Mariners' Church

Item details


Name of item:	Mariners' Church
Other name/s:	Mission to Seamen; Rawson Institute for Seamen & Mariners' Church; Craft Centre
Type of item:	Built
Group/Collection:	Defence
Category:	Barracks & housing
Location:	Lat: -33.8582172516 Long: 151.2093899710
Primary address:	98-100 George Street, The Rocks, NSW 2000
Parish:	St Philip
County:	Cumberland
Local govt. area:	Sydney
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Metropolitan

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	2		DP	752063

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
98-100 George Street	The Rocks	Sydney	St Philip	Cumberland	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
Place Management NSW	State Government

Statement of significance:


	The Mariners' Church and site are of State heritage significance for their historical and scientific cultural values. The site and building are also of State heritage significance for their contribution to The Rocks area which is of State Heritage significance in its own right. The former Mariners' Church occupies an historic site and itself has association with the Age of Victorian enlightenment, reflected in the establishment of the Bethel Union and Rawson Institute for Seamen, and in changes in approaches to the welfare of seamen evidenced by the building fabric. The evolving complex is also associated with a number of prominent individuals including Lancelot Threlkeld, Governor Sir Henry Rawson, Sir James Fairfax, Dame Margaret Davidson and the architects John Bibb and Harry C. Kent and his partners. The existing Mariners' Church complex is an important streetscape element in a major historic precinct and its buildings display characteristics of the highest aesthetic calibre, including fine details and use of two applications of the Free Classical style - one early Victorian, the other Federation. The fabric of the Mariners' Church evidences high quality workmanship and early use of steel technology and illustrates subsequent application of conservation values and principles. (Godden Mackay 1992: 150) The site is also significant in the industrial relations history of NSW as it was the first site to be awarded an eight hour day for stonemasons, the first tradsmen to be granted it.
	Date significance updated: 30 Mar 11
	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:	1856 - J. Bibb; 1909 - H.C. Kent ; 1927 - Kent & Massie
Construction years:	1856-1859
Physical description:	The first John Bibb structure was built in Victorian Free Classical style in temple form, resulting in a single large prismatic volume with two projecting wings with a cruciform plan symmetrical about 2 axes. The elevations have a high piano nobile (main floor) four pediments and carved foliated decoration. The 1909 alterations were designed by Harry Chambers Kent in Federation Free Classical style. The closure of Bethel Street and the creation of the Bethel Steps to replace it enabled a larger site. An extra storey was added with four columns to support the beam structure of the upper floor which consisted of a central chapel with compartments on either side. Kent added rooms to the George Street facade which were in the Federation Free Classical style, converting the faade into a three storey ensemble. The south front rooms curved around the boundary of the Bethel Steps. In 1927 a new chapel was built in the Inter- War Mediterranean or Romanesque style at ground level and a new balcony was erected on a base of retaining walls and piers of cement rendered load bearing brickwork facing Circular Quay West. In 1931 a stone cottage erected 30 years before on the north-east corner of the site was demolished and a new dwelling for the Mission Chaplain was built, designed by N W McPherson, which became part of the Davidson Wing, and was not completed until after World War II. The Circular Quay faade had become asymmetrical and idiosyncratic, and concealed almost all of the original Bibb building. In 1980-81 work undertaken on the building to adapt it for the Craft Council included the demolition of the 1931 Chaplaincy addition and part of the 1927-28 addition. A staircase and office were added, and the ground floor chapel became the Craft Centre, the basement a gallery. The treatment of the three chapels was sympathetic but some adverse work including a new mezzanine in the 1909 chapel were added. In 1990, the work, consisting of some conservation and careful adaptation work, undertaken for the Story of Sydney, was in general benign. The exteriors were improved, and a terrace was added which improved the West Circular Quay faade. (From Godden Mackay 1992: 11-35, 140-141) Style: 1856 - Victorian Free Classical; 1909 - Federation Free Classical; 1927 - Inter-War Mediterranean or Romanesque; Storeys: 3; Roof Cladding: Galvanised Iron; Floor Frame: Terracotta Tiles, concrete and bituminous felt. In 2008 a complete refurbishement of the building was undertaken, this included replacement of degraded stonework and excavation under the 1909 extension. This excavation revealed the almost complete remains of Bethel St and included a large retaining wall.
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Archaeological Assessment Condition: Watching brief- mostly disturbed. Assessment Basis: In general it was concluded that although sub-floor deposits had been grossly disturbed by the various post-1854 building phases, the back section of the building, incorporating the Margaret Davidson Wing, contained potentially useful data at the former inter-tidal zone, some 3 metres below the current surface. Investigation: Watching brief
	Date condition updated:03 May 01
Modifications and dates:	1873; 1909; 1927; 1931; 1940; 1947 (for detailed information see the Conservation Plan & above in description). 2008 complete refurbishment


Current use:	Bar, Restaurant, Nightclub
Former use:	Aboriginal land, town lot, Church, café, Crafts centre

History

Historical notes:

The "Eora people" was the name given to the coastal Aborigines around Sydney. Central Sydney is therefore often referred to as "Eora Country". Within the City of Sydney local government area, the traditional owners are the Cadigal and Wangal bands of the Eora. There is no written record of the name of the language spoken and currently there are debates as whether the coastal peoples spoke a separate language "Eora" or whether this was actually a dialect of the Dharug language. Remnant bushland in places like Blackwattle Bay retain elements of traditional plant, bird and animal life, including fish and rock oysters (Anita Heiss, "Aboriginal People and Place", Barani: Indigenous History of Sydney City http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/barani).

With the invasion of the Sydney region, the Cadigal and Wangal people were decimated but there are descendants still living in Sydney today. All cities include many immigrants in their population. Aboriginal people from across the state have been attracted to suburbs such as Pyrmont, Balmain, Rozelle, Glebe and Redfern since the 1930s. Changes in government legislation in the 1960s provided freedom of movement enabling more Aboriginal people to choose to live in Sydney (Anita Heiss, "Aboriginal People and Place", Barani: Indigenous History of Sydney City http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/barani).

The site has a rich history. The first (settler) occupant was Lieutenant Ball of the First Fleet vessel "Supply" in 1788, and after the waterfront part of the Hospital site to the south was set aside as a Dockyard, Thomas Moore, the Master Boat Builder, built a house where Ball's house and garden had been. The neighbouring land to the north was first owned by William Balmain, but by 1800 had passed to Robert Campbell.

The Bethel Union originated in England, in the Port of London. Its founding was part of the widespread evangelical religious revival of the early 19th century, of which missionary activity among seamen was becoming a part. In 1822, the Bethel Seamen's Union or Bethel Union was established in Sydney. Two earlier sites were granted to the Union, one at Darling Harbour near Erskine Street where a church was erected in 1844, the second at south east Circular Quay where the church operated out of a temporary building for 6 years, before the third site, the former Master Boat Builder's house site at West Circular Quay, was granted in 1856 following representations from the Union for a site in this area, the centre of maritime activity in Sydney.

The Bethel Union's third church was designed by John Bibb, in the Victorian Free Classical style, built of well-executed sandstone ashlar, with a slate roof. Construction continued throughout 1856 & 1857. Then work stopped through lack of funds. During construction, the stonemasons union advised of the reduction of their working hours per day from 12 to 8. This was agreed by the Bethel Union Trustees and thus the site was the first to employ stonemasons on a 8 hour day in Sydney. On 27 February, 1859 the Mariners' Church was opened. The building is of high architectural and historical importance, and the original church is a grand space and a rare and precious reminder of an expansive early Victorian preaching auditorium.

Early attendance was low, but after Rev. Thomas Gainsford took office in 1871, attendance soared, and in 1873 more accommodation was provided by the excavation of some 460 cu metres of sandstone to create a basement providing a hall for concerts and dining, a smoking room, and a library. In 1888, the basement was enlarged, a smoking room added to the library, and a gymnasium created. Around this time the Bethel Union was in financial difficulties, and eventually , in 1895, the Mariners' Church was leased to the Missions to Seamen, an organisation originating in England in 1835, and starting in Sydney with the work of John Shearston in 1872. In his missionary work for neglected seamen he initially provided church services but was soon providing for their wider needs, including reading rooms and clubs, education and welfare services. (Godden Mackay 1992: 11-35, 140-141)

The two organisations combined functions and prospered, The facilities were considered inadequate, and Sir Henry Rawson instigated extensions which were carried out in 1910, and the complex was renamed The Rawson Institute for Seamen. The alterations were designed by William Kent in Federation Free Classical style. The closure of Bethel Street and the creation of the Bethel Steps to replace it enabled a larger site. An extra storey was added with four columns to support the beam structure of the upper floor which consisted of a central chapel with compartments on either side. Kent added rooms to the George Street facade which were in the Federation Free Classical style, converting the faade into a three storey ensemble. The south front rooms curved around the boundary of the Bethel Steps. The activities of the Institute continued to expand and Dame Margaret Davidson, wife of the new Governor, launched an appeal for the further enlargement of 1927-28 called the Dame Margaret Davidson Wing designed by the architects Kent and Massie. In 1931 the Bethel Union Trustees approved an extension of the lease to the end of 1960, and a new dwelling for the Mission Chaplain was built.

In 1971 the Mariners' Church complex was resumed by the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority and the Bethel Union was relocated to Flying Angel House, 11-15 Macquarie Place, opened in 1977.
The SCRA then adapted the building for the Craft Council of NSW which operated from 1981-1990 when the building was vacated to make way for The Story of Sydney, and the Craft Centre moved to No 88 George Street.

The Story of Sydney opened in January 1991 and closed on 31 January 1992, as it proved not to be a financially viable project.
(From Godden Mackay 1992: 11-35, 140-149).

The Mariners' Church building was being used as an art gallery and cafe, the gallery moved out in 2006. Currently the building is being completely renovated and stonework restored for fitting out as a restaurant and nightclub. Part of these works were excavation into the 1909 extension to fit plant into a basement. This exposed the top courses of a retaining wall and SHFA archaeologists were called in to excavate. The almost complete remains of Bethel St were uncovered in the new basement. A viewing window was cut into the wall at Bethel Stairs and interpretation of Bethel St and the building is to be installed.

[Archaeology notes: The Mariners Church was originally built in 1854, extended in 1873, 1908-9, 1921 and 1927. The site had previously been that of the boat builders house and garden, part of the Government Boatyard which also encompassed Cadmans Cottage to the south.]

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.	Changing the environment-
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	Creating environments evocative of the '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	Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences	Developing local landmarks-
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	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.	Architectural design-
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.	Education associated with Welfare institutions-
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-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Educating people in suburban locations-
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	Welfare-Activities and process associated with the provision of social services by the state or philanthropic organisations	Providing community halls and services-
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 - Federation Free 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.	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.	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.	Interior design styles and periods - Edwardian-
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 Free Classical-
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.	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.	Performing important ceremonies and rituals-
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 in artistic and creative ways-
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.	(none)-
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	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	(none)-
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	Philanthropy for religious uses-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Conducting missions-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Adaptive new use-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	church hall-
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	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	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	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 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	Developing and maintaining a local library-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Community enterprise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities	Providing charity-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with W.E. (William) Kemp, architect, particularly of schools-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. Thomas Gainsford, evangelical priest-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with John Bibb, architect-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	The site is highly significant for its historical and occupational associations with The Rocks and the maritime nature of Sydney, including the early Dockyard and Robert Campbell's house and waterside warehouse. The present physical relationship of the group of buildings including the Mariners' Church/Rawson Institute, the ASN Building, the Sailor's Home and Cadman's Cottage, evokes this history. The building is one of the symbols of early Victorian enlightenment in The Rocks. The original Chapel represented the impact of religion and welfare in the lives of visiting seamen. It is important in the history of architecture in Australia, and provides evidence of the choice of Classical styles for non conformist Protestant church buildings. The original building signifies the impact of the Bethel Union, while the Rawson Institute demonstrates that of the Missions to Seamen. The adjoining Bethel Steps is the successor to the earlier Bethel Street. The original building and the George Street façade and other exteriors are important examples of the work of the significant architects John Bibb (early to mid 19th century) and Harry C. Kent (Federation period) respectively. The complex is important for its association with many people of historical importance. (Godden Mackay 1992: 151-152)
SHR Criteria b) [Associative significance]	The evolving complex is also associated with a number of prominent individuals including Lancelot Threlkeld, Governor Sir Henry Rawson, Sir James Fairfax, Dame Margaret Davidson and the architects John Bibb and Harry C. Kent and his partners.
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	The former Mariners' Church is a fine early example of the Victorian Free Classical style of architecture in the form, space and surviving detail of the first chapel. The extensions completed in 1909 are a good and representative example of Federation Free Classical architecture, and are an ingenious solution to a difficult design problem. The exteriors, in particular the George St. facade, illustrate many of the essentials of that style. The 1909 and 1927 Chapels are finely detailed interiors, the first with an interesting Baroque quality, the second an Inter-War Mediterranean or Romanesque style. It forms an effective streetscape component of George Street North, and Circular Quay West, with the corner curve into Bethel Steps, which forms another important streetscape element. (Godden Mackay 1992: 150-151) The building occupies a key location at the confluence of Hickson Road and George Street and has a landmark quality being at the crown of a slight rise, providing a focus for a variety of spatial vistas and even different levels of views. (Godden Mackay1992: 145)
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	The building characterises and illustrates in its present fabric the changes in approaches to welfare among seamen, from the mainly religious endeavours expressed in the first Chapel to the more diverse recreational and educational approaches expressed in the progressively enlarged complex. The construction of the building is associated with the first application in Sydney of the principle of the eight-hour working day and thus with the early influence of the trade union movement. Its resumption and adaptation by the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority for use as a Craft Centre and later adaptations for the Story of Sydney and then for gallery shop and café uses represent a continuation of a semi-public uses and the application of 1970s, 1980s and 1990s conservation values. (Godden Mackay 1992: 152)
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	The first Mariners' Church is a good example of traditional masonry construction, displaying fine workmanship and detailing, including different kinds of ashlar tooling as well as the use of shell-lime mortar. The early use of imported iron windows adds to its technical interest. The insertion of the basement (now level 2) some years after the completion of the Mariners' Church was a bold enlargement of the available space of the building. The interpolation of riveted steel structural members in 1908-09 is a fairly early example of this type of structure. The ensembles of pressed metal ceilings are significant for their size, consistency and intactness. The eastern portion of the site is known to contain archaeological deposits with potential to yield information about the use of this site and of the history of The Rocks. (Godden Mackay 1992: 152)
Integrity/Intactness:	Archaeology: watching brief- partly disturbed. 2008 excavation for liftwell and under the 1910 extension which revealed an almost complete Bethel St
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:

The former Mariners' Church is a complex of considerable cultural significance. From a conservation point of view, it is desirable that the complex continues on public ownership and is used for purposes which will allow public access and appreciation of its significance. All of the existing structures and major elements which comprise the complex should be retained and conserved. Significant fabric, including evidence of all major phases of the history of the site, should be retained and conserved. The open plan and existing spaces of the original chapel and officers' club should be retained. Adaptation of the structure, spaces and individual elements, and associated new works may be acceptable, provided that the existing fabric and visual qualities of the complex are respected. Where possible new work should be confined to areas that have already been disturbed , should be reversible wherever possible, and should be identifiable as new work. Removal of 1990 fixtures and cladding to reveal earlier fabric is acceptable. Any use of the complex should utilise the existing adaptation and facilities already available in preference to new construction or further intervention to existing fabric. Fixtures and fittings should be designed or selected to respect the existing fabric or existing qualities. Potential archaeological resources (both building fabric and sub-surface) should be conserved through monitoring of disturbance and recording of information revealed, or, where necessary by archaeological excavation. The cultural significance of the complex should be interpreted on site for occupants and visitors. Permanent statutory protection should be provided for the site. The conservation policy should be reviewed following selection of a new tenant (or tenants)for the site and at regular intervals of not less than five years. (Godden Mackay 1992:2-3; see also 4-5 for Recommendations for the effective implementation of the Conservation Policy and 162-166 for Constraints Arising from the Significance of the Place). Above ground archaeological remains: An archaeological watching brief or monitoring program is recommended. Below ground archaeological remains: An archaeological watching brief or monitoring program is recommended.

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		01559	10 May 02	85	2865

Study details

Title	Year	Number	Author	Inspected by	Guidelines used
SCA Register 1979-1998	1998	B045, AR020	Sydney Cove Authority (SCA)		Yes

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Tourism		2007	Rocks Self-Guided Tour	View detail
Written	Godden Mackay Pty Ltd	1990	The Story of Sydney, 100 George Street: Report on Archaeological Monitoring.
Written	Godden Mackay,	1992	Former Mariners' Church, 100 George Street, The Rocks, Conservation Plan
Written	Graham Brooks & Associates	2005	The Mariner's Church (former) Conservation Management
Management Plan	Graham Brooks & Associates.	2005	The Mariners' Church (former) 98-100 George St, The Rocks : conservation management plan
Written	Higginbotham, Kass & Walker	1991	The Rocks and Millers Point Archaeological Management Plan
Written	Irving, R	1989	100 George Street, Sydney: Conservation Plan. The Story of Sydney.
Written	SCA	1979	Building Data Sheet, CP/05

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

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Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5053174

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