Welcome
As we approach the end of the winter season, we take this opportunity to reflect on the meaningful work carried out by Mercy Partners over the past three months. This period has been marked by continued dedication to ensuring we are prepared for the future, while remaining deeply committed to the ongoing mission of God.
Throughout this time, our efforts have been guided by the core values that define who we are—compassion, justice, respect, and hope. These principles have shaped our decisions, inspired our actions, and strengthened our resolve to serve with purpose and integrity.
Looking ahead, we remain focused on building a future that honours our legacy, responds to the needs of our communities, and embraces the possibilities of tomorrow. Together, we continue to walk this path with faith, courage, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Newsletter Highlights
In this edition of our newsletter, we’re pleased to bring you a collection of updates, insights, and stories that highlight our recent work and ongoing commitment to our mission. These include:
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- Welcoming our newest education ministry, Our Lady of Sion College
- Highlights from our recent get-together with the Education Ministries’ Principals and Business Managers
- An update on the progress of our Formation Review
- An overview of discussions and insights from the Mission Leaders Gathering
- Insights from the joint formation session with the Mercy Partners Board, Steward/Member Representatives, and CEO, highlighting their deepened commitment to our mission and values.
- Nudgee Trust Update
- Highlighting the valuable contributions and work undertaken by our Board in our Governance in Action feature
- Celebrating the 41-year legacy of a dedicated staff member from Our Lady of Mercy College.
- Sharing inspiring stories from our ministries that highlight how the legacy of their founding congregations and orders continues to thrive.
In addition, below are some personnel updates in relation to our Steward/Member Representatives and Ministry Boards.
Welcome
Sr Mary Barbuto nds
Mercy Partners is delighted to welcome Sr Mary Barbuto as the newly appointed Steward/Member Representative for the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion. Sr Mary joined the Sisters of our Lady of Sion in 1966 and has a lifelong passion for religious education and formation of children and adults, formation for lay leadership and participation in parish life, and promoting justice for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.
Sr Mary’s appointment was effective from 10 June 2025. Welcome aboard Sr Mary.
Read Sr Mary’s bio: Steward/Member Representatives – Mercy Partners
Dale Morrow
Mercy Partners is delighted to welcome Dale Morrow as the newly appointed Steward/Member Representative for the Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, succeeding Sr Catherine White. Dale brings with her more than 40 years of distinguished experience in Catholic education, both within Australia and internationally, enriching our mission with her deep commitment and expertise. Dale is also the Steward/Member Representative for the Presentation Sisters of Queensland.
Dale appointment was effective from 10 April 2025. Welcome aboard Dale.
Read Dale’s bio: Steward Representatives – Mercy Partners
Thank You
Mercy Partners would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to both Sr Catherine White mfic and Sr Mary Franzmann pbvm for their dedicated service and significant contribution to Mercy Partners.
Sr Catherine White mfic
The Steward/Member Representative of the Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, Sr Catherine White mfic, has stepped down as the Steward/Member Representative for Mercy Partners effective from 9 July 2025 and is replaced by Dale Morrow.
Sr Mary Franzmann pbvm
Earlier in the year, Sr Mary Franzmann also stepped down as the Steward/Member Representative for the Presentation Sisters of Queensland.
Sr Mary is pictured with Sr Catherine White.
Ministry Board Updates
As the sole member of its ministries, the Mercy Partners Board has thoughtfully discerned and approved the following decisions over the past three months.
New Appointments
St Rita’s College
Ms Kirsty Taylor, Board Director
St Ursula’s College
Ms Belinda Connolly, Board Director
Whitefriars College
Mr Christopher Dalton, Board Director
Ms Carolyn Moore, Board Director
Tenure Extensions
All Hallows’ School
Mr Glenn Cranny, Deputy Chair
Ms Elizabeth Addis, Board Director
Holy Cross Services
Ms Susie Pearn, Board Director
Monte Sant’ Angelo College
Sr Patricia Curtain rsm, Board Director
Mount Alvernia College
Mr Michael Skinner, New Deputy Chair
Our Lady of Sion College
Ms Amanda Junkeer, Board Director
Mercy Partners extends its sincere gratitude to the following ministry Board Directors who have recently completed their service on the ministry Boards
- Mercy Foundation – Sr Bernadette Mansour rsm, Board Director
- Monte Sant’ Angelo College – Ms Natasha de Silva, Board Director
- Mount Alvernia College – Mr Gerald Ryan, Deputy Chair
- St Ursula’s College – Ms Louise Cook, Board Director
- St Patrick’s College – Sr Helen Mary Peters rsm, Board Chair
