An Ash Wednesday commemorative service will be held at Mount Macedon Uniting Church on Thursday, February 16, on the 40th anniversary of one of the most devastating fires to tear through the region.
Starting at 7pm, the service be led by theologian Reverend Dr D’Arcy Wood, and Reverend Jeanne Beale from the Presbytery of Port Phillip West to provide a reflection.
“The Uniting Church in Mount Macedon was one of the …buildings and other property destroyed in Macedon and Mount Macedon on that day,” church chairperson Neil Tweddle said.
“Seven people died in Macedon and Mount Macedon. Only the stone walls of the church remained after the fire. Insurance was insufficient to rebuild.
“With faith and drive, the congregation decided to rebuild. Massive support poured in from congregations, individuals and organizations across the state, Australia and internationally.”
The church reopened just 14 months later, and a memorial cairn was built in front of the church. The church’s cross was made out of the iron bracing from the old building’s roof trusses.
Also on February 16, Country Fire Authorities are organising a community gathering in Centennial Park, Mount Macedon Road at 5.30pm.
“We will remember and reflect on the events on that terrible day 40 years ago,” Dr Tweddle said.
The Mount Macedon Group of Fire Brigades encouraged attendees to bring a picnic basket and to come along to “meet, share, remember and commemorate” the event, paying tribute to those who lost their lives.
“Those that want to can then walk across the road to church for the evening service,” a Woodend CFA Facebook post said.
