St Mary of the Angels stands as a cornerstone of Geelong’s architectural and cultural heritage, its towering bluestone spire marking it as one of the most significant ecclesiastical structures in the region. As the second largest church in the Archdiocese after St Patrick’s Cathedral, it has been a defining landmark since its completion in 1937, faithfully adhering to its original 19th-century design despite decades of evolving needs and structural challenges.

With time, the effects of age and adaptation have necessitated careful restoration to safeguard its integrity while sensitively enhancing its functionality for contemporary use. Entrusted with this critical work, FPPV is leading the comprehensive refurbishment of St Mary’s, ensuring that its historical fabric is honoured while employing modern methodologies to amplify its architectural beauty.

Key restoration efforts include the meticulous repointing of the external masonry and spire, reinstating the original organ in its rightful place within the gallery, and returning the interior’s richness through carefully curated lighting, material refinements, and detailing enhancements. A renewed altar, crafted from salvaged panels of the historic pulpit—a memorial to Monsignori Benson, whose vision brought St Mary’s to completion—will stand as a testament to the community’s deep respect for its past.

Further upgrades encompass the restoration of the encaustic and tessellated flooring, the revival of the early painting scheme, and the refinement of entrance transitions with frameless glass screens to improve accessibility and weather protection. Every intervention is designed to harmonize with the church’s legacy, creating an inspiring and welcoming space that meets present-day needs while paying homage to the generations who shaped this sacred site.

With this restoration, St Mary of the Angels will continue to serve as a beacon of faith and heritage for the Geelong community, seamlessly bridging history and modernity through thoughtful conservation and design.