Windows to the Past: A Buckland Church Heritage Talk

Step into the rich past at St John the Baptist Church, Buckland—one of Tasmania’s most evocative historic churches. The historic Buckland Church has belonged to the community since December 2022. Friends of Buckland Church (FOBC) are a secular, not for profit, registered charity with the purpose of the conservation of this historic and architecturally significant site.   As part of the 2026 Australian Heritage Festival, FOBC are pleased to present this guided talk and tour, which reveals the beauty and significance of its remarkable stained glass windows, including the famed image of John the Baptist, alongside its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture crafted from local sandstone.

The talk and tour will be delivered by Warwick Oakman, whose deep knowledge will bring the site to life. The tour will also explore the layered history of the church and its community.   Warwick Oakman is a Tasmanian based architectural historian and third generation dealer in antiques. He advises the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery on Colonial Furniture and art, The Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts and Tasmanian National Trust.

Visitors will encounter an extraordinary collection of historic chattels—from original furnishings to rare artefacts—offering a tangible connection to 19th-century colonial life. This experience brings together art, craftsmanship, and storytelling in a uniquely atmospheric heritage setting. 

Refreshments will be served at the Buckland Community Hall after the talk and tour ($5 per person), with all proceeds to the Buckland Church restoration fund.