Betty Rushforth, front, with Leanne Avard holding baby Angus, Christine Kenny, Jill |Bowman and, at front, William and Thomas Kelly (both 2) and Eloise Avard (4).
Will Russell         www.communitypix.com.au   d460891
Camera IconBetty Rushforth, front, with Leanne Avard holding baby Angus, Christine Kenny, Jill |Bowman and, at front, William and Thomas Kelly (both 2) and Eloise Avard (4). Will Russell        www.communitypix.com.au d460891 Credit: Supplied/Will Russell        www.communitypix.com.au d460891

Melville Anglican Church of Holy Cross celebrates 60 years

Headshot of Josh Zimmerman
Josh ZimmermanMelville Gazette

In the late 1950s, the suburb of Melville was fast developing and it became apparent there was a need for an Anglican church in the area.

The McLean Street site was selected for its elevated position, easy access and parking.

During the post-war years, the prospect of building a church was fraught with problems because raw materials, especially bricks, were in short supply and available only for essential construction work.

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The problem was solved with the closure of All Saints, a little wooden church in Peppermint Grove that was sawn in half, loaded on to a jinker and transferred to the new site via the Fremantle Traffic Bridge.

During the first three months of 1956, the church was rebuilt, clad with brick and tiled by contractors.

It was dedicated on Palm Sunday, March 25, 1956.

Since then, the church has become an important part of the community, hosting countless weddings, baptisms and confirmations.

Betty Rushforth joined the church in the early 1960s and four generations of her family are now members of the congregation.

“To me, Anglican Church of the Holy Cross is a happy, caring and supportive church family and a lovely place to be as we take our faith journey together,” she said.

Daughter Jill Bowman echoed her mother’s sentiments.

“We see each other as family and whenever someone is in need, we are all there for each other to offer support,” she said.

The church is celebrating its diamond jubilee on Saturday, November 5.

RSVP to 9330 0815 or for more information, call Jill on 0400 513 943. s