St Hilary’s

Have you ever heard of a church roof collapsing not from age, but from the weight of a flood? St Hilary’s Anglican Church here in Melbourne has a story to tell. St Hilary’s isn’t just one building, it’s a network of churches, a community that stretches from Kew to North Balwyn and Mont Albert North. The heart of it all is here, in this beautiful building that almost met a tragic end. This St Hilary’s was built in 1939. It replaced an older wooden structure that couldn’t be consecrated because, well, it wasn’t made of stone. Can you imagine the disappointment of those parishioners? They finally paid off their church debt, only to be told a wooden church wasn’t good enough for consecration. But this building, the one we stand before, faced a different kind of challenge. In 2021, the roof collapsed. It wasn’t just old age, though – it was a flood on top of the building that brought it down. The repairs were estimated to cost over a million dollars. The resilience of St Hilary’s community shone through, and they restored their beloved church. However, fate had another challenge in store. Just a few short years later, in early 2025, a devastating fire broke out, causing significant damage to the main building, the kitchen, and the connecting sections. Despite these trials, St Hilary’s continues to thrive, a testament to the strength and dedication of its congregation. As you continue your journey through Melbourne, remember the story of St Hilary’s – a story of resilience, community, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.