What is significant?
St Mark's Anglican Church, Henty Highway, Cavendish was built in 1962 and dedicated in 1963. It is the first Anglican church building in Cavendish, and dates from one hundred years after the construction of the Presbyterian Church nearby and twenty-five years after the Methodist (now Uniting) Church. It is not known who the builders or architects for the church were. The simple cream brick church is in the International Moderne style but incorporates traditional forms and planning. Its portal frame construction is typical of such structures after the Second World War. The increased population due to Soldier Settlement in the district led to its construction and the prosperity of the times allowed it to be paid for and dedicated immediately. It includes original fittings and furniture which compliment the architecture. Important primary documents survive about its construction. The church is in excellent condition and retains an excellent degree of integrity.
How is it significant?
St Mark's Anglican Church is of historical and architectural significance to the township of Cavendish and to the Southern Grampians Shire.
Why is it significant?
St Mark's Anglican Church is of historical significance as an demonstration of the major changes in rural communities after the Second World War. St Mark's Anglican Church is of architectural significance for its successful use of the International Moderne style to express optimism and faith while retaining conventional elements essential to the Anglican tradition.