Mary MacKillop Today has announced a new chapter in its mission to support those experiencing disadvantage and exclusion, particularly in rural and regional Australia.
The Highways and Byways program – the mission entity of the Missionary Sisters of Service – has officially transferred to Mary MacKillop Today, forming the Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Program.
The program will provide small grants to community-led organisations for projects that address disadvantage and exclusion within towns and communities, especially in rural and regional Australia.
Rooted in a long-standing friendship between the MSS and the Sisters of Saint Joseph, this integration brings together the shared values, history, and dedication of both congregations to deepen impact across Australia.
“We are deeply grateful for the trust and support both organisations have received over the years,” said Jane Woolford, CEO of Mary MacKillop Today.
“This development allows the Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Program to expand its reach and strengthen our capacity to make a meaningful and lasting impact across rural and regional Australia.”
By joining forces, the program will build on the strong legacies of both organisations, particularly honouring the foundational work of the MSS and the John Wallis Foundation, ensuring the continuation of vital community grants and partnerships.
“The integration of our two mission entities is more than just a structural change – it is a continuation of shared purpose and a deepened commitment to the people who need it most,” said Sr Stancea Vichie, MSS. “Through the Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways program, this powerful legacy will continue to flourish.”
The Missionary Sisters of Service remain closely connected to the mission.
Recently, Sr Stancea and other key figures from MSS and the Highways and Byways Program met with staff and Board of Mary MacKillop Today in Sydney.
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Mary MacKillop Today and Highways and Byways Unite to Strengthen Support for Rural Australia (Mary MacKillop Today)
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The Highways and Byways Program met with staff and board of Mary MacKillop Today in Sydney. From left: Kieran Gleeson, Mary Mackillop Today board chair; Jane Woolford, Mary MacKillop Today CEO; Sr Bernadette, Missionary Sisters of Service; Liz McAloon, Highways & Byways CEO, Sr Stancea Vichie, Missionary Sisters of Service; Sr Monica Cavanagh, Sisters of Saint Joseph; Marg Casey, Highways & Byways board chair; and Bernadette Hogan, Highways & Byways board member.
