4 people to receive the symbols from the Bishop at the end of the service – Nola, Marj & 2 others

· Heather & Elaine helped Nola prepare the hall for the lunch

· The vessels and other valuable items to be removed to St George’s after the   service, at Nola’s request

MOTION: That the Churchwarden’s Reports be accepted.

Moved:  R. Elliott.                Seconded: W. Watson.                            Carried.

10.  Ministry & Mission.

  1. De-consecration Holy Trinity.
  2. Beanies update. Four knitters busy.

11.  Other Reports.

Safe Church Officers Report.

  • Test & Tag to be undertaken.
  • Zoom meeting 7th May with Safe Church Officers.

                        Inter Church Council.

 Met 4th May welcoming Fr. Andrew Fewings from St Johns.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity to be condensed to one day, Day of Pentecost Sunday 24th

May 2pm Uniting Church.

                        Fund Raising.

         Nil

MOTION: Those reports be accepted.

         Moved:   J. Stammers,                                        Seconded:  E. German.                                  Carried

12.  General Business.

               1.  Palm Crosses:  35 invoices paid, 6 unpaid invoices amounting to $895.

2. Advertisement and article re deconsecration of Holy Trinity in Red Gum Courier last Friday and in Numurkah Leader this week (hopefully)

3. Enquiry re availability of Rectory for rent. Bishop and Diocese to be consulted.

Meeting closed with Grace at 3.10  pm.

Next Meeting:  TUESDAY 2nd JUNE 2026, 2pm.

2nd JUNE 2026

THE ANGLICAN PARISH OF NUMURKAH-NATHALIA

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

2nd JUNE 2026 – NUMURKAH

  1. Chairman: Rob Elliott welcomed Parish Council members
  2. Present: Rob Elliott, Wendy Watson, Keith and Olga Parry, John and Heather Stammers, Barb Fisher, Elaine German
  • Apologies.  Ven. Melissa Clark, Lou Hamon.
  • Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Parish Council Meeting 5th May 2026

Amendements to minutes – Finance report to reflect that the Gas expense was actually Electricity.  Amendment to Finance Report moved by Wendy Watson and seconded by Elaine German to be accepted.                                                           Carried

MOTION: Minutes accepted as a true and correct record.

Moved: John Stammers          Seconded: Olga Parry                           Carried.

                                    Ratification of discussion at meeting of parish councillors on 24 May

                                                Proposal to rent the rectory to Carly Gittens for a period of 6 months from

June 13, $350 /week. McNamara’s to be contacted to arrange lease agreement, to be countersigned by Julie Torpey (registrar). Rob Elliot to contact McNamaras.

Smoke alarms to be checked, gas heater to be serviced, laundry door to be fixed: Heather & John Stammers to follow up.

Back fence and side gate latch to be repaired: Rob Elliott to contacted Tristar Fencing. 

Phone line to be connected to the church office: Rob Elliott to contact Telstra.

Rectory to be cleaned: 10am Thursday 4 June working bee.

Pews from Holy Trinity for sale: $200 each

                                    MOTION: That the decisions at the meeting be formally approved

                                    Moved:  Elaine German         Seconded:  Keith Parry               Carried.

  • Business Arising:
  1. Deconsecration of Holy Trinity, Nathalia.
    1. Rectory fence. Deposit paid. It will be repaired next week. Side gate latch needs replacing.
    1. Updated finance report for April

          6.  Correspondence.

Inwards:

  1. ACNC: Newsletter.
  2. AVCCS: Volunteers needed.
  3. Archdeacon Ordinary: Advocate submissions.
  4. Archdeacon Mel Clark: Thank you.
  5. The Abbey: Anglican retreat centre.
  6. BCA.
  7. Love Our Lifestyle: Community Networking.
  8. Palm Cross reminders response.
  9. Registrar/Bishop: Re rental of rectory.
  10. Anglican Grants for Good.
  11. Numurkah Trade Group: Test & Tag Report.
  12. Ian Duncum Consulting – (unsubscribed).
  13. Moira Shire: Request to determine Rateability 7 Brenion Street.

14. Registry: Trust Funds 31/03/2026

Claude Hamilton Bequest: $4,779.98 ($4,970.99) 

Purpose: Holy Trinity’s. General. 

Mavis Rice Bequest: $12,410.80 ($12,909.44) 

Purpose: All Saints Barmah. General. 

Nathalia Est. M.S. Pyper: $1,131.21 ($1,176.65) 

Purpose: For religious and charitable purposes Nathalia. General. 

Yalca Porter Bequest: $3,344.38 ($3,478.73) 

Purpose: To benefit the Minister of the Parish. Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah L Hamon Trust: $24,006.87 ($24,971.44) 

Purpose: Maintenance of Columbarium & gardens at St. Georges,

Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah A Heap Memorial Prize: $3,192.70 ($3,320.97) 

Purpose: Annual gift of 2 bibles St, Georges. Perpetual, income only. 

Numurkah Archibald Trust : $4,097.59 ($4.262.22) 

Purpose: Prize for boy and girl by St. Georges Sunday School. 

Numurkah: Lou Hamon Eucharist: $10,213.24 ($10,623.59) 

Purpose: Maintenance of vestments, linen, vessels St Georges) 

Nathalia Term Deposit: $25.95 ($27.00). General. 

Common Fund 4 

Sale of 44 Chapel Street Nathalia: $152,374.77 ($158,600.99) 

Purpose: Capital works. Sale of Land. 

Sale of 2 Lawford Street, Barmah $28,689.22 ($29,841.92)  

Purpose: Capital works. Sale of Land.

15.  Powercor – interruption to power at Holy Trinity

16.  Love Our Lifestyle: Community Connections Night – reminder & invitation

17.  Acknowledgements of overdue Palm Cross invoices – various

18.  Anglischools Ed 68; May 2026

Outwards:

  1. Parish Council Minutes
  2. Palm Cross invoice reminders x7

MOTION: Correspondence inwards be accepted and outwards adopted.

Moved: Rob Elliott                 Seconded: Olga Parry                         Carried.

  • .  Financial Report
  1. Investment account at Bendigo Bank is due.  Moved Wendy Watson, Seconded Elaine German that the investment be rolled over for a further 12 months at 5.1%
  2. All Palm Cross invoices have been paid.

MOTION: That the financial report be accepted, and accounts passed for payment,

                      Moved:   W. Watson.           Seconded:   Keith Parry                       Carried

8. GST Business – Move that the following fundraising activities be input taxed.

                       Catering: Nil.

                       Hall Hire: Nil.

Funerals: Nil.

Fundraising: Palm Crosses.

           MOTION: Moved that the fund-raising activities be input taxed.

           Moved:   Rob Elliott               Seconded: John Stammers                                     Carried.

9. Churchwarden’s Reports.

                       St. George’s:

Vagrants overstayed their welcome in the Parish Centre, police involved to move them on; some theft occurred; vacuum cleaner and coffee plunger to be replaced.

Archdeacon Mel contacted re rental of rectory; approved by Bp Clarence.         

McNamara’s contacted re rental of rectory. Management authority sent to Diocesan registrar, lease agreement sent to Carly Gittens

Relocation of phone and internet to church office is pending.  Phone to be transferred to Office.  Problem with NBN/Internet access.  Rob to contact Ryann Miller (Phone Tech at Anglican Church of Australian) to seek assistance with managing NBN.

Hire a skip to dispose of unwanted items in the shed.  John to contact Cleanaway or Foote Waste.

                                    Holy Trinity:

Deconsecration service 60+ attendees, ‘light’ lunch followed the service:

Vestments, linen, silverware and brass moved to St George’s for safe keeping.

6 pews to sold at $200 each; awaiting collection.

Holy Trinity pew cushions relocated to St George’s (18 pews).

A number of hymn books donated to Nathalia Uniting Church.

Banner stitched by Barbara Schier given to Helen Rankin (daughter).

Church is heritage listed which may delay sale and removal of stained-glass window.

MOTION: That the Churchwarden’s Reports be accepted.

Moved:  Rob Elliott              Seconded:  Elaine German                      Carried.

10.  Ministry & Mission.

  1. Deconsecration Holy Trinity 9th May

Article sent to Red Gum Courier – published 29th May edition: great support from the Red Gum Courier for the initial Community Meeting, announcement of Deconsecration date and report of Deconsecration service.

  • Beanies update. Knitters busy, others being recruited.  Approx. 20 made so far.

11.  Other Reports.

Safe Church Officers Report.

  • Test & Tag complete. Need to dispose of unwanted/unused items.  Can be disposed of in the Skip
  • Smoke alarms in rectory checked by HomeSafe

                        Inter Church Council.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was condensed to one day, Day of Pentecost Sunday 24th May 2pm Uniting Church.

                        Fund Raising.

                        See Finance Report and General Business

MOTION: Those reports be accepted.

         Moved:    John Stammers                       Seconded:  Keith Parry            Carried

12.  General Business.

  1. Palm Crosses:  All invoices now paid.
  2. Rental/Lease request for Holy Trinity Hall.  Bron Bramwell inquired about use of hall for Pilates classes.  As there is no guarantee of long term use as it may be sold Bron decided not to go ahead.
  3. Synod report:   See addendum

Meeting closed with Grace at  3,10pm.

Next Meeting:  TUESDAY 7th JULY 2026, 2pm.

Addendum

The First Session of the Forty Second Synod report

John and Heather Stammers represented the Numurkah Parish.

First Day:

Officers at Synod appointed, Business of the Synod, Financial Statements for the previous year, Notices of Motions tabled and the auditors report, Financial Advisors report and the Property Advisor spoke about the vacant properties.

Bishops Charge – copies available

Motion proposed regarding the Viability of congregations – proposed that properties no longer in use and vacant land assist Parishes who are no longer viable with less than 10 regularly attending worshippers and no less than $10k pa contributed to the parish’s finances.    See copy of legislation on notice board.

Moved Rev Scott Jessup Seconded Melissa Clark

Report on AngliSchools (Rev Peter Lawrence – CEO).  Schools in 3 states, 4 in our Diocese.  A new AngliSchool to be built in Ballarat.

Reports from various organisations.

Obituaries (see Notice Board)

Cathedral Eucharist.  Guest preacher Rev Peter Lawrence

Dinner

Second Day

Further discussion on Viability of congregations.  Another point added

  • That Synod recognises that this is Gods Church and work amongst us to revivecongregations.