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Historic St Matthew's Church facing closure THE imminent closure of historic St. Matthew's Church and Hall will be a tragic loss, not only to Howard, but the whole Fraser Coast community. By Rosiejay THE imminent closure of historic St. Matthew's Church and Hall will be a tragic loss, not only to Howard, but the whole Fraser Coast community. Located in William Street next to Brooklyn House, it is set on land donated by William Rankin. The Rankin family is well-known for their past political contributions, through Col. Colin Rankin and Dame Annabelle Rankin DBE. Whilst the present congregation of St. Matthew's is small, their dedication and love for their church and its rich history is evident. The peeling paint on this little timber church belies its well-kept interior. Its stained glass windows depicting the Church's namesake, St. Matthew, overlook the altar draped in crisp, white linen, neat rows of wooden pews and gleaming polished plaques bearing the names of long-past parishioners. An aura of warmth pervades, no doubt from the love of many generations who have been a part of this welcoming church. The original church was built in 1883. This church became a hall when it was replaced in 1913 by the current church. During World War 2 the hall was utilised as a field hospital. Today it still serves the community as a meeting place for local group activities. The Parish of Howard was formed in 1891, with St. Matthew's being the only Church of England in the area. In the following years, St. Matthew's curate would make the then long, difficult journey to Pialba to minister to the people there. Nowadays, the situation is reversed, though the journey is much easier. Whilst financial circumstances should be considered, other factors must also be taken into account. As St. Matthew's is an active part of the Howard community, its closure will affect many more than the congregation. The fellowship of the congregation, many of whom come from other communities, will be torn apart and scattered. Irreplaceable history will be lost forever. Can it be saved? St. Matthew's Church and Hall will be taking part in Coalfest this Saturday with free tours of the church, sausage sizzle, floral displays, an art exhibition in the hall, and much more. Source: www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/histo...

Lovely, three happy looking kids with two nice smiles and nice dresses on the three of them The veils are very simple with the flower headdresses.

Are the older girls wearing silk stockings?

blackpoolbeach I think you're right there, those look like silk stockings to me. I also note on closer scrutiny that the two older girls have similar brooches or pins in their dresses. Probably a gift for playing their part. [http://www.flickr.com/photos/69751036@N08] Kevin, as regards the mat/rug/carpet the Poole photographs have many examples of these being laid out to save the footwear and dresses of the participants. Note the young ladies lovely shoes? They were probably being save from the dirt of the lawn and footpath.

That doesn't look like the front door at Power Hall, which can be seen in other nli photos here and here.

[http://www.flickr.com/photos/69751036@N08] Hi Kevin! Yes, as Swordscookie swordscookie says, probably to protect their shoes. And mats or rugs are a hallmark of Poole Photographic Studio outdoor photos. This one is very snazzy...

At least she had the bedside rug

I think she was playing strip poker and got fleeced. 😁