Sydney Hosts Star of the Sea Council’s Quarterly Gathering: Focus on Leadership, Mission, and Future Directions

maristbrothers
Oct 27
2 min read

The Star of the Sea Provincial Council convened in Sydney from 22 to 24 October for its quarterly in-person meeting - one of four held annually across different parts of the Province.

The Council currently comprises Br Darren Burge (Acting Provincial), Br Peter Horide (Provincial Delegate to Aotearoa-New Zealand), Br Greg McDonald (Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia), Br Sefo Une (Country Coordinator for Samoa), Br Graham Neist (Provincial Councillor), and Br Kevin Wanden (Province Secretary).

**Star of the Sea Provincial Council with Superior General Br Peter Carroll and General Councillor Br John Hazelman**

Also joining the gathering were Br Peter Carroll, former Provincial and newly elected Superior General, and Br John Hazelman, former Provincial Delegate to Pasifika and now member of the General Council.

The Sydney meeting held particular significance, providing an opportunity for everyone involved to spend time with staff at the Provincial Office and to farewell Br Peter and Br John, who now head to Rome to join the General Council, with heartfelt gratitude for their leadership and service.

**The Star of the Sea Provincial Council (L–R): Br Kevin Wanden, Br Darren Burge, Br Greg McDonald, Br Peter Horide, Br Sefo Une, and Br Graham Neist**

Over three days, the Council dedicated time to key areas of discernment, including the appointment of Brothers across the Province - a process vital to sustaining Marist life and mission. Council members also received updates from key personnel responsible for various portfolios, ensuring that strategic goals continue to be shaped by collaboration, reflection, and shared purpose.

**Br Peter Carroll and Br John Hazelman at their farewell gathering before heading to Rome to join the General Council**

Given that the Star of the Sea Province is the largest in the Marist world, gathering face-to-face remains an important rhythm of Council life. Each meeting strengthens not only planning and governance but also ensures that every country is well represented, its challenges understood, and that all members move forward with shared clarity and purpose.