A building that moved twice

On the site of the Historic Village at Coopers Settlement stands an unassuming building. It was a billiards parlour in Fairfield, built around 1908. The exact location is unknown. In September 1928, the building had its first move. It travelled from Fairfield to Rathcown (then Rathgowan) Rd Reservoir for a very different purpose.

The building was used as a chapel at the Reservoir Baptist Church. There it stood until 1988. A committee set up for Bundoora Park Farm wanted to establish an historic village, ‘to benefit present and future generations’ (Cr. John Hall). Preston City Council provided a grant of $5000 to cover the cost of the move. The building was restored as it was in a worn-out state.

Park site for the Church that was Billiards Parlor (1988, 31 October). Preston Post Times, p.

Sands and McDougall’s Melbourne and Suburban Directory 1864- 1974.[Microfiche]. (1974). Melbourne, Australia : Sands & McDougall