The Parish of East Wimmera was formed by joining groups of neighbouring parishes that have already been working together and sharing a parish priest. The East Wimmera parish covers Birchip, Charlton, Donald, St Arnaud, Wycheproof and the southern part of Quambatook parish (Boort). The formation of this new parish is the fruit of several years of consultation, including the Looking Forward gatherings that have been held since 2014. The detailed proposals for the new parish developed through discussions among priests and parishioners over the past few months and were endorsed by the Council of Priests at their meeting on June 19. Bishop Paul Bird confirmed the formation of the new parish on July 1, 2018.

These new arrangements will make it easier for the local communities to share the tasks involved in pastoral care and parish administration and will give the priests more time for pastoral and sacramental ministry.

The priests who have been caring for this region will continue to do so. Fr Eugene McKinnon is Parish Priest of the East Wimmera parish, with Fr Jim McKay as Assistant Priest.

Catholic Schools in the parish

St Mary’s Primary School Donald

St Joseph’s Primary School Charlton

St Patrick’s Primary School St Arnaud

Information

Birchip

St Mary’s Birchip was established in 1891.   Birchip is a small rural community located on the southern edge of the Mallee in N.W. Victoria, approximately 320 km from Melbourne.

Donald

Donald is situated on the Richardson River. The “Bullock’s Head” is a characteristic landmark. St Mary’s has a small friendly congregation, and the church is opposite the school in the main street.
Cropping is the mainstay of the district, and we are like most farming communities, dependent on the seasons.

St Arnaud

Immaculate Conception Parish is a welcoming and caring community where Christ is visible.