About Us
An Orthodox community transforming our lives in Christ
A Historical Church in the Heart of Dardanup
Nestled at the entrance of the picturesque Ferguson Valley in Dardanup, Western Australia, St Mary’s Church stands as a testament to both history and faith. Located near Bunbury, this historic church is a remarkable example of English Federation Gothic architecture. With its cruciform design, parapet walls, hexagonal sanctuary, and beautifully arched windows, the church’s striking exterior and serene interior reflect both its heritage and its spiritual purpose. Its jarrah ceiling, solid clay brick walls with a rendered finish, and bold arches create an atmosphere of stillness and prayer, cherished by the community for generations.
Nestled at the entrance of the picturesque Ferguson Valley in Dardanup, Western Australia, St Mary’s Church stands as a testament to both history and faith. Located just 17 kilometres from Bunbury, this 120-year-old Church is a remarkable example of English (Federation) Gothic architecture.
With its cruciform design, parapet walls, hexagon sanctuary, and beautifully arched windows, the Church’s striking exterior and serene interior reflect both its heritage and spiritual significance. Its jarrah ceiling, solid stone-coloured walls, and bold arches create a peaceful and complete atmosphere, cherished by the local community for over a century.
A New Orthodox Mission Parish
With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop George of Sydney, Australia and New Zealand (ROCOR), St Mary’s began a new chapter as the home of an English-language Orthodox mission parish. The mission began with the baptism of its first catechumens and has since grown steadily, welcoming new Orthodox Christians into the faith, with further baptisms planned. This vibrant and growing community — drawn by the timeless and genuine faith of the Church — has become a living centre of Orthodoxy in the south west of Western Australia.
Approximately a year ago, with the blessing of Vladyka Archbishop George of Sydney, St Mary’s began a new chapter in its history as the home of a ROCOR English mission parish: The Nativity of the Theotokos Orthodox Church.
The mission started with the baptism of four catechumens, and since then, the parish has joyfully welcomed six more into the Orthodox faith, with further baptisms planned.
This vibrant and growing community of Orthodox Christians, drawn by the timeless and genuine faith of the Church, has transformed St Mary’s into a hub of youthful, dynamic Orthodoxy in the southwest of WA.
A Place of Prayer and Community
During a recent visit, Archpriest Michael Protopopov, Chancellor of the ROCOR Diocese, expressed his admiration for the church and its holy atmosphere. He observed that within these walls you can feel the past prayers and love of those who have worshipped here. He recognised that St Mary’s is not merely a historic building but a sacred space where people encounter Christ, receive the Holy Mysteries, and grow in the Orthodox faith.
During a recent visit, Archpriest Michael Protopopov, Chancellor of the ROCOR Diocese, expressed his admiration for the Church and its holy atmosphere, stating, “You can feel the past prayers and love.” He recognised that St Mary’s is not just a physical structure but a sacred space where people encounter Christ, receive the sacraments, and grow in their faith.
A Permanent Home for Orthodoxy in the South West
By God’s grace and the generosity of many, St Mary’s Church and its surrounding property have been purchased and now stand as the permanent home of Orthodox Christianity in the south west of Western Australia.
What began as a mission parish has taken root. These historic walls, which have held the prayers of generations, will now hold the prayers of generations yet to come.
Glory to God for all things.
A Vision for the Future
With the support of the local Anglican Diocese, St Mary’s Church and its adjacent property, comprising two parcels of land totalling approximately 4,880 square metres, are now available for purchase.
This presents a rare opportunity to establish a permanent home for Orthodoxy in the southwest, near Bunbury, creating a spiritual centre that will serve the faithful for generations to come.
How You Can Help
To secure this Church and its surrounding land for the Orthodox Faith, we humbly seek your prayers and support.
Every contribution, no matter the size, is a gift of love for God and an investment in the future of Orthodoxy in the south west of Western Australia.
With your help, we can ensure that future generations have a place to worship, encounter Christ, and be shaped by the Orthodox faith within these historic walls.
For more information or to offer your support, please contact:
Fr John Sullivan
St Mary’s Orthodox Mission Parish South West
9 Boyanup-Picton Rd, Dardanup Western Australia
secretary.stmarysdardanup@gmail.com