“We’re a welcoming congregation” is how members describe Malvern Hill Uniting Church. This church stands proudly on the corner of Malvern Avenue and Murray Street in Croydon. It represents a significant part of the Malvern Hill Estate. This estate was a “choice part” of Croydon in the early 20th century.
Malvern Hill Uniting Church, originally a Methodist church, has a rich history. The foundation stone was laid in November 1911 by Mrs. F. Cull. News of the Churches reported this event in the Australian Town and Country Journal. Construction finished and the church opened its doors in 1912.
Alfred Newman designed the attractive red-brick Federation Gothic style building. Newman was a prominent architect. His design adds to the unique character of the Malvern Hill estate. The estate itself emerged from a 1909 subdivision. Before that it was known as Gads Hill. Gads Hill already boasted rich colonial architecture.
The Intercolonial Investment Land and Building Company subdivided the land. They wanted to create a “model suburb”. Strict regulations governed the development. The Burwood Council wanted a salubrious residential suburb. They wanted to avoid commercial activity among the houses.
Malvern Hill stands as a testament to town planning ideals. The 1906 Local Government Act gave councils power over new developments. Malvern Hill estate was the first large area in Burwood developed under this act. The council ensured wide streets and proper drainage. Buildings had to be brick or stone with slate or terracotta roofs. No semi-detached or terrace houses were allowed. Commercial activity was limited to The Strand.
The Strand served as the shopping strip for the new suburb. It provided a transition between the railway station and the residential streets. Canary Island date palms once lined the streets. Today only six survive on Lea Street.
Malvern Hill never became a suburb in its own right. It remained part of Croydon. However its church post office shopping precinct and high-quality housing set it apart. The National Trust recognized its heritage value in 1981. The area gained legal protection in 1986.
Today Malvern Hill Uniting Church continues to welcome worshippers. It draws upon traditional liturgy. The congregation meets every Sunday morning. They also enjoy morning tea after the service. You can even join their services online. The Malvern Hill Uniting Church stands as a proud landmark. It reflects the suburb’s unique history and architectural heritage.