Church celebrates 70 years

The Uniting Church celebrated 70 years in Umina on November 20, according to church secretary Ms Annette Strong.

"Many stories were told, along with reminiscences and photos," Ms Strong said.

"Mrs Edith Northcott, daughter of Rev Calvert, read from her father's records that he came to lead worship in this area from 1932.

"As a retired minister, living in Hornsby, he would catch the steam train to the Coast and for three Sundays he would take it in turn to preach at Ocean Beach, Ettalong and Woy Woy and the on the fourth Sunday he would drive to Berowra to preach.

"In those days, the Peninsula Methodist Churches were part of the Gosford Parish.

"Mr Don Hunt shared memories of his parents' and grandparents' involvement in the Methodist Church.

As his father, Mr Fred Hunt, was a builder, he was very much involved in the relocation of the old buildings to Neptune St, and the continuing maintenance required.

The Methodist Church was opened in 1935, situated somewhere near the present Bi-Lo store in West St, Umina.

It was opened by Mrs Stevens, wife of the then Premier.

The wooden and fibro building served the area for many years, along with a Presbyterian Church which was in South St, near the present fruit shop.

Land was purchased on the corner of Neptune St and Ocean Beach Rd, and these two churches were moved, joined together and used as a church and a hall for some years before the current church was built and opened.

The Uniting Church was formed in 1977 when most of the Methodists, Presbyterians and Congregational church members joined together to form the present Uniting Church.

"The two old buildings were well and truly used over the years by a very large Scouting movement who used the halls at least three times a week, Alcoholics Anonymous met twice a week, playgroups were regular activities, plus a large Sunday School and youth group," Ms Strong said.

"These halls were demolished in 2000 when the current community centre was built and opened, continuing to cater to the needs of this community, in a very functional, pleasant and inspiring atmosphere."

Press release, November 23 Annette Strong