Christ Church Anglican

Item details


Name of item:	Christ Church Anglican
Type of item:	Built
Group/Collection:	Religion
Category:	Church
Location:	Lat: -34.8592122892 Long: 149.9435208860
Primary address:	45-47 King Street, Bungonia, NSW 2580
Parish:	Bungonia
County:	Argyle
Local govt. area:	Goulburn Mulwaree
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Pejar

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	17	3	DP	758184
LOT	18	3	DP	758184

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
45-47 King Street	Bungonia	Goulburn Mulwaree	Bungonia	Argyle	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
St Nicholas Anglican Church North Goulburn	Religious Organisation

Statement of significance:


	Christ Church, Bungonia is an appealing and largely intact example of Early English (Gothic) church architecture as adapted to rural Australia in the mid-late Victorian Period. With its parsonage, Glebe, and cemetery, it provides one of the few largely intact groups of linked heritage places that can be associated with the southward expansion of the Church of England beyond Sydney after 1820. The cultural landscape of which the church and its grounds are an integral part, retains the appearance of a nineteenth century rural village. The present church was opened in 1878 and consecrated in 1893. It is the latest of three Colonial period churches to occupy the site and partially overlies the archaeological remains of what is arguably the first (1836) stone church to be built on the Southern highlands. The church has strong links with virtually all early Colonial Period properties in the Southern Highlands and many important Colonial Period personages. It mirrors many of the political and social forces which have shaped European settlement in southern New South Wales, in particular the seminal role played by the challenging location of major road and rail links between Sydney and Melbourne (Macphail, Christ Church Conservation Management Plan, 1996)
	Date significance updated: 04 Jun 99
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	William Kemp
Construction years:	1877-
Physical description:	Churchyard: The cultural landscape of which the church and its grounds are an integral part, retains the appearance of a nineteenth century rural village (LEP, 2009). The church sits on a bare slope skirted by a drive lined with old stone (or umbrella) pines (Pinus pinea) (Stuart Read, 11/2000 visit, obs.; Read, 2001, 22). Church: The walls are made of a visually attractive local rubblestone with smoothly dressed sandstone used for buttresses, quoins and surrounding the single, double and triple-light lancet windows and arched doorways. The lichen-covered, shingled rood includes a Bell Tower and Celtic Cross (both made of sandstone). Entrance is via the high-gabled stone porch or similar but larger stone Vestry on the northern side. The interior of the church is divided into the traditional sectors of nave, Chancel-Sanctuary by a corbelled chancel arch made of dressed sandstone. The walls are coated with a thin plaster (white ash) and modern white paint. Al interior doors, windows and archways are lined by unpainted sandstone quoins. Most windows are infilled with stained glass. The ceiling is of simplified hammer-beam construction with diagonally set ceiling boards. Inset into the Sanctuary side walls are distinctive Gothic niches (piscinas) outlined in tracery. The stained glass triple-lancet Alter Window lacks tracery.
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	The external fabric is in good condition. Exceptions are the boundary fence (intact but decayed), the Nave floor (badly affected by dry rot) and one interior wall (signs of rising damp - said to have been fixed).
	Date condition updated:07 Jun 99
Modifications and dates:	Plain glass windows have been replaced by stained glass. (Burne-Jones/William-Morris-designs) commemorating past rectors and local families during 20th century. The original hardwood shingle roof was replaced by fibro shingles about 1935. The foundations of the 1836 church (visible at the western end of the 1870s building) offer an excellent opportunity for historical archaeological research. It is unclear whether the foundations of the 1840s wooden church are preserved.


Current use:	Place of worship and related community functions
Former use:	Aboriginal land, town lot, place of worship

History

Historical notes:

Several tribes of Aborigines appear to have inahbited the Bungonia / Goulburn area and reports indicate they were more numerous during the summer moths, suggesting possible migration to the coast for winter. Settlers at first went about armed but there wasn't any major conflict over land rights. The Aborigines simply gave in without a struggle. Diseases introduced by the whites, particularly influenza, eventually decimated the tribes and their degradation was completed through outrages on the women by white men. Probably the most dignified position in white-dominated society that Aborigines could aspire to was to serve as trackers for the police (Revitt, 2008, 46).

Bungonia lies on the eastern edge of the southern tablelands adjacent to the rugged Shoalhaven Gorge area. Prior to and during the early days of European settlement, the area's resources were exploited by Aborigines and it is probable that the Bungonia ridge tops were used by various groups in movement between the lowlands and highlands with the seasonal availability of food, and for interaction between the coastal and tableland Aboriginal groups. The Bungonia State Recreation Area lies in the area of the Ngunnawal tribal group adjacent to the north-western corner of the Wandanian tribal territory and the southern boundary of the Gandangara tribal group (Tracey, Mulwaree Shire Heritage Study, 2004, 17).

Several rock types outcropping in the Bungonia area, including silcrete, quartzite and various volcanics, were suitable for the making of stone tools. The main plateau area and ridges provided suitable campsites. While the Shoalhaven River was the only permanent water source, tributory creeks, the springs and depressions on the plateau would have yielded water for much of the year. The limestone dolines contain a high proportion of plants known to have been eaten or used by Aborigines (ibid, 2004, 17).

There are several references to contact events between Aborigines and early European settlers at Bungonia.

Two Argyle Aborigines, Jimmy Hamilton and Burra Burra Jimmy, became quite famous as trackers. They even went to Tasmania on police tracking assignments. Alexander Harris recorded in the 1830s that the Aborigines around Bungonia complained about their deteriorating life style, which they blamed on the whites. He quoted them as saying 'Plenty of water before white men come, plenty pish (fish), plenty kangaroo, plenty possum, plenty everything: now all gone. Poor fellow now, black fellow'. An early description of the Aborigines of the district was written by George Bennett in 'Wanderings in New South Wales' covering his travels from 1832 to 1834. He described several tribes forming encampments on or about the plains, huts of spars covered in bark, their clothing... In 1826 the settlers of Bungonia were greatly disturbed by the murder of two stockmen by natives and a subsequent rallying of tribes. The official correspondence is in the Historical Records of Australia, volume IX, quoting a despatch of Governor Darling to Earl Bathurst (no.28), dated 6/5/1826), sending a force of a Captain, a Subaltern and 30 men to enforce obedience and disperse them (the Aboriginal people). It noted how Mr Read (sic: Reid), a magistrate, had noted upwards of a thousand of these people had assembled within four miles of his residence (Inverary). A further despatch (no.34, dated 23/5/1826) noted that the Aboriginal people had dispersed (Revitt, 2008, 46).

Inverary township:
During the 1820s land was reserved for a township called 'Inverary' to serve the Bungonia settlers, but it never developed into much more than a burian ground, pound and small lock-up. However there was a postal service to Inverary in 18332 with Mounted Police making the mail run from Bong Bong once a week. Despite this step forward, the authorities in Sydney decided to abandon plans for a township and the land set aside for it was sold at auction to James Styles of Reevesdale. He got the 400 acres for 110 pounds 2 shillings (Revitt, 2008, 6-7).

Bungonia and its township:
Inverary was replaced by Bungonia township, which was gazetted in 1833 (ibid, 2008, 7). The early explorers made no recorded mention of Bungonia as a place name, but it seems to be a derivation from the native name 'Bun-gunyah'. This is interpreted by some as meaning 'good camping site' and 'camp on creek', by othres, One of the earliest written references is in correspondence concerning William Bradley's property, where it is called 'Bungunnia' in 1826 and 'Bangayna' in 1827. There is more certainty about the county name. Governor Macquarie, who visited the area in 1820, gave it the name 'Argyle', in remembrance of his own native county in Scotland (ibid, 2008, 6).

One of the largest land owners, Robert Futter of Lumley Park, donated 320 acres in 1832 for the township. He was one of several major pastoralists, including Dr David Reid of Inverary Park and James Styles of Reevesdale. Bungonia predated Goulburn and Marulan and was originally slated as a major settlement on the Great South Road. Goulburn eventually assumed that primacy, but it was not before significant stone buildings sprung up at Bungonia (Thrower, 2015), most of the larger homesteads in the 1830s and 1840s (ibid, 2008).

An Anglican church:
Religion played an important role in the lives of the pioneers. The big land holders and their families were generally religious people and believed that the spread of settlement should be accompanied by the Christian gospel. They also saw the clergy as important in the development of community life and the uplifting of the lower classes. Spiritual life in Bungonia was limited in the first decade of (colonial) settlement and as late as 1836 services by the Church of England took place only every six weeks with a minister coming out from Goulburn (ibid, 2008, 33).

Gazetting of the township in 1833 included dedication of sites for a church, parsonage and glebe (Thrower, 2015). Steps were taken as early as 1833 to raise money for a church and the government promised aid to the extent of 300 pounds if a simnilar amount was raised by the local Church of England congregation (Thrower, 2015).

Plans for a substantial stone church were apparently drawn up by noted colonial architect, John Verge. According to notes in his ledger, tenders were called in 1834 for construction...but something went wrong and in 1836 he noted tenders had been called again (ibid, 2008, 33). A base course for stonework was laid in 1836 on the designated site. The contractor however withdrew and fresh tenders were called the same year: The advertisement notes 'plans and specifications were with the prominent Colonial architect John Verge (Goulburn District Historical Society (GDHS), 1985, 19).

Early Bungonia planners made provision for a court house, jails, police station, schools and even an orphanage (Thrower, 2015).

There is no evidence that building activity continued beyond partial erection of the church walls although a foundation stone was subsequently laid between 1839-1840 (GDHS, 1985 p.20). Work languished and it was not until 1893 that Christ Church which stands today was completed (ibid, 2008, 33).

Work on the Anglican parsonage however proceeded, allowing the formal appointment of the first resident minister to the Parish of Bungonia, in effect the Southern Highlands, in 1841 (Thrower, 2015). It was built c1840 under the supervision of James Styles of Reevesdale. It was unfinished when the first resident Minister, the Rev. Naploeon Woodd, arrived in that year. He complained to Styles about the damp in his bedroom after rain and asked for sheet lead to waterproof the house. He also recorded that some 600' of (red) cedar for interior fittings and doors had been stolen (ibid, 2008, 33).

By 1841 Bungonia had 16 households, a police station and lock-up, at least one store, two inns and a population of 82 (Thrower, 2015).

To what extent this Christ Church continued to be used for regular services is unclear. The unfinished walls of the previous Christ Church were still standing but no records exist to confirm brick additions had been added to the wooden church. Comments made in 1878 suggest that the wooden church was unsafe and virtually unusable whenever it rained or during winter.

Bungonia was the first outreach for the religious movement (Thrower, 2015).

In 1841, the first Bishop of Australia, Bishop Broughton indicated that a church built of slab timber with lath and plaster internal walls and a high pitched roof had been built at Bungonia (GDHS, ibid). The shingles were split from trees on Bungonia Creek. By 1845 this wooden slab church was called a poor temporary structure and a foundation stone for a more permanent church may have been laid.

To what extent this Christ Church continued to be used for regular services is unclear. The unfinished walls of the previous Christ Church were still standing but no records exist to confirm brick additions had been added to the wooden church. Comments made in 1878 suggest that the wooden church was unsafe and virtually unusable whenever it rained or during winter.

Bungonia was the first outreach for the religious movement. Ministers such as the famous 'galloping parson', Rev. Thomas Hassall, serviced it amongst a vast area (Thrower, 2015). He was its second resident Minister, and arrived in 1849, having exchanged the parish of St. Peters on the Cooks RIver in Sydney with the Rev. Woodd (ibid, 2008, 33).

Hassall was the eldest of eight children of the Rev. Thomas Hassell and wife, Ann, a daughter of the Rev. Samuel Marsden. Thomas was the first Australian-ordained Mninister (1821) and his parish had been described as 'Australia beyond Liverpool'. Broughton gave Mr. (Rev. William) Hassell his blessings and a cheque for 25 pounds to cover expenses involved in moving...The Rev. Hassell loved the bush and country life, and as a bachelor for nearly a year, he was free to roam his five thousand square mile parish. He recalled in a book 'In Old Australia', 'My father used to be called "The Galloping Parson" because he rode so much, and it might seem from the above record that I must have been always in the saddle, but such was not the case...'' His wife, Frances, was a 'good bushwoman' and often accompanied Mr Hassall on his pastoral expeditions. She thought nothing of riding 45 miles in one day. They had two children while at the parsonage at Bungonia. They were married in the 1850s. The Rev. Hassell made good use of the land around his Bungonia residence (a glebe of 40 acres). He grew wheat and oats, some hay, from the skinless oat. He moved from Bungonia partly because of hardship caused by the gold rush. It left him without servants and noone to look after his wife and family when he was travelling... He and family moved to Berrima in 1853 and was succeeded by the rev. E.B. Procter, who stayed for 32 years. Rev. E.B. Procter, prior to his ordination, was a medical student at the Royal Naval Hospital at Plymouth and for many years maintained at Bungonia a free dispensary for the needs of his poorer parishioners (ibid, 2008, 33, 34, 36).

In 1861 the Parish of Bungonia was incorporated into the newly created Diocese of Goulburn, and in 1865, a meeting was held at Bungonia to appeal for the 'erection of a new church on the old foundations (GDHS, ibid). However, for reasons that may include economic depression in the Goulburn district in the 1860s (Wyatt, 1937 p.201) a foundation stone was not laid until 1877.

It is uncertain when the 'temporary' slab church was demolished (1878?). Some of the timber survive in the woolshed on one of the Early Colonial Estates in Bungonia, Inverary Park (GDHS p,19)

The third (present day) church building was designed by architect William Kemp, the first articled pupil of Colonial Architect Edmund Blacket and then first Architect appointed to the Department of Public Instruction, (now the NSW Department of Education) responsible for designing many of the earliest schools in Sydney, including the Ultimo Technological Museum (predecessor of the power house Museum): Christ Church is the only known church to be designed/supervised by Kemp (see Macphail, 1998, 10-11, 33-34).

When it was formally opened on Friday May 24th 1878, the church was unfinished - the windows were covered in with calico, the interior walls unplastered and the church lacked doors. Interior fittings were temporary. For this reason Christ Church was not formally consecrated until 1893. An account, transcribing speeches that were made at the ceremony, was published in the Goulburn Herald on October 27th 1893. Other reasons for the delayed consecration include severe drought and economic depression in the 1890s (arguably the most severe in historic times).

With the accelerated decline of Bungonia when it missed out on the railway line, there was little need for a full-time minister and the parish was absorbed by Marulan in 1888. The parsonage was leased and members of the Styles family lived there until the 1950s. It is now owned by Mr Wesley Hamblion and Mr Peter White (ibid, 2008, 36).

The church was consecrated in 1893 (Read, 2001, 22).

That (absorption) began a shifting pattern of affiliations that continues up to the present day. Between 1905-1906, an attempt was made to revive Bungonia as a separate parish but the appointment only lasted a few months. The rector serving Christ Church from Marulan over the same period is the last known 'parson' to have occupied the parsonage which was then leased and (1958) sold (GDHS, 1985 p.22)

Loss of most of the diocesan records has meant that the new 'church' effectively passed into de-facto 'oblivion' for much of the twentieth century. The few surviving documents suggest that isolation and lack of funds to support a local clergyman in remote parishes such as Bungonia continued to preoccupy the Diocese: For example, Ministers serving Christ Church were given a travel allowance equal to 35% of their stipend. In spite of the long distances over unmade roads, the churches were expected to provide much of the 'grass roots' social support in the rural communities (see Macphail, 1998, 21-23)

Memorial plaques in Christ Church point to the substantial replacement of the internal fabric since the 1940s (Centenary Vol, 1993 p10). Most of these item relate to or were owned by earlier incumbents and parishioners. For example Altar Window and a second window at the rear of the Nave were replaced by stained glass about 1960. It is not known whether any special ceremony was held to mark the centenary of the opening of Christ Church in 1978.

Closure of the Anglican church at Marulan in 1981 - due to the disproportionate cost of maintaining the building relative to the (decreasing) size of congregations - resulted in the transfer of jurisdiction over Christ Church to the Parish of North Goulburn. Predictably, the move provoked a fear amongst Bungonia residents that Christ Church (with an equally small congregation) would also be closed.

Interest in Christ Church and the Bungonia village as historic places surged in the 1980s when the number of persons residing in or visiting the district rose substantially (MK Macphail, personal observations). Reasons include the upgrading and sealing of roads to Marulan and Goulburn (diminishing the sense of isolation), subdivision of many of the large colonial estates and upgrading of camping facilities at Bungonia State Recreation Reserve (allied with increasing interest in Bungonia Caves which are among the deepest in the southern hemisphere). The heightened local interest in Christ Church as a heritage site is exemplified by the compilation of a local history of 'Christ Church Bungonia' in 1988 (manuscript) and its formal but private publication to 'celebrate the centenary of the church on October 24th 1993'. Another local resident has privately published a history of the Bungonia cemetery. The expanding local population has provided a new congregation base for Christ Church. Weekly services were re-instituted in 1996 and are centered around community services conducted by local residents and/or lay preachers from North Goulburn.

Receipts from weekly services are used to maintain the fabric of the church and fund its charitable role in the Bungonia district.

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Modification of terrain-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Introduce cultural planting-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Aboriginal Culture-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Gandangara Nation - sites evidencing occupation-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	Scottish settlers-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	English migrants-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	Irish migrants-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	English rural building practises-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Tourist Industry-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of passive recreation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of remembrance-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Gardens and landscapes reminiscent of an 'old country'-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of institutions - productive and ornamental-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and parklands of distinctive styles-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences	Providing a venue for significant events-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences	Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them.	Exploring and surveying for the Crown-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them.	Opening Up, 1818-39-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	A Picturesque Residential Suburb-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	1820s-1850s land grants-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Townships-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Suburban Centres-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Changing land uses - from rural to tourist-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Demonstrating Governor Macquarie's town and landscape planning-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Alienating Crown Lands for religious purposes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Subdivision of urban estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	19th century suburban developments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Outlying settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing the social life of a rural community-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	living in the country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Impacts of railways on rural development-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	A quiet Rural District-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	19th Century Infrastructure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Vernacular hamlets and settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Villages-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Planning relationships between key structures and town plans-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing private towns-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing towns in response to topography-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Shaping inland settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Cultural Social and religious life-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Creating landmark structures and places in regional settings-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Beautifying towns and villages-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Utilities-Activities associated with the provision of services, especially on a communal basis	Roadways to Inland Settlements-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working with hand tools and implements-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working independently on the land-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working in places of public entertainment-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Adult Education-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Educating people in regional locations-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Community education - adults, school excursions-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Private (religious) schooling-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Colonial government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	State government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Local government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - grants of land for agriculture-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - surveying of land-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - administration of land-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Direct vice-regal governance (pre 1856)-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - facilitating agriculture-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - town and country planning-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - facilitating pastoralism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Developing cultural institutions and ways of life-National Theme 8
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Gothic Revival-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Interior design styles and periods - Gothic Revival-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Interior design styles and periods - Victorian-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing making and using ecclesiastical furniture-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Victorian period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Victorian Gothic Revival-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Applying architectural design to utlilitarian structures-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	work of stonemasons-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Victorian (mid)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing structures to emphasise their important roles-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Building in response to natural landscape features.-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing and marking grave furnishings and ornamentation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Federation period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Adaptation of overseas design for local use-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing making and using banners and flags-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing in an exemplary architectural style-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Performing important ceremonies and rituals-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1900-1950-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1950-2000-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1788-1850-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Ways of life 1850-1900-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in a bushland setting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	musical gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Outdoor relief-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Tourism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to a concert-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to church or temple or mosque-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Gathering at landmark places to socialise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Developing collections of items-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Leisure-Includes tourism, resorts.
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Religious worship-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Anglican Community-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Church-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Practising Anglicanism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Community volunteering-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Fund-raising activities for community charities-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Providing charity-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Joining together to study and appreciate philosophy-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Belonging to an institution for self improvement-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Places of formal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Places of informal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Commemorating war losses-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Developing local clubs and meeting places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Belonging to an historical society or heritage organisation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Participating in ANZAC Day celebrations-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Community organisations-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Birth and Death-Activities associated with the initial stages of human life and the bearing of children, and with the final stages of human life and disposal of the dead.	Erecting and visiting monuments and memorials-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	(none)-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Bishop William Grant Broughton, Anglican bishop of Australia-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Bishop William Grant Broughton, Anglican bishop of Australia-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. E.B. Procter, Anglican priest-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. E.B. Procter, Anglican priest-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with William Kemp, architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. George Napoleon Woodd, Anglican parson-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Frances (Fanny) Hassell, Anglican parson's wife, farmer-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Robert Futter, retired naval officer, farmer-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. James Hassall, Anglican priest-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. James Hassall, Anglican priest-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	Christ Church (and Bungonia Village) occupy a central position within a group of closely linked heritage places that reflects the evolving pattern of European spiritual and community life on the Southern Highlands from 1820s up to now. It is associated with, and relects the impact of, significant events in the cultural history of the Southern Highlands, in particular the development of the Great South road between 1820-1840 and its subsequent re-routing and upgrading into the Hume Highway linking Sydney to Melbourne after 1840. No equivalent group of closely associated heritage places which reflect these events to the same degree is known to exist on the Southern Highlands.
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	It has a very strong visual appeal due to its stone construction, homely size, 'Early English' architectural style and Gothic, Aesthetic and Arts and Crafts interior features, in particular the font, pulpit, Sanctuary furniture and stained glass. It is a significant variation on an important class of church designs in Australia (Blacket churches) by arguably the most important pupil of Edmund Blacket. Its position has made it a landmark within the Bungonia district for over a century and, if its predecessors are included, for upward of 150 years.
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	It is clearly identified with a valued institution (Church of England) that has provided a focus for both spiritual and social activities (including schooling and basic health services) to isolated communities on the Southern Highlands since European settlement. It provides continuity with the Colonial Past in a rapidly changing region and preserves a tangible record of the lives of past inhabitants of the Bungonia district. It remains a central point of focus in a local community's (evolving) sense of place.
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	It is a significant example of the survival into the later Colonial times of a building technology based around local materials (a local bluestone), more typical of the Early Colonial Period in the Goulburn district.
SHR Criteria f) [Rarity]	Christ Church is rare because (a) it is the only known example of its type within the general district; (b) it has a demonstrable relationship with a previous (1836) church on the site and provides a visible testimony of an occupancy extending back to the first two decades of European settlement of the Southern Highlands; and (c) it is the only known example of a church built by an important Colonial architect, William Kemp.
SHR Criteria g) [Representativeness]	Christ Church is a good representative of (a) a Mid-Late Victorian Period rural church, and (b) the 'Early English' Church architectural style adapted for Australian conditions.
Integrity/Intactness:	Christ Church's form and (fixed) internal fabric have remained intact since its building in 1878-1893 except for the roof cladding and some windows. In both cases these early twentieth century fittings match the 'Early English' style of the original church. The cultural landscape in which it stands retains the essential elements and much of the character of the nineteenth century village in Australia.
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Recommended Management	Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP)
Recommended Management	Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines
Recommended Management	Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Title	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register		01303	01 Oct 99	114	9694
Local Environmental Plan	Christ Church, Anglican	I029	20 Feb 09
National Trust of Australia register	Christ Church Anglican, Bungonia	1251	11 Feb 74

Study details

Title	Year	Number	Author	Inspected by	Guidelines used
Mulwaree Shire Community Heritage Study 2002-4	2004		Mulwaree Shire Council	Jennifer Tracey	Yes

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Written	Macphail, M.K.	1996	Christ Church Conservation Management Plan
Written	McPhail, M.K.	1998	Christ Church Bungonia (1833-1998) "Echoing in Stone the Lives and Times of a Rural Community, Southern Highlands, NSW."
Written	Read, Stuart	2001	'Spring Ponds, c.1820 and Bungonia' (entry, in "Off the Beaten Track")	View detail
Written	Revitt, Jim and Ronald	2008	Bungonia - Foundation of a Heritage
Written	Thrower, Louise	2015	'Conservation counts in old Bungonia'

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5044693
File number:	H99/00138

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of Heritage NSW or respective copyright owners.