The St Vincent de Paul Society—known locally and fondly as Vinnies—is calling on compassionate community members to join in its mission of offering hope, dignity, and practical support to those doing it tough in Mackay.
"Working with the St Vincent de Paul Society is a powerful way to live out our Christian faith in action—through love of God and love of neighbour," says Regional President Richard Calligan.
“While we are proud of the spiritual foundation of our work, we focus our daily efforts on serving anyone in need—especially the poor, the marginalised, and the forgotten—regardless of their circumstances, beliefs, or attitudes.”
The Society’s mission is rooted in respect for every person's human dignity, offering practical support while encouraging people to regain control of their own lives.
Everyone is welcome to get involved. Membership is open to anyone who shares the Society’s values. New members receive training, support, and are warmly welcomed into a community of like-minded volunteers.
What does Vinnies do in Mackay?
The work is wide-ranging and deeply personal. Imagine yourself in these moments:
• Sitting at a kitchen table with a young mother—new to Mackay, traumatised, and raising four children under seven—helping her feel less alone and more supported.
• Responding to a call from an elderly neighbour, now sleeping in their car after being priced out of the rental market.
• Listening at our Support Centre to a single father with two daughters who must choose this week between paying rent or putting food on the table.
• Visiting the police watch house, offering support to a devastated family whose lives have just been turned upside down.
• Sharing a fishing trip with men from our homeless shelter—a simple outing that brings joy, dignity, and connection.
• Volunteering at a Vinnies shop or warehouse, helping raise the funds that make all this work possible.
Whether your passion is front-line support, behind-the-scenes organisation, or simply lending a hand when you can—there’s a place for you at Vinnies.
Want to learn more or get involved?
Please reach out to Richard Calligan at
Email: president.mackay@svdpqld.org.au
Phone: (07) 4840 0820
Help us bring hope where it's needed most—right here in our Mackay community.
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