Work starts this week on a wall to enclose what is arguably the most significant site linked to Australia’s first Catholic Saint, Mary MacKillop.

To commemorate her canonisation the Wattle Range Council – together with the South Australian Tourism Commission, the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide and the Sisters of St Joseph – is developing “a place of prayer and contemplation” at Mary MacKillop Park in Penola. The park, which was damaged by last year’s tornado, is the site of the stable where Mary MacKillop began her work in 1866 and where she established the first St Joseph’s School.

Work has started on building a two metre high Mount Gambier stone wall which will surround a beautiful landscaped area and a memorial structure, the exact nature of which has yet to be finalised.

“We have limited funding and so this project will happen in stages over the next year or two,” said Sr Marion Gambin, provincial leader of the Sisters of St Joseph.  

“This is a site for pilgrims and the community– and a wonderful way to be able to share in the humble beginnings of Mary MacKillop’s journey which began right here in 1866 in a stable,” Sr Marion added.

Project organisers are still awaiting the results of archeological testing to determine the exact stable location and whether there are any remnants of the original stable structure still present.

Donations towards the pilgrimage site can be made to the Sisters of St Joseph Mary MacKillop Park Fund, PO Box 219, Penola 5277.

Media contact: Chris Rann, Rann Communication  08 - 8211 7771

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The beautiful statue of Mary MacKillop holding hands with two young children has become a pilgrimage site and focal point for the new Mary MacKillop Plaza in Victoria Square.
In response to numerous inquiries, the Adelaide Archdiocese has commissioned the artist Judith Rolevink to create a bronze miniature replica of this much-loved statue.
Each detailed, individually cast sculpture on a Jarrah base stands approx. 30cm high.
This fine work of art would be a wonderful addition to your school, parish, organisation or home and will sell for $5000 +GST.

To place an order or if you would like further information please contact Jane Juniper at Catholic Communications on 08 8210 8223 or email jjuniper@adelaide.catholic.org.au – click on file below.

• Mary MacKillop miniature statue.jpg - (2.4MB)

Mary MacKillop greeting cards are also available. These first edition cards depict the beautiful statue in Mary MacKillop Plaza on the cover.
A pack of five cards with envelopes – blank on the inside and suitable for all occasions are priced at $10 (GST inclusive).
To purchase the greeting cards please contact Jane Juniper at Catholic Communications on 08 8210 8223 or email jjuniper@adelaide.catholic.org.au