Convent gets a facelift
ONCE known as the Grand Old Lady of Pittsworth, a former convent building has been granted a new lease of life - on the Sunshine Coast.
The St Stephen’s Parish Centre, formerly the St Joseph’s Convent building, had been at 26 Weale St, Pittsworth for 96 years before it was sold and relocated in 2012 because the parish could not pay for its upkeep.
Now, the building that was once falling into disrepair has been renovated into a stately five bedroom home on the Maroochy River, with a $2.15 million price tag.
Set on six hectares of riverfront, the former convent features 600 square metres of internal space and verandahs, soaring ceilings, a country style kitchen, saltwater pool, and much more.
The building was once listed in Pittsworth Shire Council’s planning scheme as a place of high heritage significance, and holds a special place in the hearts of many in Pittsworth.
Some had wanted the historic building to remain in the town, but the St Stephen’s Parish had been unable to afford the maintenance costs of keeping the building, and a full restoration was out of the question.