Our history

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St Agnes’ Catholic Parish has been at the heart of Port Macquarie’s spiritual and community life for over two centuries.

Our story began with the first European settlement of Port Macquarie in 1821. Since then, the Catholic community has grown through the dedication of countless priests, religious and parishioners. Explore our history, from the early foundations of the Catholic faith in the region to the establishment of the parish in 1888 and the thriving community we are today.

Priests, clergy and religious who have served St Agnes’ Catholic Parish, Port Macquarie

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Historical timeline

1821 to 1939

Step back in time to the arrival of the first convicts and troopers to penal settlement.

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1940 to 1969

Learn about the blessing and opening of St Agnes' Catholic Church as we know it today.

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1970 to 1989

Announcing the appointment of Fr Leo Donnelly as Parish Priest, and more.

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1990 to 1999

An incredible decade of faith and building works, supporting the local community.

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2000 to 2019

The day Port Macquarie stood still to honour Fr Leo Donnelly's visionary legacy.

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St Joseph's Family Services

Learn about our 50-year history of excellence in early education and childcare.

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Want to learn more?

If you would like to learn more about the people, places, and moments that have shaped St Agnes’ Catholic Parish, we invite you to explore further or get in touch.

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St Agnes’ Catholic Parish acknowledges the Birpai people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work, and serve. We acknowledge their deep connection to this land, its waters, skies, and stories, nurtured with wisdom, care, and resilience for countless generations. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.