Our History

Founded as CentacareCQ, CatholicCare began in Rockhampton in 1974 with two forward-thinking members of the Catholic Church – Sister Anne Marie Kinnane and Father Francis (Frank) Gilbert.

Sr Kinnane was a teacher in Rockhampton who went on to study social work in Brisbane. She returned with the results of a survey she helped to complete, indicating the people of Rockhampton needed a more organised and holistic approach to social services. Sr Kinnane approached local priest, Fr Gilbert, for assistance and together they created an agency to deliver family and social services to the wider community.

Sr Anne Marie and Fr Frank

Today we are the longest running, local social services organisation in Central Queensland – serving thousands of people annually and employing more than 400 staff across the Diocese. Over the years, our services have grown to include care for the elderly and people living with disability, community transport, counselling for individuals and families, family services, help for those involved in domestic and family violence, mental health support, and a wide range of advocacy and community education.

We also provide programs to assist communities in times of natural disaster – most recently this has included the Flood Recovery program in Bundaberg and the Drought Support Program in Central Western Queensland.

The official social services agency of the Catholic Church, CatholicCare is one of more than 30 CatholicCare organisations around Australia – all working to enhance the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities.