Foundations
Broome 1908
In 1908, Sisters Antonio O'Brien and Benedict Courtney sailed for
Broome. The perilous journey by lugger would have taken a week. Their
arrival in Broome was the essence of stepping out into the unknown.
They had very little money, no pre-made arrangements regarding accommodation
and were dependent on the goodness of people in Broome. On arrival
Sister Antonio knocked at the first house she came to, seeking a
cup of tea. Mrs. Gonzales opened the door, offered them hospitality
and they became great friends. She helped them with food
and accommodation. The Sisters eventually purchased a site and built
a Convent, which became the central house of Sisters of St John of
God in the Kimberley.
Becoming established in Broome was a long and difficult journey that took place concurrent with Sisters' on-going work of visiting, instructing and nursing all sections of Broome's multi-racial, multi-faith and multi-cultural community. With the help of many residents the Sisters of St John of God established St Mary's Primary School in 1908.
The Sisters were faithful to their pioneering spirit which is their heritage, by introducing a series of measures to improve the quality of life for the Indigenous people.
The Sisters cared for patients in the Japanese Hospital from 1910 to 1922.
In 1924 they established the first Kindergarten School, and operated the Holy Child Orphanage from 1939 to 1962.
In 1961 they established the first permanent Infant Health Clinic in Broome, and the first pre-primary and Aboriginal teaching assistant programme.
In the 1980's the Sisters continued on their innovated ways with the training of the first Aboriginal catechist and pastoral associate, helping to staff the Catholic Education Regional Office, and setting up a hearing impairment programme and a Spirituality Centre.
Records of the lives and ministry of Sisters of St John of God speak of faithful dedication and amazing achievement.
