Year 9 Religion - 10 Important Events in the History of The Church

First catholics arrive in Australia

Jun 28, 1788

In 1788, the first catholics arrive in Australia on the First Fleet.

The first Catholic priests arrive in Australia

Aug 19, 1820

Friars Terry and Connoly arrive in Australia, becoming the first priests of Australia.

Construction of first Australian Catholic Church.

Oct 17, 1821

The first Catholic Church in Australia is founded in Richmond, Tasmania.

First Catholic bishop in Australia

Feb 18, 1835

Bede Polding becomes the first Catholic bishop in Australia. This event marks the first Bishop in Australia, which would have severely strengthened the Catholic movement.

First Catholic dioces

Sep 17, 1848

The church is divided up into regional-based dioces. This system is still used today.

St Vincent de Paul is established

May 9, 1854

The St Vincent de Paul charity is established. This is one of the most influential and well-known Catholic charities today.

Saint Mary's Cathedral is destroyed by fire

Jun 18, 1865

This tradgedy was essential for the re-building of the Cathedral and the establishment of our school.

Christian Brothers arrive in Melbourne

Nov 24, 1868

The Christian brothers founded many schools for underprivelged chilren, and were instrumental in the development of education in Australia.

Death of Mark Mkillop

Mar 5, 1909

Mary was later made an official saint, the first Australian saint in the Church's history.

John Paul the Second visits Australia

Feb 25, 1995

One of the more recent events, this was the ceremony in which Mary McKillop was recognised as Australia's first saint.