The large crane was used by the workers to assess whether the recent earthquake had affected the spire of St Joseph's church in Warrnambool.

A church spokeswoman said in addition to assessing whether there had been damage caused by the earthquake, the workers would have a chance to assess its overall condition.

Last week Father John Fitzgerald revealed the spire had been fenced off due to "safety concerns".

Father John Fitzgerald said the historic spire stone surface was assessed last year and the church was told it needed to be replaced in the foreseeable future.

Following the recent earthquake, although barely felt in Warrnambool, it was decided to take a "very cautious approach" and have the spire reassessed just to be sure it was not adversely affected.

"The consultant believes that whilst the structure is solid and strong, a significant seismic event may affect its structural integrity," Father Fitzgerald said.

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