Pioneer Chapel

This building, the former Methodist (Wesleyan) Church, was the first public building in the South Gippsland hill country.

It was constructed in 1878 by Mr. Lawrence Holmes, an Early Pioneer of the district, total cost was £95.

The timber was sourced locally and was “pit-sawn” at a site directly opposite to the Church.

The first service was conducted by the Reverend J.C. Symons on Sunday 3rd November 1878.

This Church was let to the Education Department for School purposes in December 1878 until a school was built in 1882.

The transept was added in 1890 and the Choir gallery was added in 1905.

There have been various Family bequests and dedications throughout.

Weekly services were held here until 1981 : from 1878 to 1970 as a Methodist Church, 1970 to 1977 in conjunction with the Presbyterian Church and 1977 to December 1981 as a Uniting Church until the present Uniting Church was opened.

A History of the Church to 1977 “A Heritage of Worship” was written by Mr. Cedric Hartnell.

The property then came up for sale and was purchased by the Poowong Historical Group in 1982 in memory of the Pioneers of Christian Worship in this District. This was made possible through donations by members of former Methodist families and other interested donors, many of whom had left the district. The family of the late Mr. and Mrs. G.C. Hayler, a former Post Mistress at Poowong, also contributed most generously.

Under the management of the Poowong Historical Group, the Pioneer Chapel has hosted numerous events such as Weddings, Musical Recitals, Concerts and Film presentations.