Did they really have to move an entire church? Look at Saint Gabriel’s. It’s a beautiful brick structure, standing proudly at the corner of Spring and Viola Streets. You might not guess it, but this church wasn’t always here. Saint Gabriel’s actually began its life in Preston. Back in 1925, the original wooden Sacred Heart Church was deemed surplus to requirements. So what did they do? They moved it. Piece by piece, they transported it here to Reservoir. Can you imagine the logistical puzzle? The disruption it must have caused? No wonder the local council vowed never to allow a church to be transported down High Street again. This new home was blessed by Archbishop Mannix in 1926, reborn as Saint Gabriel’s. But a growing parish needed more than a relocated church. In 1960, this very building was erected, a solid testament to faith and community. So, as you stand here, admiring its modern design, remember that woven into its very foundations is the spirit of a much older church, moved piece by piece, carrying with it a history of devotion that continues to resonate today.
Kororoit Creek
Is this where the river meets the sea? This is Kororoit Creek. It flows right here through Melbourne’s western suburbs