No 8 2026 Edward Street Baptist Church now 192 Anne Street

On Thursday 22 October, 2026, the Baptist Historical Society of Queensland (BHSQ) unveiled the latest in its series of plaques marking sites of historical importance around Brisbane. This plaque is mounted on the Daisho building, opposite Central Station, where the Edward Street Baptist Church building stood from 1866 for more than 20 years.

The building, designed by architect Richard Gailey, was first used by Baptists, then by the Free Church of England, and finally by the Diocese of Brisbane before being dismantled to allow for the extension of the railway from Roma Street to Central Station. It stood on land belonging to the Temperance movement where, on the corner of Edward and Ann Streets, first stood the Temperance Hall and later the Canberra (Temperance) Hotel.

The history of the Edward Street church was researched by Baptist Archives researcher, Mr Bill Hughes, and published in the BHSQ journal, Queensland Baptist Forum, April 2010.

Representatives of the Anglican Church, DrugARM (formerly the Temperance Alliance, including its historian), the owners of the current building (Daisho Co Ltd), Mr Quintin Hickling (Director of Operations, Queensland Baptists), and several BHSQ members attended the function, which was held indoors on account of the weather. The ‘virtual’ unveiling was performed by Rev Glenn Brodie, senior pastor of the City Tabernacle Baptist Church. Mr Eric Kopittke (BHSQ Chair) hosted the event and gave an overview of the history of the site. This was supported by a photo presentation prepared by Mr Robert Atkins, site manager of the property, after which refreshments were served at the nearby coffee shop.

Both the Baptist Historical Society and the Archives welcome the involvement of interested Baptists throughout Queensland. Contact: kopittke@tpg.com.au and archives@qb.org.au

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