Tradesmen were inspecting the structural integrity of the building on Monday to determine what works would be required to fix the 151-year-old structure.

"We are having a close inspection of the fabric of the tower so we can ascertain its current condition and create a scope of work that needs to be done," Very Reverend Elizabeth Dyke said.

"We are checking the structural integrity of the building so we can safely ring the bells because at the moment we can only chime them."

Read more: Bendigo asked to help restore St Paul's Cathedral

The cathedral went though a period of disuse several years ago when the building was deemed not safe for patrons to use. The congregation instead had to worship in an adjacent hall.

But after years of fundraising from the Bendigo community, the building was restored and the congregation returned to the cathedral in June 2016.

"All of the works that were done some years ago have created a very safe and beautiful building for us now," Dean Elizabeth said.

"We sometimes have a some drops from the roof when we have a lot of rain but that doesn't happen too often.

Read more: St Paul's Cathedral congregation marks 150th anniversary

"But it is a point of sadness for us that we can't use fully use the bells that we have and share their joyful sound with the rest of the city."

Dean Elizabeth said the restoration works for the tower could cost in excess of $200,000.

"My task now is to make sure that the tower is safe and that we can return the crosses to the top of pinnacle," she said. "It is work that we can use National Trust Donations for.

"So if any of your readers were so moved to assist us with donations, that would be welcomed. We are also having a dinner dance in November as part of our fundraising."

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