Nestled among the rolling hills of South West Victoria, St Brigid’s Church in Crossley isn’t just a building – it’s the beating heart of a community, a testament to the resilience of Irish immigrants, and a living celebration of Irish-Australian heritage. Since the Friends of St Brigid’s Association saved the site in 2009, it has flourished as a hub of culture, history, and community. But rising costs, particularly sky-rocketing insurance premiums, now threaten the very future of this cherished precinct.
DATES & DEETS
- 01 FEB St Brigid’s Mass and get together
- 16 FEB Concert on the Hill
- 10 MAR St Brigid’s Seisiun/Session
- 18 – 21 APR St Brigid’s Music Retreat
The St Brigid’s precinct, built by Irish immigrants who settled in Crossley from the 1840s, stands as a monument to the highest rate of Irish migration outside Australia’s major cities. The influence of these settlers on local politics, family life, religion, and community spirit is still felt today, and the five-acre site of St Brigid’s church and hall is its enduring symbol.
Since taking ownership, the Friends of St Brigid’s have raised an incredible $450,000 to maintain and improve the site. Today, the precinct hosts over 150 events annually, from weddings and concerts to community meetings and birthday parties. It’s also home to the first Australian-Irish Cultural Heritage Centre, The Well of the Irish, where 430 archival items – from ceremonial robes to baptismal records – are collated and displayed for visitors and researchers.
However, the rising cost of insurance is placing an enormous strain on the entirely volunteer-run organisation. Despite their best fundraising efforts, covering basic expenses is becoming increasingly difficult.
“We need your support to continue,” said a spokesperson for the Friends of St Brigid’s. “Like so many in the community who are facing rising insurance premiums, we were amazed and saddened recently when our insurance account increased by another $28,224. This means we need to pay $2,352 per month or over $540 per week!
“When coupled with our mortgage interest, gas and electricity bills, we need to pay a minimum of $4,160 per month. That is a huge amount for our hard working volunteer group, who rely solely on income from two sources – our fundraising functions and annual memberships. Currently we are struggling to raise anywhere near that amount.”
The centre remains a hive of activity, hosting regular events like Tuesday Irish dancing, Thursday traditional music lessons, and special celebrations such as St Brigid’s Day Mass on February 1st and a music retreat in April. But to keep the doors open, the Friends of St Brigid’s are appealing for support.
How can you help? Donations, venue hire, and becoming a member of the Friends of St Brigid’s Association are just a few ways to make a difference. Tax-deductible contributions are also welcome, and every dollar goes directly to sustaining this cultural treasure.
For more information or to lend your support, visit www.stbrigidscrossley.org.au, email stbrigidscrossley@outlook.com, or call 0418 519 152.
Anglo&Celtic 