John and Noreen O’Loughlin welcomed me into the world on 4^th August 1940. My parents, brothers (John and Michael) and sisters (Mary and Anne) were long time residents of West Hobart, and members of the Cathedral Parish where I was an altar server and influenced by the example of Fr. Rex Donohue.

My first years of education were at St. Joseph’s School on the corner of Mole and Macquarie Streets, followed by 10 years at St Virgil’s College, Barrack Street.  My priestly formation at Corpus Christi Colleges at Werribee and Glen Waverly prepared me for ordination at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Hobart, on 22^nd July 1966.

I have served the Church of Tasmania in five parishes - Launceston (the Church of the Apostles) , New Norfolk, Bridgewater – Brighton, Kingston and currently at Bellerive – Lindisfarne. In addition there have been many cameo roles and responsibilities on a variety of committees etc.

While I enjoy most aspects of my priestly ministry, I would give some priority to sacramental preparation and school involvement.

On the less holy side, every kid and all parishioners know I am a loyal Essendon supporter and also a serious member of the ABC club – anyone but Collingwood!!  I have been known to dabble in carpentry and building, fishin’ and huntin’, and I enjoy a good joke.