St Monica's Old Cathedral, Cairns

St Monica's Old Cathedral, a heritage-listed gem in the heart of Cairns, Queensland, is a testament to the enduring spirit and faith of its community. This historic building, located at the corner of Minnie and Lake Streets, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century and continues to be a significant landmark in the region.

The History of St Monica's Old Cathedral

The story of St Monica's begins in 1886 when the first church, a timber structure, was erected to serve the burgeoning Catholic community in Cairns. This initial building, located at the corner of Abbott and Minnie Streets, also served as a school. However, the church and school were destroyed by Cyclone Willis on February 9, 1927, a devastating event that led to the construction of the current St Monica's Old Cathedral.

Designed by the architectural firm Lawrence and Lordan, the new church-school was built by Michael Garvey and officially opened on October 16, 1927. The building was constructed with reinforced concrete, a choice that reflected the community's resilience and determination to withstand future cyclones. The design incorporated Gothic motifs and spacious verandahs, creating a structure that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In 1941, the Vicariate Apostolic of Cooktown was elevated to the status of the Diocese of Cairns, and St Monica's Church was designated as the cathedral. It remained the principal place of worship for the Catholic community until 1968, when the new St Monica's War Memorial Cathedral was opened. The old cathedral was then repurposed as offices for the Diocese of Cairns and the local parish.

Architectural Features

St Monica's Old Cathedral is a two-storeyed building with a rectangular floor plan and a gabled roof structure. The exterior is characterized by its reinforced concrete construction, which provides both durability and a distinctive appearance. The building features a series of colonnaded porticos with stepped gables and large Celtic crosses in relief, adding to its Gothic charm.

The main entrance, accessed via a wide stairway, is framed by a semi-circular arch with a glazed roundel above the double doors. This entrance is flanked by round-headed casement windows, which allow natural light to flood the interior. The building's western wall terminates in a projecting gable with squared piers and gable caps, while the north and south walls are topped with a high parapet and wide castellation.

Inside, the ground floor, originally divided into classrooms, has been repurposed to accommodate diocesan and parish offices. The first floor, which once housed the cathedral, retains its original timber supporting columns and lancet arches, creating a sense of grandeur and history. A raised timber gallery extends over the main entrance, providing additional space and a unique vantage point.

The Community's Resilience

The construction of St Monica's Old Cathedral is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Cairns Catholic community. Despite the destruction caused by Cyclone Willis and subsequent challenges, the community rallied together to raise the necessary funds for the new building. Within eight months, nearly £5,000 was collected, a remarkable achievement given the economic difficulties of the time.

The local parish priest, Father Phelan, played a crucial role in this effort, inspiring a working-bee of 40 men who volunteered their time to clear the debris and prepare the site for construction. The rapid completion of the new church-school was a tribute to the zeal of the Augustinian fathers and the unwavering support of the parishioners.

A Symbol of Faith and Heritage

Today, St Monica's Old Cathedral stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and heritage. Its inclusion on the Queensland Heritage Register on July 1, 1997, underscores its significance in the history of Cairns and the broader region. The building continues to serve the community, albeit in a different capacity, as it houses the offices for the Diocese of Cairns and the local parish.

Visitors to St Monica's Old Cathedral can appreciate not only its architectural beauty but also the rich history and stories embedded within its walls. The building is a reminder of the community's ability to overcome adversity and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Catholic Church in Cairns.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St Monica's Old Cathedral offers a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to reflect on the remarkable journey of this historic landmark.