Following Footsteps, Bringing Hope
Earlier this month, our outback ministry agency Frontier Services commissioned Pastor Kirsty Burgu as its newest Bush Chaplain to stand with those living in the remote West Kimberley region of Western Australia
September 24, 2025
In the West Kimberley, where ancient and biologically rich landscapes stretch wide beneath an endless sky, a new chapter of hope has begun. Pastor Kirsty Burgu, a proud Ngarinyin Worrorra woman, has stepped into her calling as Frontier Services’ newest Bush Chaplain – a role rich with purpose, history and heart.
Kirsty’s journey to this moment is not a sudden one. It is the natural continuation of a life deeply woven into the fabric of community, culture and faith. Born in Derby and raised in the nearby community of Mowanjum in Western Australia, Kirsty has always lived close to the land and close to her people. She has been a constant presence of support, love and leadership – long before any title was given to her.
Her story is one of both legacy and new beginnings. “This is a real big opportunity for me,” Kirsty shared with quiet determination. “My dad used to go out and do Frontier Services. Now I get to follow in his footsteps and help not only my immediate family but my extended family, my community and beyond.”
For years, Kirsty has served as a Pastor in Mowanjum, walking alongside her people in joy and in sorrow, in celebration and in struggle. She is no stranger to God’s calling to ministry. Trained at Nungalinya College and deeply assured in her Christian faith, Kirsty’s leadership has been shaped by wisdom handed down through generations, and by a Spirit that moves through the Scriptures and Country.
“… Kirsty brings more than just a comforting word. She brings presence. She brings strength. And most importantly, she brings the hope of Jesus.”
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This new role as Bush Chaplain with Frontier Services expands her ministry to the vast and remote reaches of the West Kimberley – a place where isolation and distance often come hand in hand with hardship. Yet Kirsty brings more than just a comforting word. She brings presence. She brings strength. And most importantly, she brings the hope of Jesus.
Her Commissioning Service, held at Mowanjum Uniting Church earlier this month, was a wonderful celebration of faith and community as family, friends, Elders and Church leaders from around the country gathered. Kirsty shared a Bible reading in her mother language then led worship in both English and her local language, blending the ancient traditions of her heritage with the gospel message she carries so faithfully.
The sermon from UAICC Interim Co-Chair Rev Ken Sumner on John 1 reminded everyone of the light that shines in the darkness – the presence of God in both Spirit and Country. That same light shines through Kirsty’s work, as she sets out to bring comfort and connection further afar.
We give thanks for Pastor Kirsty Burgu and celebrate her new appointment. As she travels along the dusty roads of the vast Kimberley region, may we uphold her in prayer. May she be continually guided by God’s Spirit, sharing the healing, hope and love of Jesus with those she encounters.
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