Boy from Northern Beaches stunned to be elected bishop of world’s largest Diocese

September 17, 2003

A Sydney father of three who grew up in Curl Curl has confessed he is still in a state of shock at being elected bishop of North West Australia, the largest diocese in geographic size in the Anglican Communion.

The Rev Canon David Mulready, 56, was elected bishop of North-West Australia by a clear majority on Saturday at the diocessan election synod. The diocese covers almost 25 per cent of Australia.

Canon Mulready is currently serving as rector at St John’s, Parramatta in the Diocese of Sydney, a position he has held since 2000. Canon Mulready will succeed the Rt Rev Anthony Nichols as Bishop of North-West Australia, who retired recently.

After graduating from Moore Theological College in 1970, Canon Mulready began his career serving in the diocese of Sydney. In 1974 he took up parish ministry in rural NSW, including positions in Tambar Springs, Manilla, Walgett and Gunnedah and a 15-year tenure in the Diocese of Armidale. In 1989 he became the NSW State Secretary of the Bush Church Aid Society. From 1993 to 2000 he served at St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Penrith. He will be ordained as bishop in February 2004, joined by his wife Maureen.

Canon Mulready said his first response to being approached to run for election was ‘don’t be ridiculous’.

“I wasn’t sure I had what it took. But we prayed about it. We don’t want to leave our kids … but if it is God’s will we are meant to be there,” he said. He described the new role as similar to that of an overseas missionary. “It presents huge challenges. It is going to be a huge learning experience. Some [clergy] are ten hours from their nearest colleague. I expect to be on the road a good deal of the time.

“I’m looking forward to sharing in ministry with people, not telling them how to do it,” he added.

CONTACT:
Margaret Rodgers, Anglican Media Sydney
(w) 02 9265 1507