Our Pastoral Team
Parish Priest
Fr. Bernie Thomas OFM
I come from Wainuiomata near Wellington and began my career as a cartographer before working in several other fields. Much of my life has been in ministry; youth work, missionary teaching in Papua New Guinea and Samoa, and many years of school and adult retreat ministry as a friar, along with roles such as university chaplain, parish priest, retreat centre director, lecturer, and trained Franciscan Spiritual Director.
Music is a major passion for me, especially piano, pipe organ, classical music, and musical theatre. I also enjoy keeping active and have knitted hundreds of beanies for fundraisers and for people experiencing homelessness. I am excited to be in Ipswich and am enjoying my time so far.
Assistant Priest
Fr. Isaac Falzon
Fr Isaac Falzon is 39 years old and has been a priest of the Archdiocese of Brisbane for three years. Before entering the seminary, he spent many years living what he likes to call a “normal life,” leaving school early and working in a variety of jobs before eventually hearing God's call to the priesthood.
Ordained in 2023, Fr Isaac has served in parish ministry at Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast and is now excited to begin a new chapter with the Ipswich Catholic Community. He has a passion for helping people encounter Jesus in practical and meaningful ways, building vibrant parish communities, and making the faith accessible to everyday people.
When not engaging in ministry, he enjoys keeping fit, spending time with family and friends , and gaming.
Operations Manager
Liana Leschke
As Operations Manager I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to our parish community. Following a rewarding career in corporate finance and relationship management, for several years I embraced the privilege of being a stay-at-home parent, which deepened my pastoral connection with our parish. I am committed to supporting the mission and growth of our parish by promoting sustainable practices that strengthen our welcoming, faith-filled communities. My hope is to help create church communities where families feel engaged and children are nurtured in faith, growing into the next generation of dedicated parishioners.
Pastoral Coordinator
Rosalia Risati
Hello, my name is Rosalia and I work in the Parish Office at the Ipswich Catholic community, I work with families as they prepare for Baptism, and support familes as their children journey through the Sacramental Program. I help families as they prepare funerals for loved ones, and support our priests and parish team put together liturgies for our parish and schools. I really enjoy my work here, and enjoy assisting others where ever I can.
Parish Support
Belinda Holden
Pastoral Support
Kay Dowd
Include a gift to our Parish Endowment Fund in your Will
Our Parish has always depended upon the generosity and trust of parishioners and families, and their financial contributions. This commitment helps us pay our bills and plan for the future
Subscribe to our eNewsletter
Receive regular updates from our parish (weekly news, Easter & Christmas Mass times, and other important information)