Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association moca@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Alumni Manager
Peter Banfield pbanfield@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Front cover image: Xavier (Year 10) takes the stage as The Beast in the 2026 Avila-Mazenod Musical.
The new modular Junior Science Laboratory is craned
From the Principal & Rector
As we reach the midpoint of the year, I find myself reflecting not simply on the many events that have filled our calendar, but on the people and relationships that give those moments their meaning. Schools are busy places, and Mazenod is no exception, yet beneath every activity lies our shared commitment to forming young men of faith, courage and service. Welcome to the 6th Edition of The Provence.
Our Lenten journey and Mission Action Day reminded us that our Oblate identity calls us beyond ourselves. The generosity shown by students, families and staff reflected a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others, reinforcing that service is not simply something we do but an expression of who we are.
Throughout the semester, our students have excelled across a wide range of pursuits. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, in music, debating, the arts or through leadership opportunities, they have represented the College with distinction. We also celebrated individual successes, including recognition in religious art, outstanding sporting achievements and the continued growth of our co-curricular programs, reflecting the breadth of talent within our community.
Our annual Business Breakfast brought together alumni, parents and industry leaders, highlighting the strength of the Mazenod network and the enduring connections that support our young men beyond the College gates. We also welcomed many prospective families through Experience Days and College Tours, providing them with a glimpse of the inclusive and aspirational culture that makes Mazenod such a special place.
National Reconciliation Week invited us to reflect on our shared responsibility to walk together with First Nations peoples, while the Feast of St Eugene de Mazenod reminded us of our enduring mission to “Leave Nothing Undared for the Kingdom of God.” As we look ahead to the second half of the year, there is much to anticipate, including our College musical, continued academic endeavour and many opportunities for students to grow in character, faith and service.
I extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated staff, our supportive families and, most importantly, our students. It is through your daily commitment to one another that the spirit of Mazenod continues to flourish. I look forward with confidence and hope to all that awaits us in the months ahead.
Dr Paul Shannon, Principal
As members of our Mazenod College Community I am sure you will read this edition of ‘The Provence’ with great interest as you gain a deeper insight into the varied activities, achievements and people who contribute to the richness of our Mazenod Community.
I know you will be familiar with the Mazenod College motto: Nihil Linquendum Inausum, which translates from Latin to English as “Leave Nothing Undared for the Kingdom of God”. This not only reflects the founding charism of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate but is a call to all connected with our college community to live with a missionary zeal.
This may seem a rather tough ask amid the struggles in our current social climate, areas of worldly conflict, and general uncertainty.
However, with the willingness and trust in God to act positively to ‘leave nothing undared’ we are already creating a powerful shift. Change is already at hand. This shift may not be immediate in the circumstances we are encountering, but more importantly, we will be changing ourselves, our mindset. Like St Eugene de Mazenod, when we allow the presence of God to be active in our lives change will occur in our responses, our words, our actions and our seeing which will change the circumstances around us moving from discouragement to hope. This empowerment is reflected in our Mazenod Community as you will read in this magazine, through our practical commitment to the Rosies Oblate Street Outreach, Vinnies Winter Appeal, Panthers All Abilities, Mission Action Day, Old Collegians to name a few.
In the end we can only cooperate with God as the eventual outcomes will belong to him alone.
Let us continue to make our motto a living reality because when we ‘dare’, we explore what is humanly possible to assist our neighbour with their many faces. God will guide our steps both individually and as a Mazenod Community, empowering us to move forward allowing the Kingdom of God’s presence to become a reality in our midst, even where trouble still exists.
Fr Harry Dyer OMI, Rector
Jaydan Wins Archbishop of Melbourne Award for Religious Art
Congratulations to Jaydan (Year 11), who has been named the Secondary winner of the Archbishop of Melbourne Award for Religious Art at the 2026 MACS Creative Arts Exhibition.
Jaydan received the award for his graphite illustration, Jesus’ Crown, which was recognised for its thoughtful response to the spiritual theme and strong technical execution. His work was displayed as part of the exhibition’s religious art section, which held a central place in the main hall at the Catholic Leadership Centre in East Melbourne.
The MACS Creative Arts Exhibition brought together more than 500 student artworks from Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Melbourne. Held during Catholic Education Week, the exhibition celebrated student creativity across a wide range of forms, including religious art, textiles, photography, sculpture and multimedia.
This year’s Catholic Education Week theme, Christ beside me: walking in the footsteps of St Patrick, provided inspiration for many of the works on display. The exhibition invited students to express their faith, share their stories and explore the beauty of the world around them through visual art.
Jaydan accepted his award from Dr Edward Simons, Executive Director of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, at a ceremony celebrating the Creative Arts during Catholic Education Week.
This is a wonderful achievement for Jaydan and a proud moment for the Mazenod community. His success reflects not only his artistic skill, but also his ability to engage deeply with faith through his work.
Mission Action Day Celebrates 46 Years of Service
On Thursday 2 April, the Mazenod College community came together for Mission Action Day, one of the most important events on the College calendar. The day began with an Easter liturgy, giving students and staff time to reflect on the meaning of service, sacrifice and hope. From there, the community took part in the traditional walkathon before returning to the College for an afternoon of food, activities and fundraising.
This year’s Mission Action Day marked 46 years of Mazenod’s commitment to social justice. The event began
in 1980 as Jog for Java, when a small group of students set out to raise awareness and funds for communities supported by the Oblate Missions in Central Java. In 1996, the event became known as Mission Action Day, giving the whole College community a shared opportunity to stand in solidarity with vulnerable communities around the world.
Today, Mission Action Day continues to support the Missionary Association of Mary Immaculate (MAMI), assisting Oblate missionaries and the people they serve throughout the Asia region and here in Australia.
The spirit of the day reflected the words of St Eugene de Mazenod: “Among yourselves charity, charity, charity; and outside, zeal for souls.” Across the College, students, staff, families and supporters gave generously, showing once again the strength of the Mazenod community when it comes together for a common purpose.
Together, $38,076.04 was raised on the day, contributing to a total of almost $55,000. This generosity will make a meaningful difference to the work of the Oblates and the communities they support.
We thank our students, staff, families, local businesses and wider community for their generous monetary and goods donations. Your support helped make this year’s Mission Action Day another strong expression of faith in action.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the following businesses and organisations for their generous support: Atturra, Pauly’s Cannoli, BD Vending, Attilio’s Fruit Market, The Last Piece, Puffing Billy Railway, Wetlands Adventure Mini Golf, Chesterfield Farm and Melbourne United NBL
Mazenod and Avila Bring Beauty and the Beast to Life
Mazenod College and Avila College continued their proud musical partnership in 2026 with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, staged at The Alexander Theatre, Monash University, from 15 to 18 July.
The much-loved Broadway musical brought students from both Colleges together to share a story of courage, compassion, growth and transformation. From the first announcement, there was strong excitement across both school communities, with students, staff and families looking forward to seeing one of musical theatre’s most recognisable stories brought to the stage.
Led by Director and Producer Ms Felicity Kamevaar, Musical Director Mr Peter Nguyen and Producer Mr Douglas Leutchford, the production was the result of months of rehearsal, preparation and collaboration. Cast members worked hard to develop their singing, dancing and acting, while the orchestra, backstage crew, costume team and production staff helped create the world of Belle, the Beast and the enchanted castle.
“We never had to remind our performers to smile, as they genuinely enjoyed every moment of the process.”
The production featured dynamic choreography, detailed costumes, strong vocal performances and creative stage design. Many of the sets and props were created using recycled materials sourced from around the Colleges, reflecting the care and creativity that went into every part of the show.
See Xavier (the Beast) rehearse “If I Can’t Love her”, one of the musical’s most powerful moments
For the students involved, the musical was more than a performance. It was a chance to build confidence, develop new skills, form friendships and contribute to something larger than themselves.
“It has allowed us to meet new people and create new connections, or strengthen lasting ones, while doing what we love.” — Sebastian
The 2026 production continued a long history of collaboration between Mazenod and Avila. Since 1981, the two Colleges have worked together to stage major musicals, giving generations of students opportunities to perform, play, design, construct, lead and support largescale theatrical productions.
“Being in the musical is always an awesome experience and it has really helped me grow into the person I am today.” — Claire
Congratulations to all cast, crew, orchestra members, staff, families and volunteers involved in bringing Beauty and the Beast to life. From the first rehearsal to the final bow, it was a production shaped by commitment, creativity and community.
International Language Students visit Mazenod College from Italy and Japan
By Denis Passalent
Many former Mazenod students have participated in our Language Study Tours or Hosting programs over the past three decades. They built lifelong friendships and re-visited their host families. Memories remain with them forever thanks to the passion of former language teachers such as Mrs Kantor, Mrs Parisi, Mrs Cranston, Ms Xen, Ms Fawkner, Ms Twilley or Mr Fujii, who organised exchanges and accompanied so many students to Italy, Japan or China.
The lasting legacy of these former staff members remains evident today and our language students continue to benefit from these rich traditions, the generous dedication and the genuine commitment of their current Chinese, Japanese and Italian teachers, who go above and beyond expectations every year.
Throughout the two semesters, students celebrate the languages and cultures that they study with a variety of excursions and incursions, poetry competitions, Languages Week and International Study Tours. In addition to these rich opportunities, every two years, our Mazenod senior students have the possibility to host students from overseas, in their homes, for a short period of time. These inbound visits allow international students to experience Australian schooling and lifestyle, to connect with peers
from around the world, and to participate in the College life whilst sharing their own culture from their country of origin.
Within this context, from February 11 to 18 this year, eleven students from our partner Grammar school Liceo Francesco Vivona in rome (Italy) came to visit us in Melbourne along with two staff members and the principal of their school Mrs Laura Bruno.
It was the first time that we welcomed them to the College in person. Prior to their visit though, in 2023, 2024 and 2025, our respective senior language classes held regular online exchanges and improved their speaking and writing skills by interacting with each other, thanks to a variety of learning activities. Their visit also followed our Study Tour at the end of 2024, and it was special to see how friendships built miles away were eventually renewed here, down under, after a year of geographical separation.
The Italian students from Rome were girls and boys aged between 14 and 16. Coming from a co-ed state school with no uniform, they had the privilege of being immersed in a completely different school life at Mazenod. They attended classes with their peers during the day, and they engaged in some extracurricular activities such as a City Day to explore
Melbourne and its main landmarks. Blessed by a wonderful sunny week, students showed gratitude for this new fresh exchange and encouraged us to provide this experience again in 2028 and beyond.
On another note, we celebrate our cherished, quartercentury partnership with daisho Gakuen high School in Osaka (Japan). We look forward to hosting sixteen students, two teachers and their Principal Mr Hiroichi Yamagami from July 20 to August 1. This occasion will mark the silver anniversary of our exchange program. We look forward to opening our homes and the College, as we nurture our valued friendship with our Japanese friends.
In addition to acknowledging the voluntary involvement of our language Staff in both these visits, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our twenty-seven Mazenod
Student Testimonials
• Liceo Vivona Visit (Rome, Italy) – February 2026
– thomas herchenroder (10 Coghlan)
Hosting an Italian peer was an amazing opportunity to embrace another culture in my very own household.
– Xavier Kelly (10 Mannix)
I improved my Italian speaking skills and learnt about the similarities and differences about my life compared to the Italian student’s life.
– Yugeeth Sumanasinghe (11 Coghlan)
I had the opportunity to help them experience Australian culture and daily life in Melbourne while immersing myself in the Italian language.
host families who hosted our international guests both from Italy and Japan this year. Their time, open hearts and care have contributed to both making our guests feel at home and integrating them in the rich Australian tapestry of unique diversity. Some of them will return the favour by hosting several of our Mazenod students later in 2026 and in 2027 during our respective Study Tours. On top of our two partnerships with Japan and Italy, we are also exploring avenues for a host program with a Chinese school.
To conclude, I honestly hope that this beautiful culture of hosting and being hosted will continue at the College, allowing more generations of Mazenod students to benefit from these language opportunities overseas and here at home. The benefits of these exchanges abundantly exceed all efforts and obstacles behind the scenes. The positive impact on students and on school life is truly immeasurable.
• Daisho Gakuen High School Visit (Osaka, Japan) – July 2026
– dilak ratnayaka (10 ryan)
I find hosting a student really exciting and believe it is a good opportunity to expand my understanding of a different culture.
– Pablo Oras (10 Lombard)
I am looking forward to making a new friend and opening doors to opportunities in the future.
– Carlson Mak (10 Lombard)
I’m definitely excited to make new friends with people from Japan and I think it will be a great experience hosting someone.
Interview with Fr Michael Twigg OMI
Former Rector of Mazenod College and Oblate Educator
When Fr Michael Twigg OMI returned to the Mulgrave campus for interview on Remembrance Day 2023, he brought with him the wider story of the Oblate schools, the movement of priests from one community to another, and a conviction that a school in the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod must always be judged by the way it helps people belong.
Watch full video here
Fr Michael is quick to identify himself first as a Queenslander. He was raised in Hemmant, a workingfamily suburb of Brisbane, where many families worked in factories, the meat industry, the cattle yards and related trades. His mother and father both worked in that world. “We love it, obviously, where we’re from,” he said of the place that shaped him.
His local Catholic school fed into Iona College, the Oblate school in Brisbane, and it was there that he first encountered the Oblates. “I met Oblates through that school, through their witness of life,” he said. His first rector was Fr Kevin Davine OMI, whom he met as an eight-year-old at his Iona interview, and his second was Fr John Sherman OMI.
Vocation, for him, was not a single dramatic moment. It was a call heard through community. “If people are open to the possibility that God’s calling them to something, then you hear that invitation in a few places,” he said. He heard it from teachers, friends, family, grandparents and the Oblates themselves. In 1987, Fr Sherman took a group of students to Victoria to visit the seminary. It was Fr Michael’s first physical connection with Mazenod. The following year, in 1988, he joined the Oblates as a 17-year-old.
The decision was young, but the commitment came through years of formation. Fr Michael studied for eight years, undertook pastoral work, spent a year in Indonesia, and was formed through daily life in community. Mazenod was part of that early formation too, through sport, youth group connections and teaching rounds. As a young seminarian teaching at Mazenod, he sometimes stood before students who were older than he was, “and I was the designated authority in the room”.
Community became one of the defining threads of his life. “If it isn’t in the DNA to be in a community and have a
common unity with others, then they’ll find other ways,” he said of the Oblate vocation. “God won’t be calling them to the Oblates if community is not part of it.”
After ordination, Fr Michael’s first appointment was to New Zealand, where he spent 18 months in parish ministry. It remains the only extended parish appointment of his priesthood. His first school appointment was to Mazenod College in Western Australia. At the end of 2001, he was moved again. In his “heart of hearts” he hoped for Brisbane, but instead, as he put it, he “flew over the top” and came to Melbourne.
Mazenod College, Victoria, became his formal ministry from 2002 until 2015. “For a Queenslander, there’s a lot of differences about Victorian culture that are worthy of respect and worthy of understanding,” he said. The students initially seemed older and more challenging than those he had known in Western Australia, but that changed as he came to know them.
In 2010, following Fr Pat Moroney OMI, Fr Michael became Rector of Mazenod College. He had already spent seven or eight years at the school, watching, learning and listening. That brought advantages, but also challenges. He tells one small story about authority. For years, he had wondered aloud why a walkway beside Oblate Hall had no roof. The week after he became Rector, he asked the same question again. “There was a roof on it the next week,” he recalled. “I went, oh, I’ve got to be careful with what I say, because it has more authority that people give to that when you get named a rector.”
Leadership brought a sharper awareness of responsibility. One early decision was to place the Head of Learning Support on the school leadership team, ensuring there was “a voice advocating for the most vulnerable in the
community”. That principle drew from his reading of the Oblate mission. He believed an Oblate school should not simply aim to be “the best school in the community”, but “one of the best schools for the community”.
Mazenod’s multicultural character made a deep impression on him. Coming from Queensland, he had never seen the same range of cultures in one school. In one Year 10 Religious Education class, he looked around and realised every student came from a different cultural background. “Mazenod Victoria for a Queenslander was the world,” he said. Greek, Italian, Macedonian, Vietnamese, Indian, Sri Lankan, Scottish, English, Aboriginal and many other stories found their place within the same local school.
For Fr Michael, that mattered because St Eugene de Mazenod insisted that Oblates remain close to the people they served. Mazenod’s strength was that it looked like the area to which it belonged. Families did not need a polished marketing campaign to tell them what the College stood for. “When you don’t have to recruit, and your own families are advocating for people to come to the school, that is a measure that families are feeling like their values are in sync with the College,” he said.
Fr Michael speaks with gratitude about the Oblates who shaped him. Fr Davine embodied passion and loyalty. Fr Sherman stood up for the poor, loved sport and wanted people involved. Fr Moroney championed music, academic rigour and those with disabilities. “You want to open as many doors as possible,” Fr Michael said of Fr Moroney’s leadership. “I think I’ve taken those things from each of them and tried to adapt it.”
Asked to reflect on his own time as Rector, Fr Michael is more inclined to speak of people than buildings. He is pleased that new doors opened through the Mazenod soccer club and the Mazenod volleyball club, building upon the existing strengths of cricket and Australian Rules football. He also speaks of the Steve Tynan memorial as an act of keeping an Old Collegian and murdered police officer present in the community’s memory.
One story holds many of his deepest beliefs in miniature. A Year 7 student, Ethan Devine, had a degenerative muscular condition and was moving towards life in a wheelchair. Ethan loved basketball, but playing in a regular able-bodied competition was not safe. When Fr Michael explained to a group of Year 7 boys that Ethan could still be involved as a scorer, photographer, assistant coach or coach, they were not satisfied. “No,” they told him, “we want him to be able to play.”
Fr Michael tried to explain the practical problem. “I can’t make him walk,” he told them. Their reply changed everything: “What if we all got in chairs?”
Suddenly, the boy with the least ability in an able-bodied basketball game became the one with the greatest knowledge. The students helped source wheelchairs, other
schools agreed, and the competition counted for points, not as a token gesture or exhibition. Ethan was told he would be playing, and that it was real. “He only said two words,” Fr Michael recalled. “He only said, ‘Thank you.’ But I suppose in all those words, it was so much.”
The story did not end with a dramatic buzzer-beater, and Fr Michael is glad not to pretend otherwise. The point was not victory. It was belonging, inclusion and the courage of students to imagine a better way. “Most of that was adults getting out of the way and them finding a way through,” he said. “It was all the values of inclusion, people mattering, overcoming obstacles.”
There was a larger Mazenod too. During Fr Michael’s time, the College pursued and secured the opportunity to become a host training venue during the AFC Asian Cup, welcoming the Jordanian national team. It placed Mazenod alongside councils, cities and universities with far greater resources. “I reckon we’ve got something that would be shared with the wider world,” he remembered thinking. The community learned Arabic greetings, rallied around the visitors, and saw that Mazenod was not simply “a little local school”, but a place with something to offer beyond itself.
For Fr Michael, those large and small stories were never separate from faith. They were ways into deeper conversations. “Even though I might not have said faith in Jesus all the time,” he said, “we were always underpinning that with, how do people get to have a meaningful relationship with Jesus?” A Jordanian soccer team and a wheelchair basketball game were not ends in themselves. They were catalysts.
Asked what Mazenod means to him, Fr Michael begins with the name itself. It carries the memory of St Eugene de Mazenod. It also carries the history of the Oblate schools and the many priests who moved between them. To him, Mazenod is ultimately “a place where people mattered enough and belonged, and everything’s done to try and ensure that’s the case”.
That belonging does not end at graduation, or even at death. Old Collegians who have died remain part of the community. They are remembered in Masses, assemblies, memorials and stories. “Death is often about farewell and goodbyes,” Fr Michael said, “but I think at Mazenod, they keep looking for ways not just to say goodbye to them, but how to say hello again to them.”
In that belief sits the essence of his Mazenod story: a Queenslander formed by Oblate community, called into priesthood, shaped by Iona, Mazenod WA and Mazenod Victoria, and convinced that the measure of a school is not only what it teaches, but whether its people know they belong.
“So from Mazenod,” he said, “it’s belonging right the way through to eternal life.”
National Reconciliation Week 2026 – All In
National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May to 3 June each year and invites all Australians to reflect on shared histories, cultures, and responsibilities. The 2026 theme, All In, reminds us that reconciliation calls for active listening, learning, and participation.
As part of National Reconciliation Week, we were honoured to welcome Jamil Tye to speak with our Senior ACC Australian Rules team and Year 7 football players.
Jamil is a proud Yorta Yorta and Boon Wurrung man, Monash alumnus, and Executive Director, External Community Engagement and Impact at Monash University. He spoke with students about his role, family history, personal experiences, and community involvement, offering a meaningful opportunity to hear directly from someone working in Aboriginal engagement, education, and community impact.
His career has included work as a geologist in the Pilbara, teaching studies, policy and program work supporting Aboriginal Victorians, and leadership in Monash’s community engagement and Indigenous opportunity work.
On May 27th, our Senior ACC Australian Rules team wore the Mazenod Indigenous Guernsey during their home Division 2 win against Whitefriars. The guernsey is a
visible expression of respect, connection, and ongoing commitment to reconciliation.
National Reconciliation Week 2026 carried the theme “All In”, reminding us that reconciliation asks each of us to listen, learn, and take part with purpose.
On May 29th, we were honoured to welcome Uncle Glenn Loughrey, a Wiradjuri artist, writer and speaker, to speak with our students and staff.
Uncle Glenn shared reflections on identity, listening, Country, responsibility and reconciliation, offering our community a thoughtful opportunity to consider how we walk with others and how we respond to the stories that shape this land.
His words were especially meaningful during National Reconciliation Week, as we continue to listen, learn and deepen our understanding as a College community.
Primary School Experience Day at Mazenod
On Thursday 14 May, Mazenod College welcomed prospective Grade 4 and Grade 5 students and their teachers from St Justin’s and St Simon’s for our Primary School Experience Day.
The day gave visiting students an opportunity to explore life at Mazenod through a range of activities and experiences across the College.
The morning began with a welcome in the Lecture Theatre, including a short question and answer session with some of our junior leaders. Students then explored parts of the campus before taking part in activities across Science and Sport. The Science sessions included a diseases experiment and bacteria model activity, while the sport sessions gave students the chance to try volleyball, table
tennis, and basketball. After lunch on the Soccer Oval, students visited the Robotics Showcase in the Founders’ Courtyard before gathering in the Chapel for prayer and farewell.
Thank you to the students and staff from St Justin’s and St Simon’s for joining us, and to the Mazenod staff and student leaders who helped guide the day. It was a positive opportunity to welcome future families and share the learning, community, and spirit of Mazenod College.
Annual Business Breakfast
The second annual joint Mazenod Foundation/MOCA Business Breakfast was held on 29th April at the Hotel Chadstone. Our guest was Jess Wilson MP, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party, in conversation with Tom Steinfort (MOC2022). The event quickly sold out with 180 guests enjoying a lively discussion about Victorian politics and the economy.
Dr Paul Shannon began the event by speaking to guests about Mazenod’s outstanding Year 12 VCE and VET results and the College theme in 2026 – Humble Leaders Dedicated to Making a Difference. This overview provided an excellent snapshot of the positive values and outcomes of a Mazenod education. Paul also referenced the strong development program at the College that is refurbishing key facilities to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
Paul welcomed special guests including Eden Foster MP, Member for Mulgrave, John Mullahy MP, Member for Glen Waverley, Jess Wilson’s parents, Ron (MOC 1976) and Jo Wilson, Leave to Serve Awardee, Cameron Falloon (MOC1991) and Burning Flame Award winners, Phillip Ryan (MOC1988) and Peter Le Grand JP.
Sean Sullivan (MOC 1992), the President of the Mazenod Old Collegians Association (MOCA,) provided guests with an overview of alumni events, activities and initiatives. In addition to the increasing number of engagement and networking opportunities on offer, Sean highlighted the Mazenod Old Collegian’s Well Being Program that aims to support alumni in need. He concluded by thanking our generous sponsors who support our events and activities.
The focus of this year’s event was Tom Steinfort in conversation with Jess Wilson MP. Tom asked a number of probing questions relating to the state of play in Victoria, the policies of the Liberal Party and the challenges it faces to achieve government in November. Jess addressed what she believed to be the key issues of concern to voters in the lead up to the election and outlined some of her policies to address these.
The event concluded with interactive questions from the floor and our speakers were thanked for their generous support of our Business Breakfast. Next year’s Business Breakfast will coincide with Mazenod’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, and we look forward to this event going from strength to strength.
Sean Sullivan addressing guests
Tom Steinfort and Jess Wilson MP in conversation
Media in attendance at the breakfast
L-R Daniel Ayass, Tom Steinfort, Jess Wilson MP, Oliver Mangoni, Zain Muscat, Dr Paul Shannon and Oliver Wyllie
1967 Bequest Society Parliament House Event
Another sold out event was the guided tour of the Victorian State Parliament on 18th May that was attended by alumni, past parents and past staff. The Patron of our Society, Gerard Noone (MOC1979), thanked guests for their attendance and spoke to them about the role of our Society in promoting bequests or Gifts in Wills, to assist Mazenod’s future.
Guests enjoyed a detailed guided tour of Parliament, including visiting both the Legislative Council and Legislative Assembly Chambers, Queen’s Hall and the Parliamentary Library. The event concluded with lunch in the Strangers’ Corridor and a great opportunity to catch up with old friends. A special thanks to Tina Giacco for her help in organising this great event.
Our next event on 12th November that will combine a tour of the gardens at the Parliament of Victoria followed by High Tea at the historic Windsor Hotel and an entertaining talk about its history and the famous figures that have stayed there. (Please refer to the advertisement below).
Further information about the 1967 Bequest Society can be accessed on-line at: www.mazenod.vic.edu.au/ support-mazenod/1967bequest-society
or contact Jack Moshakis: jmoshakis@mazenod.vic.edu.au
A Gift for Mazenod’s Future
In February 1967, when Mazenod opened its doors for its inaugural Form 1 and Form 2 classes, George DeSouza (MOC1972) was one of those first students. Over many years George, along with his classmates Gerald McNamara (MOC1972) and Maurice Lee (MOC1972), have reconnected with many of their peers, updating their contact details, arranging reunions and generally doing a great job in keeping this significant group connected.
The 1967 Bequest Society is honoured to welcome George and his partner, Fulvia, as members of our Society and to thank them for their support and commitment to the future of our College. They understand the importance of legacy for the benefit of future Mazenod students, and they are pleased to make their contribution through a gift in their Will.
George explains his reasons for joining other members of our College community and becoming a bequestor through his membership of our 1967 Bequest Society:
“As a Foundation Student of Mazenod 1967 – 1972 I have decided to support the Mazenod College 1967 Bequest Society.
I became engaged with Mazenod in 2017 when it turned 50 and was very proud to receive recognition from the College. Since then, I have had the pleasure of being involved in organising a number of reunions of my cohort and participating in other interesting
events. The more I engage with Mazenod the more I understand what it offers in terms of opportunities for future students.
Given that Mazenod was brand new, these opportunities were not there when I commenced at the College. However, it is clear to me that giving the gift of education, through a bequest in my Will, is so important and can only be a good thing to do and I would encourage others to do so.”
We thank George and Fulvia for their philanthropy and look forward to seeing them at future Society events. For further information about Mazenod’s 1967 Bequest Society, please contact Jack Moshakis: jmoshakis@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Tour of Parliament Gardens, High Tea and Talk at the Windsor Hotel
1pm, 12th November 2026
Cost: $89 per person ($69 for Bequest Society members)
The 1967 Bequest Society is hosting a private tour of the beautiful gardens at the Parliament of Victoria. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend more than an hour on a private, guided tour exploring the grounds and learning about their distinctive features.
This will be followed by the legendary High Tea at Melbourne’s historic Windsor Hotel opposite. Historian Kenneth Park will provide an engaging and entertaining talk on the history of the Windsor and its famous and infamous international guests. The Windsor Hotel is one of the oldest “grand” hotels in the world and predates both the London and Paris Ritz Hotels.
Numbers are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. RSVP’s close on Monday 26th October.
For any queries, or additional information, please contact Alice Peters: apeters@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Palermo Family Philanthropy
The Mazenod Foundation gratefully acknowledges the generous support of families over the years who have supported our fundraising programs and activities. Ron Palermo and his family are one such family who have had a long association with Mazenod and have been very happy to make regular donations to the College’s Building Fund.
Here, Ron reflects on his family’s ties with Mazenod over many years:
“Our family has been part of the Mazenod community since 2013 when our eldest son, Michael, commenced at the College. Since then, all four of our boys have attended Mazenod with our youngest, Ethan, currently in Year 10. By the time he completes Year 12, our family will have been connected with the College for fifteen years.
When we chose Mazenod, its strong Catholic foundation and values were important to us. Over the years, we have come to value not only the education and opportunities provided, but the genuine sense of community that underpins the College.
A particularly meaningful part of this journey has been the friendships formed along the way. Our boys have built lasting
connections that continue to play an important role in their lives. As parents, we have also developed friendships with other families that extend well beyond the school.
Having four sons at the College has given us a close view of their individual journeys.
We have watched them grow in confidence and independence, shaping their own paths while forming friendships and interests that will remain with them long after their time at Mazenod.
Supporting the Mazenod Foundation is our small way of giving back to the community.
It acknowledges the role the College has played in our family’s life and contributing to its future. We care about the continued success of the College and the opportunities it provides for students and families who come after ours and the role it plays in shaping young men.
We are proud to remain connected through the Mazenod Foundation and the wider community that has grown around our boys.”
The Palermo Family. L-R Alexander (MOC2019), Ethan, Jordan (MOC2025) and Michael (MOC2017)
Opening of the Food Technology Centre
The College celebrated the opening of our new Food Technology Centre on Friday 20th March. The Mazenod Food technology program, for students in Years 8 through 10, is a very popular ‘life skills’ educational program that was established in the mid 1980’s. We were delighted to welcome our Capital Campaign Patron, George Calombaris (MOC1996), our generous donors and guests, who toured the facility and met with students and staff. The redevelopment has substantially increased the quality, size and function of the learning space and associated facilities, including a dedicated theory classroom.
George spoke passionately about his time at Mazenod and the importance of every young person to learn how
to cook nutritious food. He was most impressed with the redeveloped space that provides students with a modern, purpose-built environment designed to support practical skills and future pathways for this much-loved educational program within the College.
This event also provided students with an opportunity to showcase their culinary skills by producing an amazing array of delicious finger food for George and our guests who were clearly very impressed. Thank you to all staff, students, families and community sponsors who contributed to the opening and to the development of this important new facility.
Diamond Jubilee Donor Circle
To celebrate Mazenod’s 60th Anniversary in 2027, the Mazenod Foundation has launched the Diamond Jubilee Donor Circle that will raise vital sums, from 2026 to 2028, to support the refurbishment of our Science Laboratories. In addition to the new Junior Science Laboratory that is now in operation, the College will refurbish all the existing Science rooms over 3 years.
Stage 1 Science Project - $2.2m will include a new modular Junior Science Laboratory located adjacent to the Year 7 Complex and initial staged redevelopment of existing science laboratories during 2026 into 2027.
Stage 2 Science Project - $2.5m will be final staged redevelopment of the remaining Science Laboratories in the Main Building during 2027/2028.
Additionally, Mazenod is creating a Heritage Corridor to mark this significant milestone. This space will be transformed into a contemporary and vibrant area that will highlight and celebrate the College and its history. Funds are required to assist with the purchase of display cabinets, electronic display boards and other material.
Our Diamond Jubilee Donor Circle will provide a focus for our fundraising to support these significant developments
that will provide state of the art facilities and greatly enhance the teaching and learning for all our students. The College receives no government funding for these important improvements and relies on the support of our College community and borrowings to undertake these capital works.
The Donor Circle provides members of our College community the opportunity to make their mark as part of Mazenod’s Jubilee celebrations and commemorate their family’s association with our great College. A prominent donor board will acknowledge donors as listed below. Donations are tax-deductible and can be a single donation or a pledge over 2-3 years.
Circle Patron more than $20k
Circle Benefactor $10k - $19,999k
Circle Major donor $5k - $9,999k
Circle Donor $1k - $4,999k
Link to donation page here: www.mazenod.vic.edu.au/support-mazenod/ current-projects
For further information, please contact foundation@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Diamond Jubilee Experiences Raffle
As part of our 60th anniversary celebrations, and through the very generous donations of parents and alumni, the Mazenod Foundation has arranged a special raffle for 2027 that will feature a number of exciting and unique experiences as prizes. Tickets will be drawn at our Diamond Jubilee Gala Dinner on the 21 May 2027 as part of our celebrations.
Tickets will be available for purchase on-line in late February 2027 via an email that will be sent to all members of our College community with details about prizes and how to purchase tickets on-line. Information will also be posted on College and MOCA social media.
We do hope our Mazenod community will support this special raffle and promote it amongst family and friends. All proceeds will assist Mazenod to create our Heritage Corridor and refurbish our Science laboratories.
Diamond Jubilee
COMMUNITY. DARING. PASSION. LOYALTY.
From the President
My journey with the Mazenod community has extended well past my graduation in 1992. Through lifelong friendships and my time as President of MOCA, I have met some incredible Old Collegians.
Since MOCA’s establishment in 2010, it’s mission has remained clear: to strengthen the connection between Old Collegians’ and the college. Whether you graduated from the college last year or decades ago, we are united by the shared experience of a Mazenod education, the guidance of devoted teachers, and the values instilled by the Oblates.
MOCA together with the Mazenod Foundation host several events throughout the year.
Our recent breakfast hosted by Tom Steinfort with special guest state opposition leader Jess Wilson was an outstanding event. Jess gave a passionate speech about her plans for Victoria’s future with the members of the audience outlining the tough economic climate in a question and answer format.
There are a number of reunions scheduled this year which are always wonderful events. The dates are listed in this publication and I encourage Old Boys’ to make the effort to attend and to share in the stories from the past.
The Alumni Awards Night is also scheduled for Friday October 23rd at the Kooyong Tennis Club. This was a terrific night last year and honoured people within the Mazenod diaspora that have contributed greatly to the Mazenod community , or have excelled in their chosen field.
I would like to congratulate Fr. Christian Fini who celebrates his 25th anniversary as an Oblate. Fr. Christian was a fellow classmate/friend from the class of 1992, and has been an exceptional leader of the college and supporter of the Mazenod community.
MOCA has also been working to establish a Well Being Committee to support our Old Boys’. Last year we had three Old Boys’ die by suicide, which has been tragic. Brendan Neil and Phil Ryan have been working to establish a program whereby groups of Old Boys’ across the generations will complete a course in mental health first aid. These people will be a port of call for Old Boys’ needing someone to talk to. We are also engaging Old Boys’ who work as psychologist, counsellors, and in the mental health area to be a potential secondary referral base. We were extremely fortunate to receive a government grant to assist in setting up this program. If you are interested in being involved in this program, please contact Peter Banfield, Tina Giacco, or myself.
Thanks for being part of our journey and I wish you all the best for the remainder of the year.
Slainte (Good health)
Sean Sullivan (MOC1992), MOCA President
1970-1979 re UNION Friday 13 November
2015 & 2016 re UNION Friday 27 November
To continue receiving alumni communications and event information, keep your contact details up to date in Alumnly or by contacting
moca@mazenod.vic.edu.au
mazenod.alumnly.com
Matthew Cameron Paton, RIP (MOC 1990)
It is with great sadness that the Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association (MOCA) announces the death of Sergeant Matthew Cameron Paton (Class of 1990).
Matthew had a great passion for travel and was hiking on Peru’s Machu Picchu Trail when he was involved in a tragic accident.
All of us remember Matthew as an exemplary Mazenod College student. At Mazenod, he demonstrated great care and respect for all people, was always cheerful, cooperative and a great young man of compassion and integrity. Whilst Matthew was at Mazenod, his Mum, Sue Paton, was also involved with the College as she was a nurse at the John Hannah Aged Care Residence, next to our Oblate Parish of St John Vianney’s. At the time, Mazenod used to send our Year Ten students to John Hannah each week as part of our Community Service Program. Therefore, we can all attest to Matthew’s wonderful caring nature as reflecting and embodying the love and kindness of the Paton Family.
Beyond life at Mazenod College, Matthew had studied and qualified as an Accountant. He had worked both in retail and as an Accountant prior to his having joined the Victoria Police in 2009. Having graduated from the Victoria Police Academy, Matthew initially served at both the Cranbourne and Rosebud Police Stations before becoming an instructor at the Victoria Police Academy in 2017. Matthew was enthusiastic about teaching and training new Victoria Police recruits and was instrumental in teaching Police recruits about how to respond to mental health scenarios. In fact, Matthew had been successful and selected for a Senior Seargeant position and was due to have commenced it upon his return from his travels. Since this
tragic accident, so many Mazenod College Old Collegians who are members of Victoria Police have reached out and told us about what a fabulous, fantastic person Matthew was in assisting them both personally, and professionally, as members of Victoria Police.
Matthew loved travelling, he loved learning about other cultures. However, Matthew’s greatest love and passion were for his wife, Jane, and for their three children, Ainsley, Luke and Meg.
At Mazenod College, we will never forget Matthew’s life and legacy. We will honour him in our Steven Tynan Emergency Services Assembly this year. Also, we remember and pray for all our deceased Old Boys in our Mass in our Mazenod College Chapel each morning. Furthermore, Matthew’s name joins the names of our other deceased Old Collegians who are remembered and honoured on our Shields, commemorating our deceased Old Boys in our Chapel, and his name will join the others on our Memorial wall on the outside of our Chapel. In addition, Matthew’s life will be remembered, honoured, and prayed for in our Deceased Old Boys’ Mass which we celebrate in November each year. This year, the Mass will be celebrated in our Mazenod College Chapel at 7pm on Friday, 6th November 2026.
We pray for Matthew’s Soul. May Almighty God grant Matthew His Eternal love, peace, mercy, and joy. May Almighty God strengthen and console all of Matthew’s family, friends, and all his colleagues in Victoria Police, in their immense grief.
May Almighty God grant Eternal Rest to Matthew, O Lord, and let Perpetual Light shine upon him. May Matthew’s Soul Rest in Peace. Amen.
facebook.com/ MazenodMOCA
instagram.com/ mazenodmoca
Mazenod Alumni Awards Dinner to Honour 2026 Inductees
The Mazenod College Alumni Awards Dinner will be held on Friday 23 October 2026, bringing together Old Collegians, families, staff and friends of the College for an evening of recognition, connection and celebration.
The Alumni Awards serve as a formal induction into the College’s alumni honour roll, recognising Old Collegians whose lives and work reflect the values of Mazenod beyond the College gates. Each recipient represents a story of achievement, leadership, service or contribution that continues to inspire the wider Mazenod community.
Held at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club from 7:00pm to 10:30pm, the dinner will include a two-course meal, drinks, entertainment, a live student musical performance from Beauty and the Beast, and the presentation of the 2026 Alumni Award recipients.
The 2026 awards include two categories: the Burning Flame Award and the Leave to Serve Award. The Burning Flame Award recipients will be announced in the lead-up to the event, while the Leave to Serve Award has already been presented to Dimosthenis “Deon” Manasis (MOC2002).
All members of the Mazenod community are invited to attend the dinner, reconnect with friends and celebrate the achievements of this year’s inductees.
Tickets are now available:
Individual: $125
Couple: $250
Table of 10: $1,250
Book now via Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/mazenod-alumniawards-dinner-2026
2026 Leave to Serve Award: Dimosthenis “Deon” Manasis
Dimosthenis “Deon” Manasis (MOC2002) has been presented with the 2026 Leave to Serve Award, inducting him into the Mazenod College Alumni Awards.
The Leave to Serve Award recognises Old Collegians whose lives reflect meaningful action, leadership and service to others. It honours those who have taken the values formed at Mazenod and lived them through their contribution to the wider community.
Deon is the Director and Instructor of the MANASIS School of Greek Dance and Culture, a Melbourne-based cultural school dedicated to preserving, teaching and sharing Greek identity through dance, education and performance.
Through his work, Deon has brought Greek culture into schools, community events, aged care settings, fundraising initiatives and international stages. His contribution reaches across generations, helping young people connect with heritage, giving older community members a sense of belonging, and sharing cultural traditions with wider audiences.
At the heart of Deon’s work is service. His leadership has never been limited to performance alone. It is grounded in education, identity, community and the belief that culture can bring people together.
After receiving the award at a College assembly, Deon wrote to Mazenod reflecting on the lasting influence of his time at the College. He described Mazenod as part of the foundation that shaped his values, resilience and sense of purpose.
Deon’s induction is a fitting example of the spirit behind the Leave to Serve Award. His work reflects a life of meaningful contribution, built through culture, community and education.
Congratulations to Deon on receiving the 2026 Leave to Serve Award. We look forward to celebrating his achievement, alongside the full group of 2026 Alumni Award recipients, at the Mazenod Alumni Awards Dinner in October.
MOCA receives funding for Mental Health and Wellbeing initiative
The Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association (MOCA) has successfully secured a Community Support Grant through the Suburban Rail Loop Authority Community Projects Fund to support a new mental health and wellbeing initiative within the Old Collegians community.
The funding will assist MOCA in establishing a dedicated Wellbeing Committee and delivering Mental Health First Aid training for members of the Old Collegians network. The initiative is designed to strengthen mental health awareness, peer support, and community connection among past students.
The program has been developed following the tragic loss of several members of the MOCA community in 2025. In response, MOCA identified the need for stronger support structures and accessible points of connection for those experiencing mental health challenges or emotional distress.
The Mental Health First Aid training will equip volunteers with practical skills to recognise and respond to signs of mental health struggles, provide initial support, and help connect individuals with appropriate professional services where needed. Once trained, participating volunteers will form a visible support network within the MOCA community.
The initiative builds on successful wellbeing work already undertaken by the Mazenod Old Collegians Football Club and reflects a broader commitment to supporting the wellbeing of Old Collegians beyond their time at the College.
The official funding announcement at Central Reserve was attended by Victorian Premier and Leader of the Labour Party, Jacinta Allan, local Members of Parliament John Mullahy and Eden Foster, and members of the Mazenod community.
The College acknowledges the leadership and commitment of Phil Ryan (MOC1988), Brendan Neil (MOC1983), the MOCA Executive, and all involved in the development of the project.
This initiative represents an important investment in community care, connection, and support across the wider Mazenod network.
You can find below the current list of MOCA Mental Health First-Aiders, and contacts for each.
Brendan Neil brendanwneil@gmail.com
Julian Mancini julian.mancini@outlook.com
Craig Todd craigt@meyertimber.com.au
Tom McKenna tom.mckenna@hotmail.com
Adam Dalzotto Adam.dalzotto@gmail.com
Josh Webster joshuawebster@bigpond.com
Phil Ryan pryan@mazenodfc.com.au
Joel Watson Joelwatson.co@gmail.com
Maria Tod mariatod700@gmail.com
Mazenod Panthers All Abilities Football Club Celebrate 21 Years
This year marks the 21st birthday of the Mazenod Panthers, a club that has become a valued part of the wider Mazenod community.
The Panthers were formed in 2005 through the combined efforts of the Football Integration Development Association, the Victorian Amateur Football Association, Mazenod Old Collegians Football Club and volunteers from the Oakleigh Centre. From a first team of 12 players, mainly from the Oakleigh Centre, the Panthers quickly grew into something much bigger. By the end of their first season, the club had fielded two teams and won the Division 2 premiership.
Today, the Mazenod Panthers continue to provide an allabilities football environment for people with an intellectual disability, regardless of ability. The club’s focus is on giving players the chance to enjoy Australian Rules football, grow in confidence, build friendships and become the best players they can be.
On Wednesday 20 May, the Panthers’ 21st anniversary year was celebrated through one of the most important fixtures on the Mazenod calendar, the annual Sharp / Johnson Shield match between Mazenod College and the Mazenod Panthers All Ability Football Club.
The match was played in great spirit, with both teams showing skill, teamwork and determination. In a close contest, the Panthers held on to defeat the College 11.2.68 to 9.6.54, claiming the Shield for the 15th time.
Ben (Year 11) was awarded Best on Ground for the College, while Patrick was named Most Courageous for the Panthers. Patrick and Nimesh (Year 10) were also part of the winning Panthers side, adding a special College connection to the result.
We thank Eden Foster MP for attending the match and presenting the Sharp / Johnson Shield to the winning team.
Held during National Volunteer Week, the match was also an opportunity to acknowledge the many people who give their time to support the Panthers. From coaches and committee members to families, helpers and long-time volunteers, their generosity has helped shape the club across more than two decades.
For 21 years, the Mazenod Panthers have shown that success is measured in more than wins and losses. It is seen in confidence gained, friendships formed, skills developed and the sense of belonging created through football.
Mazenod Represented on Football’s Biggest Stage
Mazenod College was proudly represented at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Nishan Velupillay (MOC2019) making his World Cup debut for the Socceroos.
Nishan was brought on during Australia’s 2-0 victory over Türkiye on 14 June, marking a special moment in his football journey and a proud milestone for his family, teammates and the Mazenod community.
A current Melbourne Victory player, Nishan has continued to build an impressive career in Australian football. His official Socceroos profile listed seven international appearances and three goals before the tournament, following his senior international debut against China PR in October 2024. His selection in Australia’s World Cup squad followed a strong period for club and country, including a late appearance in Australia’s pre-tournament match against Mexico on 31 May.
For Mazenod, Nishan’s World Cup debut carried added meaning. In 2019, he was part of Mazenod College’s outstanding Senior Soccer team, led by Mr Emilio Montoya.
That side won the Senior ACC title as well as the Melbourne City FC Premier Schools Tournament, capping off one of the most successful soccer seasons in the College’s history.
Seven years later, Nishan has taken the field on football’s biggest stage, a moment that reflects years of hard work, dedication and perseverance. His journey from Mazenod’s soccer program to the Socceroos is an outstanding example of where talent, discipline and commitment can lead.
Mazenod’s connection to the match also extended beyond the pitch, with Tom Steinfort (MOC2002) in attendance, cheering on the Socceroos and his fellow Old Collegian.
Congratulations, Nishan. The Mazenod community is proud of your achievement and looks forward to following the next stage of your football journey.
Mark Filippelli
MOC2002
Since leaving Mazenod in 2002, life has taken me in directions I never expected. After school, I studied Law and Psychology at Monash University, which I loved. I practised law briefly, but soon realised I was more interested in building things than arguing about them. That instinct pulled me into hospitality, which nobody saw coming, including me.
In 2010, I opened my first restaurant at the University of Melbourne. Over the next 15 years, I was involved in building 18 venues across Melbourne, Sydney and Byron Bay. I lived in all three at different times and also spent time in Los Angeles, opening projects and learning how food culture shifts from city to city. Travel became part of how I work. New cities, new food cultures and new conversations have shaped many of my best ideas.
A lot of those early ventures were built alongside my brother, Attil, who also went through Mazenod and graduated in 2001. There is something unique about building businesses with someone who grew up in the same house and went to the same school. You fight harder, you back each other more, and the wins mean something different when you share them.
In 2025, I made the deliberate decision to exit the Australian restaurant industry as an owner. My work now sits across product development, consulting, keynote speaking, and the State of Happiness Institute, which I co-founded with a psychologist. The Institute focuses on practical, measurable frameworks for what actually makes people happier day to day.
What has changed most for me is the model. I am less interested in venues for the sake of venues, and more interested in building strong products first. One current project is Bond Brew, a performance coffee concept launching in Queensland later this year. I am also working on an organic aperitivo brand with some old Mazenod boys through 3 Foxes and Sunny Arvo. New York is on the horizon for 2027, but the priority right now is getting the products right.
When people ask for advice about hospitality, I always say the same thing: expect it to be harder than it looks and more rewarding than you can imagine. There is nothing quite like a room full of people having the best night of their week inside something you built. The best hospitality is not really about food. It is about how you make someone feel from the moment they walk in to the moment they leave.
It has also been a privilege to host some Mazenod events over the years at our venue, The Last Piece.
That said, I want to be honest about opening a venue in Melbourne right now. In most cases, my advice is: do not do it. Not yet, at least. Melbourne is one of the most competitive hospitality markets in the world. Rent is brutal, labour and ingredient costs have never been higher, and consumer spending is tightening. If you love hospitality, work in great venues first. Learn the craft properly. Travel and eat widely. Build your palate and your instincts. Then, before opening something, answer one question clearly: why does this need to exist?
I sometimes think back to Mazenod’s motto, Leave Nothing Undared. It shaped my approach. I believe in backing yourself, taking the leap and not letting fear make your decisions. But the older I get, the more I understand that the best risks are calculated ones. Daring greatly and being reckless are two very different things. Know your numbers, know your market, know what you are walking into, and then back yourself completely.
My connection to Mazenod is still personal. If you asked me to recall a specific classroom lesson, I would probably struggle, although there were certainly some legendary teachers. What I remember most vividly are the great times mucking around with mates at lunch and recess, working out who you are, which is probably the real education. I also had a great relationship with Father Maroney. He was one of those rare people who made you feel like your ideas mattered, and that quality stays with you longer than anything from a textbook.
In 2024, I released my first book, This Cookbook is a Huge Missed Steak, which is equal parts recipe collection, memoir and extended exercise in terrible food puns. After more than a decade of making things for other people, the book was the first time I made something purely for myself. It is built around the idea that food should be joyful, cooking at home should not feel like a performance, and the best meals usually come with a story attached. It was named the number one gift for foodies by the Australian Good Food Guide, and the book tour took me to the United States for television appearances and media features.
Some of my closest mates are still from Mazenod. We are in our late thirties and early forties now, with careers, families and lives that look very different from when we were 17. Yet on the fifth of every month, someone sends a message, picks a spot, and whoever can make it shows up for a burger or a beer. No obligations. No guilt if you cannot come. Just a standing invitation.
I think that matters more than people realise. Friendship gets harder as you get older. Life fills up, and the things that do not demand your attention are often the first to go quiet. In the past few years, two people from our year level at Mazenod have taken their own lives. I do not say that
lightly, and I do not say it to shock anyone. I say it because it is real, and because I think we do each other a disservice when we do not name these things.
[Need some support? View the MOCA Mental health & Wellbeing First Aiders list on page 31]
What I have learned, through lived experience and my work over the years, is that the quality of your relationships has a huge impact on the quality of your life. People matter. Presence matters. The people who knew you before you became whoever you are now matter. So text someone you have been meaning to catch up with. Make the plan. Show up. And if things ever feel heavier than you can carry alone, please know there is always someone to talk to and always another way through.
To the Class of 2002, Party at Monga’s. I’ll see you there. To everyone else, remember to do stuff, have fun and be nice. That makes all the difference.
www.markfilippelli.com
Ryan Koroknai
I attended Mazenod College from 2012 to 2017, and the years I spent there played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. The values of discipline, integrity, perseverance, and striving for excellence, that were instilled in me throughout my time at Mazenod, have continued to guide me throughout my education, military career, and sporting pursuits.
After graduating from Mazenod College, I completed a Bachelor of Music (Classical) on a scholarship at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (University of Melbourne). While at university, I began teaching trumpet at a number of schools, including Mazenod, Good Shepherd (Wheelers Hill), St Catherine’s College (Toorak), Yeshivah Beth Rivkah College (Balaclava), and St Edmund’s College (Canberra). Teaching allowed me to share my passion for music while developing valuable leadership and communication skills that continue to benefit me today.
Alongside my studies and teaching commitments, I performed with the Darebin City Brass Band, where I had the privilege of playing alongside several of my former Mazenod music teachers. During this period, I competed with the band at the Australian National Brass Band Championships, gaining valuable experience performing at the highest level of brass banding in Australia.
On 30 January 2020, I enlisted in the Australian Army Reserve as a musician. During my initial training, I was honoured to receive the Skill at Arms Award, which is presented to the recruit who demonstrates the highest standard of weapons handling, marksmanship, and overall proficiency in military shooting. In 2022, I transferred to the Regular Australian Army and was posted to the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon, in Canberra.
My military career has provided opportunities that I could never have imagined while sitting in the classrooms at Mazenod. In both 2023 and 2024, I had the privilege of sounding the Last Post on the bugle, during the Australian National ANZAC Day Dawn Service, at the Australian War Memorial - one of the nation’s most significant commemorative events. In October 2024, I was honoured to perform for His Majesty King Charles III, during his visit to Australia.
The Army has also provided me with opportunities for travel and professional development across Australia. Looking ahead, I see myself continuing to grow within the Army and contributing to military music at the highest level possible. I am thoroughly enjoying the opportunities, challenges, and experiences it provides, and intend to continue serving for the foreseeable future.
One of the greatest lessons I learned at Mazenod College was the importance of striving for excellence, while remaining true to my values. Mazenod encouraged students to work hard, support one another, and take pride in their achievements without losing sight of humility and service to others. These lessons have been invaluable throughout my military career, where service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence are essential.
These same values have helped me in my sporting endeavours. I currently serve as President of the Noble Park Dandenong Cycling Club, working to support the growth of the club and advocating for the development of cycling opportunities within the community.
Cycling has provided incredible opportunities and experiences, including competing at national and international levels. Some of my proudest sporting achievements includes being part of the team that set the Australian Under-17 Men’s 3000m Team Pursuit National Record in 2015, representing Australia at the 2025 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, winning the bronze medal in the Elite Men’s Elimination Race at the 2026 Australian National Track Championships, and being named ACT Male Track Cyclist of the Year, in 2025. I have also been selected to represent Australia once again at the 2026 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, in Niseko, Japan.
Reflecting on my journey since leaving Mazenod, I am grateful for the opportunities I have experienced, the strong foundation the College provided, and the exceptional mentors that guided me, such as George Melitsis, Jason Mears, and the many other dedicated College staff. Whether in music, military service, or sport, the values and lessons learned at Mazenod continue to influence my decisions, and motivate me to pursue excellence in everything I do.
Scott Giannuzzi
MOC1998
I attended Mazenod College from 1993 to 1998, and a lot of the values I still carry today were shaped during those years. Mazenod taught me the importance of discipline, resilience, backing yourself and building strong relationships. Hard work, loyalty, having a crack at opportunities, and understanding the value of your network and community are all things that have stayed with me well beyond graduation.
Since leaving Mazenod, life has taken me down a few different paths across business, construction, property, hospitality and media. I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset and have enjoyed creating opportunities rather than waiting for them.
Sport has also played an important role throughout my life. I still play basketball each week, which helps me stay fit and keep in touch with former competitive teammates. I have always enjoyed the team environment, especially the competitive mindset and teamwork that carry over into business and leadership. These days, my sporting involvement mostly revolves around driving my three sons around each week to basketball, soccer and footy.
Professionally, I have worked across commercial kitchen fit-outs and property development. After high school, I studied business marketing and became involved in the family business, Hospitality World Direct, based in Clayton. Later in my career, I continued my studies and followed my passion for construction and development by completing a Certificate IV in Building and Construction and a Diploma of Building and Construction.
I have also managed my own residential development projects, and I look forward to continuing that side of my business while building brands and platforms that create long-term opportunities.
One project I am particularly passionate about is my podcast, *The Scottie G Show*. The podcast started from a genuine interest in people and their stories. Over the years, I have built a strong network through business, hospitality and everyday life, and I wanted to create a platform where conversations felt authentic, relaxed and entertaining.
The idea was to speak with interesting people from all walks of life, including business owners, athletes, entertainers, creatives and entrepreneurs, and unpack the lessons, failures, successes and personalities behind them.
The “why” behind the podcast is simple. I enjoy connecting people, learning from others and creating conversations that people can relate to. It has also become a way to build community and open doors to opportunities I never expected. Some of the best moments have come from simple conversations that started with curiosity.
Looking ahead, my hopes for the future are to continue growing my hospitality equipment business and property development work, expand the podcast and media side further, and create a lifestyle that gives my family opportunities and freedom.
I am motivated by building things that last, whether that is businesses, developments, relationships or platforms that have a positive impact. My family has played an incredible role in the journey, especially the unlimited support of my wife, Melina. I am also motivated by pushing for continual growth for my three sons and setting a positive leadership example for them.
If you, or someone you know, would be a great guest for *The Scottie G Show*, please reach out.
scottie@scottiegshow.com.au
www.youtube.com/@ScottieGshow @scottiegshow
Ryan Rapp MOC2018
I attended Mazenod College from 2012 to 2018, and those years were incredibly formative for me — not just as a student and athlete, but as a person. During my time at Mazenod, I built lifelong relationships with both students and staff, and I developed a strong foundation of values that continue to guide me today. The emphasis on character, humility, leadership and community shaped how I approach both sport and business.
One of my proudest memories at Mazenod was being part of the first basketball team in the College’s history to win the ACC Championship. To then go back-to-back the following year made it even more special. That experience taught me a lot about teamwork, resilience and what it takes to build something meaningful together. I was also honoured to serve as team captain for Charlebois in our College sports competitions — a role that reinforced my passion for leadership and accountability.
After graduating in 2018, I pursued my lifelong dream of playing basketball at the highest level. I spent the next six years competing in NCAA Division I college basketball in the United States. I began my collegiate career at Washington State University (WSU), competing in the PAC-12 Conference — one of the premier conferences in America. During my three years there, I had the opportunity to play against future NBA athletes, travel across the country, compete in an international tournament in the Cayman Islands, and reach the Final Four of the NIT, where I played at Madison Square Garden — an experience I will never forget.
While at WSU, I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Finance, graduating early after taking additional classes during the academic year and over summer. I then transferred to the University of Hawai‘i for my final three years. The move from snowy Pullman, Washington, to Honolulu was a dramatic change — but one that felt like home very quickly. During my time in Hawai‘i, I travelled frequently between islands for competition, explored places such as Maui and Hilo, and even travelled to Japan. I was privileged to be part of the first Hawai‘i team to win the Diamond Head Classic and to serve as team captain in my final season. Alongside competing at a high level, I completed my Master’s degree in Finance and undertook an internship — balancing academics, sport and professional development simultaneously.
After graduating in 2025, I returned to Australia and began playing professionally for my junior club, the Dandenong Rangers, where I currently serve as captain. I have also had the opportunity to compete in China and work out with several NBL teams. This year, I am once again playing with Dandenong while continuing to pursue opportunities at the highest level, both domestically and overseas. The next few years will involve giving basketball one more strong push toward the top level while embracing the next chapter of my professional career.
Alongside basketball, I am now a co-founder of an AI consultancy firm called Efficiency Edge AI. During my time back in Australia, I became deeply curious about the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its impact on businesses. When the opportunity arose to help build a company focused on guiding organisations through the “chaos of AI,” I couldn’t pass it up.
At Efficiency Edge AI, we work primarily with small-tomedium businesses — particularly in industries such as real estate and property management — helping them implement practical AI systems that automate operations, improve lead response times, enhance customer communication, and ultimately create more efficient and scalable businesses. My role involves strategy, client partnerships, business development and helping organisations understand how to adopt AI in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming. Much like sport, it requires discipline, teamwork, adaptability and long-term vision.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the journey in front of me. Balancing professional sport and entrepreneurship has been challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Basketball has taught me resilience, leadership and work ethic — all qualities that now carry directly into business. Whether on the court or in the AI space, my goal remains the same: to continually improve, to lead with integrity, and to make a positive impact.
I’m grateful for the foundation Mazenod provided me, and I carry those lessons with me wherever the next chapter leads.
Austin Rapp
MOC2023
Following Ryan’s journey through Mazenod and into college basketball, his younger brother Austin Rapp (MOC2023) is also making his mark in the United States.
Austin currently plays for the Wisconsin Badgers, and produced a standout performance on 14 March 2026 in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals against the Michigan Wolverines at the United Center in Chicago.
In a thrilling contest, fifth-seeded Wisconsin fell narrowly to top-seeded Michigan, 68-65. Despite the result, Austin delivered one of the game’s defining performances, finishing with a game-high 18 points.
All of Austin’s points came from beyond the arc, with six second-half three-pointers. In a remarkable stretch, he hit five three-pointers in just three minutes, helping keep Wisconsin in the contest and showing his ability to impact a major game on one of college basketball’s biggest stages.
Austin’s performance was another proud moment for the Rapp family and for the Mazenod Old Collegians’ community, with both Ryan and Austin continuing to represent the College through their commitment, discipline and achievements in basketball.
I graduated from Mazenod College in 2013, and since then the journey I had was unexpected, and extremely unique. After I completed high school, I studied a Bachelor of Biomedicine from the University of Melbourne, followed by an honours research year at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, during which I published two scientific journal articles. I also tutored a few Mazenod students for their VCE during my undergraduate days and worked part-time at my dad’s petrol station. Getting into medical school in Australia was extremely competitive, and I struggled for many years trying to achieve this life goal. However, I kept the ambition alive, and I learnt about an alternative pathway which involved travelling halfway across the world to the Caribbean islands to study medicine and then to subsequently gain further training in the United States of America.
So, I embarked on the journey to the Caribbean island of St. Vincent in September 2017 which required about 2-days of air travel. I was on the island of St. Vincent for 20-months, completely secluded from any major cities, studying the fundamentals of medicine. I then travelled to the city of Chicago in the United States in April 2019 and was working in various hospitals for about 3-years. During my time there, I trained to care for many patients that were living at the poverty line, in areas riddled with gang violence, and had low health literacy. I then travelled to the state of Arizona in July 2022, and trained for another year and a half, and worked for a group of Cardiologists as a medical scribe whilst graduating from medical school in May 2023.
I applied for medical residency and was subsequently employed to work in the state of West Virginia in July 2024 for the Charleston Area Medical Centre Institute of Academic Medicine’s Family Medicine program.
Since starting medical residency, I have achieved a few things, including being elected as the vice president of the house staff council for all resident physicians at the institution. My work involves implementing policy changes to improve resident wellbeing and reduce the frequency of work-related burnout, a common problem experienced during residency. I also recently served as a physician of the day at the West Virginian state senate, in March 2026, which was a great honour and privilege. I have further published another seven medical articles during my time in medical school and residency. I am also very proud to say I am the first Australian Family Medicine resident physician hired by my institution, and the first family medicine resident physician to deliver a baby in the emergency department of our level 1 trauma centre.
For the foreseeable future, I plan to complete my residency in July 2027 and obtain more training before returning to Australia to serve the people back home. I wanted to thank Mazenod College for the lessons they taught me throughout the years, and I appreciate the support and prayers from my past teachers. I will continue to emulate Mazenod’s philosophy of ‘entering to learn and leaving to serve’, and to ‘leave nothing un-dared for the kingdom of God’.
Andrew Heffernan
MOC2005
I attended Mazenod College from 1999 to 2005, and after graduating I enrolled in Social Science at RMIT University, majoring in International Trade.
My intention after university was to work at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra. However, I graduated around the time of the Global Financial Crisis, and the government had a hiring freeze. With job prospects looking bleak, I decided to leave on a solo backpacking trip around the world.
It turned out to be a great decision. I did not realise it at the time, but because of the GFC, my money went a long way. Travel was cheap, and places such as Egypt were not crowded. I travelled for almost 12 months, until I eventually ran out of money.
During my travels, I had a number of interviews, including one in Germany for a job with DFAT and another in Rome for a job with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Neither opportunity worked out, but
another unexpected opportunity came up while I was snorkelling in the Red Sea.
Some Japanese backpackers I met recommended that I move to Japan and work through the JET Programme. The basic qualification for the program was an undergraduate degree, so without my studies, I would not have been able to pursue that opportunity.
I have also had other expat friends who needed a degree to live in Japan. Some completed their degrees remotely, and one of them went on to create Binance and become one of the richest people on the planet.
These days, my main hobby is golf. I try to play once or twice a month on average. Every summer, I also try to have a beach holiday so I can snorkel and spearfish. In recent years I have had some skin cancers, so I need to be very sun smart.
I also enjoy watching my son play soccer, even though I never played soccer myself.
Gaji Rajapakshe
MOC2022
I remember the day I first walked through the gates of Mazenod College in 2016, uncertain, as all boys are on that first day, of the journey that lay ahead. I could not have known then that the words spoken to me in those earliest hours would become the compass by which I would navigate the next decade of my life.
“Gentlemen, dare to dream and dream big.”
The voice belonged to David May, then Year 7 Coordinator, and the message landed with the quiet force of a truth that refuses to be forgotten. Ten years on, those seven words remain as vivid and as urgent as the morning they were first spoken, a daily reminder that the measure of a man is not found in what he settles for, but in what he dares to pursue. It would be the first of many such lessons. Mazenod, as it has done for generations, was already at work, shaping not merely a student, but a man of purpose.
That same year brought another transformative encounter. Ms Joanne Caird, Mazenod’s acclaimed Debating Coordinator and a figure whose teams consistently ranked among the finest in the state, saw something in me worth cultivating. Under her formidable guidance, I built a debating career that I look back on with immense pride, one that sharpened my mind, emboldened my voice, and instilled in me the conviction that words, wielded with precision and integrity, carry the power to move the world. What Ms Caird gave me extended far beyond trophies and adjudications. She gave me belief. And belief, once lit, is a difficult thing to extinguish.
I graduated during the pandemic and I carried Mazenod’s values not as a memory, but as a mandate.
I went on to pursue dual degrees in Law and Commerce, and today I work at tier 1 law firm in Melbourne, a path that demands the kind of intellectual rigour and discipline that Mazenod first instilled in me. But the office has never been enough to contain what the College placed inside me. Mazenod taught me that a life lived only for oneself is a life only half lived.
In 2024, driven by a deep commitment to the young people of this generation, I founded the GR Foundation, an incorporated not-for-profit organisation dedicated to youth empowerment and leadership, a mission that echoes the very ethos of the College that raised me. I wanted to build something that would give young people the same gift I was given: the audacity to believe they could be more. By 2025, I had been appointed Chairman of the City of Monash Youth Advisory Board and privileged to have
been awarded the Sir John Monash Award for outstanding leadership, determined to bring a seat at the table to the young voices that too often go unheard.
And then, in 2026, came perhaps the boldest venture yet: the launch of The Monash Herald. https://www. monashherald.org.au/
The Monash Herald is more than a newspaper. It is a declaration, a platform for the people of Monash to share their triumphs and their struggles, to confront the issues that shape their daily lives, and to build the kind of community that has the audacity to fight for what it believes in. It is, in every sense, local journalism as an act of service. I started it because every community deserves a voice, and someone has to be willing to hand them the microphone.
No one knows what the future may hold. But one conviction I carry with absolute certainty: the law is my primary calling, and I will always stand in defence of my community against any form of injustice or wrongdoing. It is here that the Mazenod spirit burns brightest in me. The College’s timeless charge — to be a burning flame, not a smouldering wick — is not a motto I recite from memory. It is a life I am determined to live.
Enter to learn. Leave to serve.
These are not simply words etched in tradition. They are the principle by which I now measure every day, weigh every decision, and undertake every endeavour. What Mazenod has given me is more than I could ever possibly repay. And so I do not try to repay it. I try, instead, to honour it, through action, through service, and through a refusal to leave anything undared.
If I had to distil what Mazenod placed inside me into a single truth, it would be this: an attitude to do the impossible, to try everything, to embrace failure without fear, and to ultimately leave nothing undared.
I walked through those gates in 2016 as a boy who was told to dare to dream. I walk through the world today as a man who did.
Ryan Kilgower
MOC2018
My time at Mazenod from 2013 to 2018 truly laid the groundwork for who I am today. The friendships forged, lessons learned, and experiences I had during that time are ones I will deeply cherish forever.
Amongst many positive learning experiences, I found Geography to be my favourite subject during my years at Mazenod. Learning about the world alongside a competitive VCE cohort with great teachers shaped a significant part of my decision to pursue an Arts degree at Monash University majoring in Human Geography. In fact, I completed a double degree, with the other component a degree in Science where I majored in Ecology and Conservation. This latter decision to include science with that specific major was influenced in an unlikely way.
Throughout my younger years, I was particularly untalented at sport, yet there was a sport where I found myself competitive – cross country. I had made the ACC teams in Year 10 and 11 and I was dedicated to making it again for one last time. After taking a break from footy and cricket to focus on Year 12 studies, I turned to running along the Dandenong Creek Trail to train and maintain my fitness levels. That is where I found an interest in birdwatching.
I was always interested in nature from a young age, so observing different and unusual wildlife around me sent me searching for answers. After a short Google search, I stumbled upon a citizen science website called eBird which changed my life. Before I knew it, I was spending hours birding every local park, venturing far to twitch rare birds and spending thousands on fancy equipment - all whilst logging every bird sighting to eBird. I was however disciplined in Year 12, and it wasn’t until I graduated and
transitioned to university that I would spend more time birding than studying.
Fortunately, that experience wasn’t wasted when an internship opportunity presented itself with an organisation called BirdLife Australia several years later. I was eventually offered part-time work with them working with the Citizen Science Team, responding to enquiries about their citizen science platforms Birdata and the Aussie Bird Count. Upon graduation, I entered full-time employment surveying wetland bird populations around Melbourne for the Wetlands Team. I am still in this role today which has expanded to include media appearances, volunteer coordination and working with a very special bird called the Orange-bellied Parrot (OBP) where I am a member of the national recovery team.
This species which can be found a short drive from Melbourne during the winter is a critically endangered migrant that breeds in Southwest Tasmania during the warmer months before making the flight across Bass Strait to settle along the coastal saltmarshes of Victoria and South Australia. There are as few as 86 individuals left in the wild; however, this is a recovery from a low of 17 individuals in 2016. My current role in the program is to coordinate volunteers, search for arrivals on the mainland each winter and work with Traditional Owners and environmental stakeholders to improve and protect habitat. This work has taken me all over Victoria’s coast from Warrnambool to Wilsons Prom, with unique overnight stays on French Island and exploration of sewage treatment plants. I regularly share updates on my conservation career via LinkedIn. Feel free to connect and follow my journey there.
Matt Maiolo MOC2020
I attended Mazenod from 2015 to 2020, and I loved my time there. It’s funny—you often hear, “The further you go in life, the more you want to go back.” I look back fondly on my years at Mazenod and genuinely enjoyed going to school every day. Perhaps the most valuable lesson I learned at Mazenod came from our Year 12 Co-ordinator, Alan McAlister: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even if no one is watching.” It is something that has always stayed with me.
Ultimately, sport has always been my calling, which led me to study a Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) / Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at Deakin University. The business side of sport always interested me. I never really enjoyed science; however, I was convinced by my mother to complete the double degree, as it could open more avenues for my future career. Always listen to your parents!
I was afforded so many great opportunities at Deakin –from meeting incredible people on campus to travelling across the world to Las Vegas for the NBA Summer League, which was a real highlight of my university experience. I was fortunate enough to be accepted onto two trips to America.
The first was a West Coast field trip, where we visited amazing places across Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle. As a massive college sports fan, visiting universities such as UCLA, USC, Stanford, the University of Washington, and Pepperdine were real highlights. I was living the dream – attending MLB games (Dodgers, Angels, and Mariners) every other night. We also went to WNBA games (Los Angeles Sparks and Seattle Storm), as well as NWSL and MLS matches.
I then spent three weeks travelling across America on my own before beginning trip two – Las Vegas for the NBA Summer League. There, I completed a week-long course majoring in scouting, video, and analytics. The highlight of this experience, aside from hearing from so many prominent figures in the NBA world, was our mock trade deadline activity – an absolute dream for any NBA fanatic.
Outside of university, I spent my spare time building skills and gaining experience in the sporting world. I have had the pleasure of working at some of the biggest events on the sporting calendar. Working in player services at the Australian Open is hard to top. I have also been lucky enough to work at the MotoGP in Phillip Island, as well as many AFL matchdays, including finals with the Melbourne Football Club.
While I am not exactly sure what the future holds, I would love to one day be part of the front office of a major sporting team, whether in Australia or abroad.
I recently started a new role at Volleyball Victoria as an Events Coordinator. My role mainly involves working with schools to deliver both one-day and multi-day events. It has been a very busy start, but I am embracing the challenge and look forward to contributing to the growth of the organisation.
I am incredibly appreciative when I reflect on my time at Mazenod. It was truly a special period in my life. The foundations were built early within the four walls of the college, and I could not be more grateful.
Aaron Chitaranjan
MOC2013
MOCA would like to congratulate Aaron Chitaranjan on receiving the prestigious Dorothy Balcombe Award.
The Dorothy Balcombe Award was introduced to the Brigade in 1984 following the Ash Wednesday tragedy of the previous year and has been proudly sponsored by Mr Les Donaldson and his company since its inception. The award recognises and encourages members who have contributed significantly behind the scenes at the Brigade. It is not based on the number of turnouts, trainings, or meetings attended, but instead celebrates those who embody the true spirit of volunteering at the Narre Warren Fire Brigade.
Each year, the Brigade Management Team selects the recipient. This year’s winner, Aaron, has demonstrated exceptional diligence, enthusiasm, and commitment. He has devoted a great deal of his time to the Brigade and is a thoroughly deserving recipient of this honour.
Andrew Fennessy PSM
MOC1989
Congratulations to Andrew Fennessy PSM who has been awarded the Australian Public Service Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours for outstanding public service in water management.
Andrew’s career has been defined by visionary leadership and deep commitment to enhancing water security and resilience across Victoria. From shaping the landmark Our Water Our Future strategy in 2004, to modernising irrigation infrastructure in the Goulburn Murray region, to transforming water pricing and tariff structures through community engagement at Yarra Valley Water, Andrew has made a lasting impact on both rural and urban communities.
His work has supported agricultural productivity, strengthened water resilience for towns and cities, and balanced economic performance with environmental sustainability and community needs. He has led major capital projects like Victoria’s desalination plant and provided leadership during the 2022 floods.
This recognition is a testament to Andrew’s strategic thinking, collaborative spirit, and unwavering dedication to public service.
Built by Many Hands: The Foundation Families of Mazenod College
When Mazenod College opened its doors in 1967, there was no wealthy benefactor waiting in the wings to finance its growth. The College was built through the generosity, determination and hard work of ordinary families, many of whom were recent migrants establishing new lives in Australia.
From the very beginning, parents played a vital role in the life of the College. The Fathers’ Committee (later the Men’s Committee) and the Mothers’ Auxiliary (later the Ladies’ Auxiliary), both formally established in November 1967, became the driving force behind projects, fundraising initiatives and social activities that helped transform a construction site into a thriving school community.
Keeping Families Connected
In June 1968, parents Jim and Margaret Drummond launched the first edition of Dates and Capers, a monthly newsletter designed to keep families informed about College activities. More than a bulletin, it captured the humour and community spirit of the College’s formative years.
One memorable story appeared in the August 1968 edition. After appealing for sundials and garden ornaments to brighten the grounds, the newsletter reported that the only response came from Fr Moroney, who charged down the embankment surrounding the quadrangle and planted himself four inches deep in freshly poured concrete.
The workmen reportedly debated whether the resulting monument should be painted gold or in the College colours before the Rector requested that Fr Moroney be removed immediately. Apparently, Father Provincial had not been consulted regarding this proposed installation.
Foundation parent Betty McNamara later reflected:
“This would have to be the poorest start to any college. The fathers worked hard. What those students went through in the beginning was quite astonishing. Their college life started off with nothing. It really built up from a strong foundation – the boys, the priests and the parents.”
More than half a century later, it is fitting to acknowledge those families who contributed thousands of hours of voluntary labour, professional expertise and hospitality to ensure the College’s success.
Transforming the Mud
Perhaps no project better symbolised the commitment of the foundation families than the construction of the College quadrangle.
In 1968, the grounds surrounding the new buildings were a sea of mud and clay. Determined to create a usable assembly and recreation space, members of the Fathers’ Committee undertook the enormous task of preparing and laying the concrete quadrangle.
Over seventeen consecutive weekends, often in rain, hail and what were described as “heart-breaking” weather conditions, volunteers laid twenty-one large concrete slabs. Members of the Mothers’ Auxiliary supported the workers by serving soup and sandwiches for lunch.
Completed in August 1968, the quadrangle transformed the grounds and became the heart of student life. Remarkably, those same concrete slabs remain in place today.
Even before this project commenced, parents had already demonstrated their commitment. When the new school buildings were handed over in 1968, ninety-seven fathers attended a massive working bee to undertake earthworks, prepare the entrance and move desks and equipment from their temporary school at St Joseph’s Primary School, Springvale. It was the first of many working bees involving parents and Oblate priests working side by side.
Throughout the early years, volunteers also prepared sporting fields, installed irrigation systems, built retaining walls, repaired sewerage and water systems, constructed car parks and bicycle racks, cleaned windows, planted trees and established gardens. Setting up the Library was a priority task as donated books were covered and made ready for students to use. Many of these tasks would today be undertaken by contractors. In the College’s formative years, they were completed by parents donating their weekends and evenings in support of their sons’ education.
Fundraising and Friendship
Fundraising was a constant necessity, but it was also a powerful means of building community.
The annual Dinner Dance quickly established itself as one of the highlights of the social calendar. First held at Rowallan Reception Rooms on 14 November 1968, it became a tradition eagerly anticipated by parents and was later hosted at the College itself.
Fashion parades featuring mothers and daughters modelling clothing from local retailers proved equally popular. Street stalls held throughout Clayton, Springvale and Glen Waverley raised valuable funds through the sale of home-baked goods, groceries and handicrafts. Volunteers regularly produced hundreds of dozens of lamingtons to meet demand.
Other events focused as much on friendship as fundraising. Mystery car rallies took families to destinations such as Point Leo and Crombie Park. Family picnics were held at Churchill Park, Ferny Creek and Sorrento, while progressive dinners saw parents sharing meals in one another’s homes.
One of the largest fundraising events was the Gymkhana held on 8 November 1970. Featuring the Victoria Police Highland Pipe Band and a dressage demonstration by the famous show horse Aintree Boy, it attracted strong community support and raised much-needed funds.
Supporting the Oblates
Parents also provided support in ways that often went unseen.
For the first two years of the College’s existence, the Oblate priests lived in an empty classroom within the school building while awaiting completion of their residence. Not until 23 April 1970 were they finally able to move into a home of their own.
During those years, local families ensured the priests were cared for through a roster system. Betty McNamara recalled:
“A group of six or seven ladies organised themselves into a weekly arrangement on a roster basis having the priests to dinner. You did not know how many would turn up. You would prepare a meal and there might be six of them. You would take a week each and they would come for a whole week every night.”
This quiet hospitality reflected the spirit that underpinned the entire College community.
A Lasting Legacy
The history of Mazenod College is often told through its buildings, academic achievements and milestones. Yet behind every success stood a community of parents who gave freely of their time, skills and resources.
They mixed concrete, planted trees, organised events, sold lamingtons, hosted priests, staffed the canteen and raised the funds necessary to keep the College moving forward.
The physical evidence of their efforts can still be seen across the campus today. More importantly, their example established a culture of generosity, service and community involvement that remains central to the identity of Mazenod College. The story of the College’s foundation years is, in many ways, the story of those families whose collective effort transformed a vision into reality
Mazenod’s Diamond Jubilee Gala Dinner
SAV e the d Ate — F r I d AY, 21 MAY 2027
In 2027, Mazenod College marks 60 years of faith, formation and community.
To celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us for an evening of reflection, reconnection and celebration at our Diamond Jubilee Gala Dinner.
Held in the iconic surrounds of the Plaza Ballroom at the Regent Theatre, this special event will honour the people, stories and legacy that have shaped Mazenod since 1967. With live entertainment, guest speakers, and a gathering of alumni, staff, families and friends from across the decades, it promises to be a night to remember.
As part of the celebrations, a commemorative book is also in development, capturing the stories of many prominent figures who have contributed to the life and legacy of the College.
Bookings open later this year. Stay connected via our website and social channels for further details. together, let’s celebrate 60 years of Mazenod, and the many more still to come.
