This episode captures the spirit of Whitefriars College—from the heartfelt Year 12 Celebration Day to the creativity of the VCE Arts Expo, the joy of welcoming future students, and the pride of reconnecting with alumni. Tune in for a moving reflection on milestones, gratitude, and the power of community.

On this Whitefriars Day edition, five Old Collegians reflect on how their Timor-Leste immersion shifted their focus from self to service. Mitchell Guest (Class of 2019), Thomas Mecuri (Class of 2016), Luke Murphy (Class of 2014), Hugh Parrot (Class of 2019) and Alex Vander (Class of 2019) share how the generosity of the Timorese people - giving more than their share - continues to inspire them to live out the Whitefriars values of belonging, belief and becoming. In conversation with Principal Mark Murphy, they revisit lessons of humility, community and helping others that still guide their lives today.

PIVOT POINT – EPISODE 1 In our very first episode, Deputy Principal of Learning and Teaching, Carmel Delzoppo, sits down with three of our Year 12 Academic SRC members to explore subject choices, pathways and life beyond Whitefriars. From discovering subjects they love, to backing their strengths and resisting outside pressure, the students share honest reflections on their journey through school and what excites them about the future. Tune in to hear their favourite parts of College life, the decisions shaping their next steps and advice for younger students: do what you enjoy, try your best and make it your own path.

In this episode, Principal Mark Murphy reflects on the power of confidence and how it can be nurtured through hard work, individuality and the support of others. He shares inspiring stories from the Whitefriars Vocal Music Soiree and a Year 9 employability skills day, highlighting moments where students thrived with encouragement and mentorship. Mark also celebrates the dedication of the Shortis Library team in fostering a love of reading during Book Week, showing how community and care help students grow.

In this episode, Mark explores the quiet yet powerful role of family in the formation of young men at Whitefriars College. Through three recent moments - subject selection evenings, the Kairos parent night, and the success of a student in an Italian poetry competition — we reflect on how presence, encouragement and culture shape a boy’s journey. It’s a tribute to the consistent, loving efforts of parents raising teenage boys.

LEADERSHIP In our last podcast for the semester, Mark Murphy speaks of leadership. At Whitefriars, leadership goes beyond titles and authority—it’s about service, authenticity, and heart, rooted deeply in our Carmelite values. Inspired by the words of St. Albert, we believe true leadership is found in humility and the willingness to serve others. Every day, our students demonstrate this through acts of compassion, initiative, and community spirit, whether in formal roles or quiet moments of support. At Whitefriars, leadership is everyone’s vocation, and it shines brightest when it comes from within.

PILGRIMS OF HOPE: A JOURNEY TOWARD A BRIGHTER FUTURE Join Mark as he explores the 2025 Jubilee theme from Pope Francis, Pilgrims of Hope, and St Paul’s message that hope is born through struggle and faith. Hear simple, powerful stories from the Whitefriars community—of boys, teachers and parents showing love through everyday acts. Together, we walk a gentle path toward a future filled with hope.

In this episode, Mark reflects on the everyday growth we witness in our young men at Whitefriars College—through their compassion, leadership and quiet acts of service. From hosting student leaders across Melbourne to showing unity on the cross-country track and grace at the Year 12 Formal, our boys continually rise to the occasion. Mark also celebrates the creativity and collaboration showcased at the recent VCE Music Evening. Tune in to hear how our students are becoming men of integrity, empathy and strength, guided by the values we uphold as a school community.

In this episode of the Leadership Lounge, Laurissa Parastatidis chats with Old Collegian Ben Duffy, who is embarking on an extraordinary journey — running 52 marathons in 52 weeks in support of the Pat Cronin Foundation. Ben shares the story behind this mission and the strong sense of purpose that drives him, offering powerful reflections on resilience, the importance of mateship, caring for others, and positive masculinity. His words are a timely reminder for Whitefriars students that true leadership is grounded in service, compassion and looking out for one another. Link to Ben’s socials if you would like to find out more. Instagram: @_52in52 Go fund me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/52-marathons-in-52-weeks-for-the-pat-cronin-foundation Supporting the Pat Cronin Foundation - https://patcroninfoundation.org.au/

This week I share moments that capture the heart of Whitefriars – from Star Wars trivia in the library to powerful Kairos reflections to a standout VCE Theatre performance. Whitefriars is a place where boys are free to have a go, connect and grow without judgement. Listen now to hear more. #FriarsFocus #WFCLearning #podcast #Friarscast

In this episode of In Fide, Principal Mark Murphy reflects on a term marked by grief, remembrance and the power of community. From the passing of Pope Francis to the anniversaries of Jed Beaton and Damian Tavella and the solemnity of ANZAC Day, we explore how faith and togetherness help us navigate loss and find hope.

Friars Focus: A Year of Faith and Connection As Whitefriars College steps into 2025, Principal Mark Murphy invites us to embrace the theme of Faith. This year, we unite as educators and mentors, strengthening a community built on hope and connection. Through our shared commitment to faith, excellence, gentleness, respect and justice, we support our students in becoming their best selves. Let’s make 2025 a year of purpose and impact for all.

Tom Petrowski, 2024 College Captain joins Cath Spurritt on the Leadership Lounge for a discussion about respectful relationships with women and his passion for creating spaces for learning, dialogue and reflection for his peers. Whitefriars exists to shape gentle men, who have strength of conviction and empathy in their hearts and Tom reminds us of the role that the men of this community in creating spaces of safety and support that amplify the voices of women in our College community.

In December 2024, Tom Petrowski, 2024 College Captain, joined Cath Spurritt on the Leadership Lounge to talk about leading from a place of love. Tom was a student leader who loves our school, and this was a common thread through all of his work with the community last year. In this episode, Tom shares with us his journey to College Captain and his desire to live his values and make a powerful contribution to the community through service to others.

Matt King – From struggle to triumph In this episode of the Leadership Lounge, recorded in December last year, Cath Spurritt interviews Matt King, Class of 2024. School hadn’t always been easy for Matt. But with a clear goal, the right team around him and a fair dose of trust, Matt King has become an absolute success story. Matt was the recipient of the 2024 Applied Learning Excellence Award and is a powerful reminder of the importance of the personalisation of learning programs that occurs here at Whitefriars College.

A New Chapter at Whitefriars As we kick off another exciting academic year, join us for a special episode created by our College Captains for 2025! These inspiring young leaders share their journey to leadership, their vision for the year ahead and what Whitefriars means to them. Let’s start the year with purpose, pride and passion. Tune in now!

KICKING GOALS : JAMES BLANCK, PATRICK LIPINSKI AND ANDREW OTTEN In this episode, we celebrate the achievements of Whitefriars College alumni who have made their mark on the field. From James Blanck (2018, Trinity House, Hawthorn Football Club), Patrick Lipinski (2016, Corsini House, Collingwood Football Club) and Andrew Ottens (2007, Mantua, Adelaide Crows Football Club). Join us as we reflect on their time at Whitefriars, the houses that shaped their values and how they’ve carried the spirit of the College into their careers and beyond.

SUMMER SPOTLIGHT FROM AVILA TO AUSTRALIAN IDOL : JOSH HANNAN Meet Josh Hannan, a proud Avila House alumnus and 2020 graduate, whose incredible talent took him to third place on Australian Idol. Josh reflects on his unforgettable journey from our College to stardom, and how his time at Whitefriars shaped his character, artistry and passion for music. In this special summer podcast, we ask what’s next for this rising star as he begins his promising career. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of our own!

Celebrating Excellence – Whitefriars Annual Celebration Evening In this episode, Mark reflects on the inspiring moments of the Whitefriars College Annual Celebration Evening, held at Monash University’s Robert Blackwood Hall. Mark shares the highlights of the night, celebrating the achievements, courage and spirit of the students who embody the school’s values of Faith, Gentleness, Excellence, Justice and Respect. Mark delves into the true meaning of excellence—not as perfection, but as courage, resilience and a commitment to lifting others up. He also acknowledges the vital contributions of parents, staff and the broader school community in shaping the identity of Whitefriars College. Join us to relive this uplifting evening and explore how excellence, rooted in Carmelite values, transforms lives.

Podcast Episode: Life Beyond Exams – Lessons from Whitefriars College Join Mark Murphy, as he reflects on the true purpose of VCE exams. More than just a test of knowledge, they embody lessons of resilience, self-belief and the wisdom gained from both triumphs and challenges. Mark shares insights on how parents can support their children during this time, not by mastering equations but by offering guidance, encouragement and understanding. Drawing inspiration from St. Paul, this episode reminds us that every experience prepares us for what lies ahead. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of education, character and lifelong learning.