Deepdene, VIC - Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic

History and Architecture:

The parishes of Kew, Camberwell and Hawthorn were established in 1889. The area which the Deepdene Parish encompasses was, at this time, part of the Parishes of Camberwell and Kew.

The first building, on the Whitehorse Rd site, which is now part of the school, was used by the parish as both a church and school. The foundation stone of the first church was blessed by Archbishop Mannix on 26 November 1922.

The construction of the current church began in the 1950s, when Fr Godwin was the Parish Priest. It was completed in 1955. The long narrow shape of the church was dictated by the land that was available between the presbytery and the school. The architect was Mr L Sam Miguel and the builder was Simmie & Co. The church was officially opened and blessed by the Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr Daniel Mannix DD, on 3 July 1959.

The Church has undergone several refurbishments over the years, the most recent being to the internal structure throughout 2016 –2017 and the addition of a gathering space adjoined to the church.

For a complete history click here.