IT took just 30 minutes but attracted interested onlookers and a semi-nervous architect.
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On Monday, the restored two-tonne Murphy Bell was lifted some 30 metres by crane into the Sts Peter and Paul’s Old Cathedral bell tower.
The event was just one more milestone in the Cathedral’s restoration.
Operators of a Hollingworth crane had a few false starts when it was discovered counter weights placed above the bell were too heavy for the lift.
Once removed, the operation went smoothly.
Earlier, workers had prepared the way.
Mary Queen of Apostles property supervisor Brian Watchirs said scaffolding and steel had been erected that morning to support the tower, allowing the bell to be “dropped in.” Once above the tower, workers delicately manoeuvred it inside and secured the structure.
The work will allow the bell to sound once again after many years.
The Cathedral purchased the piece in 1869 from the Murphy of Dublin foundry.
Architects in recent years discovered it was installed incorrectly and ringing it actually caused a safety concern; the tower was leaning toward Verner St as a result.
The tower walls and footings are now underpinned.
Clock Tower Services of Gosford, under the able hand of Tim Tracy, has been restoring the bell. It has involved abrasive blasting to clean the structure, powder coating, patina coating, replacement of the headstock with laminated jarrah, a new bell wheel and installation of an electromagnetic bell hammer.
Mr Watchirs said the parish would probably secure an automatic striker but the bell could also be rung manually. Once operating, the city will hear its angelic sound every day at noon for the angelus and six in the evening.
With this milestone out of the way, stonemason Ron Lodewijks’ attention is turning again to the tower.
Over the next five weeks, 20 tonnes of new sandstone will replace worn pinnacles and parts around the base. Some of this is handcrafted, ensuring it is in sympathy.
“We’re retaining as much of the old stone as possible, as long as it is in good order,” Mr Lodewijks told the Post.
The spire, which workers will soon copper clad, will be lifted into position in mid January.
Also watching yesterday’s proceedings were architect Garry Dutaillis, who was thankful the bell didn’t crash through the Cathedral’s slate roof, avid photographers and onlookers, including a parishioner who was married in Sts Peter and Paul’s in the 1940s.