Introduction

Built in 1930–31 and opened by Mrs Selina Blanch in 1933, the former Anna Bay Methodist Union Church is now privately owned.

The church never had a resident Methodist minister, and services were led by visiting clergy or lay preachers, generally based at Raymond Terrace.

Anglicans, Free Presbyterians and Methodists used the church regularly, although eventually only the latter two groups remained. This paper examines the life and times of the Anna Bay Union Church until 1955.

Former Methodist Union Church at 4187 Nelson Bay Road Anna Bay – 2026 [Author photo]

Early Methodist Services at Anna Bay

Anna Bay’s earliest Methodist services were held in the home of Mr. M. Cromarty. Later, 51 residents petitioned the Minister for Education to permit the Wesleyan minister to conduct worship in the public school.

Despite conflicting with departmental policy, the request was approved, making Anna Bay unusual in being allowed to hold church services in a government school.

Methodist Conference appoints two married Ministers to serve Anna Bay and Surrounding Districts – 1902

The Daily Telegraph of 28 February 1902, page 6, reported:

‘The Methodist Conference resumed business yesterday morning, under the presidency of the Rev. W. Woolls Rutledge.

[The conference approved the appointment of two married ministers to be responsible for ministering to the following Port Stephens areas, including Anna Bay] – Miller’s Forest Primitive, Thornton Free, Tarro Wesleyan, The Mountain Wesleyan, Hexham Wesleyan and Primitive, Raymond Terrace Wesleyan, Parading Ground Wesleyan, Medowie Wesleyan, Albion Wesleyan, Anna Bay Wesleyan, Nelson’s Bay Wesleyan, Nelson’s Plains Wesleyan, Wallalong, Wesleyan.’

Methodist Circuit Changes – 1911

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 2 March 1911, page 4, reported:

‘The Methodist Conference has adopted the circuit [parish] changes recommended by the Maitland District Synod. …. The present Morpeth-Raymond Terrace circuit, is divided and Morpeth circuit now comprises Morpeth, Wallalong, Albion Mountain, Tarro, Hexham and Thornton, and Raymond Terrace circuit, comprises Raymond Terrace, Parading Ground (Williamtown), Miller’s Forest, Nelson’s Bay, Anna Bay, Medowie and Salt Ash.’

Secretary for Methodist Home Missions Visits Anna Bay – 1925

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 7 October 1925, page 9, reported:

‘On Sunday morning Rev. W. H. Jones, secretary for Home Missions, of the Methodist Church of Australia, preached in the local Methodist Church [Nelson Bay]. In the afternoon he visited Anna Bay, and at night occupied the pulpit at Williamtown. …. Representatives from both Nelson’s Bay and Anna Bay signified their intention of being present at the quarterly meeting of the circuit on Saturday next at Williamtown.’

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 13 October 1925, page 7, further reported:

‘The quarterly meeting of the Raymond Terrace circuit branch of the Methodist Church was held in the Parading Ground [Williamtown] on Saturday, Rev. L. H. Rolph presiding. ….

Rev. Mr. Rolph reported that during the quarter Rev. Mr. Jones, secretary of Home Missions, had visited the circuit and saw the urgent need for a man [lay pastor] to work the Nelson-Anna Bay end, and had promised that a young man would be appointed the first week in November.’

Methodist Circuit Meeting – 1926

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 16 April 1926, page 2, reported on Methodist Circuit Meeting which provided a summary of the church activities in the Port Stephens area:

‘The fifty-ninth quarterly meeting of the Raymond Terrace circuit of the Methodist Church was held in the Methodist Church Parading Ground [Williamtown], the outgoing minister, Rev. L. H. Rolph, presiding. Before commencing business, the president extended a hearty welcome to the following new members: Messrs Bishop (superintendent Raymond Terrace Sunday School), Holwell, (steward, Raymond Terrace), S. Blanch (steward [lay leader], Anna Bay) and Mrs. Richardson (communion steward, Nelson’s Bay).

The report showed a membership of 105, which was an increase. One of the new members, Mrs. Dates, of Karuah, has given her services as organist to the Karuah church. The income for the quarter was £196/9s 2d, and the expenditure £149 7s 6d, leaving a credit balance of £46 1s 8d.

The reports from the Sunday schools showed increases in membership, in spite of the need for more teachers. The Sunday School at Raymond Terrace now comprises a kindergarten as well as the usual school, and has a staff of nine teachers. At Parading Ground the Sunday School served as a training ground for church membership, and all pupils are initiated into the church when they come of age.

The circuit missionary reported that Sunday schools had been opened during the quarter at Soldiers’ Point and Karuah. The need for churches at Pindimar and Soldier’s Point was brought before the meeting. It was stated that at Pindimar negotiations were in progress to secure a piece of land, whilst at Soldiers’ Point an application has been forwarded the Commonwealth Government for a grant of land upon which to erect a church. The residents of the place have promised to voluntarily build the church if they secure the timber’ and land.

It was decided that the circuit missionary’s salary be paid from Nelson’s Bay. For this purpose, Mr. Richardson, church steward, was elected financial steward. To enable the missionary to visit his centres a saddle is to be purchased for his use. Mrs. S. Moxey donated £1 towards this object.

It was decided to place in the minute book the circuit’s appreciation for Rev. L. H. Rolph’s three years’ ministration in the circuit. Regret was expressed at his departure, and he was given every members good wishes.

It was resolved that the next meeting will be held at Bob’s Farm on Saturday, July 10. At the conclusion of the meeting, Mrs. S. Moxey, read an apology from Miss Agnes Moxey, president of the Parading Ground Ladies’ Church Aid, for her absence, and then asked the Rev. Rolph to accept as a memento of the esteem of the “Aid” an attache case. Mr. Rolph in responding, thanked the aid for their services during the ministry, and informed them that he would always look back upon Williamtown and its residents with very pleasant memories.

Mr. Harry Upton, on behalf of Anna Bay and Bob’s Farm, asked the departing minister to accept a small present from the Bay end of the circuit, together with the good wishes of parishioners, and tendered a wallet of notes to Mr. Rolph, to which the recipient again responded. The meeting terminated after the benediction. The ladies of the Church Aid provided luncheon and afternoon tea for the visitors.’

Letter from the Local Home Missionary – 1929

The Methodist of 10 August 1929, page 20, published the following letter written by the Home Missionary based at Nelson Bay to her uncle outlining her experiences in the Port Stephens area:

‘Nelson’s Bay, via Newcastle. — Dear Uncle, — As you will see by the above address, I am now stationed as Home Missionary in the Raymond Terrace circuit. Nelson’s Bay is a quiet little place, about 30 miles from Newcastle, once noted for fish and oysters. Its chief product is children — and I have fallen in love with lots of them already! I love to visit the schools and tell once again the ‘old, old story.’

About a month ago a Christian Endeavour Society [interdenominational Christian youth organization]was formed at Anna Bay. Enthusiasm has increased, and last week, at the consecration meeting, thirty-eight were present. There is a greater interest in spiritual things, and a deepening loyalty to Christ. At Tea Gardens a new church is in the course of erection. Owing to the depression due to the strike [coal miners’ lockout], the people of Tea Gardens are unable to bear the burden of debt, and things are very black indeed.

Uncle, as there are over 700 chums on the books, don’t you think it would be a fine idea if we all helped. Billy Bray began a church with one shilling, and a whole heap of faith, so surely, we chums can each find a shilling to spread God’s message in this place. Who will be a builder in this church builded by chums? What about it, chums? Will you help? I have every confidence in your loyalty. Any donation, even a stamp, will be welcomed. Best of wishes to Auntie, yourself; and all of chumdom.’

Anna Bay Methodists attend Opening of Tea Gardens Church – 1929

The Maitland Weekly Mercury of 7 September 1929, page 1, reported:

‘Tea Gardens has erected another landmark — a new Methodist Church, thus adding to the spiritual conveniences of the church-going members of the community. …..

The opening and dedication of the building took place in the presence of about 200 spectators, who came from Williamtown, Salt Ash, Anna Bay and Nelson’s Bay, in specially engaged launches, while motor cars brought a contingent, from Raymond Terrace and Karuah.’

Planning for construction of the Anna Bay Union Church begins – 1930

In 1920, Mr. Steve Blanch donated land at Anna Bay for a Union Church. The Dungog Chronicle of 28 February 1930, page 4, reported:

‘The local Methodists met last week to see what can be done to build a hall for the use of their own and two other denominations.’ 

Clarence Stephen [Steve] Blanch and Rebecca Lillian Barton – 11 October 1922 [Ancestry]

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 28 August 1930, page 3, further reported:

‘The Methodists called a meeting to make preliminary arrangements for building a union church at Anna Bay, and as there are over £100 in hand for the project it is hoped an early start will be made with a building.’

Mrs. Selina Blanch, a long-standing member of the Anna Bay Methodist community officially opened the Church in 1933.

Anna Bay Christian Endeavour Society Picnic – 1930

The Dungog Chronicle of 4 April 1930, page 6, reported:

‘On Saturday, Mr. D. F. Boorman, late assistant to Rev. Newton, Methodist Circuit, Raymond Terrace, was entertained at a picnic by the Anna Bay Christian Endeavour Society. Mr. Boorman’s departure is greatly regretted, he had been instrumental in starting a branch of the C. E. movement at Anna Bay and thus bringing together the young people in Christian fellowship.

A most enjoyable day was spent at the beach, friends coming from as far as Williamtown to bid adieu to the departing guest. After luncheon speeches were made by Messrs. H. Upton, M. L. Blanch and J. Robinson.

Mr. J. Robinson, on behalf of the Christian Endeavour presented Mr. Boorman with a solid leather travelling bag. Mr. Boorman thanked them for the gift. He is going to Woordford in Queensland. Mr. Boorman preached his farewell sermon to a packed church on Sunday.’

Methodist Concert – 1931

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 4 August 1931, page 3, reported:

‘There was a good attendance in the Methodist Church at Parading Ground for a concert in aid of church funds. Rev. A. T. Newton presided. A feature of an enjoyable programme was a pageant presented by a party from Raymond Terrace. Items were contributed by members of the Anna Bay Christian Endeavour Society.’

Christian Endeavour Union Visit – 1933

The Newcastle Sun of 27 October 1933, page 6, reported:

‘The Newcastle District C.E. Union has arranged a motor visit to Williamtown on Saturday, November 4, conveyances leaving the Maitland-road Methodist Church at 2.45 p.m. Williamtown and Anna Bay societies will entertain and give a social afternoon, after which a rally will be led by the president of the Union (Rev. Wm. Gibbins).’

Circuit Changes – 1933

The Maitland Daily Mercury of 2 November 1933, page 6, reported:

‘On receipt of the report of the Commission, which sat on the question of the Morpeth circuit, the Maitland District Methodist Synod, sitting at Merewether, decided to transfer Morpeth and Wallalong to the East Maitland circuit. ….

It was further decided to divide Raymond Terrace circuit as follows: — Raymond Terrace, Williamtown, Miller’s Forest, Salt Ash, and Karuah form a circuit to which a married minister be appointed; Nelson’s Bay, Anna Bay, Bob’s Farm, Tea Gardens, and adjacent districts be constituted a home mission [lay pastor] station.’

Christian Endeavour Union Rally – 1934

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 20 October 1934, page 7, reported:

‘The Newcastle District Christian Endeavour Union held a successful rally in the Adamstown Methodist Church. Twenty societies, representing districts so far away as Anna Bay and Marks Point. answered the roll-call.’

Anna Bay Fair – 1935

The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of 19 December 1935, page 5, reported:

‘A fair, organised by the United Church Workers’ Society, was held at Anna Bay. Prior to the opening, at which Mr. H. Upton presided, Miss Lucy Upton played an overture, and Mrs. J. Robinson sang. Mr. J. Robinson outlined the aims of the society, and Cr. G. Russell, of Williamtown, spoke.

The fair was opened by Mrs. G. Russel, who was presented with a basket of sweets by Gloria Blanch. A cookery competition was judged by Mrs. Paton (Nelson’s Bay), Mrs. R. Cox (Williamtown), and Mrs. W. Sanson (Salt Ash). …..

At the evening session Mr. J. Robinson presided. A musical programme was contributed by Mrs. J. Robinson, F. Donnelly and G. Morris, Misses Lucy Upton, Nancy Gordon, and Mr. Will Gildea. Mesdames R. P. Ford and C. Robinson had charge of the school children, who gave several items. The stallholders were – Sweets and dips, Mrs. H. Upton and G. Morris; fancy goods, Mrs. N. Robinson and A. Blanch; work stall, Mrs. T. Kerslake and Miss Rosie Blanch; plants and fruit, Mrs. M. L. Blanch: cordials and ice cream, Mrs. F. Donnelly, Misses Arleen Davies, Nancy Gordon and Ida Upton; tea rooms, Mrs. J. Robinson, M. Robinson and C. Robinson.’

Wedding at Anna Bay Union Church – 1936

Many weddings were regularly held at the Anna Bay Union Church and would be described in detail in the local newspapers. Details of one of these weddings is highlighted below:

The Newcastle Sun of 11 June 1936, page 5, reported:

‘Mrs. J. Robinson was soloist and Mrs. C. Robinson organist at the marriage of Noreen Marjorie, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. S. Blanche, of Anna Bay. with Mr. E. J. Russell, third son of Mr. and Mrs G. J. Russell, of Williamtown, which was celebrated at the Union Church, Anna Bay. White satin and angel skin lace fashioned the dainty wedding gown, which had full sleeves anil a draped corsage. The moulded skirt fell Into a long train. An embroidered tulle veil was arranged with a halo of orange blossoms. Her flowers were roses, hyacinths anad stocks.

Miss Freda Blanche, the bridesmaid, wore a dusty pink morocain gown, with a lace yoke and a cowl neck. Her hat matched the gown, and she carried a couquet of pink carnations and sweet peas. The trainbearer, Amy Blanche, wore a pretty pink frock and carried a basket of roses.

Mr. Blanche gave his daughter away and Mr. E. Robinson was best man. The reception was at the home of the bride’s parents. Mrs. Blanch wore a floral morocain frock and a navy-blue hat. Her posy was of pansies. Mrs. Russell was in a navy a blue georgette gown and a matching hat and wore a spray of nasturtiums on her corsage. When leaving for Katoomba the bride wore a navy-blue collared suit and a black hat. Mr. and Mrs. Russell will live at Williamtown.’

Mrs. E. G. Russell on her wedding day at Anna Bay [Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate – 13 June 1936]

Death of Selina Blanch – 1936

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 9 July 1936, page 3, published the following obituary on Selina Blanch who had officially opened the Anna Bay Union Church in 1933:

‘The death occurred in Tighes Hill, on 30th June, of Mrs. Selina Blanch, daughter of the late Mr. William Neale, of Hinton, where deceased was born 92 years ago. After her marriage at the age of 22 years to the late Mr. Alfred Blanch, she came to reside at Anna Bay and the stout-hearted pioneering couple had lived there until death intervened, the husband passing away 39 years ago.

Selina Blanch [Ancestry]

The late Mrs. Blanch resided at Anna Bay for about 60 years and for about 30 years of that time was postmistress and, in that capacity, she served the scattered district courteously. It was never any trouble to have a message delivered to the outskirts. She took a prominent part in the early development of the district and identified herself with church work, and all charitable and public organisations.

During the Great War she was a sympathetic helper in Red Cross work and any other activities from which the soldiers would benefit. Three of her grandsons paid the supreme sacrifice.

For her neighbourly acts, kindness in sickness and to those in trouble the deceased lady will be long remembered. For the last ten years Mrs. Blanch had lived in Newcastle and enjoyed the eventide of life, ministered to by her youngest daughter. Waning health had sapped much of her activity of late, but her mental faculties retained their alertness practically to the end. A short illness at the last bringing a long life to its close. ….

The funeral took place in the Methodist portion, of the Anna Bay cemetery on Wednesday of last week when a lengthy cortege proceeded from the Union Church which Mrs. Blanch had officially opened three years ago. The Rev. W. T. Cross, of Raymond Terrace, conducted a service at the church, after which the Rev. N. W. Lickiss, of Tighes Hill, paid a tribute to the grand old lady. Mr. Cross officiated at the graveside, the interment taking place beside that of her late husband.’

Anna Bay Harvest Festival – 1938

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 27 January 1938, page 3, reported:

‘Harvest Festivals will be held in February — Millers Forest, February 6; Parading Ground, February 13; Raymond Terrace, Anna Bay, Nelson’s Bay, February 20. Karuah and Tea Gardens, February 27.’

Theological Student to provide services to Anna Bay Church – 1943

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 18 November 1943, page 1, reported:

‘At the last Circuit Quarterly meeting on 5th October, it was reported that thirteen public school classes had been regularly visited and that the weeknight services were well attended. By a unanimous vote it was decided to obtain the services of a Theological Student from Leigh College to work in the Circuit from November to March. He will reside at Bob’s Farm so as to be within easy traveling distance of Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, Sail Ash and Williamtown.’

Fund Raising Musical Program at Anna Bay – 1944

The Newcastle Sun of 8 June 1944, page 5, reported:

‘A combined party from the Mayfield circuit and the Stockton Church, led by Mr. R. Robertson, visited Anna Bay to present a musical programme at a function to assist church funds.’

Extra Minister sought for Anna Bay and Nelson Bay Areas – 1944

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 16 November 1944, page 4, reported:

‘The Methodist Synod of the Maitland District was held at Raymond Terrace on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 7th and 8th last. ….

It was decided to request conference to appoint an additional minister to Raymond Terrace Circuit to work Anna Bay and Nelson’s Bay areas. Synod was entertained at dinnerer by the ladies of the Anna Bay and Nelsoni Bay Church Aids and the ladies of the Millers Forest Church.’

Former Raymond Terrace Minister to visit Anna Bay – 1945

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 11 January 1945, page 3, reported:

‘Those who remember Rev. C. J. McAulay [Minister at Raymond Terrace, 1919-1923] will be pleased to know that he will occupy the pulpit next Sunday at Williamtown, Millers Forest, Anna Bay Nelson’s Bay and Raymond Terrace, at the usual hours.’

Bus Rally and Camp Fire Meeting – 1946

The Newcastle Sun of 31 January 1946, page 6, reported:

‘To celebrate the 65th anniversary of the foundation of the Christian Endeavor movement, members of Newcastle District C.E. Union will conduct a bus rally and camp fire meeting at Nelson’s Bay on Saturday.

The visit will be made at the invitation of the Anna Bay Methodist Society. Arrangements have been made for a meeting in the park, and there will be a gathering later in the Church of England Hall. Many members of societies attached to Newcastle churches of various denominations are expected to attend.’

Maitland District Synod Meeting – 1949

The Maitland Mercury of 1 November 1949, page 3, reported:

‘The annual synod of the Methodist Church of Australasia, Maitland district, is being held at the Raymond Terrace church. It commenced today, the Rev. R. Grayson, of Maitland, being the chairman and the Rev. N. Kline, of Singleton, the secretary. A luncheon was provided by the ladies of the Anna Bay and Nelson’s Bay churches.’

Raymond Terrace Methodist Circuit welcomes New Pastor – 1951

The Raymond Terrace Examiner and Lower Hunter and Port Stephens Advertiser of 19 April 1951, page 1, reported:

‘Rev. Pickering who takes over the Raymond Terrace Methodist Circuit from the Rev. A. Brooks, who has gone to Murwillumbah, was inducted at a service on Friday night. …..

Other speakers were Cr, Rodgers, (Port Stephens Shire Council); Messrs. A. M. Griffith. (Public School); R. King, (Raymond Terrace Church); G. Chesworth, (Williamtown); H. Upton, (Anna Bay); R. Peacock, (Millers Forest) and W. Griffiths, (Tomago).’

Methodist General Conference President’s Visit – 1954

The Maitland Mercury of 9 July 1954, page 2, reported:

‘The president of the Methodist General Conference (Rev. A. G. Manefield) will have a busy weekend when he visits the Raymond Terrace circuit, tomorrow afternoon he will open and dedicate a new church at Soldier’s Point. ….

On Sunday morning Mr. Manefield will preach in the new building, and at Anna Bay at 2 p.m. he will officiate at a combined service. ….. Members of the Raymond Terrace circuit are happy with the visit of the president as it will be only the second time that a sitting president has visited the circuit in its 114 years since Methodism first came to the district, and just on 100 years since the first Methodist church erected.

During that period churches have been built at Millers Forest, Karuah, Williamtown, Nelson Bay, Salt Ash, and services are held in union churches at Anna Bay and Tomago. Services are held regularly at all these centres by Rev. D, Pickering, whose headquarters are at Raymond Terrace.’

Former Anna Bay Union Church – 2019 [Australian Christian Heritage]

Induction of Superintendent Minister of Raymond Terrace – 1955

The Maitland Mercury of 19 April 1955, page 2, reported:

‘The newly-appointed chairman of the Maitland District Methodist Synod and superintendent minister of Singleton circuit (Rev. George A. Knight), inducted Rev. Edwin Ryan as the superintendent minister of Raymond Terrace circuit. …..

After the service, Mr. Ryan and Mrs. Ryan were tendered a welcome social in the School Hall. …. Words of welcome were expressed by Rev. S. Ramsay (Free Presbyterian) on behalf of the local clergy, Mr. R. Buxton (headmaster of Raymond Terrace Central School), Mr. Roy Peacock (Millers Forest), Mr. J. Noble (Raymond Terace), Mr. W. Main (Nelson Bay), Mr. W. Chesworth (Tomgo), Mr. K. Moxey (Williamtown), Mr. J. Wood (Dungog-Stroud circuit), Mr. H. R. Upton (Anna Bay).’

Concluding Comments

Although Anna Bay’s Methodist community was small during the period examined in this paper, its members exhibited a strong commitment and support to their Synod and Circuit.

The Anna Bay Union Church served as their main place of worship and a centre for social gatherings.

In 1980, a new brick porch was added, and the church’s exterior was painted. In later years, Anglicans, Free Presbyterians and Methodists used the church regularly, but before its closure only the Free Presbyterians and Methodists continued using the church.

The church and its grounds were sold for $100,000 in 2015.

Several histories of churches in the Port Stephens area are published on this website and can be viewed at the following links:

Early History of St. Brigid’s Catholic Church and Parish at Raymond Terrace – The First 100 Years

Early History of All Saints Anglican Church at Nelson Bay – Port Stephens

The Carrington Church at Port Stephens

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church at Tea Gardens – Port Stephens

St. Saviours Anglican Church at Williamtown – Port Stephens

St. Michael’s Catholic Church at Nelson Bay – Port Stephens

History of the Methodist Church at Nelson Bay – Port Stephens

Former Uniting Church at Williamtown – Port Stephens

Researched and compiled by Kevin McGuinness

September 2026