South Perth Uniting Church (previously Sandgate Methodist)
The South Perth Methodist circuit had beginnings in the 1800’s with the original chapel built in 1860 on the corner of what is now Coode and Mill Point Rd.
When Wesley College took over the land in 1923 they contributed to the purchase of the site on the corner of Sandgate St and Angelo St in October 1924. The foundation stone was laid 5th September 1925. The building was erected quickly for a cost of 1300 pounds. For the opening there was no seating, so chairs were brought over from Wesley College. Later money was raised to buy 100 chairs for $1.35 each. The communion rail had been an organ rail in Perth Wesley Church and the organ was donated by West Perth Wesley Church. Fundraising occurred to buy a piano in August 1930.
With the building of this Church, the boys from Wesley College used to march across the College to join the Congregation for their regular Chapel services.
In the 1930’s the average Sunday School attendance was well over 100 children. On 14 March 1947 a timber framed hall was opened behind it to accommodate the needs of the young people.
Until 1955 there were two Methodist Churches in the City of South Perth, here and in an old wooden dance hall in Como.
The Collins Street Kensington Church was opened in 1955, the new McDonald St Como Church in 1956 and the Manning Church in 1958.
Due to “serious overcrowding” in the Angelo St Hall, the 140 seat church accessed off Sandgate St was built and dedicated in 1962. The manse was built in 1966.
Over the past 20 years the closing and sale of the other properties have helped to refurbish and renovate this site. There were also Presbyterian Churches in the area including Broome Street which was sold to help build the South Perth Childcare Centre.
Today we remember the past and make a commitment to the future that as best we can we will continue to proclaim the Good News of Jesus as Saviour and Lord with our words, our actions and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
We look forward to the 100 year celebrations of worship on this site in 2025.
