Fathers contribution to the rich History of the Church
On March 2, 2021, Fr. Benedict Lee assumed the role of Priest-in-charge until a new Parish Priest was appointed. He concluded his service at St. Joseph’s in early February 2023, transferring to Palmyra.
As of November 1, 2010, a new chapter in St. Joseph's Bassendean began with Fr. Son Nguyen being appointed as the 7th Parish Priest. This period marked a transition in pastoral leadership, bringing fresh perspectives and energies to the community. Fr. Son was deeply loved by all the parishioners for his warm, friendly, and always loving demeanour. In February 2021, Fr. Son announced his transfer, marking the end of his tenure on February 28, 2021.
On the 2nd of November 2005, Fr. Jim Shelton assumed the role of Priest in charge of St. Joseph’s Church. By January 2006, recognizing his dedicated service, the Archbishop elevated him to the esteemed position of the 6th Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s. Fr. Jim Shelton, during his tenure, contributed significantly to the spiritual life of the Parish. Sadly, he passed away on the 29th of July 2020 in the USA, leaving a legacy of faith and service.
On the 22nd of November 2002, a new chapter unfolded as Fr. Tiziano Bogoni took on the role of Priest in charge of St. Joseph's Bassendean.
In early June 2001, Fr. Richard Robertsen assumed the role of the Priest in charge and later became the 5th Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s on June 27, 2001.
On September 19, 1971, Father Alexius Morahan became the 4th Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Bassendean, bringing with him a wealth of experience and commitment to the community. Born in Louisburg County Mayo, Ireland, on July 17, 1920, and ordained in Genoa, Italy, on June 29, 1949, Fr. Morahan served as Parish Priest until his passing on July 12, 2000.
In March 1967, Father Joseph Bernard Depiazzi took on the role of the third Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Bassendean, bringing a dynamic energy to the community. Born in Bunbury, WA, on April 17, 1918, and educated for the Priesthood at Corpus Christi College, Werribee, Victoria, Fr. Depiazzi served as Parish Priest until September 1971.
In August 1958, Fr. William Browne assumed the role of the second Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church. Born in Middletown, County Cork, Ireland, in 1915, Fr. Browne was educated at All Hallows College Dublin, Ireland, and ordained in 1939. Fr. Browne passed away in Inglewood at the age of 60.
Reverend Fr. Michael Thomas McCaul, appointed as the first Parish Priest on January 29, 1948, played a pivotal role in shaping our community. Born in Fremantle on October 15, 1912, and ordained at St. Mary's Cathedral Perth on December 11, 1938, Fr. McCaul's journey included serving as an RAAF Chaplain during World War II.
Fr. Thomas Morris celebrated the very first Mass in the hall of the Road Board right here in West Guildford. It was he who identified the need of a church when the number of parishioners was growing. He acquired four blocks of land between Hamilton and James Streets.
Our very first church rose from the ground, thanks to Fr. Thomas Morris.
St Joseph’s Church, Bassendean
20 Hamilton Street, Bassendean WA 6054
PO Box 9 Bassendean WA 6934
Office Tel: 9379 2691, Presbytery Tel: 9279 1549
Parish Email: bassendean@perthcatholic.org.au
Parish Priest email: pp.bassendean@perthcatholic.org.au
Parish Priest: Fr Anthony Suresh
Secretary: Catherine Gordon (Tue-Fri 9:00 am - 12:30 pm)
Perpetual Adoration C0ordinator: Tine Russo
Liturgy Coordinator: Michael Knubley
Safeguarding Officers: Laura Roberts & Nicola Gallagher