Back to search results »

Back to search page »

St Joseph's Catholic Church & Organ

Location 169 Kepler Street,, WARRNAMBOOL VIC 3280 - Property No B5965 File Number B5965 Level State

[1/1] B5965 St Joseph's Catholic

Statement of Significance

Church Statement of Significance: A large bluestone church begun in 1869-72 to the design of William Wardell (whose drawings survive, although claims have been made for a local designer, Samuel Parker). It was completed in 1886-9 with the addition of the western bays of the nave and the tower and spire to the design of W B Tappin, of Tappin Gilbert & Dennehy. The building is of interest for its commanding broach spire, large traceried windows and unbroken roof ridge. The interior contains notable stained glass by Ferguson & Urie, together with communion rails and gates designed by Wardell.
Classified: 20/04/1989
File Note: January 2011. Current major stained glass windows now date from 1950's and are by Earley & Company of Dublin.
See also B6027
Organ Statement of Significance: This substantial instrument of three manuals and 34 stops was built in 1892 by Fincham & Hobday when it was the largest organ in Victoria outside Melbourne. Divided in two sections on either side of the rear Gallery with the console placed between, this organ was built with tubular-pneumatic action, a speciality of its builders. The instrument retains its original tonal scheme, action, console, pipework and attractive cases with diapered facade pipes, although the original lead pheumatic tubing was repalced with plastic in the mid-1970s. This is the second largest example of the work of Victoria's pre-eminent 19th century organbuilder George Fincham to remain substantially intact, after his instrument at St Mary, Star-of-the-Sea Church, West Melbourne.
Organ Classified: 06/04/1989