Saturday 8th November 2025
And so it came to pass that the Sisters gathered at the Oxford Hotel, raising their glasses in holy anticipation before embarking on a pilgrimage to witness the re-unveiling of Joy.
For a brief and glorious spell in the 1990s, eighteen months of light and laughter, a statue of a woman stood proudly at the corner of Stanley and Yurong Streets in Darlinghurst. Skirt short, cigarette poised, she gazed upon the faithful and the foolish alike. Her name was Joy, crafted by Loui Fraser as an ode to womanhood and the rich, complicated history of East Sydney. She was, indeed, the world’s first public statue of a sex worker, bold, beautiful, and unapologetic.
Like the Sisters themselves, Joy’s presence stirred a mixed chalice of reactions: admiration, devotion, controversy, and delight.
Though she was relocated to Macquarie University in 2000, her spirit could not be contained. Now, in her original place, a tribute replica stands once more, reminding all who pass that the oldest profession has its saints too.
Loui Fraser delivered an emotional speech that swept through the crowd like incense through a chapel, lifting hearts and misting eyes. Our own Saint Julia, Keeper of the Red Thread, graced the gathering, radiant and adored. The Sisters, in a flurry of reverence and affection, kissed her hands, laid flowers at her feet, and showered her with gratitude for her tireless work championing sex workers’ rights, truly a woman expiating stigma and spreading joy everlasting.
The gathered faithful were beside themselves with delight, greeting the Sisters with smiles, curiosity, and heartfelt thanks. Many indulgences were granted, and many conversations, both holy and hilarious, were shared.
The Sisters and Brothers adorned themselves with a splash of red upon their habits, a loving nod to the red door where the original Joy once stood, and to Saint Julia herself, Keeper of that sacred thread.
After the unveiling, the congregation retired to a nearby pub for further libations, laughter, and communion with their beloved community.
And lo, the day was truly blessed. Joy returned, and joy was shared.
Welcome home Joy
Click on an image to open in slideshow!
Watch a short video of the unveiling
The Sisters would like to thank postulant Jordan for making this video clip available.
Sisters Present: Sister Rowena Keeper of the Holy Doyley, Sister Eileen Dover of The Double Cross, Sister Ophelia Ring,
Novice Sister Carmen Cider, Sister Beefcake TenderLoins Mistress of Media Mischief! and Postulant Jordan
Thanks to Postulant Jordan for the photos
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