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Year in Review 2016
Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst
17
REPORTS
Corryong Farewells Last
Josephite
O
n Sunday, May 22, the Upper Murray community farewelled Sister Patricia George and
the Sisters of St Joseph, acknowledging 52 years of the Sisters’ presence in Corryong.
The event was very well attended with over 280 people joining the celebration. A combined
effort of willing community groups in preparation resulted in a welcoming setting for prayer,
inspiring tributes and delightful entertainment. Sisters travelled great distances, as did Sister
Pat’s brother Bill and his wife Liz, to attend the occasion honouring his sister. The tremendous
contribution Josephites have made to life in Corryong was a great cause for celebration in this
small and close community. The evening began fittingly with Mass celebrating the Feast of the
Holy Trinity. Bishop Les Tomlinson, Bishop of Sandhurst, with Parish Priest, Fr Joseph Luka
and former Parish Priests, Fr Brian Carey and Fr Frank Jones, concelebrated the Mass. Rather
noticeable was the inclusion of members of the broader community in the liturgy.
Sisters of St Joseph arrived in Corryong in 1964 to teach in the newly opened Sacred Heart
School. The tradition continued until lay principals and teachers capably staffed the school.
The Sisters’ ministry then became more concentrated in the Parish and wider community, with
particular emphasis on the support of their priests in the demands of distant and isolated Mass
centres. The Mass was followed by a light evening meal, generously catered for and served by
ladies of the Lions Club, then tributes and entertainment dedicated to Sister Patricia and the
Sisters of St Joseph. The enduring appreciation and goodwill towards the Sisters was evident,
with rousing applause after memorable speeches by Sister Kerrie Cusack, Regional Leader, Rev,
Howard Wilkins and Faye Whitehead Ministers’ Association, Health Service Speakers: CEO
Maxine Brockfield and Dr Frank Evans, Sister Geraldine Larkins CEO, on behalf of Director
Mr Paul Desmond, Councillor Peter Joyce, Father Brian Carey and, in conclusion, Bishop
Tomlinson. Sister Pat responded, touching on her special relationship with all who graced the
evening with their presence. It was left to Father Joseph to movingly draw all together in thanks.
Grand entertainment: Jan Lewis, noted High Country Poet, presented a poem
Farewell to Pat;
all were enthralled with young violinist Eleanor Condie’s rendition of Danny Boy; Caz and her
A Cappello Choir were mesmerising and touched heart strings when reappearing to sing The
Irish Blessing; great atmosphere was provided throughout by musicians Mary Hunt – violin,
Irene Palmer – flute and Sister Geraldine – guitar. This wonderful evening concluded with
Evening Prayer Hymn, Day is Done and, of course, Auld Lang Syne – Mary MacKillop being
of Scottish parents.
In conclusion, one quote from ever so many, Cr Peter Joyce: ‘..….it is with a sad heart that we
farewell the Sisters from our midst, but even more so at our loss of Sr Pat,” he said. “Sr Pat has
left a legacy in our community and we, the council, wish her all the very best for her retirement
and heartfelt thanks to her for the big contribution she has made to our lives.”
More than 280
wellwishers joined
in farewelling Sr Pat
George (front right)
from Corryong in
May, ending a 52-year
Josephite presence in
the community that
began with the opening
of the Sacred Heart
School in 1964.