Keep Southport Sacred: Heritage Applications Lodged to Protect St Peter’s Anglican and Southport Uniting Churches

Preserving Our Churches. Protecting Our Heritage. Keeping Southport Sacred.

Today marks a significant step forward in preserving Southport’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. KeepSouthportSacred.org has officially lodged applications to have two of Southport’s most cherished churches — St Peter’s Anglican Church and Southport Uniting Church — entered into the Local Heritage Register.

These sacred spaces are more than just buildings; they are the cornerstones of our town, embodying centuries of history, culture, and spiritual life. Their protection is vital to maintaining Southport’s unique character and community identity.

About St Peter’s Anglican Church

Located at 83 Nerang Street, St Peter’s Anglican Church has been a beacon of faith and community since its establishment as a parish in 1886. The current brick church, built in 1959 and dedicated as a Memorial Church in 1960, honours those who served in World War II and the pioneering families who shaped Southport’s early days.

Architecturally, the church is a fine example of mid-20th century Anglican design, featuring exquisite stained-glass windows by artist Bill Klease and housing one of Queensland’s earliest and most historically layered pipe organs. The church continues to serve as a vibrant hub for worship, youth programs, social outreach, and commemorative events such as ANZAC Day.

About Southport Uniting Church

Situated at 41 Scarborough Street, Southport Uniting Church reflects the evolution of Southport’s religious landscape, transitioning from separate Presbyterian, Methodist, and Congregational congregations into a united parish in 1977. The site includes two architecturally significant buildings: the original timber hall and a distinctive brick church with a rare parabolic roof.

The church also serves as a war memorial, highlighted by the Bill Short Memorial Stained Glass Window, a vibrant symbol of peace and remembrance. It remains an active place of worship and community engagement, hosting youth ministries, social outreach, and commemorative services.

What Was Done Today

Today’s heritage applications include detailed documentation of the churches’ historical, architectural, social, and legal significance. These submissions seek formal recognition and protection to safeguard these irreplaceable landmarks from the increasing pressures of redevelopment and commercialization.

The Community Behind Keep Southport Sacred

Keep Southport Sacred is a dedicated community movement committed to preserving Southport’s cherished churches. I’m Shane Reynolds, a fourth-generation Gold Coaster with deep roots in Southport. My family has been part of this community for decades — my ancestors purchased the Pacific Hotel in 1945, and we have longstanding ties to both St Peter’s and Southport Uniting Churches.

My family (W.H Reynolds) donated the stained glass windows behind the altar at St Peter’s, and my father served as warden there. I also preached as an assistant minister at Southport Uniting Church, where my good friend Robyn Short’s late father was instrumental in its construction.

I have witnessed the growing threat to churches across Australia, with many being sold or redeveloped, especially in NSW (St Pauls Bankstown) and SA (St Aiden’s Anglican in Marden). This trend is now reaching Queensland. It’s time to stand up and protect what is sacred. Churches are invaluable assets — they are the soul of Southport, offering solace, community, and a tangible link to our past.

Join Us

Our mission is to advocate for stronger heritage protections, raise awareness about the threats facing our churches, and ensure Southport’s spiritual legacy endures for future generations.

Your voice matters. Together, we can keep Southport sacred.

Want to be part of this movement? Visit our website keepsouthportsacred.org

Blog authored and Photos by Shane Reynolds, Keep Southport Sacred

Date: 15 September 2025