Scottish Catholic Observer

Catholics in Australia marked International Women’s Day today with the installation of a specially commissioned sculpture of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, the Australian saint of Scottish descent.

The intricate, bronze, life-sized sculpture of Mary Mackillop, who is Australia’s first saint, will be installed at Melbourne general cemetery cemetery’s new St Mary of the Cross Mausoleum. The saint, whose parent’s were from Roybridge in Invernessshire, was Canonised as on October 17 2010.

Internationally acclaimed sculptor Julie Squires has created the tribute. Her work is held in collections in Europe, China and the UK and includes 20 Public Art Commissions in Australia.

Named in honour of St Mary MacKillop, with permission from the Sisters of St Joseph, the new mausoleum will be officially blessed and opened on April 30, at a ceremony officiated by Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne Denis Hart.

The planning and design of the Saint Mary of the Cross Mausoleum involved a lengthy process of review. As part of this process Heritage Victoria, the City of Melbourne, National Trust and members of the public were invited to discuss the development prior to approval.

The approved development provides 1077 casket spaces, features sheltered crypts adorned with natural finishes, including granites, bluestone, timbers and leadlight.