St Thomas' Anglican Church, Port Macquarie, Anglican church in Port Macquarie, Australia.
St Thomas' is a convict-built Anglican church on Hay Street, begun in 1824 and completed in 1827, with its first service held in 1828. The simple ground plan and elevation are attributed to Lieutenant T. H. Owen, and the building was later altered: the roof was re-pitched a metre higher in 1923 and covered with terracotta tiles. Inside, the grave of Commandant Captain John Rolland lies in the nave under the southeast box pew.
Construction began in 1824 under military direction using convict labor and the building opened for worship in 1828. It ranks among the oldest still-operating Anglican churches in the region and has maintained its original religious purpose since early colonial times.
The building has served as a spiritual center for the community since its establishment and continues to draw visitors interested in the role of faith in colonial society. Inside, memorials and religious objects reflect generations of worship and local connection.
The building is centrally located in Port Macquarie and easily accessible, though parking nearby is limited. Visitors should expect short waits and be aware that respectful dress is expected when photographing inside.
Commandant Captain John Rolland died of sunstroke on 16 November 1824, weeks before the foundation stone was laid, and was buried inside the church precincts because no burial ground was then open; his gravestone lies in the nave beneath the southeast box pew.
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