Runnymede Cottage maintenance requires funding

Runnymede Cottage was probably built as Runnymede’s kitchen wing, either as part of the house’s original construction in 1838-40 or as part of Bishop Nixon’s additions in the 1850s. It has been extended, most recently by the National Trust in the 1960s. In the early 20^th century the Bayly sisters, requiring additional income leased it as separate accommodation, a use that has continued. Runnymede Cottage’s 1940s-50s tenants included the family of ABC broadcaster and writer, Tim Bowden.

Runnymede Cottage has suffered from damp. Engineer, Peter Spratt carried out an engineering assessment of Runnymede Cottage and found that wall cracking revealed pressure of a slumped roof on the walls. Water has been coming in through broken chimney flashings. The bowed sitting room floor reflects a rotted-out joist. A heritage builder has provided an estimate of $170,000 for works to strengthen and replace the roof and address subfloor issues. The Trust is seeking to raise funds for these repairs.

Prelude Composer in Residence Program

The Peggy Glanville Hicks Composer’s House in Paddington NSW has achieved Australian Government funding to roll out its Prelude Composer in Residence Program to Tasmania. The Trust would like to host this at Runnymede, with the guest composer living in the Cottage and using the piano in the house for site-specific work and house concerts. It is anticipated that the composer will work with Tasmanian orchestras and musical ensembles.

If you would like to contribute to the activation of our heritage through the preparation of Runnymede please donate via EFT to the National Trust of Australia (Tasmania) account. BSB: 017-042, Account number: 497-823-327. Narration: RM Cottage + [your surname]. Please contact the Trust via admin@nationaltrusttas.org.au for your tax-deductible receipt.