Following the detailed survey of each stone in both turrets, the project team concluded that the deterioration of the stonework was too advanced and that a comprehensive replacement was necessary.

For the past few weeks, the stonemasons have been working hard in their workshop to make new capping and merlons from carefully selected and quite large Pyrmont stone pieces from the Minister’s Stonework Program (MSP), using traditional methods and tools.

The masons created and followed templates that were based on the original 1830s profiles, replicating the turrets’ Gothic Revival detailing as originally envisaged by William Charles Wentworth and built by convict labourers.

A total of 49 pieces of stone weighing approximately 6 tonnes was delivered and craned into the worksite. Next they will be lifted up 30 metres to their final position on the west side of the house, where the intricate process of turret reconstruction will begin.