Rev. Tony Schumack

Presbytery Representative, Transition Commission

Rev Tony Shumack brings extensive experience across multiple ministries, presbyteries, and sectors to his role with the Transition Commission. Having served in youth ministry and ordained ministry since 1984, he has ministered in three states and seven presbyteries, including Glen Innes, Warwick, and the RAAF Chaplaincy, where he held part-time and full-time appointments over more than a decade.

Tony’s leadership roles include Chair of the NENW Presbytery (2023–24), service on several Pastoral Relations Committees across Queensland, NSW and Tasmania, and membership of the Council of Synod (2003–06) and ACOMP (2023–25).

Tony has been closely involved in the development of the Presbytery Project and brings a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the Church. His long ministry across congregational, presbytery, synod, chaplaincy, and youth contexts positions him to offer practical insight and a clear vision for the formation of the new presbyteries.

Tony lives in Glen Innes with his wife, Rev Michele Shumack, where they run Granite Ridge Retreats. His grounding in rural ministry and community life further informs his perspective on the future shape of the Uniting Church.