Two Bishops Trust

The Two Bishops Trust is an exciting and historic venture initiated by the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, and their respective welfare agencies.

Established in October 1998, the Trust aims to inspire and unite the whole community to find workable, just and creative solutions to unemployment in the Hunter region of NSW.

The Trust believes that every person is entitled to a life of dignity. By working collaboratively with other like-minded organisations and individuals, the Trust aims to relieve the distress of unemployed people and low fixed income earners by helping them to help themselves.

The Trustees include the Most Reverend Michael Malone (Catholic Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle) and the Reverend Dr Brian Farran, The Anglican Bishop of Newcastle. A Management Board representing various sectors of the community assists the Trustees. Project management agencies are contracted to deliver innovative employment projects in the Hunter region.

Cessnock Community Skill Shed Project

The Cessnock Community Skill Shed Project is an outcome of the Two Bishops Trust and the Cessnock Community Renewal Scheme, an initiative of the NSW Premiers Department. The Skills Shed is a community-based facility to provide opportunities for mature aged people to mentor youth unemployed in a range of skills through the activities of the Skills Shed. The Shed may be involved in labour market training programs and could include; restoration, repairs, recycling, light fabrication, cleaning etc.