On Sunday 26 July, past and current West Wollongong conference members, joined with Members and St Vincent de Paul staff from across the region (including some travelling from as far as the Shoalhaven!) to celebrate 80 years of St Therese Conference providing service to the local community, having commenced - to the day – in 1946.  

Fr Joseph Nguyen warmly welcomed all to Mass with St Therese parishioners where the conference enjoys strong support. Conference members processed in, bearing meaningful memorabilia. At Offertory time, a parishioner was asked to carry the Conference folder – representing all members and those we have assisted – to the altar, presenting this to Our Lord who we know walks with us in our service and blesses our efforts.    

Over morning tea, and ahead of the conference members cutting cake, current Conference President, Elizabeth Honeysett, shared a special connection she discovered when finding notes and photos from the original conference. Her grandfather was a founding member of the conference in 1946! Elizabeth particularly acknowledged past members “on whose shoulders we stand”, several of whom - Alf Green, Martin Quinn, Barry Duggan, Tony Phoebus, Maura Cato, Monica Dodwell - were present. 

NSW State President, Peter Houweling reminded all present that we often don’t realise what a big impact, a small action might have.  Denis Walsh OAM, a current member of the conference and former State President expanded on this by reminding that we are all part of a much bigger picture. Denis highlighted the work of the Society in building Social and Affordable Homes in many locations across the region, as well as providing tailored wrap-around support to tenants living in these.  

Brian Murnane, a member of the Society for 50+ years, also present, has been instrumental in the foundation and management of not only St Vincent de Paul Housing (NSW and Nationally), but also other Community Housing organisations. It’s a strong example of our efforts to improve the system, rather than just providing handouts.