Holy Trinity’s stained glass windows shine again

Holy Trinity Anglican Church today showcased Mackay’s cultural heritage by unveiling its restored stained glass windows.

Sustainability Climate Change and Innovation Minister Andrew McNamara visited the church to inspect the windows ahead of the Bligh Government’s two-day Community Cabinet (Sun 31 Aug & Mon 1 Sept).

Mr McNamara said the $140 000 window restoration was a great example of the community and government working together.

“To make this project happen the Bligh Government provided a $50,000 Living Buildings and Places heritage grant. This contributed to funds raised by the church and community members,” he said.

Mr McNamara said the State Government’s commitment to protecting cultural heritage had been highlighted in Mackay recently.

“In the past month mature trees in Mango Avenue at Eimeo and the WH Paxton & Co offices and warehouse in River Street have been heritage listed.”

Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin said the twelve stained glass windows at the church told the story of Christ’s life from Annunciation to Pentecost.

“The windows are a significant example of work by eminent glass firm Brooks Robinson,” Mr Mulherin said.

“The Australian company operated from 1882 to 1967 and were leaders in stained glass production.

“The series at Holy Trinity is particularly special because many other Australian churches did not commission windows as a series, but the twelve restored panes at Holy Trinity are a coherent set.

“The steel frames of the windows had deteriorated, but restoration work has ensured the windows can be seen in their former glory.

"There's no doubt the church is an important part of our Mackay community and it's only standing today because of the continuing support of local families and businesses which is a great effort."

Mr McNamara said a final round of the $5 million Living Buildings and Places grant program would be open for application in November.

Holy Trinity Church also received $15,000 for a conservation management plan to help it identify its key aspects of significance and preservation, prioritise work and plan for its future upkeep and use.

The church, eclectically designed by architect Lange Powell, incorporates Spanish Mission, Mediterranean and Romanesque styles which were all popular in the interwar period. It was completed in 1926.

Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002