Bishop Michael McKenna has announced the appointment of Vicars Forane to three regional areas of the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst, a step that will enhance local pastoral support and strengthen collaboration among the clergy and parishes.

Effective 1st July 2025, these priests will have responsibilities for the parishes and clergy in their respective regions: as mentors, as facilitators of local cooperation; and advisors to the Bishop. All clergy, of course, will continue to have immediate access to Bishop McKenna whenever they wish.

The appointments are as follows:

• Eastern Region: Very Rev Paul Devitt VG VF
  Parishes: Mudgee, Gulgong, Kandos–Rylstone, Coonabarabran, Dunedoo, Portland and Lithgow.
• Western Region: Very Rev Gregory Kennedy EV VF
  Parishes: Dubbo, Wellington, Gilgandra and Coonamble.
• Southern Region: Very Rev Gregory Bellamy EV VF
  Parishes: Orange, Molong, Cowra, Blayney and Oberon.