2001

Rev'd Tim Costello's name has become a byword for social justice and community service.

Tim Costello left Carey in 1972, then graduated in Law at Monash University and practised as a solicitor in family and criminal law.

In 1981 Tim and his wife, Merridie, travelled to Switzerland to study Theology, returning to Australia in 1984. In 1987 Tim was ordained a Baptist Minister. Tim rebuilt the congregation at the St Kilda Baptist Church, opened a drop-in centre and worked in a legal practice for those for whom the law is normally inaccessible. As elected Mayor of St Kilda Council in 1993, he became well known for championing local democracy.

In 1995 he was appointed Director of the Urban Mission Unit of the Collins Street Baptist Church, now known as Urban Seed, which provides assistance to the underprivileged. He has been designated one of Australia's 100 National Living Treasures.

Tim's speaking engagements take him all over Australia. He is spokesperson for the Inter-Church Gambling Taskforce, a member of the Australian Earth Charter Committee, a Council member of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture and a former Ambassador for the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation. He was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1998.

He speaks passionately and articulately about issues such as gambling and bioethics, and draws attention to injustice in society. He has written three books: 'Streets of Hope', 'Finding God in St Kilda' and 'Tips from a Travelling Soul Searcher'.

Carey was proud to present him with the 2001 Carey Medal in recognition of his achievements and efforts.