The Founder of the Marist Brothers, St Marcellin Champagnat, was known for his extraordinary work ethic. So much so that the expression Love of Work is often used to express one of the key characteristics of Marist Education and Marist Spirituality.

Love of Work says something deeper than simply hard work. In a society affected by consumerism and excess, we seek a strong emphasis on the dignity of work and promote work as a powerful means of self-fulfilment, and of giving purpose and meaning to life.

Within this context, our Team at the Hermitage go out of their way to serve our guests – and to do so with a smile. Their commitment to those they serve and their loyalty to this place is evident in the high standard of care and the attention to detail they give every day.

Br David Hall, Chair

Br Darren Burge

Br Peter Rodney

Ms Donna McLaughlin

Dr Sally Longley

Mr Tony Clarke

Mr Declan Donohue

Mr Paul Burgess

Mr John Finneran

The Hermitage is intentionally a spirituality centre that provides space for reflection and solace in a manner that is attuned to the Sacred through deep respect for the natural environment. As a dream-space for the Spirit, it provides access to the Marist Story in Australia and allows for its creative flourishing in a way that peace can be discovered anew and beauty enjoyed.

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord all the earth. Ps 96:1

Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudato Si (n. 13), reminded us of the urgent challenge to protect our common home, a challenge that brings the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development. It is our vision that all who live, work and visit the Hermitage work together to ensure this place remains environmentally sustainable. And, just as we hope that visitors will go forth from the Hermitage  with audacity and hope to make Jesus known and loved, it is also our hope that those who stay with us will be inspired to continue an environmentally-friendly way of living on their return to their own communities.

The Hermitage has in place a variety of practices to minimise our carbon footprint and sustain and nurture our physical environment as much as possible. We encourage the recycling of paper, cardboard, bottles & plastics, waste management, gardening, care of the land, removal of asbestos, energy saving practices and the recent introduction of a herb and vegetable gardens are all features of our commitment to a sustainable environment. Additionally, we had 140 solar panels installed at the start of 2024.

We invite you to live carefully and walk gently on this Gundungurra land.

How many are your works, O Lord!  In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Ps 104:24