THE St Vincent de Paul Society Mornington Conference is preparing to mark a special occasion this month as its volunteers work tirelessly helping those in need.
The Mornington Conference, which is the local arm of the society, has about 20 volunteers who give their time to deliver food parcels, and vouchers for food and clothing to the disadvantaged. The society can also offer financial help to those families feeling severe economic stress including outstanding bills, as well as providing furniture and white goods.
While its volunteers, also called Vincentians, are working hard in the community, they will take a moment to reflect St Vincent’s Feast Day, which will be held on 27 September. The annual celebration is deeply meaningful for its members as it honours the life of St Vincent de Paul, the 17th century priest renowned for his dedication to serving the poor and marginalised. His mission of charity and compassion continues to inspire the society’s work to this day.
Mornington Conference president Barry Murphy said their group relied on public donations of non-perishable food delivered to the Vinnies bins located at local Coles and Woolworths stores, as well as St Macartan’s church, plus financial assistance from generous donors.
“The Conference’s contribution to the Mornington community is significant – last financial year the volunteers visited over 900 homes in Mornington and Mount Martha delivering $160,000 in assistance value,” he said.
“Clearly financial circumstances widespread in the Mornington community are emphasising the importance of the St Vincent de Paul Society to helping the many disadvantaged in our local area.”
Murphy said apart from a short break over the Christmas period, the Conference’s volunteers undertook community support work five days every week. They are non-judgemental and find their work most rewarding.
“People ring into the conference’s call centre describing their needs and the next day the volunteers will do a home visit delivering food and vouchers to meet, wherever possible, those needs,” he said. “The conference also plays a significant role in the education field focussing on children facing a range of issues.”
St Vincent de Paul Society of Australia national president Mark Gaetani said three significant “Feast Days” would be celebrated this month to “honour extraordinary lives whose faith, charity, and courage guide the society’s mission”. “Their commitment to the poor is our inspiration as we strive, every day, to bring hope and dignity to those in need,” he said.
To seek help from the Mornington Conference or to refer someone who may be in need, call 5976 4974. If you are interested in joining the volunteer team, please call the conference on 0409 647 767.
First published in the Mornington News – 16 September 2025
