What led you to take on this role?

I have been a chaplain with Jericho Road for thirteen and a half years. I started working at Hornsby, Royal North Shore and RPA Hospitals, before moving onto the Children’s Hospital at Westmead. In 2014, I took on the role of coordinating the Jericho Road Chaplaincy team as the Senior Chaplain.

In 2016, I became an Honorary Chaplain at the local Police station. I have really enjoyed the opportunities this presented – being able to come alongside staff and listen to their stories and pain. When the Senior Chaplain position in the NSW Police Force was advertised in 2021, I was encouraged to apply. I saw it as a place where good work can happen and also an opportunity to ensure that quality chaplaincy can grow in the regions.

What’s it like serving in this context?

I am one of five senior chaplains, each of us responsible for different areas whilst working as a team, to ensure good quality chaplaincy is provided. I have oversight of around 30 honorary chaplains in my regions, which cover a fairly large area across the state.

Police encounter the best and worst in society. They are loved and hated and like every other person they need the gospel. Some are pretty jaded or cynical and have seen both the best and worst of the Church. They can be suspicious of the Church. My hope is that through my work,  I can be salt and light to them. They especially need quality pastoral care, their work has an impact on them personally and this can flow onto their families. I want to ensure they are well supported and have good chaplains who can support them in all of life.