The Anglican Dioceses of Bendigo and Melbourne acknowledge the recent media attention regarding a Facebook post made by Uncle Glenn Loughrey, Archdeacon for Reconciliation, First Peoples Recognition and Treaty in the two Dioceses, on 26 February 2025, which was deleted the same day.
Archdeacon Loughrey has issued an unreserved apology for the post, recognising it was written in a moment of deep frustration and acknowledging that it did not constructively advance the cause of reconciliation to which he has dedicated many years of his life and ministry.
The Dioceses understand that the post was made in response to the Prime Minister’s statement of ‘having had a crack at’ the lost Referendum on the Voice to Parliament—a remark that appeared to minimise its significance. This comment triggered deep frustration in the context of ongoing trauma experienced by many First Nations peoples following the referendum outcome and subsequent policy decisions affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
As a Church committed to reconciliation, we acknowledge the pain felt by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We recognise that words matter, and constructive dialogue remains essential for genuine reconciliation.
The Dioceses of Bendigo and Melbourne remain committed to the principles of truth-telling, justice, and reconciliation as outlined in the Statement from the Heart. We continue to support respectful and meaningful engagement between First Nations and non-Indigenous Australians.
Archdeacon Uncle Glenn Loughrey continues in his role as Provincial Archdeacon for Reconciliation, First Peoples Recognition and Treaty, and his extensive experience and knowledge make an important contribution to our reconciliation efforts.
Quotes attributable to The Rt Revd Matt Brain, Anglican Bishop of Bendigo:
‘Reconciliation requires both truth and grace. As we continue to grapple with our nation’s history and its ongoing impacts, we have to approach one another with compassion and a willingness to listen, even when conversations become challenging. The Anglican Church acknowledges the deep hurt that continues to be felt, and we remain committed to being part of healing rather than further division’.
‘The road to reconciliation is never straightforward. It involves difficult conversations, acknowledging painful truths, and sometimes navigating strongly felt emotions. While we may not always agree with the expression of those emotions, we have to create space to hear and try to understand the lived experiences of First Nations peoples. We remain fully commited to walking alongside Uncle Glenn and all First Nations peoples on the journey toward justice and healing’.
Contact: Sarah Crutch, Executive Assistant to the Bishop of Bendigo, T. 03 5443 4711, M. 0429 263 888, E. [email protected].