Roof replacements, refurbishments and lighting upgrades are just some of the maintenance requests that come across Bryan Pead’s desk.
As Newcastle Anglican’s Manager of Minor and Major Works, Bryan oversees every project across all property assets within the diocese, Samaritans, Anglican Care, and Newcastle Anglican Schools.
He says there is a key ingredient in handling such a large portfolio.
“High level communication is one of the most valuable tools you can have,” he says.
“I try and form a relationship with all key personnel within Newcastle Anglican where they know they can call me anytime, even weekends, if they have an issue.”
Bryan has worked on several high-profile projects in the diocese since joining Newcastle Anglican two years ago.
A roof replacement at St Peter’s Anglican Church in East Maitland proved to be a highlight.
“St Peter’s was a high-risk project, with working at heights one of the risks,” he says.
“It was complex, and we needed to provide detailed documentation to accompany the development application.
“Safe Work Australia completed a random visit during the construction phase and found the contractor was completing the works in a safe manner and gave it the tick of approval.
“The chosen contractor was professional and worked long days and weekends to ensure the works were complete as there was a wedding scheduled that could not be changed.”
With another successful year winding down, Bryan has set his sights on a couple of key projects in 2025.
There are plans for building alterations, additions and upgrades at All Saints Anglican Church in New Lambton, while work has been scheduled to fix storm damage at the iconic Christ Church Cathedral.
Building a reputation
Bryan’s reputation in the parish space has been recognised by many, including Bishop Charlie and Bishop Sonia.
They paid tribute to his work across both coastal and inland parishes.
“Bryan has a fine-tuned ear for what parishes are hoping to achieve,” Bishop Charlie says.
“He is not daunted by delays and complications but remains focused on solutions.
“Many parish officers have expressed appreciation for Bryan’s no-nonsense way of seeing a build, a repair, an approval or a remedy through to a satisfying outcome.”
Bishop Sonia added some parishes even referred to him as ‘Saint Bryan’.
“From early on, his business experience and eye for detail has enabled parishes to make good decisions and saved a few projects quite a bit of money by sorting out the weeds from the wheat,” she says.
“He is engaged, gets on well with people, and they really trust him.”
