Ayr Seventh-Day Adventist Church Celebrates Centennial

The Ayr Seventh-day Adventist Church will mark a significant milestone on 16 May 2026, celebrating 100 years since the official opening and dedication of its original church building. While a small congregation of Seventh-day Adventists had been meeting in members’ homes throughout the early 1920s, the anniversary specifically commemorates the opening of the church building dedicated on Saturday, 15 May 1926.

The church’s history reflects the determination and faith of the early Burdekin Adventist community. In 1925, land was purchased on the corner of Parker and Wilmington Streets in Ayr, where the church still stands today. Soon after, members located a former blacksmith’s shop in Charters Towers that was suitable for conversion into a church. The building was dismantled, transported to Ayr by rail, and re-erected during March 1926 before its official opening two months later.

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A weekend of celebrations is planned to honour the centenary. Events begin on Friday evening, 15 May, with a meet-and-greet and soup and buns in the church hall. Sabbath celebrations on Saturday will include a history presentation, worship service, and guest speaker Pastor Simon Gigliotti, President of the Northern Australian Conference. Following lunch, attendees will share memories and witness the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Celebrations conclude on Sunday morning with a pancake breakfast at Ayr Anzac Park.

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Church members say the congregation continues to play an important role in the Burdekin through worship services, Bible study groups, health and wellbeing programs, community food assistance, and disaster relief support through ADRA. All are welcome to attend the centenary celebrations.

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