2025 Inductee

Rosie (Class of 1963) is a Brigidine Sister whose deep commitment to Catholic education is evident in her experience in Catholic secondary education as both a teacher and a Principal. She has held the position of Principal at four Secondary Colleges, including Kilbreda. Rosie has undertaken the responsibility of Provincial Leader of the Brigidine Sisters. She is a Past President of Catholic Religious Australia, the peak body that represents religious congregations in Australia.

Rosie holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, Graduate Diploma in Education (Religious Education), Master of Education (Administration), Master in Canon Law, Licentiate in Canon Law and a PhD. She is currently a judge – the only (ever) female judge for the Tribunal of the Catholic Church (Victoria and Tasmania), and a judge in the Court of Appeal for Australia and New Zealand.

Rosie lectures in Canon Law at the University of Divinity at both Yarra Theological Union and Catholic Theological College and is in a unique position of influence with regards to the seminarians from the various religious orders and the dioceses in Victoria in Tasmania. She is also on the Formation Committee for the seminarians from the Divine Word Missionaries.

For several years Rosie worked in the area of drug and alcohol counselling in conjunction with Catholic Care, Dandenong, and was at different times the Coordinator of the Centre and Chair of the Board of Management.

Today much of her work revolves around assisting religious congregations as they prepare for their future and completion. She is on various committees, including Professional Standards and she is a Trustee for a congregation preparing for completion.

In her response to her nomination Rosie wrote, “The motto ‘Strength and Kindliness’ has always been special for me, and I chose it for the inscription on the ring I received at my final profession of vows. It prompts me to take a decisive stance on issues which affect the welfare of others and challenges me to live my life with kindness and compassion.”

Rosie’s extensive experience in numerous positions of leadership and engagement has enabled her to contribute to making a difference in the lives of others. She uses her strengths and canonical expertise in a variety of ministries, all of which have an aim to promote the dignity of all, especially the most vulnerable.