Benedict House remains an iconic part of Qeanbeyan’s historic precinct. The heritage listed building is now part of a new documentary film The Eulogy about child prodigy Geoffrey Tozer.
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Tozer played with the Victorian Symphony Orchestra at just nine years old. At 13 he became the youngest recipient of a Churchill Fellowship.
The building featured in the film thanks to its connection to two former Labor Prime Ministers, Ben Chifley and particularly to Paul Keating.
Its connection with Mr Keating ensured Benedict House became a key film location in the new music documentary film.
Mr Keating is rumored to have been involved in the buildings renovation and apparently wanted to turn the building into a music school,
Tozer is remembered as a virtuoso pianist and improviser with an international career that saw him lauded around the world.
However, in his native Australia the musician struggled to achieve recognition, despite patronage from then Treasurer Paul Keating.
Mr Keating delivered a famous euology at his memorial service in 2009, which as the title suggests becomes a focus for the film.
Mr Keating said Tozer “deserved to be remembered alongside the Australian triumvirate of Nellie Melba, Percy Grainger and Joan Sutherland".
Aside from serving as a recent film set Bendeict House, built as a convent in 1866, has seen various incarnations as a boarding school, cafe, gallery, and for short-term accommodation.
The 150 year old building is currently for sale for $1.8 million. A new use for Benedict House is likely to be announced soon.
Current owner and local artist Kate Shelton is set to enjoy one last hurrah at the films official opening and says Benedict House is a much-loved part of the Queanbeyan community.
Shelton says, whatever the future, she would urge whoever the new owners are to only “touch it softly” and ensure Benedict House retains its connection with the local community.
The Eulogy is set to open in Melbourne later this month before being generally available for public viewing.