Preview
When making Faith Runs Deep, Karl Faase sat down with remarkable men and women who told him their story and helped unearth our Australian stories of faith. So much of what our guests shared could never fit into our 12-part series, but these extended interviews give you a treasure trove of insights and experiences.
1 mins
Interview 01 - Tim Kirk
Founded by his father John Kirk in 1950, Clonakilla Wines has become an award-winning world-renowned label. Tim and Karl sat down over a glass of their top shelf Shiraz Viognier to talk about Tim's growing up around wine and Christian faith, his own personal faith decision as a teenager, and how faith can be expressed in all areas of life, even in business.
23 mins
Interview 01 - Tim Kirk
Founded by his father John Kirk in 1950, Clonakilla Wines has become an award-winning world-renowned label. Tim and Karl sat down over a glass of their top shelf Shiraz Viognier to talk about Tim's growing up around wine and Christian faith, his own personal faith decision as a teenager, and how faith can be expressed in all areas of life, even in business.
23 mins
Interview 01 - Tim Kirk
Founded by his father John Kirk in 1950, Clonakilla Wines has become an award-winning world-renowned label. Tim and Karl sat down over a glass of their top shelf Shiraz Viognier to talk about Tim's growing up around wine and Christian faith, his own personal faith decision as a teenager, and how faith can be expressed in all areas of life, even in business.
23 mins
Interview 02 - Gemma Bell
Karl Faase joined Gemma Bell on the Mornington Peninsula to talk about how she ended up running Fusion - a house for young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. With regular talk of clairvoyance and seances in Gemma's childhood home, she found herself afraid to sleep at night, with reciting Psalm 23 over and over to herself being her one comfort. Gemma spoke to Karl about finding genuine acceptance and community at a local church and how her passion for helping young people has brought her and her family to lead Fusion.
34 mins
Interview 03 - Andy Gourley
Red Frogs and Schoolies are practically synonymous. As Andy says, 'Anywhere that young people get to, the Froggies are there'. Andy Gourley started Red Frogs in the 90's when he saw the destruction and danger first hand of young people and the drinking culture at schoolies. It is now an international organisation, in over 12 countries. Karl and Andy chat about the incredible story and influence of Red Frogs, as well as Andy's own personal faith journey.
18 mins
Interview 04 - Colin Buchanan
From city boy to winning a Golden Guitar at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Colin Buchanan has had a fascinating and God-led journey. Living and studying in Bourke as a young couple, Colin's natural musical and story-telling talent eventually led him to being one of the most well-known names in Christian music, particularly children's Christian music. In this interview, Karl explores how Colin's life and faith journey has unfolded and where the fingerprints of God are evident.
26 mins
Interview 05 - Riverbank Frank
On the main street of Dubbo, with a beautiful statue of Indigenous activist Bill Ferguson as the backdrop, Karl Faase interviews Indigenous elder and poet, Riverbank Frank. While Christian faith was in his family, as Riverbank grew up the disconnect he saw between what he was told about Jesus as a young boy and the church's inaction in issues concerning his people led him to a deep anger. With Sunday now being his self-professed, 'busiest day of the week', Riverbank's journey and the faithful followers of Jesus that walked with him, is inspiring and impacting.
19 mins
Interview 06 - Tony Hoang
In the middle of bustling Cabramatta, Karl Faase heard the remarkable story of Tony Hoang. Born to vietnamese refugees, Tony had a difficult family life and his desire for love and acceptance led him to joining a local gang and ever-increasing crimes and dangers. Now a pastor at a church in the area he used to deal drugs in, Tony's conversion story is both miraculous and humorous, as only God can do.
32 mins
Interview 07 - Peter Gibbs
Karl interviewed Peter Gibbs for Faith Runs Deep at the Apex Oval, battling lawnmowers and planes to capture his amazing life story. Peter, a former Rugby League player, had his big break when he got a phone call from legendary player Arthur Beeson. Dealing with alcohol dependency and injuries, Peter's rugby career was disappointingly short-lived. And when his sister tragically died in police custody, Peter was given the choice of inciting a riot in the small town, or choosing peace and eventual forgiveness. Peter's faith and wisdom have been hard-earned, and we are thankful to have heard his story.
37 mins
Interview 08 - Michael Gladwin
The incredible stories of faith and courage held by chaplains in the Australian armed services is the subject of Michael Gladwin's award-winning book, Captains of the Souls. In the midst of war and death, these chaplains were so often embodying Jesus on the battlefield, going where it was most dangerous, ministering to the fearful, and holding funeral services with bullets flying overhead. In the beautiful Canberra War Memorial, Karl spoke with Lecturer and Author Michael Gladwin, unearthing some of these stories.
20 mins
Interview 09 - Cass Langton
Global Worship and Creative Pastor Cass Langton's passion for spiritual creativity and worshipping God through creative and artistic talents is clearly evident in this interview. Cass leads teams of musicians, artists, dancers, photographers and technicians who are using their giftings for the Kingdom of God in amazing ways. She spoke with Karl about how the Bible shows God's love of creativity and the creators, where she sees worship being expressed in different ways, and her own journey of following God wherever He leads.
26 mins
Interview 10 - Rosemary Kariuki
Rosemary Kariuki won the Australian of the Year Local Hero award in 2021 for her incredible work with the Australian Police in helping and supporting migrants and refugees. Escaping conflict in her home country of Kenya, Rosemary came to Australia with only $250 in her pocket and a remarkable faith in God's provision. Her faith, her tenacity, and her love of people have led her to being a voice for migrants, especially for women suffering under domestic abuse.
26 mins
Interview 11 - Bindi Cole Chocka
Karl Faase interviews Bindi Cole Chocka and they talk about her incredible journey. Bindi's childhood was one of loneliness, abuse and neglect, leading her to a drug addiction and eventually to a gaol cell in London, where she encountered the overwhelming love of Jesus. Now, as a renowned artist with her works shown in galleries all across Australia, she continues to face many challenges in regards to her faith in the art world. Bindi's journey highlights how the love of Jesus reaches into the darkest of places, and how He asks us to follow Him no matter the cost.
38 mins
Interview 12 - Dave Jensen
In this interview with Dave Jensen, the former Army Commander tells the story of how he came to the realisation that the things of this world, which he likens to salt water, will never be enough to satisfy. After becoming a father at 17 years old, Dave joined the army for income and lived a turbulent and destructive life for many years. Jesus broke into his heart in a remarkable way and turned Dave's path right around, showing Jesus truly is the way, the truth and the life. Dave's is a story that will resonate with so many and it's a privilege to share it with you.
37 mins
Interview 13 - Paul Roe
We interviewed Paul Roe, the Outback Historian, three times to talk about some influential people of faith who lived and served in the outback. Our first interview with Paul was at the Royal Flying Doctor Museum in Dubbo to chat about the life, faith and lagacy of John Flynn, the man who started the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Paul's depth of knowledge and passion for John Flynn's story is clear and it was wonderful to learn more about this inspirational man. This story is one we don't want to let Australians forget, a person of deep faith who saw a great need and created an amazing institution which continues to save lives today.
18 mins
Interview 14 - Tim Booker
Despite having grown up going to church every Sunday, Tim Booker realised he didn't know as much about the Christian faith as perhaps he should when a friend at work asked him what it was all about. Tim's search and growth in this knowledge led him to becoming a Minister with the Anglican Church and to serving as a chaplain in the Australian Army. Karl Faase interviewed Tim in Sydney to talk about his time in the Army as a chaplain as well as the amazing breakthrough he saw occur in Dave Jensen, another of our interviewees.
25 mins
Interview 15 - Eloise Wellings
After missing out on competing in three Olympic Games due to injury, athlete Eloise Wellings was finally able to live out her dream of stepping onto the track at the London Olympics in 2012. Karl Faase interviews Eloise in her local area of Cronulla, where she spoke about the ups and downs in her running career, how God used her missing out on her first Olympics to bring her to faith, and the Love Mercy Foundation which she co-founded with fellow athlete, Julius Achon. Love Mercy Foundation seeks to empower communities in Uganda to overcome poverty caused by the devastation of civil war.
20 mins
Interview 16 - Sandra Dumas
Karl Faase interviewed Sandra Dumas in Tweed Heads on the NSW and QLD border. Sandra is a pastor of Ganggalah Church and from her own struggles with identity as an Indigenous woman and a Christian, Sandra now seeks to show her people that being a Christian doesn't mean giving up your cultural heritage, but it can and should be embraced and brought into your faith. Sandra and Karl spoke about her family connection to the Stolen Generation and the impact that still carries in Indigenous communities today, as well as her hope for the future of all Australians together.
15 mins
Interview 17 - Tim Kelly
Tim Kelly is a world-champion bull and saddle-bronc rider who now runs schools in this field, sharing his knowledge of riding, as well as sharing about his Christian faith. After becoming world champion at the Canadian Calgary Rodeo in 1980, Tim still felt an emptiness and a feeling that there was something more. He found what he was looking for after joining in on a church service at a rodeo in Melbourne, where a bikie from God Squad gave his testimony. This changed Tim dramatically, as he devoured cassette tapes of sermons on long drives, and began to pray for God to overcome his fear before each ride. Surrounded by cows and bulls, Karl Faase spoke with Tim about his career, his faith and how he now seeks to do as Jesus did, and share the love of Christ in his world of bull and saddle-bronc riding.
22 mins
Interview 18 - John Anderson
Karl Faase went out to Tambar Springs, a small town in far-west NSW, where John Anderson's family have lived and farmed for 5 generations. In this interview, Karl and John spoke about his journey to faith during his university years, his view on farming and care of the land for future generations, and his insights into politics from his many years as a member of Parliament and the deputy Prime Minister of Australia.
28 mins
Interview 19 - Roy Williams (Part 1)
Roy Williams' dedicated research into the faith-filled people who built this nation has been significant in altering the narrative about the history of Christianity in Australia. His own journey to faith and self-confessed ignorance into the history of his own nation led him to write many books including 'God, Actually' and 'Post God Nation?' Roy and Karl talk about his own faith journey, of taking his daughter to Sunday school, thinking he'd have a free Sunday morning but quickly becoming interested in what he read in the Bible and coming to an intellectual place of believing, before also experiencing the emotional power of the Holy Spirit.
19 mins
Interview 19 - Roy Williams (Part 2)
Roy Williams' dedicated research into the faith-filled people who built this nation has been significant in altering the narrative about the history of Christianity in Australia. His own journey to faith and self-confessed ignorance into the history of his own nation led him to write many books including 'God, Actually' and 'Post God Nation?' Roy and Karl talk about his own faith journey, of taking his daughter to Sunday school, thinking he'd have a free Sunday morning but quickly becoming interested in what he read in the Bible and coming to an intellectual place of believing, before also experiencing the emotional power of the Holy Spirit.
38 mins
Interview 20 - Narelle Urquhart
Narelle Urquhart's life story is turbulent, heartbreaking, redemptive and inspiring. Growing up in traumatic circumstances, Narelle left home at just 14 years of age, finding herself homeless and in an abusive relationship. Years of losses and ongoing mental health battles eventually led her to Queensland where an Indigenous elder and pastor took her to church that very first Sunday. There she found faith, love, acceptance and hope which she has passed onto her four children. As both an artist and the Indigenous Engagment Advisor at Bond University, Narelle uses her full 'toolbag' of life experiences to help Indigenous young people who stuggle with identity, as well as educate others in what their role is in the Indigenous and Australian story.
36 mins
Interview 21 - Bernadette Black
After taking the ute across Bass Strait on the Spirit of Tasmania, Karl and Jane drove down to windy Hobart to interview Bernadette Black. Bernadette's experience of having a baby at 16 years old, and not finding the national organisational support she was looking for, led her to starting her own organisation meeting the needs of expecting and parenting teens. Brave Foundation is now nation-wide, and is paving a way for other nations to follow in this important work. As a voice and advocate for these young people, Bernadette is living out her Christian faith, making a difference to so many.
29 mins
Interview 22 - Anne Pattel-Gray
As the first Indigenous person to gain a PhD from Sydney University, Dr Anne Pattel-Gray's experience of racism from both outside and inside the church ignited a flame that drove her to pursue higher education, with the aim of giving her people the words to use in their campaign for justice. Anne's firm faith in God keeps her hopeful for reconciliation and for an easier path for future generations of Indigenous people. Karl and Anne discuss the inspiration of her mother, her Christian faith and the faith that runs very deep in the First Nations people.
31 mins
Interview 23 - Andrew Fisher
With the two utes lined up in the starting pits of the iconic Bathurst track, Karl Faase interviewed Andrew 'Fishtail' Fisher, a former businessman who now drives a race car with the word 'Jesus' printed all over it. Through not shying away from making his Christian faith public, Andrew now has many opportunities to speak in schools and prisons about his story and his faith, which has changed the lives of so many. Karl chatted with Andrew about how he got started in racing, the ministry that has grown out of it, and the difficult season in his life that helped grow him and showed that God is in control, not us.
33 mins
Interview 24 - John Harris (Part 1)
John Harris' incredible depth of knowledge into the history of Australia, both Indigenous and European settlement is shown in his many books on the subject, especially his powerful book titled One Blood. Karl Faase sat down with him in the chapel of St Mark's Theological College in Canberra and discussed his parents work and legacy as Bible translators in the Northern Territory, his own research into the relationship between the Indigenous people and the church in Australia, and the many stories of faithful people who shared the Gospel with others. While often a hard story to hear, our history needs to be remembered and learned from, and John's passionate work in this area is so valuable.
35 mins
Interview 24 - John Harris (Part 2)
John Harris' incredible depth of knowledge into the history of Australia, both Indigenous and European settlement is shown in his many books on the subject, especially his powerful book titled One Blood. Karl Faase sat down with him in the chapel of St Mark's Theological College in Canberra and discussed his parents work and legacy as Bible translators in the Northern Territory, his own research into the relationship between the Indigenous people and the church in Australia, and the many stories of faithful people who shared the Gospel with others. While often a hard story to hear, our history needs to be remembered and learned from, and John's passionate work in this area is so valuable.
23 mins
Interview 25 - Peter Bolt
In historic St Luke's Anglican Church in Liverpool, Karl Faase interviewed Peter Bolt to talk about some of the most influential and evangelical figures in early Australian history. Peter shares his extensive knowledge about the lives and legacies of men such as Samuel Marsden, who came as a chaplain to the convicts sent from England; Thomas Moore, who left his vast fortune to the work of the Gospel in Australia; William Cowper the first full-time minister at St Philip's Church Hill Anglican and William Dawes, whose passion for linguistics and his evangelical heart led him to sharing the Gospel with Indigenous people. Each of these men helped shape Australia with their Christian faith.
39 mins
Interview 26 - Stephen Chavura
Karl Faase sat down with Stephen Chavura in a beautiful part of Sydney University to talk about some of the influential figures who encouraged free settlers and immigration into Australia throughout the 19th century, including J.D Lang and George Fife Angas. Stephen also shared his depth of knowledge on the 1836 Church Act set up by Richard Burke, which allowed churches of different denominations to be built throughout Australia, and how both the Labor and Liberal parties had evangelical Christian roots. Stephen's research into these areas has encouraged him in his faith, an encouragement he hopes other Christians will take up as they learn of the Christian foundations of Australia.
36 mins
Interview 27 - Hugh Chilton
At the beautiful Scots College near Bondi Beach, Karl Faase interviewed Hugh Chilton, a historian, teacher and researcher into how Australia's identity as a Christian nation changed during the 1960's, 70's and 80's. Hugh and Karl spoke about the impact of Billy Graham's 1959 crusade, which packed out stadiums in both Melbourne and Sydney, as well as the culture shift that occurred in the next few decades. Hugh also talks about the Scots College where he works and its partnership with Indigenous communities which enables boys from all over Australia to come and learn at the College.
20 mins
Interview 28 - Laurel Gore
Prison ministry is an incredibly challenging but beautiful calling, one that Laurel Gore has devoted so much of her life to. As a young adult, Laurel was confronted with the loneliness, hardship and pain of those in the prison system and has worked ever since on her goal that 'no one should have no one'. The ministry of people like Laurel has changed so many lives throughout the centuries and you'll appreciate Laurel's heart for those she sees as 'God's favourites'. Karl also spoke about Laurel's family history where one side of her family overcame gambling addictions after becoming Christians and the other side of her family was involved in starting the Salvation Army in Australia.
18 mins
Interview 28 - Laurel Gore
Prison ministry is an incredibly challenging but beautiful calling, one that Laurel Gore has devoted so much of her life to. As a young adult, Laurel was confronted with the loneliness, hardship and pain of those in the prison system and has worked ever since on her goal that 'no one should have no one'. The ministry of people like Laurel has changed so many lives throughout the centuries and you'll appreciate Laurel's heart for those she sees as 'God's favourites'. Karl also spoke about Laurel's family history where one side of her family overcame gambling addictions after becoming Christians and the other side of her family was involved in starting the Salvation Army in Australia.
18 mins
Interview 29 - Kent Mayo
In this special extended interview, Jane and Karl sit down with Kent Mayo in Uralla, NSW. He is the curator at the McCrossins Mill Museum and they spoke about Jane's great grandfather and Australia's first world sporting champion, Ned Trickett. Ned Trickett was a sculler or rower, who won the world rowing championship on the Thames in 1876. He returned to Australia a hero, with thousands of people coming out to see him. Ned soon learned though that fame and fortune rarely last, and he found himself destitute and looking for a job on the streets of Sydney. Hearing the words of a Salvation Army preacher, Ned learned about the love and acceptance of Christ, changing the course of his life and the lives of his family, including Jane's. Kent has beautifully portrayed Ned's life and legacy in the Museum in Uralla.
18 mins
Interview 29 - Kent Mayo
In this special extended interview, Jane and Karl sit down with Kent Mayo in Uralla, NSW. He is the curator at the McCrossins Mill Museum and they spoke about Jane's great grandfather and Australia's first world sporting champion, Ned Trickett. Ned Trickett was a sculler or rower, who won the world rowing championship on the Thames in 1876. He returned to Australia a hero, with thousands of people coming out to see him. Ned soon learned though that fame and fortune rarely last, and he found himself destitute and looking for a job on the streets of Sydney. Hearing the words of a Salvation Army preacher, Ned learned about the love and acceptance of Christ, changing the course of his life and the lives of his family, including Jane's. Kent has beautifully portrayed Ned's life and legacy in the Museum in Uralla.
18 mins
Interview 30 - Stuart Piggin
Stuart Piggin and Karl Faase sat down in one of the oldest churches in Australia, the historic St Philip's Church Hill on York St in Sydney CBD. Stuart is a renowned historian and author and his in-depth knowledge of Australia's history is remarkable. His years of study and research show clearly the Christian foundations of Australia in every part of society, including politics, business and the press. Karl and Stuart spoke about a range of topics, covering the early Governors of Australia, the differences in the provisioning of the First and Second Fleets, the waves of immigration of free settlers, the revivals that have happened in Australia throughout the years and the Christian foundations that formed some of Australia's early newspapers.
43 mins
Interview 31 - Paul Roe (Toorale Interview)
In Karl Faase's second interview with the Outback Historian Paul Roe, he visited Toorale Station, a massive historic property in far-west NSW. Toorale Station and two other Sheep Stations nearby were owned and ran by Sir Samuel McCaughey in the late 19th century, a man who has been dubbed Australia's 'father of invention'. McCaughey's innovation spurred him on to create remarkable new technology such as the Wolseley mechanical shears and his Christian faith led him to invest his wealth and his knowledge in future generations. Paul and Karl spoke about McCaughey's gumption in getting a job done well, his generosity in extending his resources to others, his genius for invention and his legacy that is sadly not known well enough today.
20 mins
Interview 32 - Paul Roe (Bourke Interview)
Karl's third interview with the Outback Historian, Paul Roe, was in the heart of Bourke, beside the Darling River. Bourke is a place Paul knows well, having set up Cornerstone as a place where young people could come to study and work in the outback, getting to know God's land. One Cornerstone resident was Colin Buchanan, who realised his talent and passion for storytelling through song while living in Bourke. Paul discusses the extraordinary history of this far-west town, which saw a large move of immigration and settlers in the late 1800's, as well as a near civil war during the shearers strike in the 1890's. Paul also shares his knowledge of WG Spence. WG Spence's reading of the Bible and his picture of Jesus as a working man led him to found many Unions, including the Shearers Unions which eventually became the Labor Party in Australia.
15 mins
This new series seeks to demonstrate the depth of influence of the Gospel message on Australia. The team drove from the cities to the outback of Australia in an iconic Holden ute, unearthing stories from history and today of people whose lives have been changed by Jesus, and who have deeply influenced this nation. So much of what our guests shared could never fit into our 12-part series, but these extended interviews give you a treasure trove of insights and experiences.
Andrew Fisher
After working in the corporate sector for many years and holding the position of Executive Chairman, Andrew decided to bravely put the name ‘Jesus’ on the side of his racing car – racing was something he did as a passion and hobby. Andrew now goes into schools and prisons full-time, sharing his story and sharing the message of Jesus.
Andy Gourley
In his previous life, he was an accountant by day and a skateboarding youth worker by night – but he saw a real need amongst the young schoolies crowd gathering at Surfers Paradise each year. He founded the Red Frogs network that seeks to provide early intervention and support in places where youth gather – from schoolies, to universities, festivals and frat houses.
Anne Pattel-Gray
A descendant of the Bidjara/Kari Kari people of Queensland, Anne was the first Aboriginal person to earn a PhD from Sydney University and in 1997 she earned a Doctor of Divinity in India. She campaigns for justice and equal representation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and is a recognised expert on Black Theology.
Bernadette Black
Bernadette’s passion for assisting teens who are pregnant or parenting came out of finding herself in that position as a 16 year old. She went on to study nursing before founding Australia’s only national organisation supporting this sector. She has been named Barnardos Australian Mother of the Year and Telstra Tasmanian Woman of the Year.
Bindi Cole Chocka
From Melbourne Australia, Bindi overcame a difficult and turbulent upbringing to become a celebrated artist who has won awards and hosted exhibitions for more than a decade. She has indigenous identity and heritage and through her art, she seeks to express her views on life, faith, racism and politics. She now leads a church with her husband in Victoria.
Cass Langton
For many years, Cass oversaw Hillsong’s global worship team, artists, technicians and writers. She is a passionate and gifted communicator, using her faith and creativity to share the Gospel and empower those in creative ministries.
Colin Buchanan
Formerly a teacher and while exploring the possibility of heading into ministry, Colin Buchanan ended up forging a career in the music industry. Initially recognised for his unique songwriting and country music genius, he is highly acclaimed for his decades of Children’s Christian Music, which he stumbled into whilst serving in his local church.
Dave Jensen
As the youngest son of the then Archbishop of Sydney, Dave wasn’t always going to follow the ‘family trade’ and be a Pastor. He signed up for the Australian Army after becoming a teen father and wasn’t able to hold down a job to support his family. He had a turbulent few years in the Army and in his personal life before he re-committed his life to Jesus.
Eloise Wellings
Eloise grew up running and from the age of 10, had her eyes on the Olympics. After years of setbacks and injuries, she finally walked onto the track at the London Olympics in 2012, many years after first qualifying at 16. Through her teenage years, she found faith in Jesus and after meeting olympian Julian Achon from Uganda, she co-founded Love Mercy – a charity that empowers Northern Ugandans to overcome poverty.
Gemma Bell
Gemma, her husband and their daughter live onsite at a home built to support youth experiencing and at risk of homelessness. She facilitates a space where teens can be supported to finish their education, find jobs and grow to become responsible adults.
Hugh Chilton
Hugh is an educator, historian, author and holds a PhD from the University of Sydney. His first book is titled ‘Evangelicals and the End of Christendom’ and he speaks and writes about intellectual, cultural and religious history. His current role is at the Presbyterian boys’ school, The Scots College and he leads research and development initiatives, professional learning, and strategic partnerships.
John Anderson
– Australian Politician and Commentator John Anderson served as the 11th Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and leader of the National Party 1999-2005. He was a member of the House of Representatives 1989-2007. After politics, John launched a web-based program, Conversations with John Anderson and is well known for his social commentary on politics and faith. He is also a farmer in Regional NSW.
John Harris
For many decades, John has dedicated his life to understanding, appreciating and chronicling Aboriginal history, language and Christian experience. After a career teaching and leading schools in Indigenous communities and writing his award-winning book One Blood, John continues his active involvement in Aboriginal issues through Bible translation, writing, and speaking.
Kent Mayo
Kent has begged, borrowed and paid up for some unusual pieces of history that he has curated and displayed in the McCrossin’s Mill Museum, Uralla. One of his main passions is Australia’s first sporting world champion, Ned Trickett, who was the son of a convict and won the World Sculling Championship on the River Thames.
Laurel Gore
Over 30 years ago, Laurel began work with women in the youth justice system. She worked with various non profits and agencies supporting women who were incarcerated and post release. Over time, she saw the limited resources offered for women in adult prisons and decided to work with prison agencies supporting incarcerated adults.
Michael Gladwin
Dr Michael Gladwin is a history lecturer at St Mark’s National Theological Centre, Charles Sturt University and author of the award-winning book ‘Captains of the Soul: a History of Australian Army Chaplains’. For many years, his research interests have particularly centered on religious and cultural history and the relationship between religion and war.
Narelle Urquhart
Narelle is a talented Aboriginal artist, whose work tells the story of her people, our land and faith. She also manages the First Nations Cultural Engagement office at Bond University. She has forged an incredible life and career for herself and her children, emerging from homelessness and the struggles of her earlier life.
Paul Roe
Paul Roe is referred to as the Outback Historian because he has researched, interviewed and written on some of Australia’s greatest Christian heroes from the bush. He has an infectious passion for storytelling and a desire for Australia’s history to be captured and re-told to the next generation.
Peter Bolt
Professor Peter Bolt has studied and graduated from Moore Theological College, Macquarie University and King’s College London. He has spent much of his time studying the Gospels and Acts, mission and he has also documented the history of the Australian Anglican Church.
Peter Gibbs
Peter is a Gamillaroi man from the small community of Weilmoringle in far west NSW. Once an aspiring first grade Rugby League Player, he found faith when he was in his darkest place having returned to his community after injuries halted his career. He is a leader in his community and has especially helped forge a path of forgiveness between his people and the NSW Police Force.
Riverbank Frank
Once a tough and angry man who wanted to cause trouble on the streets of Redfern in Sydney, Riverbank is now a man of faith, who is inspired by Jesus to pursue reconciliation and extend the hand of friendship. He is one of the founding members of Dubbo Community Men’s Shed and is a proud Wiradjuri elder and community worker.
Rosemary Kariuki
A number of years ago, Rosemary was a Kenyan refugee, who was fleeing domestic violence and looking for a fresh start in Australia. She is now the Multicultural Community Liaison Officer with NSW Police, helping other migrant women rebuild their lives. She has a passion for connection and community, running a cultural exchange program to overcome isolation especially for migrating families and it is for this work that she was named 2021 Australia’s Local Hero.
Roy Williams
Roy Williams was a Sydney-based lawyer for many decades, practicing with one of Australia’s leading firms. He set aside his career in law when a life-changing illness required him to take time out and it was then that he decided to pursue writing. He wrote ‘God, Actually’ primarily as a way for him to hone his own thinking as he converted to faith as an adult.
Sandra Dumas
Pastor Sandra is the first Indigenous female pastor ordained in New South Wales through Australian Christian Churches and leads Ganggalah Church and Training Centre with her husband Willy. They lead a diverse community and have a particular passion for Indigneous Australians and are training up a new generation of Indigenous Christian leaders.
Stephen Chavura
Dr Stephen Chavura teaches European and Australian History at Campion College, Australia and has authored numerous books including a book on Sir Robert Menzies – which the Sydney Morning Herald listed as one of the “Most Anticipated Books of 2021”.
Stuart Piggin
Stuart Piggin is an academic and prolific author whose work has spanned the full range of critical, social and political studies of Evangelical Christianity in the English-speaking world. He was part of establishing the Centre for the Study of Australian Christianity during the period he was Master of Robert Menzies College at Macquarie University.
Tim Booker
Tim Booker is the senior pastor at St Luke’s Liverpool and before that was 15 years at Guildford Anglican Church – a diverse and multicultural community in Sydney. Tim spent three years as the Chaplain to the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) and is passionate about sharing Jesus with people of all backgrounds and cultures.
Tim Kelly
Champion bull and saddle bronc rider Tim Kelly won many national and international titles, taking out an international saddle bronc championship at only 19 years of age. After his decorated career, he set up his riding school in Kingaroy, Queensland where for over 30 years, he has coached other riders, from beginners to professionals.
Tim Kirk
Tim Kirk runs the family vineyard and winery, Clonakilla, originally founded by his father. Tim’s first career was in Melbourne as a teacher and studying theology but his love of the vineyard drew him back eventually. When his father retired, Tim took over running Clonakilla and lives onsite with his wife and children.
Tony Hoang
After a tumultuous early life as a child born to Vietnamese Refugees and rebellious teenage years caught up in gangs, Tony dramatically met Jesus when he asked God ‘for a sign’. That sign was a group from the Potter’s House Church evangelising on the streets of Cabramatta where Tony was a drug dealer. His life took a dramatic turn and he now leads the church that introduced him to Jesus in that dark place.