Christ Church

Perched atop a gentle hill, overlooking the serene landscape of Illawarra, stands the enchanting historic chapel, a testament to the craftsmanship and devout spirit of its founders. Constructed of sturdy bluestone walls filled with rubble, the chapel bears the unmistakable imprint of Gothic architecture, a style revered for its soaring arches and intricate detailing. It was Captain Edward Dumaresq, a man of profound religious conviction, who assumed the mantle of overseeing its construction on the land he generously donated in the years 1841-1842.

Initially conceived as a dual-purpose edifice—a school intertwined with a place of worship—the chapel's lofty interior boasts a ceiling crafted from the finest Baltic pine timber, while its exterior is crowned by a corrugated iron roof and adorned with a charming timber porch. Yet, perhaps the most awe-inspiring features are the magnificent stained-glass windows, their kaleidoscopic hues casting ethereal patterns of light within.

The square tower, a striking addition to the chapel's silhouette, was meticulously designed by the esteemed architect Alexander North. Rising proudly, it comprises two levels, with the uppermost level distinguished by its stucco finish—a nod to the architectural elegance of the era.

In the chronicle of the chapel's history, significant milestones punctuate its narrative. In the year 1888, a chancel was annexed to its structure, a solemn augmentation that culminated in its consecration in the ensuing February. Further enhancements followed suit, with a new chancel being erected in 1905 at a cost of £350, and subsequently dedicated in February 1910.

However, amidst the reverent echoes of its past, the chapel's story intertwines with the lives of those who walked its hallowed grounds. The passing of Captain Edward Dumaresq, marked by an obituary chronicling his demise at his estate Mount Irech in April 1906 at the remarkable age of 104, resonates within its walls. His final resting place, the Illawarra cemetery, serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy.

Likewise, the cemetery enfolds the mortal remains of another luminary—the landscape artist Tom Roberts—a pioneering figure in the Heidelberg School movement. Revered as the driving force behind the movement, Roberts's artistic endeavors sought to encapsulate the essence of Australian life, immortalized in timeless masterpieces such as "Shearing the Rams" and "Bailed Up." His visionary pursuits extended beyond the canvas, advocating for the establishment of Australia's National Portrait Gallery—a testament to his enduring influence.

In the modern era, the fate of Christ Church hung precariously in the balance when it was earmarked for closure by Anglican authorities in February 2000. However, through the concerted efforts of Captain Dumaresq's descendants, a spirited campaign ensued, resulting in the chapel's exemption from the closure list. As of the turn of the millennium, a modest congregation of twenty faithful congregants continued to gather for two monthly services, preserving the cherished traditions and sacred heritage embodied within the walls of Christ Church.