The foundation stone for St John's Church was laid on the 28th December in 1824, with the first official service of worship happening on the 16th December 1825.

The church is part of Launceston's early colonial history constructed using convict labour and with bricks made from the clay dug out of what is now Princes Square.

Building and renovation continued throughout the last 200 years and St John's is now an iconic part of Launceston's built heritage.......even being a stopping point for Launceston Ghost tours.

So now, how to celebrate a bi-centenary? 

Well, history in a hardback.

The lead minister at St John's, Archdeacon James Hornby, has worked closely with Tasmanian author Julian Burgess to capture a slice of rare photographs, records and some lesser known stories for "St John's - Launceston's First Church 1825-2025".

A very proud James Hornby, with a copy of the book under his arm, came into the Long Lunch program.

https://www.allsaints.network/

 

 

The foundation stone for St John's Church was laid on the 28th December in 1824, with the first official service of worship happening on the 16th December 1825.
The church is part of Launceston's early colonial history constructed using convict labour and with bricks made from the clay dug out of what is now Princes Square.
Building and renovation continued throughout the last 200 years and St John's is now an iconic part of Launceston's built heritage.......even being a stopping point for Launceston Ghost tours.
So now, how to celebrate a bi-centenary?&nbsp;
Well, history in a hardback.
The lead minister at St John's, Archdeacon James Hornby, has worked closely with Tasmanian author Julian Burgess to capture a slice of rare photographs, records and some lesser known stories for "St John's - Launceston's First Church 1825-2025".
A very proud James Hornby, with a copy of the book under his arm, came into the Long Lunch program.
<a href="https://www.allsaints.network/">https://www.allsaints.network/</a>
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A range of local stories that have been previously broadcasted on Launceston's community radio station City Park Radio.

Stories from Launceston, the Tamar Valley and northern Tasmania.

Northern Tasmania Community Stories

Launceston's first church - The first 200 years

The world of radio has come a long way and the mystery and attraction of radio still remains.

On this World Radio Day, City Park Radio brought together Belinda King from 7LA Breakfast and Glenn Hartas from 7WAY-FM Mornings to add their personal stories to the day.

From reflecting on their introduction to the world of radio, their years of involvement and their thoughts on the trends of radio, it seems the future is dependent on being fiercely local.

There have been major evolutions in technology over 100 years to deliver radio programs and audio segments, but it is just one of the tools for successful radio. What might work well in Sydney, may be less received in Launceston.

Enjoy the conversation from our Long Lunch Program w Chris Ball.....and maybe next time I'll give Belinda her own microphone.

 

The world of radio has come a long way and the mystery and attraction of radio still remains.
On this World Radio Day, City Park Radio brought together Belinda King from 7LA Breakfast and Glenn Hartas from 7WAY-FM Mornings to add their personal stories to the day.
From reflecting on their introduction to the world of radio, their years of involvement and their thoughts on the trends of radio, it seems the future is dependent on being fiercely local.
There have been major evolutions in technology over 100 years to deliver radio programs and audio segments, but it is just one of the tools for successful radio. What might work well in Sydney, may be less received in Launceston.
Enjoy the conversation from our Long Lunch Program w Chris Ball.....and maybe next time I'll give Belinda her own microphone.
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World Radio Day 2026

For the last 14 years, Aurelia has entertained Northern Tasmania (and the world) with her Cafe Italiano every fortnight on City Park Radio.

Aurelia followed her grandson to Launceston where she wasted no time picking up her radio career she left behind in Brisbane. 

Ms Wilkins first came to Australia in her teen years settling in Brisbane, finishing school and playing an important role in her family's business.

In the 1990's, a friend suggested getting involved at 4EB in Brisbane ... and before too long became with the Italian speaking program group at the station.

Since becoming involved with City Park Radio, Aurelia has volunteered in many roles but will be remembered fondly for her Cafe Italiano program, her Classical Encounters programs and many years of Readings from The Examiner on Thursday mornings.

Aurelia promises to remain a member of City Park Radio while she pursues more hobbies like painting. 

Thank you Aurelia for your volunteer time at City Park Radio.

Aurelia chatted with The Long Lunch program about her time in community radio.... 

For the last 14 years, Aurelia has entertained Northern Tasmania (and the world) with her Cafe Italiano every fortnight on City Park Radio.
Aurelia followed her grandson to Launceston where she wasted no time picking up her radio career she left behind in Brisbane.&nbsp;
Ms Wilkins first came to Australia in her teen years settling in Brisbane, finishing school and playing an important role in her family's business.
In the 1990's, a friend suggested getting involved at 4EB in Brisbane ... and before too long became with the Italian speaking program group at the station.
Since becoming involved with City Park Radio, Aurelia has volunteered in many roles but will be remembered fondly for her Cafe Italiano program, her Classical Encounters programs and many years of Readings from The Examiner on Thursday mornings.
Aurelia promises to remain a member of City Park Radio while she pursues more hobbies like painting.&nbsp;
Thank you Aurelia for your volunteer time at City Park Radio.
Aurelia chatted with The Long Lunch program about her time in community radio....&nbsp;

Aurelia Wilkins - Cafe Italiano.

Chris Sayer caught up with Tyran Parke to talk about next year's Australian Musical Theatre Festival, to held in Launceston in May, 2026.

Chris Sayer caught up with Tyran Parke to talk about next year's Australian Musical Theatre Festival, to held in Launceston in May, 2026.

Launceston's first church - The first 200 years

Northern Tasmania Community Stories

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