Proving he is more adept with a sermon than a sledgehammer, Archbishop Glenn Davies has removed the first brick as the Moore College site is prepared for its major rebuilding project.

The old red brick building at Number 1 King Street is coming down to make way for a new purpose-built facility including a library, more teaching areas, research and study spaces and a large assembly hall enabling the entire student body to come together in one space.

Dr Davies joined the principal Dr Mark Thompson and ceremonially took a sledgehammer to the steps of the old Master Builders’ Association building, purchased for the college in the late 1970s and in constant use since then. Calling the project “one of the most important in the Diocese today” Dr Davies said, “It is time for us to recognise and address the substantial deficiencies in our facilities so that we can provide up-to-date learning, teaching, research and study facilities that will serve the global Christian community for generations to come”.

The Archbishop has also called for donations to the “Being Moore Capital Campaign”, which has already raised $14 million of the $ 20 million required. As the project has progressed, the floor plan has been refined to increase the useable floor area, while reducing the overall cost by 22 per cent.

“This is a moment for great thanksgiving to God,” Dr Thompson told Southern Cross. “These new facilities – including more community space, more learning space and space for the faculty to be all located together – are desperately needed. Under God’s good hand we grew out of our existing facilities long ago. Now, through the generosity of his people, we are able to take a giant step forward where it is most needed.”

With demolition now underway, it is anticipated the new building will be opened by July 2016. 

Photo: Archbishop Davies takes to the old Moore College building with a sledgehammer