In 1936 the former Beaconsfield Primitive Methodist Church, built in 1883, was moved by bullock team to Sandy Beach (later known as Beauty Point). The building had not been used for worship since Methodist Union in 1902.
The relocated church was officially opened and dedicated on the weekend of March 20-22, 1936.
The Methodists of Beauty Point had taken some time to find their feet. In 1936 the Hobart Mercury reported on this progress:
“A Methodist Trust at Beauty Point was formed a few months ago, and, as a result of their deliberations, a church hall at Sandy Beach has been erected, which it is felt will supply a long-felt want of this seaside community. The new church hall, which is nearing completion, is a strong weatherboard structure 50ft. by 36ft., and will have a fine entrance porch, 12ft. wide, made with concrete pillars and Gothic window”.
On Sunday, March 15 this year the now Beauty Point Uniting Church held a special 90th anniversary service in the form of a traditional Harvest Thanksgiving. Guest preacher was the Moderator of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Rev Salesi Faupula, who also presented Certificates of Recognition to Emerita Elders Beryl Nielsen and Frances Seen, and dedicated a wall hanging created for the occasion by a member of the congregation’s craft group.
A lace-edged communion cloth originally made by the late Kathleen Pryor was also re-dedicated.
Guests included past and present members, members of the West Tamar parish and Georgetown congregation, representatives of the Presbytery of Tasmania, local State Members of Parliament, the mayor and a councillor of West Tamar Council and the general local community.
The church was filled with the sound of joyful singing. Attendees were invited to take home harvest goods on display, for a donation to Scripture Union for the Beaconsfield Primary School chaplaincy.
Following the service guests were treated to a barbecue lunch prepared by members of West Tamar Rotary. A display of artefacts and historical documents was curated by Jillian Buck.
