Memorial Chapel of Saint PeterPrint Page

The Chapel of Saint Peter commemorates the men of the Mercantile Marine who died in service or were killed in action during World War One.   The plaque is located inside the door of the chapel.

The chapel contains period prints, numerous stained glass memorials including two examples to the Australian Navy and decorative art furnishings some specifically dedicated to servicemen, and other more generic to the World War One and World War Two periods and peacetime. Two original windows in the apse were dedicated by the sisters of James L. Forge. World War Two was also later commemorated, with the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild providing much relief and support similar to that in World War One for both merchant and naval seafarers.

But, complete as is every corner of the institute, no part is better equipped than the memorial chapel. This veritable sanctuary of peace sprang out of war. It was erected, at a cost of over £1100, by the members of the Harbor Light Guild, in memory of the officers and men who have given their lives since hostilities began. The fittings are entirely of Australian woods. Already the chapel holds memorials of historical interest. The altar lecturn was given in memory of Commander Elwell, who was killed at Rabaul in the early part of the war.

The font commemorates two heroes-Nigel Hockley and Fred Hyde-who lost their lives at the hands of the Germans after having survived the actual torpedoing of their ship, the Galgorm Castle, off the coast of Ireland. The mother of one of these lads wrote out that her son had died as an Englishman should-fighting for the right. This noble sentiment is suitably paraphrased in the engraved inscription. Practically everything enshrined in the chapel has its own sentimental tale. The very alms salver, of beaten copper studded with agate, is fragrant with the memory of a saintly woman. The eye of the sailor is caught, and held, by a pulpit, fashioned like a ship's hull, and only a twist of rope guides the pilot up the step.
Excerpt from Leader (Melbourne),  21 September 1918.

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Dedication