Fifty-four representatives from all States and Territories attended Australia Council in the lovely Warburton Ranges outside Melbourne. Early walks started the mornings off for many people, before Morning Prayer and then Bible Studies led by Bishop Bill Ray of North Queensland, followed by discussion groups. Business sessions kept us on our toes and these were accompanied by sessions on the Theme “Journeying Together” led by Dr Robin Ray, wife of Bishop Bill, who led us to think deeply about where MU was ‘journeying’. Between all these sessions, each Diocese had the opportunity to present a three minute talk on their activities.

Open day saw an influx of visitors from the Victorian Dioceses, who participated in one of Robin’s sessions. After a hearty lunch provided by the staff and volunteers of Pallotti College we settled back to listen to the Department Heads who gave us an insight into each of the MU Departments. We also heard from our overseas guests: Deborah Iagoro from PNG, Edith Koete from Melanesia and Perdita Bentall from New Zealand. After afternoon tea and photos, the visitors headed home, and it was back to business for the delegates.

Elections were held at the AGM, and the following positions were filled, commencing January 2011:

President: Revd. Libbie Crossman (Diocese of Brisbane)

Snr. Vice President: Kaye Healy (Diocese of Perth)

Jnr. Vice President: Anne Kennedy (Diocese of Melbourne)

Immediate Past President: Deane Bray (Diocese of North Queensland)

Secretary: Marilyn Robey (Diocese of Bathurst) – President’s appointment

Treasurer: Kath Glew (Diocese of North Queensland)

Caritas and Promotion & Development: Jan Misiurka (Diocese of Gippsland)

Education Officer: Wendy Mayer (Diocese of Sydney)

Mia Mia Editor: Elizabeth Harris (Diocese of Willochra)

Overseas & Northern Outreach: Beverley Ovens (Diocese of Sydney)

Prayer & Spirituality: Bronwyn Fryar (Diocese of North Queensland)

Publication Manager: Elaine Longford (Diocese of Melbourne)

Social Responsibility: Doreen Hall (Diocese of Bunbury)

It was great to meet new people at AC, and also to rekindle friendships made with others from earlier ACs. The Opening Service and the Closing Service drew us all together in the spirit of Mary Sumner to worship the Trinity high up on the mountain top. With the fresh air, the superb views, the green trees and glorious spring flowers blooming around us, one couldn’t forget what a wonderful world our Creator has given us to care for.

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last updated 19/11/2010