JourneyOnline
Soldiers from Kokoda Barracks, in Cunugra Queensland, farewelled the St George chapel in August.
As one drives past the St George Chapel, hidden amongst the trees, one would mistake it for either an old class room or an office, that is if it wasn’t for the two small crosses at either end of the roof.
A crumbling footpath leads you to the small, simple chapel, its paint slowly peeling away to reveal years of wear.
Over the years the St George chapel has witnessed baptisms, weddings and funerals, and has given comfort to the Defence community, both in times of conflict and peace.
Originally opened some 44 years ago by the G.O.C Northern Command, Major General R.E. Wade, C.D, C.B.E, St George Chapel or as Register of Assets refers to it, “R of A N14”, will soon give way to a new accommodation block, as part of the multimillion dollar redevelopment project for Kokoda Barracks.
Chaplain Ian Schneider led the decommissioning service to a packed congregation. With the last hymns echoing across the barracks, selected members commenced the relocation of religious artefacts. All items will be safely held at Headquarters Regional Training Centre until a new chapel is built.
Then Moderator Rev Alan Kuchler preached and Gale Hall led the decommissioning.
Photo : Personel remove religious artefacts from St George Chapel. Photo by WO2 Wayne Ryan
