Crowd celebrates Scots’ Church 150th year

A crowd gathered at the Westpac foyer on Collins Street on November 7 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Scots’ Church, marking the milestone with the launch of a special exhibition. 

The church, an iconic Melbourne landmark located at the corner of Russell and Collins streets, has stood as a testament to the city’s rich history. 

The exhibition, titled Full of History, Full of Life, reflects both the church’s deep history and its vibrant role in the community.

Designed by architect Joseph Reed and constructed by David Mitchell, the church shares its heritage with other Melbourne landmarks, such as the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens.

Guests were treated to music by the popular Tarilindy String Quartet while enjoying drinks and canapés while exploring a fascinating exhibition featuring historical displays and video presentations. 

The highlight of the evening was a display case showing rare letters and items, offering a glimpse into the church’s past.

“The real highlight of the exhibition is the cabinet with historical letters and artefacts,” Scots’ Church minister, the Reverend Phil Campbell said.

“We have original letters from the builder, apologising for an over-spend,” he said.

“The historic handwriting is from a bygone era – but the cost blowout feels exactly like the present!”

A keynote address by Rev. Phil Court explored Scots’ Church’s unique historical connections to three famous Australians whose faces grace Australian banknotes, including opera diva Nellie Melba, the daughter of the church’s builder David Mitchell; aviation pioneer Sir Charles Kingsford Smith who was married at Scots’, and Rev. John Flynn, founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, who was commissioned from the church.

Rev. Campbell also highlighted the influential legacy of Rev. Peter Menzies, whose vision of “building to last” ensured that the church would continue to serve as a lasting symbol of faith and resilience in the city.

The evening culminated in the commissioning of new coloured floodlights along the church’s Collins St frontage, which Rev. Robert Lowe described as “a real gift to the city.” The Full of History, Full of Life exhibition continues in the Westpac foyer until the end of November. 

A 150th Anniversary Service will be held in Scots’ Church at 11am on Sunday, November 24, followed by a free Proms Concert at 2pm. 

“The quality of the music at Scots’ Church has always been exceptional,” Rev. Campbell said. 

“I’d encourage everyone to take the opportunity to come and hear for themselves.” •