Eddie Oribin designed mid-century church and manse on offer in Innisfail
A heritage-listed church estate, designed by famous mid-century architect Eddie Oribin, has hit the Innisfail property market. See inside the incredible property.
Cairns
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A stunning and rare mid-century modern church estate – designed by famed architect Eddie Oribin – has hit the market, and the owner is determined to find the perfect custodian for this heritage listed site.
The 1961 MCM church designed by Cairns architect Eddie Oribin, who also designed the Mareeba Uniting Church, and a 1918 manse on Rankin Street in the heart of Innisfail has come onto the market following a two-year restoration project undertaken by textile artist and current owner Sally Smith.
“I was totally overwhelmed by its beauty and the fact that it is a mid-century modern church which is very rare,” Ms Smith said.
She purchased the 1012sq m property in 2021 after moving back to Australia from Japan during the Covid-19 lockdowns.
“I thought I should get a project so I Googled churches for sale and this church came up.
“I just couldn’t believe a building like that could be up for sale and that I could buy it,” she said.
The manse and church have been painstakingly restored, true to their original designs, although modern luxuries such as airconditioning and new bathroom fixtures have been added.
“Restoring the church and manse has been immensely rewarding as this building is such a significant piece of architecture for Innisfail,” she said.
“With it being heritage it’s more restoration – not renovation.
“But the manse needed a lot of love and now its just the most charming place.”
The church, which features Johnstone River hardwood panelling and a modest stain glass window, and the manse, a humble high-set Queenslander with river views, would suit “all sorts”, according to Ms Smith.
“They just have to really appreciate the opportunity of taking on this historical beauty,” she said.
“We need that person who might be looking to have a bit of a sea change and for them to discover how beautiful the Cassowary Coast is.
“I feel I have taken it as far as I can and now it’s time for someone else’s vision for this incredible opportunity.”
Between the dwellings the title has five bedrooms and three bathrooms and is zoned for residential and commercial use, with the church serving as an AirBnB until the sale is finalised.
Offers around $738,000 are being considered through Cairns Property Office agent Robyn Hawley-Whitton.
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Originally published as Eddie Oribin designed mid-century church and manse on offer in Innisfail
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