Introduction

The first Anglican Church of St Andrew’s at Tea Gardens was dedicated on 9 December 1910.

Like in all regional religious communities, much local effort was expended in building a local church. Prior to the construction of the church, religious services were conducted in a local Tea Gardens Hall.

A brief history of the two churches of the Anglican congregation of St Andrew’s, situated on the corner of Witt and Ogden Streets at Tea Gardens, is set out in this paper.

Fund Raising for the First Church – 1903

The Dungog Chronicle of 22 September 1903, page 2, reported:

‘On Friday evening, the 4th inst., a very successful social was held in Witt’s Tea Gardens Hall, to assist in raising funds for the erection of a Church of England building. Great praise is due to Miss S. Smith and Miss M. Engel, secretaries to the social, who spared no pains to make it a success. The hall was decorated with evergreens but proved too small for the comfort of the visitors, the number of which far exceeded the expectation of the promoters.

The young folk of Anna Bay and Nelson’s Bay were well represented and appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed their visit. Refreshments were supplied by the ladies of Tea Gardens and were far in excess of that required. Dancing was commenced at 8 p.m. and continued till the early hours of the morning.

The magnificent sum of £18 5s was taken clear of all expenses making a total of £63 now in hand [equal to $10,992 in 2024]. A beautiful, shawl artistically worked, and presented to the fund by Mrs B. Southworth raised upwards of £4. Great praise is due to the musicians (Miss S Smith, piano; and Messrs J. Alpine, R. Asquith and P. Bagnall, violin), who willingly gave their assistance gratuitously. So pleased are the promoters with their successful undertaking that it is their intention to have another social at an early date.’

Bishop of Newcastle visits Tea Gardens with a copy of the church plan – 1907

The Dungog Chronicle of 22 March 1907, page 1, reported:

‘The Rev. Dr. Stretch, Bishop of Newcastle, visited Tea Gardens on Wednesday last. The Bishop was conveyed from “Tahlee” [located near Carrington, Port Stephens] in Mrs R. H. D. White’s launch Kingfisher, being accompanied by his wife and Mrs White. The party reached here at 1 o’clock, and Confirmation service was held at 2 p.m. in Mr Witt’s hall, six girls and 4 boys being confirmed. In the course of the service, the Bishop referred to the proposed erection of the church. He said he had with him the plan of a church which would cost £110 or £120, £70 being the amount in hand.

The plan of the church, he said, was as small as it well could be. The edifice wanted was something that would look like a church, not merely a room, and this plan should meet all requirements. He also remarked that he would not believe that the ladies of the district could not raise the extra few pounds if they put their minds to it. So probably in the near future some attempt will be made to raise the amount required — at any rate let us hope so.’

Plan of St Andrew’s Church of England, Tea Gardens [University of Newcastle]

Completion and opening of the Church – 1909

The Dungog Chronicle of 23 February 1909, page 2, reported:

‘The long-talked of Church of England at Tea Gardens is at last completed and opened, and a nice little church it is. It is situated in a central part of the town, and where a good view, can be obtained from the river.

The opening ceremony took place on Friday, 15th inst, in the shape of a tea meeting, which was well carried out by the ladies of Tea Gardens. The Rev. R. G. Knox presided, and after tea the young people amused themselves playing games until dusk, when a musical programme (Mr Doherty kindly lending his piano) finished a very enjoyable evening. Songs were rendered by Capt. Williams, Miss Jane Yates, Mr and Mrs Engel, Mr Saddler, Mr McPherson, Mr H. M. Engel and others. Recitations by Miss D. Engel and Capt. Williams were much appreciated.

The Rev Knox then gave a lantern lecture. Mr Knox in a few words thanked the committee for the way they had worked to get the church built and touched lightly on other topics connected with the church. Mr Saddler was then called upon by Mr Engel to say a few words. Mr Saddler, in response, said it was the first time he had had the pleasure of speaking in a church, or rather what was built for a church, as it is not yet consecrated. It stood in the unique position of being opened free of debt. He spoke at some length on the clergy, etc., to which Mr Knox responded.

Mr Hagon was then called upon. He said he was very pleased to be able to speak in a Church of England at Tea Gardens. He thought all praise was due to the present committee for the way they had worked, but at the same time he did not like to see the old pioneers being forgotten. He remembered the time when Mr Kuss (now deceased) had been an ardent worker for the church, and the dearest wish, of his heart had been to establish a Church of England at Tea Gardens. He was an old man, but when the land was granted, he went and cleared it of undergrowth and stumps; then he went to Newcastle and the surrounding districts and collected £20 or £30. Mr Hagon thought it would be very nice to erect a window or something in remembrance of Mr Kuss, so that he would be remembered while the church lasted.

Mr Knox then proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies, also the committee and all those who worked to make the opening a success. It is expected that after all expenses are paid, that there will be a credit balance of £12 or £13 to the church.’

St Andrew’s was dedicated by the Bishop of Newcastle on 9 December 1910.

Original St. Andrews Church, Tea Gardens, April 1921. The present church now stands on the site [University of Newcastle]

Funeral of victims of the wreck of the Macleay – 1911

On 15 October 1911, a funeral was held at Tea Gardens for three of the victims of the wreck of the steamship Macleay  which foundered off the coast near Hawks Nest on 11 October 1911.

The incident, in which fifteen lives were lost, generated much public interest, especially when the hardship faced by two crew members who survived for eleven days in the sea, became known.

Two of the victims, Hans Hansen and Thomas Monks, were interred in the Church of England section of the local cemetery in a service conducted by the Anglican minister Rev R G Knox.

The Sydney Morning Herald of 16 October 1911, page 9, reported:

‘The beach [near Hawks Nest] was again thoroughly searched yesterday but no further bodies were sighted. The string of wreckage along the beach however, had been considerably increased. One hundred and fifty empty barrels belonging to the Colonial Sugar Company and used for conveying molasses, had been thrown up from the wreck. ……

The burial service was yesterday conducted by the Rev. R. G. Knox, the Church of England minister, in Tea Gardens. Hansen and Monks were buried in the Church of England section and W. Jones in the Roman Catholic section. Mr. Tom Hough conducted the service in the case of W. Jones.’

Fund raising concert held – 1913

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 18 November 1913, page 3, reported:

‘A successful concert was held at Tea Gardens, Myall River on Saturday evening. The programme was contributed by a number of Newcastle artists, assisted by some of the local singers. The entertainment was given in aid of the funds of the Church of England, and the programme was arranged by Mr. Dan Williams.

Visitors were present from all parts of Port Stephens, amongst the number being Mrs. New, who brought a large party from Karuah in Mr. W. Longworth’s launch Rose. Mr. James Croll, “Nugra,” Bullahdelah, acted as chairman, and Misses Rene McKinnon and A. Cook played the accompaniments.

The contributors to the programme were: — Miss Rene McKinnon, Master S. Lane, Mr. V. Callen, Mrs. White, Mr. W. Blott, Mr. Lynch, Mr. W. Mayers, Miss Walsh, Mr. Hoare, Mr. McKinnon, Mr. G. Berrick, Mr. Dan Williams, Mr. Hellam, Mr. Bull, and Master Holbert. After the concert the visitors were entertained by Mr. and Mrs. A. Engel at supper and were warmly welcomed.

On Sunday morning Mr. James Croll placed his launch at the disposal of the visitors, and a trip was made to Windy Whapper and on landing the visitors walked across to the ocean beach, near the scene of the steamer Macleay wreck, and from where a splendid panoramic view of Port Stephens and Nelson’s Bay can be obtained. The party left Tea Gardens at 3 o’clock, three hearty cheers being given arriving in Newcastle about 8 o’clock. Before leaving the launch at Tilligerry Creek [at Salt Ash], Mr. Dan Williams thanked Mr. Thurlow for supplying the coaches, and Mr. A. Engel for providing a launch each way.’

Memento to late Canon Knox and plans for new lighting for the Church – 1926

The Dungog Chronicle of 16 July 1926, page 2, reported:

‘Tea Gardens has followed Karuah’s example, and a brass cross will be placed upon the Altar in memory of the late Canon Knox. We hope in the near future to make improvements in the sanctuary, and certain parishioners are considering the matter of placing other gifts in the Church in memory of their loved ones. We hope shortly to do something in the way of taking out the kerosene lamps and installing a Gloria light.’

Examples of ‘Gloria Lights’ proposed for installation in the church

Church Bazaar held – 1928

The Maitland Weekly Mercury of 11 February 1928, page 3, reported:

‘A dance and euchre party in aid of the [Tea Gardens] Church of England bazaar was, held in Australia Hall on Saturday night. It proved a success socially and financially.’

Brotherhood of St. Lawrence takes temporary charge of the Parish – 1932

The Dungog Chronicle of 12 February 1932, page 4, reported:

‘The Brotherhood of St. Lawrence has taken charge of the parish of Tea Gardens, at any rate, for the time being. The duty will be carried out chiefly by Mr. L. E. F. Sarroff and other lay members, but one of the ministers will go to Tea Gardens monthly for the celebration of Holy Communion. Rev. G. K. Tucker is in charge of the Brotherhood. Rev. G. Rooke will still be the Rector, but will only attend once in a while for Vestry meetings, leaving the work to the Brotherhood.

On the 3rd inst., the Rev. Rooke introduced Mr. Sarroff to the congregation at evensong. After the service supper was provided by the ladles in the Rectory. Mr. E. W. Motum presided at supper.

After the Royal toast Mr. H. A. Motum proposed the toast of our Rector (Rev. Rooke). Mr. Motum said we were all sorry to loose Mr. Rooke, but we were not saying goodbye, as Mr. Rooke will come from time to time to look after us. Mr. Rooke in his reply asked the congregation to look after the Brotherhood as they did him. Mr. V. Edmunds in proposing the toast of Mr. Sarroff said that more unity would be in the parish if the Brotherhood would have “low church,” as “high church” was not wanted in the parish.

Mr. Sarroff in his reply said that he did not come to the parish to quarrel but to serve God; the training that he (Mr. Sarroff) had had taught him the right way and that he was only here to obey orders of his Rector. Mr. Rooke proposed the toast of the “Vestry Committee,” and the treasurer replied on their behalf. Other toasts were the Secretary (Mr. V. Edmunds), “The Ladies” and “The Chairman.”

Lay reader farewelled – 1932

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 13 October 1932, page 10, reported:

‘A large number attended a farewell gathering at Tea Gardens to Mr. Lionel Sarroff, who has been lay reader in the Church of England for about a year. The Rector of Williamtown, Rev. G. Rooke, said that not only Tea Gardens, but all his parish wanted Mr. Sarroff to remain. He had offered to give Mr. Sarroff a title to the diaconate, but a new rule provided that only certain types of parishes were suitable for training a deacon for the priesthood, and that therefore this parish may not have a deacon. Mr. V. Edmunds said that he had presented a petition signed by almost every parishioner to the Bishop, asking for Mr. Sarroff. Edmunds then made a presentation to Mr. Sarroff on behalf of the parishioners. Mr. Sarroff, replying thanked them for their kindness. Proceedings closed with music competitions, games, and dancing. Mr. C. Engel was M.C.’

Overview of the history of the Tea Gardens Church of England – 1936

The Dungog Chronicle of 4 December 1936, page 3, published the following history of the St. Andrew’s Church up to that time:

‘This church was dedicated by the Bishop of Newcastle on the 9th December 1910. Prior to this, services were held in Witt’s Hall by the Revs. Perry, Rushforth and R. G. Knox. Mr. H. [Heinrich] Kuss did a lot of work in clearing the ground for the building which was erected by Mr. E. Yates, whose daughter’s wedding, to the late Mr. G. W. Engel was the first to take place in the church.

Rev. R. G. (afterwards Canon) Knox was in charge at the time the church was built and travelled from Stroud, sometimes using a horse and sulky. He was given a car for the last year of his service which was in 1925. Mr. W. S. McLeod conducted many services during Mr. Knox’s term. In October 1925, Tea Gardens became a separate district with the Rev. E. S. Robinson in charge. The district included Karuah, Swan Bay, Carrington and Pindimar. A rectory and a car were purchased for the new Rector. Several ministers assisted at times by conducting services.

In 1930 Rev. Robinson was transferred to Belmont, and Tea Gardens district was attached to the Williamtown district with Rev. G. Rooke in charge]. Mr. Rooke has had several assisting him by conducting services at times, but the best known one was Mr. L. Sarroff (now Rev.) who was conducting services almost every week for several months.

The Bishops of Newcastle have all paid visits for confirmation. The church is free of debt, but not the rectory. The Women’s Guild have always been strong supporters by providing funds. The present officers are: President, Mrs. R. Butler; Secretary, Mrs. A. E. Motum.

The vestry committee were once active workers and played a big part in the management of the financial side. A Sunday School has always been connected with the church and the teachers (except the Superintendent) are ex pupils of the school. The present teachers are: Superintendent, Mr. V. Edmonds, Miss Daphne Motum, who is also the church organist; Misses C. Butler and M. Korsman. The Minister in charge is the Rev. G. Rooke who resides at Williamtown. Church services are held about twice a month.’

Tea Gardens joined to the Parish of Clarence Town – 1942

The Dungog Chronicle of 16 October 1942, page 3, reported:

‘Rev. A. N, Pullin, Rector of Clarence Town, held a meeting after the Church Service last Sunday. Tea Gardens has now been joined to the Clarence Town Parish. The following Vestry Committee were elected:— Messrs. E. W. Motum, H. A. Motum, Aden Cook, A. A. Engel, D. Davey and V. Edmonds. The ladies’ Guild held a meeting, and arrangements were made to commence work at once.’

Memorial Service to late King George VI – 1952

The Northern Champion of 22 February 1952, page 2, reported:

‘Particularly inspiring was the United Memorial Service held in memory of His Majesty, the late King George VI., in St. Andrew’s Church of England, at Tea Gardens, on Sunday morning last. A record congregation of about 150 persons far exceeded the capacity of St. Andrew’s and the service was adjourned to the church yard. Seats, lectern and organ were placed in the shade of a number of huge camphor laurel trees, and this rustic setting was matched by the simple dignity of the impressive service.

About twenty ex-servicemen from Tea Gardens paraded in mourning dress and wearing purple and black ribbons to honour the memory of the late Monarch. Also present were Messrs. C. McGregor and P. M. Green, representing ex-servicemen from Bulahdelah. The service was conducted by Rev. Robert Burls, Rector of Bulahdelah. After the singing of the hymn, “O God Our Help in Ages Past,” the congregation joined in the Lord’s Prayer and the 23rd Psalm. The lesson was a portion of St. Johns’ Gospel, Chapter V., after which the congregation joined in the hymn “Lead Kindly Light.”

In his moving valedictory, Rev. Burls spoke of the late King’s quiet courage, confident trust and unswerving devotion to his duties throughout a reign of crises. He said that, King George VI. had both represented and strengthened the unity and stability of the British Empire and had earned the profound respect of all the nations. After a period of two minutes’ silence, the stillness was broken by the plaintive notes of the Last Post as Bugler O. McGregor plaid the soldier’s final tribute to the fallen.

The congregation joined in singing the late King’s favourite hymn, “Abide With Me.” The Rector offered prayers for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. and the Royal Family and after the Benediction the service closed with the singing of “God Save the Queen.” A notable feature of this impressive service was the outstanding performance of Lola Korman, the twelve-year-old organist of St. Andrew’s.’

King George VI

Last service held in the old Church – 1998

Around 1995, it had become obvious that the existing church was inadequate for the needs of the congregation.

The last service in St. Andrew’s Church, Tea Gardens was held on May 31, 1998, after which is was deconsecrated.

The special Thanksgiving Service was attended by 90 people. The lessons were read from the original Bible donated by Lucy and Motum Sons in 1909. The service ended with the congregation singing, “We trust in you, our shield and our defender,” a hymn written close to 1909 when the church was built.

The old church (located next to the present church), is now privately owned [Author photo]

The New Church

The old church was moved to an adjacent block and subsequently sold.

Funds for the new church came from local donations (approximately $28,000), and from Diocese of Newcastle which made available funds from the sale of church property at Hawks Nest, Wootton and Cooloongolook (approximately $142,000).

The new church was designed by Newcastle architect, Stephen Booker (Mark Lawler Architects, Newcastle). Construction began around December 1998 and much voluntary labour was utilised in the building thereof.

During this period of construction, the congregation met in the Tea Gardens Uniting Church.

The new church of St Andrew’s was dedicated by Bishop Roger Herft on 27 August 2000.

The present St Andrew’s Anglican Church dedicated in August 2000. The original church can be seen adjoining the new church on the right of the photograph [Author photo]

Concluding Comments

This following histories of churches in the Port Stephens area are found at these links on the website:

St Saviour’s Anglican Church at Williamtown;  

St Michael’s Catholic Church at Nelson Bay;

Methodist Church at Nelson Bay;

Former Uniting Church at Williamtown;

 Former Carrington Church at Port Stephens.

Researched and compiled by Kevin McGuinness

July 2024