BONVILLE was the destination for John Burgess, his wife Agnes and their eight children when they moved from the south coast.

In 1903 he had bought neighbouring portions 13 and 46, of 100 and 98 acres respectively, portion 46 wrapping around the eastern and southern border of portion 13, with Bonville Creek forming their northern boundary.

The family ran the local post office along with their farm and soon became involved in local community groups, officially taking ownership of their land in December 1908.

John finished a new residence in late August 1908, then fourteen months later donated all of portion 46 to the Anglican church, the transfer being finalised in January 1911.

To build a new church fundraising began, which included flower shows, dances, costume parties and jumble stalls.

Meetings were held to arrange construction and in July 1914 John cleared scrub and undergrowth near the church site for the laying and blessing of the foundation stone on 26 August 1914.

Complete with the Coffs Harbour choir in a white-robed procession with the clergy, the block was laid and church title revealed as the Church of the Holy Faith, followed by a sermon by the Venerable Archdeacon Seymour and a supper in the Bonville Hall.

Tenders were called for the church’s construction in mid-1915, however WW1 halted progress. Tenders were again called in 1921, however the successful tenderer, Mr W Jacobs withdrew for health concerns.

After a four-month delay Messrs Patterson and Mathie’s tender was accepted and work began in May 1922.

There was seating for 80 people, featuring a Sanctuary with splayed ends and gothic windows with cathedral glass.

Expected to open by mid-May, fundraising continued to furnish the church.

The first wedding in the church was between Miss Susie Williams of Bonville and Mr James Kelsall of Coffs Harbour and in accordance with church tradition, were presented with a family bible at the conclusion of the service, which was held on 11 November 1923.

By Karen FILEWOOD