Information

Built 1892, the architect was Simkin and Ibler. The Catholic Church opened a timber school/chapel on the site in 1866. Saint Mary Mackillop and a small group of Josephite nuns taught there from 1870 but replaced by Sisters of Mercy in 1890. Presbytery added in 1892 and this Italian Renaissance-style church was blessed in 1893. A new primary school opened in 1909, with the 1866 building becoming the infant’s school. A convent was added in 1915. The church was properly completed in 1929 by a new Sanctuary. St. Mary’s School closed in 1964. The convent closed in 1968. Postwar, the parish developed a migrant/refugee focus and it is renowned for its social justice activism.

Citations

Maggie Boyle, TAKE A WALK AROUND ST MARY’S SOUTH BRISBANE -part of Brisbane’s history since 1864, (Brisbane: St Mary’s Community and Brisbane City Council, 2003)

Image Citations

Map References

QSA. QSA Series 1748 Moreton District, County of Stanley Maps – A1 Series. 120 links to the inch. Burns, Philip & Co’s, and Hancock’s Wharves, Parish of South Brisbane, County of Stanley. 120 links to the inch. Survey Office, Brisbane. (quarter-size). 620436