The Benedictine Sisters of Jamberoo Abbey are in dire need of financial assistance to preserve and restore their historic property. In a rare public appeal, Mother Hilda Scott and the Jamberoo community have reached out to the public for support, marking an unprecedented move in the Abbey’s 175-year history.

"In our 175 years of foundation, we have never done this, but our present circumstances make it imperative that we now reach out," Mother Hilda stated in an open letter published on the Abbey's website.

Speaker Benedictine Sister Hilda Scott - Photo Minwye Studios

The Abbey, constructed in the 1980s, now shows significant signs of wear and tear. The most pressing concern is the roof, which has been leaking progressively, leading to further damage such as rotting beams and stained paintwork. 

After consulting with builders, the Sisters were advised that the entire roofing of the main building needs to be replaced as a matter of urgency. The estimated cost for this repair alone exceeds $1 million—a sum the community does not have.

Mother Scott, who is also known for her years as a columnist for The Catholic Leader, expressed her concern: “For some time now, we have been struggling under the weight of an ever-increasing maintenance and restoration burden.”

The roof is just the beginning. The Abbey was built in the 1980s and several decades later, the deterioration is obvious.

In addition to the roof, the Sisters have been advised to undertake extensive drainage work, which involves reshaping the land to prevent further deterioration. The rising soil levels have already caused sections of the slate flooring to disintegrate and wooden panels to rot, all of which require immediate attention and replacement.

"External and internal painting work is now essential," Mother Scott added. "The further costs involved are absolutely beyond us."



The Abbey’s guest cottages are also in need of similar repairs, yet these additional expenses have not been factored into the current financial plans.

“We humbly tell you all of this to share with you some of the realities we are currently facing while being very aware that we are not the only ones doing it tough in this current economic climate,” the letter continued. “Nonetheless we are inviting you to consider ways in which you and others can join us in our quest to maintain our Abbey home. Your giving, small or great, will be our new song for the next 175 years. You have our prayerful gratitude.”

As the Jamberoo Benedictine Sisters continue their spiritual work, they find themselves appealing to the kindness of others to ensure that their Abbey remains a sanctuary for generations to come.

For more information, go to: www.jamberooabbey.org.au/about/make-a-donation/.