First Tasmanian Anglican Church property listed as part of the sexual abuse redress scheme sells

St Mary’s Anglican Church Hall, in Gretna in the Central Highlands, is the first Tasmanian Anglican Church property to sell as part of the redress scheme.

The sell-off of church assets will fund a contribution to the National Redress Scheme for survivors of sexual abuse in their institution.

A number of the major churches and charities, including the Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, the Uniting Church, the Salvation Army, the YMCA and Scouts Australia signed up to the scheme.

St Mary’s Anglican Church Hal was snapped up by a local buyer, who paid over the $180,000 asking price.

The historic property, 60 kilometres from Hobart, was built in 1927 and, unlikey many churches, is divided into five rooms.

Elders Brown and Banks real estate agent Chris Johnston suggested it can be made liveable by simply adding a shower bay and washing machine.

The kitchen area opens to a living room with windows overlooking a large farm dam. This lounge area has a large two sided fireplace which is shared with the main hall area.

"The property like most of its era is solidly built and I am told the window frames are celery top pine, a timber often used for boat building due to its durability," the marketing advised.

Johnston told the local paper the property attracted keen interest, including the accepted offer from a North-West Tasmanian couple.

The redress scheme began in July last year.