Emma Pritchard
Since the late 1800s, the imposing and unmistakable majesty of the Christ Church Cathedral in Grafton has provided locals with an iconic and awe-inspiring place of worship.
Situated on the corner of Duke Street and Victoria Street, the breathtakingly beautiful structure is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the Clarence Valley and welcomes thousands of visitors of all faiths each year.
Designed by architect John Horbury Hunt, the foundation stone of the Christ Church Cathedral was laid in 1874, although building did not begin until 1880 and it took a further four years to complete.
At the time, Grafton only had a population of 1500 people, but it was a community which also embodied a strong devotion to God.
Large sandstone blocks from Eatonsville were used in the foundations and the Christ Church Cathedral in Grafton was opened and dedicated by the Archbishop of Sydney Alfred Barry in 1884.
In 1934, the foundation stone for a second extension was laid and the western section and Duke Street entry was completed in 1937.
Additions in the second extension included north and south entrance floors and a choir vestry.
Although a spire was included in the original design, it was never built.
Designed in a majestic, gothic architectural style, the Christ Church Cathedral in Grafton attracts plenty of admiration from visitors and worshippers.
It can seat 1000 people and is highly valued by the local Anglican community.
The Christ Church Cathedral in Grafton is presently owned by the Anglican Diocese of Grafton and the property was included in the NSW State Heritage Register in 2003.
In 2024, it will celebrate its milestone 140th Anniversary.
On Friday, November 29, a gala dinner will be held on site to commemorate the occasion, and the evening will also include fundraising for the ongoing care and maintenance of the historic property.
The event will include a formal three course dinner with hors d’oeuvres and sparkling wine, with guests being invited to dine within the grounds.
To book a table, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/grafton-cathedral-140th-anniversary-formal-dinner