In a hidden grove among the glossy glass and steel of the new Canberra, a tiny corner of the disappearing old Canberra still remains.
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In fact, it's a part of pre-Canberra: St John's Anglican Church was built in 1841.
This venerable piece of history is about to have a new roof. One aspect of modernity has caught up with it - asbestos, which is to be replaced by Welsh slate at a cost of $300,000.
"There was this new super-beaut material out and which would absolutely do the job. Unfortunately, it was asbestos tiles," said the Reverend Paul Black, Rector of Canberra.
The original wooden roof was replaced by the deadly substance in 1960 and it's stayed there ever since. Now, it's deteriorating state means replacement can't be avoided. A storm could blow it down and send the shards into the air.
The vicar of the church, the Reverend Black, says all contributions will be gratefully received. Some of the money to raise the roof has already been raised but more is needed. By the way, he's called the Rector of Canberra because when Canberra was created, he was the only rector around.
"St John's is a typical English village church," he said, "and through a quirk of history they literally put the national capital around us."
And it's true, to walk into the darkness of the nave, with the light streaming through the stained east window, is to be transported across time and space to another century and another hemisphere.
As the new federal capital grew, what started as a village church became the place of worship of Governors-General, military leaders, politicians, public servants and people throughout Canberra.
There are the regimental colours of the British red coats on the wall.
"It is a hidden gem," said the Reverend Brown. "We've got some of the oldest examples of Australian stained glass windows.
"It's a very beautiful church inside. It's a holy space."
But why have Welsh slate which is expensive and from the other side of the world?
"I'm told it's one of the best slates in the world. When this roof goes on I'm told it will last for another 100 years," said the vicar.
"Also I'm told that Australian slate is not thin enough."