Celebrating Sister Faye Kelly: A Life of Mercy, Leadership, and Quiet Courage
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of Sister Faye Kelly, a woman whose life of service, leadership, and compassion has shaped communities across Far North Queensland for more than five decades. Recently named Cairns Woman of the Year at the International Woman’s Day celebration with Cairns Central and Cairns Regional Council, Sister Faye’s story is one of gentle influence, deep community connection, and an unwavering commitment to helping others flourish.
Born in Mareeba, Sister Faye grew up surrounded by examples of everyday service. Her mother was a Maternal and Child Welfare Clinic sister, while her father served as the president of the Mareeba and Tablelands Bowls Club – roles that, though not high-profile, grounded her family in community life.
Educated first by the Sisters of Mercy at St Thomas’ School and later at Mareeba State High School, she absorbed the values that would guide her vocation. “Along the way, things just influence you,” she reflects. “I always had a disposition toward wanting to be involved with people.”
By her senior year, she was already drawn to service-oriented groups like Young Christian Students. In June 1972, she joined the Cairns Sisters of Mercy, entering the Novitiate in Earlville, now the Seville Mercy Centre, and beginning a lifelong journey inspired by the story of Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the Mercy Order. Equally inspiring were the early Sisters who came from Dungarvan in Ireland to Cooktown; women whose courage, resourcefulness, and dedication to women and children continues to inspire her.
Serving Communities and Shaping Schools
From Ravenshoe, Babinda, Mossman and St Joseph’s Parramatta Park, Sister Faye’s ministry took her into diverse communities, each leaving a mark on her and benefiting from her leadership. Many of the leaders she worked with were women; strong, pioneering educators breaking new ground for the children in their care.
What she is most proud of are the moments where shared dreams became reality. At St Joseph’s for example, she worked closely with teachers to reorganise class structures to better meet the needs of students. “The most fulfilling times were when we had an idea, shared it, and found a way to express it together,” she recalls. “Each teacher was able to respond as their best self.” At St Rita’s, the students so came to believe in themselves and their gifts that they collected the trophies at the Interschool Sports Carnival! For Sister Faye, leadership has always been about trust, collaboration, and believing in others before they believe in themselves.
Leadership Through Inclusion
While she recalls few direct challenges as a woman in leadership, she recognises the importance of creating space for women’s voices, especially in environments where the default might lean toward male leadership.
She worked alongside many men, including bishops and parish priests, always ensuring her communication was grounded and respectful. “It’s about making sure no one is excluded,” she says. “And finding ways to ensure girls and women are part of the picture.”
Her influence has extended across synods, safeguarding committees, aged care, schools, and parish life; quietly shaping decisions, protecting the vulnerable, and fostering community with her trademark warmth.
And through all of this – she speaks of the “joy of receiving smiles” the daily exchanges that remind her of the humanity at the heart of service.
Wisdom for Young Women
When asked what advice she offers the next generation of women, Sister Faye returns to the power of vision: “Good leaders have a dream. They imagine something and give others the chance to engage with it in their own way, with their own gifts.”
Leadership, she says, is not about standing at the front. It’s about lifting others up, celebrating their achievements, and finding joy when they fulfil their own dreams. The best leaders don’t force their way, they invite others to walk with them.
Finding Joy, Even in Challenges
For Sister Faye, joy comes from the harmony of her Mercy life, her family, and the many experiences that have shaped her. Importantly, she sees challenges not as barriers but as “detour signs.”
“A challenge is never a full stop,” she explains. “It calls you to think bigger. You manage the struggle, so it doesn’t manage you.”
Her days of rest and reflection are essential, helping her maintain balance while walking with others through their own struggles – never with all the answers, but always with compassion.
A Life That Inspires
As we honour Sister Faye this International Women’s Day, we celebrate a woman who has spent her life empowering others, nurturing communities, and quietly transforming lives with humility and heart.
Her leadership is not loud.
Her impact is not boastful.
But her legacy rooted in mercy, service, and hope will continue to shape our region for generations.
Congratulations to Sister Faye Kelly – Cairns Woman of the Year, and a woman of extraordinary grace.
