Please contact the Archivist, ISMAPNG Archives and Heritage – Sydney.
Postal Address: PO Box 284 Petersham, NSW 2049
Email: ismapngarchives@ismapng.org.au
Website: https://institute.mercy.org.au/about-us/archives-and-heritage/
NOTE: According to the ISMAPNG website, the Archives are currently closed to the public, with the exception of requests of medical or care leaver records. Their website states: “No external research requests or inquiries will be processed except those received from individuals requesting copies of their medical or care leaver records. Please be aware that a response may take some time.” The ISMAPNG Archives have confirmed they can process direct care leaver requests however cannot respond to any family history requests. The website notes they will reopen on 1 October 2025.
Quote this number to access your records: ISMAPNG Archives Series Number, Series 013
This series of records was created by St Joseph’s Orphanage, Bathurst (Girls’ Home). The series is made up of two volumes, arranged alphabetically by surname, containing originals and photocopies of approximately three hundred and twenty assorted Certificates of Birth, Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation of former residents of the orphanage. The Certificates are managed by the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea (ISMAPNG).
Application for access must be made, in writing, to the Archivist, providing personal identification documents to establish the right to access information. Physical access to the records is not permitted due to their fragility and the need to protect the confidentiality of information concerning other persons. Information will be forwarded by mail.
The dates on the records in this Series are for the years 1914 to 1970 inclusive. The records contain information including: Name, Parents’ names and address, Date and Place of Birth, Date and Place of Baptism/First Holy Communion/ Confirmation, By Whom, Name(s) of Sponsor(s).