Catholic Outlook, the news site of the Diocese of Parramatta, has been recognised at the 2026 Australasian Catholic Press Association (ACPA) awards, which were held in New Zealand recently.
It picked up the award for “Best Content – Social Justice”, and was also a runner-up in the “Faith and Life” category.
The awards, which are held annually, recognise excellence in Catholic magazines, newspapers and digital publications across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
The win highlights Catholic Outlook’s commitment to sharing stories that showcase Catholic social justice in action across the Diocese; promoting human dignity and standing in solidarity with those who are poor, vulnerable or marginalised.
The winning article, “The Shed: Healing, culture and brotherhood in Emerton”, written by Belinda Gadd, was originally published in the 2025 winter edition of Catholic Outlook magazine. It featured ‘The Shed’ at the Holy Family Parish site in Emerton and how it is a safe space for First Nations men to connect, find support, and access health services.
The judges said: “Belinda went to The Shed, located at Holy Family Parish in Emerton and stayed long enough to earn the material, opening in the yard on a Wednesday with steak on the barbecue and Uncle Donald Mulholland welcoming men with shoulder pats and jokes.“
“The story is anchored in Aboriginal male suicide prevention and closes on funding and the search for longevity. It puts First Nations voices in charge of their own story, with the parish as the ground rather than the hero.”
Catholic Outlook was also runner-up in “Best Content – Faith and Life” for the article “From South Sudan to Western Sydney, James is sustained by faith”, written by Isabell Petrinic, which originally appeared in the 2025 Spring edition of the magazine. The article detailed the extraordinary journey of James Atanasious – then Peace, Justice, and Ecology Facilitator for the Diocese of Parramatta – from refugee camp to now advocating for the vulnerable.
As James said in the article: “Deep down, I always knew God was caring, loving, and the source of hope.“
“My testimony can be hope for someone else, proof that what they see now is not the end. Things can change,” he said.
The judges commented: “A powerful account of faith in action, tracing James Atanasious’ journey from a South Sudanese refugee camp to a life of service and advocacy in Western Sydney. Warmly written and deeply personal, it connects one man’s story with broader themes of compassion, social justice and human dignity.
“An uplifting reflection on the transformative power of faith.”
Fr Patrick McInerney, Director Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations located in the Diocese of Parramatta, was also a runner-up in “Best Content – Ecumenical and Interfaith” category for his piece, “From the editor: Borders“.
The judges said: “In the limited space allowed, Fr Pat packs a punch in his unabashed thoughts on an unfolding, man-made catastrophe. This is writing not so much to be consumed as to be contended with. Congratulations to Fr McInerney and the Columbans.”
We thank Fr McInerney and the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations for their ongoing work in interfaith relations across our Diocese.
The awards are an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Community, and Listening, Dialogue & Discernment. Visit Synodality to find out more.
