In 1925 a windswept paddock of wet onion grass, with a few residences nearby, was selected as the site for a new parish church in East Camberwell. Although initially described as St Hilda's Riversdale, the new parish became known as St Dunstan's as a tribute to St Dunstan (928 - 988), one time Archbishop of Canterbury.

 

The first building was a temporary wooden church building which sat where the vicarage know sits at the front of the property. While that was being built the vicar of the day, The Rev. Oliver Brady, conducted services in the homes of parishioners. The first service in the new building was held on 1 August 1926.

 

A new brick church and parish hall were completed and dedicated in 1930 by Archbishop Head. The parish recieved generous donations of furniture and furnishings at the time and this practise continues to this day. A new two storey home was built as a vicarage after the temporary wooden church had been removed and which found its way to St Mark's, West Reservoir. Interestingly, a pilgrimmage to the site took place during the 80th Anniversary Celebrations in 2006.

 

An Anglican Day Kindergarten was launched in the mid 1940's which has continued to provide a high standard pre-school educaiton for generations of local children ever since. A purpose built new kinder buidling was erected in 1973.

 

Two tennis courts were installed on the land behind the vicarage in 19848.

 

Much needed resoration and renovation to the church building was completed in 1976 which has facilitated the cycle of worship and other events at St Dunstans to this day. A genrous gift from a benefactor in the 1970's enabled all outstanding debt to be discharged.

 

A booklet, Fifty Years at St Dunstan's 1926 - 1976 was published celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the parish and the building was consecrated by the Most Reverend Dr. Frank Wood, Primate and Archbishop of Melbourne. The distinctive mural on the outside wall facing Wattle Valley Road was designed and crafted by Mrs Eva Schubert using a sgraffito technique. It depicts St Dunstan and his harp which is our current logo.

 

In 2006 the parish celebrated its 80th anniversary together with the Mother's Union (70 years) and the Kindergarten (60 years).

 

We are a loving and faithful community offering hospitality and friendship to all who enter through our doors. We have a miriad of activities which take place during the week which we encourage you to check out on this website or by contacting the parish office.

 

PS: the progeny of the onion grass are still to be found in the lawn at the front of the church despite the ravages of recent drought years!!

 

Thanks to Mr Peter Wright for his assistance in compiling this brief history of our parish.

 

The Lady Chapel