Yambuk community and parishioners bid a fond farewell to its Catholic church

At its first mass in 1932, it was reported there was standing room only, and at its final service on Sunday morning, there wasn’t an empty pew.

The Yambuk community and parishioners from across the district and the state bid a fond farewell to the church, with hundreds attending the uplifting mass to say goodbye. 

Father Bill van de Camp said it was a sad day for the town.

The church is closing due to declining attendance numbers and structural issues. 

“It’s not the end of our faith, it is a turning point in our faith,” Father van de Camp said.

“We will continue wherever we may worship.”

Yambuk parishioner Ann Sinnott said it was an historic occasion for the town.

“The church was able to be built due to donations and fundraising efforts of locals, who organised Saturday night dances, euchre and other card games, an annual Catholic ball and Yambuk race meetings at St Helens,” she said. “It was a huge effort due to the times and one which paid off as the church was virtually debt free when it opened.” 

At the first service Ave Maria was sung, and Edwina Moutray sang it at the final mass on Sunday. 

Long-time parishioner Bernadette McInerney had attended the church all of her life, and came to say goodbye.

“I have been coming here since I was a wee child,” she said.

“I feel sad about the church closing.”

Kathleen and Kevin Regan also made it to the last mass, after celebrating their 65^th wedding anniversary in January.

Graeme and Doreen Theisz came for the goodbye celebrations from Bulleen in Melbourne.

Mr Theisz’ grandfather constructed the church.

At that time he moved his family from Northcote to Yambuk while construction was underway.