Commenting on the nomination, Bishop Bill Wright said:
“I think it is a very fine appointment, and I am sure you join with me in congratulating Brian, first on the confidence of the Australian church that his years of ministry have gained for him and, secondly, on his willingness to trust in the providence of God by responding positively to this further calling.
“We offer him our prayers of support and wish him every blessing.
“Of course, I am not so much gaining a colleague on the episcopal bench as losing a Vicar General. Brian has been of great assistance to me and has given great and generous service to the diocese. He will be missed.
“His ministry here, too, beyond being VG, has touched and continues to touch so many people.
“Over the years in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, he has built up and maintained so many friendships and pastoral connections that it seems like the whole place is family to him. That capacity for friendship and connection with people of all sorts will now be a gift to the people, religious and clergy of Wollongong.
“Brian and I haven't yet decided just when he will finish up here. He now has three months within which to arrange his ordination and, in the meantime, I trust he will take a good break as well as arranging his retreat and other matters.
“All of us can take some pride in one of our own being called to so important a ministry in the wider church.
“Ad multos annos, Brian.”
For more information, see the official media release here.