St Mary's Chapel - Christian Brother's Agricultural School

Parent Place or Precinct

01672 Christian Brothers' Agricultural School Group

Statement of Significance

St Mary's Chapel is an integral part of the Christian Brothers' Agricultural School and has been the centre of religious life at the Tardun school since its opening in 1962. The building is a prominent feature of the southern elevation of the precinct and has landmark qualities owing to its elevated position and commanding views over the surrounding countryside.

Physical Description

St Mary's Chapel is situated to the south side of the Main Building and physically connected by a first floor walkway. The rendered brick building is in the Romanesque style, with a rounded apse, small low level transepts and sacristy. The main entrance faces north and has a light brickwork surround with the foundation stone located to the right side. The side walls have four intermediate pilasters between the parapet end walls. The vertical arched windows have stained glass, with a blue cross dominating each design, mostly obscured by the shade awnings. Internally the chapel has seating for 176 people and the choir gallery holds 60 persons. The sanctuary floor is terrazo and the body of the chapel features a parquetry timber floor. (Refer to the conservation plan for a detailed description of the building)

History

Between 1930 and 1942 Chapel was conducted in one of the bungalows erected by the Brothers in the complex. Then, following the arrival of over 150 evacuees in 1942, the recnetly opened recreation hall was used as a Chapel. St Mary's Chapel was designed by P. Sinnicco and built by Sinnicco and Muchino. Bishop F.X. Thomas, the newly consecrated Bishop of Geraldton, blessed and opened the Chapel on 18 August 1962. (Refer to the conservation plan for a detailed history of the building)

Integrity/Authenticity

Original Fabric: Largely intact

Condition

Good

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.