Bethel Union

These societies were the precursors of the 'Seamen's Missions' still to be found in ports all over the world which provide social facilities, of more than a purely religious character.

It was replaced in 1883 by the Gloriosa, moored at Markdyke, a mile west down the Floating Harbour on Hotwells Road.

In 1828 the Hobart Bethel Union Society was founded by George Augustus Robinson[4] and set up on board a former magazine ship in Sullivan's Cove in 1828.

[5] A more permanent base for the Sydney organisation was obtained from the colonial authorities in 1832, on Darling Harbour, which was moved in 1851.

Five years later a site was obtained on Circular Quay ('The Rocks') and a church built in 1859, with an Annual Service to seafarers.