News Corp Australia Network

No.52a-54 Church St, Ross. Picture: Supplied

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A STONE Midlands building dating back to the 1880s is in need of a new custodian.

This fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture at No.52a-54 Church St in Ross has a long history as a place of worship, although not in recent years.

Formerly home to the Uniting Church in Australia, the last congregation was about five years ago.

EIS Property senior consultant Deb Stephens said since then it has been open to the public for visitors to enjoy the beautiful architecture and the solitude of this landmark property.

No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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Mrs Stephens has sold a number of former churches this year, but she expects this one to be different.

“I’m expecting this one will generate a huge amount of interest,” she said.

“Perhaps more than the others because of the sheer size and stature, the prominence of the location and its beauty.

“This church has been a standout historical attraction for the Ross township. And it is the first time it has been on the market.”

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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The 221sq m church was built from sandstone and timber, and is set on 6020sq m of land.

Mrs Stephens described it as one of Tasmania’s finest examples of the craftsmanship of a bygone era dating back to 1882.

“It has incredible scale, proportions and architectural features — it takes your breath away,” she said.

“The timberwork and the timeless elegance of vaulted Oregon pine ceilings will delight architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.”

There are polished floorboards throughout most of the building, an octagonal spire, Tasmanian blackwood pews, a gabled slate roof, Horton window and stained glass windows.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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No.52a-54 Church St, Ross.

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The church is Heritage Listed.

The property’s Community Purpose zoning allows for a number of potential uses, including emergency services, community meeting and entertainment, education, business and professional services, food, general retail, residential, or a tourist operation. Some will require permits and will be open to objection.

Should the next owner wish, Mrs Stephens said a cafe would be perfect for this property’s next chapter.

No.52a-54 Church St, Ross will be sold via expressions of interest over $450,000. It will be open for inspection this Saturday, November 18, from 1pm-2pm.