St Peter's Anglican Church, Barcaldine, church building in Queensland, Australia
St Peter's Anglican Church is a large timber building with a steep roof and bell tower prominently positioned in Barcaldine. The interior features painted walls, polished timber floors, English stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes, a rare carved rood screen separating the nave from the chancel, and imported furnishings including a font and lectern.
The building was completed in 1899 after the railway arrived in Barcaldine in 1886, triggering rapid town growth. The congregation was served by traveling priests and the Bush Brotherhood, with Reverend Frederick Hulton-Sams, known as the fighting parson, serving here before losing his life in France during the First World War.
The church is named after Saint Peter, and its stained glass windows depict scenes from his life and the Ascension. The interior with its rare carved rood screen and furnishings imported from England reflects the spiritual importance this place has held for the Barcaldine community for over a century.
The church is centrally located in Barcaldine on an elevated spot, making it highly visible and accessible from most streets. Access is straightforward, and visitors can view the exterior and surroundings at any time, though opening hours for the interior may be limited.
The rood screen inside is one of the few examples of its kind in Queensland and is believed to be the only one of its type in western Queensland. This hand-crafted timber element with carved shields and heraldic symbols sets this church apart from other places of worship in the region.
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