Next week, the Regent Theatre in Edwardes St is set to receive major roof restoration works to ensure its long-term preservation for the community.
Pastor Chris Taylor said RoofPro of Echuca will begin work on Monday.
“They will replace much of the original 1956 corrugated iron roof and guttering, which covers a 40mx17m section of the building,” he said.
“Inspections revealed significant rusting at the corrugated iron sheet overlaps, with one major leak already recorded.
“The project is essential to protect the theatre’s interior heritage features and safeguard its use for decades to come.”
The work is expected to take only one week to complete, depending on the weather.
The church advises that during this period, access to Wyse Lane beside the church and parts of the George St car park behind it may have restricted vehicle and pedestrian access.
The Regent Theatre sits within Deniliquin’s Heritage Conservation Area and has long been a cultural touchstone for the town.
Originally opened in 1956 as a picture theatre, it later served as a roller skating rink, art gallery, gymnasium and video hire shop.
Since 2006 it has been home to Deniliquin Baptist Church, following major renovations and a rededication service.
In addition to weekly worship, the theatre now hosts weddings, funerals, concerts and community events free of charge, making the upcoming roof works vital for its ongoing role as a public space.
Deniliquin Baptist Church has been serving the region since 1963.
Its wide range of activities includes Sunday services with a Kids Church program, a fortnightly youth group, Lego Club during school terms two and three, small groups for adults, pastoral care and community outreach such as Easter in the Park and the upcoming One Day of Wonder children’s holiday program on September 30.
“The church is committed to being a Safe Church, ensuring all people — children, young people and vulnerable adults — feel welcome and cared for,” Pastor Taylor said.
“Deniliquin Baptist Church welcomes both locals and visitors to its programs and services.”
For more information, call 5881 5580 or email mail@denibaptistchurch.com. You can also learn more by going to www.denibaptistchurch.com or following Deniliquin Baptist Church on Facebook.