25 Years of Walking Together, Changing Lives
Mercy Works celebrates a milestone of compassion, partnership and hope
Laughter, music, and heartfelt gratitude filled the air as Mercy Works celebrated 25 years of walking together and changing lives at its Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser on 23 October 2025. The evening, held at Cloister Hall in Parramatta, Sydney brought together friends, partners, Sisters of Mercy, schools, volunteers, Mercy organisations and supporters to honour a remarkable journey of compassion and transformation that began in 2000.
The event opened in the courtyard with pre-dinner drinks and music performed by talented students from Our Lady of Mercy College Parramatta, whose uplifting performance set the tone for what was clearly going to be a joyful and memorable evening. A deeply moving Traditional Water Blessing Ceremony led by women from the Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation followed, symbolising connection to Country, renewal, and shared spirit. It was a poignant reminder of the Mercy Works mission, to walk alongside communities in humility and partnership.
As guests gathered in the open courtyard outside Cloister Hall, they were invited to explore an inspiring exhibition of Mercy Works’ projects across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, each example telling a story of empowerment and resilience. From the maternal health programs in Timor-Leste, to education and livelihoods projects in Papua New Guinea, to the support of women and children in the Philippines, and the refugee and Indigenous partnerships across Australia, the exhibits painted a powerful picture of Mercy in action.
The theme of the night, “25 Years of Walking Together, Changing Lives”, echoed through every narrative, every photograph, and every conversation. Each project display reflected how the generosity of Mercy Works supporters has created opportunity, dignity and self-reliance for thousands of people.
A highlight for many was the vibrant “Gifts that Give Back” market stall, where guests could shop with purpose and take home handmade items representing the cultures Mercy Works serves. Bilums from Papua New Guinea and tais cloth
from Timor-Leste, each represented how these initiatives are transforming lives and strengthening communities. Every purchase directly supported artisans and families striving for independence.
As the evening’s formal program began, MC Brigid Glanville, former ABC Chief NSW Political Reporter, and alumni of OLMC Parramatta, welcomed guests and introduced the Mercy Works video, which captured moving scenes from projects across the region.
Board Chair Joe Zabar and Executive Director Sally Bradley rsm each reflected on the spirit of the milestone.
“Tonight, we celebrate a story of compassion and community,” said Joe. “For 25 years, Mercy Works has stood with people in vulnerable situations, offering practical help and hope.” Sally added, “Inspired by the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, our mission has always been to walk alongside communities, especially women and children, empowering them to build a better future. Together, we honour the past and commit ourselves anew to the work of mercy.”
A captivating panel discussion followed, featuring Mercy Works’ program partners from across the region. Sister Gilbert Pathrose som, a Hospitaller Sister of Mercy from Timor-Leste, shared stories from the Teresa Orsini Maternity Clinic in Maucatar, where her team provides essential healthcare and nutrition for mothers and babies.
“Every life saved, every child nourished, is a sign of what we can achieve when we walk together,” she said.
Sister Theresia Boyek rsm, who leads programs in Simbu, Papua New Guinea, spoke of the women’s livelihood and education initiatives transforming rural communities. “Mercy Works helps people believe in themselves again. When women learn new skills and start small businesses, they not only change their lives, they change their villages.”
You could hear a pin drop in the room as guests listened intently to stories of courage and collaboration as Dianne Balatero from Mercy Work’s partner program in the Philippines, shared stories of how survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking are reclaiming their dignity.
Throughout the night, guests were reminded that every act of generosity, whether volunteering, donating, or purchasing a handmade gift, contributes to this ongoing story of mercy. The funds raised from the event will directly support Mercy Works programs helping families overcome poverty, displacement and inequality across the region.
As the program drew to a close, Sally thanked guests for their support and invited them to continue the journey.
“Mercy is not a moment, but a movement,” she said.
“Each of us has the power to make a difference. Together, we can keep walking alongside our sisters and brothers across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, building communities where everyone can thrive.”
For 25 years, Mercy Works has been standing where the need is greatest, offering not just charity, but partnership and opportunity.
One act of mercy can transform a life.
To continue walking with us on this journey of hope, visit www.mercyworks.org.au/donate
Mercy Works thanks the following event sponsors:
Gold Sponsors
Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers
Diocesan Development Fund Parramatta
Diocese of Parramatta
Parramatta Leagues Club
SG Hiscock & Company
Simplygreen
Silver Sponsors
Dubock Funerals
Eureka Street
Maxxia
NSBC Group