Standing proudly on Brunswick Street is St Michael’s War Memorial Church. Its bricks whisper tales of remembrance and architectural ingenuity. This church is more than just a building. It is a living memorial to those who served in the World Wars.
St Michael’s War Memorial Church has stood here since 1958-59. Conrad and Gargett, a Brisbane architectural firm, designed it. They created a space perfect for Queensland’s climate and location. The church stands on a busy street.
Anglicans have gathered on this very site since 1891. Initially, they worshipped in a timber building. It served as a church, hall, and Sunday school. This was always meant to be temporary. By 1921, the congregation sought a permanent masonry church. An appeal was launched in 1923, but construction stalled.
Before the new St Michael’s War Memorial Church could rise, the old timber church had to move. In 1948, land was purchased on Balfour Street for relocation. The old church was moved 150 feet via a ramp in July 1954. A brick hall was built beneath it.
The vision for St Michael’s War Memorial Church was to honor those lost in the World Wars. The Archbishop laid the foundation stone in 1957. Archbishop Halse dedicated it on Palm Sunday, 1959.
Conrad and Gargett’s design considered the Queensland climate. French doors open onto wide verandahs. High windows provide natural light and breezes. People often comment on the church’s acoustics. It is surprisingly quiet inside despite the busy road. The 300-seat St Michael’s War Memorial Church cost approximately 30,000 pounds.
One unique feature is the 54-foot carillon. It incorporates the original New Farm fire bell. This bell once alerted the community to fires. Now, it calls people to worship. It reminds them of the importance of faith.
Inside St Michael’s War Memorial Church, you will see more links to the past. Marble from St Paul’s Cathedral in London surrounds the Aumbry. This marble survived the bombing during the Battle of Britain. The altar is also marble. It was donated in memory of Rev. Cecil Brook. He was the church’s Rector from 1945 to 1955.
Reflecting its purpose, a columbarium rests at the rear of St Michael’s War Memorial Church. It is a wall with niches for the ashes of the deceased. A large poinciana tree connects the church to the rectory visually.
The current rectory was built in 1958. It replaced an older one damaged by fire. Today, it houses offices for the New Farm Home Assist-Secure Service.
The St Michael’s War Memorial Church itself is simple. Its design incorporates a gabled building, transepts, and a carillon. The exterior features orange face brick and rendered trims. The church’s steel frame and high-level windows fill the nave with light. Arcaded verandahs line the sides.
St Michael’s War Memorial Church stands as a local heritage place. It meets criteria for historical, rare, social, and historical significance. It is a place where the past and present connect. The church serves as a lasting tribute to those who sacrificed for our freedom. It is a place of peace and reflection in the heart of New Farm.