St Marys Roman Catholic Church

This beautiful masonry church facing Adelaide Street illustrates a number of stages of construction dating to 1869, when it faced Bazaar Street. It replaced an 1858 timber church which doubled as a school house. Maryborough grew substantially following the 1867 Gympie gold discovery. The diocese commissioned Brisbane architect Charles Tiffin to design a new permanent church. The foundation stone was laid on 29 July 1869 and the church opened on 4 February 1872. The style was described as Early English, with brick and stone detailing, and a steep gabled shingled roof. Interior changes made in 1877 included a new high altar. In 1884, architect FDG Stanley prepared plans for major structural alterations, including the extension of the nave and the erection of a large chancel. Local builder Fritz Kinne completed the contract in May 1885. Another significant redesign and reconstruction occurred in 1936. The length of the building was again extended, and north and south chancels added. The exterior was rendered, and a new entrance formed off Adelaide Street. Lead-lights were installed throughout the church, featuring Australian motifs alongside familiar religious imagery. Minor changes have been made since 1936, ensuring the church’s longevity for the Maryborough community.