The Carmelite Centre Melbourne was established in 2008 to provide a range of imaginative and diverse opportunities to assist people in creating community and spiritual growth.

A joint initiative of the Carmelites of Australia & East Timor and the Parish of Port Melbourne / Middle Park, the Centre builds on the Carmelites' 128 year rich history in the local community of Port Melbourne and Middle Park.

MILESTONES

2001 – The Carmelite Provincial Chapter expressed the desire to establish a ‘Carmelite Centre’ in the Port Melbourne/Middle Park area.

2003
• The Carmelite Provincial Administration & The Carmelite Library moved from Donvale to Middle Park
• A vibrant community of 11 Carmelites, including five from the Asia/Oceania region, was established between the two Carmelite Priories in Port Melbourne & Middle Park
• Steps were taken to create stronger relationships between the two Carmelite parishes of Port Melbourne and Middle Park

2007-2008
• The Church, Hall and grounds at Middle Park were renovated
• A ‘Spirituality Ministry Working Party’ was appointed by Carmelite Provincial Council in February 2008 to develop a Vision/Mission statement for the Carmelite Centre and to develop the role of a coordinator for this ministry
• At the end of 2008, the Carmelite Provincial Council formally established the Carmelite Centre as a ministry of the Carmelite Province of Australia and East Timor

2009-2010
A board was appointed to oversee the development of the Carmelite Centre. Members of the Board being:

Peter Thomas (Chair)
Michael Murray (Deputy Chair)
Fr Ken Peterson – Carmelite Province Representative
Fr David Hofman – Parish Priest
Catherine Smith – Parishioner
Philip Harvey – Library Representative

1 June 2009 Irene Hayes & Damien Peile were appointed to share the Coordinator’s role.

On 29th July 2009 – the Carmelite Centre was officially launched by Fr Wayne Stanhope, the Prior Provincial of the Carmelites.