St Mary’s

South Brisbane’s St Mary’s Catholic Church. A grand old lady, you might think, with all the stories she could tell. And you’d be right. She’s seen South Brisbane grow from a sleepy riverside village to the bustling heart it is today. Right here, where we stand, was once just a humble wooden chapel, built back in 1865 when South Brisbane was finding its feet. But as the city boomed in the 1880s, so did South Brisbane. The little chapel struggled to hold the growing congregation. A decision was made: a new, grander church was needed. This church, St Mary’s. Designed by the renowned architects, Simkin and Ibler, St Mary’s was meant to be a masterpiece. A soaring tower, grand transepts, a magnificent chancel – the works. But fate, it seems, had other plans. The grand vision was hampered by a series of economic crises. This beautiful church you see before you? It was opened in 1893, still incomplete. The tower, transepts, and chancel – never built according to the original plan. It wasn’t until 1929 that a permanent sanctuary was finally added. Yet, this seeming setback adds to St Mary’s charm. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the community and the enduring power of faith. Over the years, St Mary’s has been a beacon for Brisbane’s immigrant communities. The Lebanese, Italians, Dutch, Polish, Lithuanian, and Slovenian – all found solace and a place to worship within these walls. It speaks to the inclusive and welcoming spirit of this church, echoing the very essence of its namesake, St Mary. Take a moment to admire the simple yet elegant design. The Romanesque and Renaissance revival elements whisper tales of a bygone era. They’re a reminder of the rich tapestry of history woven into the very fabric of St Mary’s.