More than 600 people from across Australia gathered at St Mary’s Cathedral in Hobart on 12 August 2025 for the installation of Most Reverend Anthony John Ireland, the new shepherd of the Archdiocese of Hobart.
Archbishop Ireland, born in Melbourne, succeeds Archbishop Julian Porteous, who has served in the role since 2013. The installation Mass was a solemn and joyful occasion, marked by the presence of bishops, clergy, religious, civic leaders and parishioners from Tasmania and beyond.
Among those attending the Installation Mass from around the country were two members of the Diocese of Parramatta’s Curia – Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, and Vicar General Fr Peter Williams AM.
The Installation Mass for new Archbishop of Hobard, Archbishop Anthony Ireland. Image: supplied.
Speaking to ABC Radio, Fr Peter reflected on the significance of Archbishop Ireland’s appointment, saying he has the respect of many parishes nationwide.
“He’s held in great affection, and I think what he will bring to Hobart, particularly, will be a capacity to be able to really understand the complexity of this island and of the diverse makeup of people who were there.”
The cathedral was filled with music, prayer and a deep sense of anticipation for the new chapter in the Archdiocese’s life. For many of the faithful, Archbishop Ireland’s leadership is expected to bring both continuity and fresh energy to the Church’s mission in Tasmania.
During his address at the end of Mass, Archbishop Ireland spoke of his ancestor, John Carey Ireland, a convict from England who was transported to Tasmania in 1824 for “petty larceny”.
“Two hundred and one years after John’s arrival, I stand before you – thankfully not in shackles, but in hope – as a shepherd of the Church and an ambassador for Jesus Christ in this place,” Archbishop Ireland said.
The Mass was concelebrated by His Eminence, Cardinal Mykola Bychok CSsR, Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Balvo, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, and Archbishop Emeritus of Hobart, Julian Porteous.
Other dignitaries present included the Governor of Tasmania, the Honourable Barbara Baker AC and Emeritus Professor, Don Chalmers AO.
At the beginning of the Mass, the Apostolic Nuncio read out the Papal Bull, declaring Pope Leo XIV’s appointment of Archbishop Ireland as Archbishop of Hobart.
The Installation Mass for new Archbishop of Hobard, Archbishop Anthony Ireland. Image: supplied.
Archbishop Ireland was then ceremonially led by Archbishop Costelloe, and the Apostolic Nuncio, to the Cathedra, the seat of the Diocesan Bishop. Bishop Martin Ashe presented Archbishop Guilford Young’s crozier to the new Archbishop.
“From convict chaplaincies to schools and parishes scattered across this island, Tasmania’s Catholic story has been one of quiet fidelity, courageous perseverance, and grace upon grace,” Archbishop Ireland said in his homily.
“So let us walk together – bishop, clergy, religious, and lay faithful. Let us be a Church of the Upper Room: Spirit-filled, alive with joy, and bearing peace.” he said.
“As we turn the page and write a new chapter in Tasmania’s Catholic story, may we walk as pilgrims of hope—and with our lives, sing the praise of God from whom all blessings flow.”
Read the ABC news article here.
Read more about Archbishop Anthony Ireland.
