Oh, what a day!

Sunday, 3^rd May 2026 saw the cottage officially opened for visitors, and what a day it was! Over 100 people gathered to celebrate the official opening and completion of the conservation. Members of the Rechner family came from far and wide, joining interested locals and members of Strait Gate congregation.

The day began with a well-attended Service of Thanksgiving, where Pastor Wally Schiller spoke about GJ Rechner’s legacy of service and his love for people, and encouraged us to carry those qualities forward in our lives. At the conclusion of the service, Robyn Reuther, our chairperson presented the congregation with a copy of Lee Boehm’s fascinating story, “The Journey”, about the early German pioneers who came to Light Pass.

After the service, people gathered outside the cottage. Robyn welcomed everyone and Barossa Mayor Bim Lange (who is passionate about local history) spoke about the importance of preserving these wonderful old buildings. Then, in a highlight of the day, Pastor Tom Reuther spoke and unveiled the sign. At 97, he is one of the oldest members of the Rechner family and is well-acquainted with the cottage, having grown up in the manse at Light Pass in the 30’s and ‘40’s. He has been a great supporter of the conservation efforts, and it was such a joy for him to see it completed – he did not think he would see the day in his lifetime!

After Mayor Lange ceremoniously opened the doors, people explored the cottage and loved seeing the work that had been done. I think everybody felt the magic of this special place, and the connection it gives us to the people who were here before us.

After morning tea, Catherine Baldwin (our secretary) gave a presentation showing the process of the conservation. She highlighted the work that was undertaken, some of the challenges faced, and the reasons behind the decisions and choices made.

Family photos and lunch concluded the day. All those that were able to stay for lunch really enjoyed catching up, and there was a happy buzz of conversation in the hall. The day was marked by a celebratory air. Even the weather stayed kind – the wind nearly blew us away at times (particularly during the family photos – there was no point doing your hair beforehand), but it didn’t rain and it wasn’t cold.

All in all, a wonderful day!

Thanks to Strait Gate congregation and Chairman Mick Seelander and his wife, Lynn, for making us all so welcome.

You can view and download family photos and other photos of the day here.

 

We have so many people to thank for making the conservation possible. Our funders: Heritage SA, Barossa Council, Kate and Tony Rechner, Peter Lehmann Arts and Education Trust Our heritage builder, Andrew Steinkopf, for his enthusiasm for the project and the application of his skill and knowledge, which allowed our vision to become a reality. Hosking Willis heritage architects Sam Kroepsch photography, for such an excellent job of documenting the conservation throughout the process, taking photos on the opening day, and for putting together the video tour of the cottage. All the volunteers who have helped with pugging, limewashing and groundworks. Special thanks to Greg Kretschmer, Cameron Grant and Ev Leske, for going above and beyond with paving, earthworks, pugging, limewashing, oiling, and numerous other jobs. Darlene Cooper of Luhrs Cottage, for showing people around Rechner Cottage and sharing information about Light Pass for the website. Strait Gate congregation for their support, and for allowing us to dig up and take over sections of their churchyard!  Dave Lehmann for donating the wines for our Rechner fundraising wine sales. ·Everyone who helped through donations, and by purchasing wine, books and footings.  And all of you who showed interest in the project and encouraged us along the way. It has absolutely been a team effort, and without everyone’s contributions it would never have been possible to        achieve what we all have done together. Thank you!