Why a new Priory? How we got where are are.

In March 1995 the Australian Discalced Carmelites began a discussion about how we were to move into the future.  This focussed on the suggestion that we build a new residence for ourselves.  This would enable us to renovate our retreat centre to make it more comfortable, quiet and secure.  Since we could not begin the refurbishment until we moved out it was important to begin to think about what we needed and wanted.

Mount Carmel Retreat Centre

We then shared our reflections on what values we wanted our new priory to support and symbolise on our property (we have over 300 acres 50 kilometres south west of Sydney).  We wanted a building that was simple but would last.  We wanted it to relate tot he environment and be energy efficient.  We wanted a building that would assist us in our lives of prayer and solitude while providing generous spaces for our fraternal life in common.

The Chapel at Mount Carmel

From these reflections there grew a detailed brief which we discussed and modified.  We then began the search for an architect.  We made enquiries and from this came a short list of three architects.  We took a day to visit four new monasteries in Sydney.  This was interesting and helpful.  From this came the decision to ask ALex Coutts to design the new priory for us.

There then followed further discussions about the site of the new priory and all manner of discussion about what should be in the plan and where it might be.  We also had to negotiate with Campbelltown City Council and ensure we complied with all regulations.  Fees were paid, plans drawn, consultant engineers and other specialists were consulted until we came to the day when we had it all together.

Would we go ahead?  It was an expensive exercise but one we felt was necessary for our future.  After another process we accepted the tender of Co-Wyn Building Group and signed a contract on 6 July, 2011.  Building was to commence on 18 July, because the cottage was to be used for hospitality during Br Shane Kelleher's ordination on 16 July.