The FriarsCast Podcast

What helps young people stay connected to school? This episode explores how Passion, Purpose and People can build belonging, motivation and connection. At Whitefriars, these are found through learning, service, activities and relationships.

Demon footy, pressure, adversity and the power of connection all come together in this episode with Whitefriars Old Collegians Dan Taylor and Jacob O’Brien. They share candid advice for students on handling the tough moments, backing yourself and staying connected along the way. Plus, they look back on their favourite Whitefriars memories and the experiences that still shape them today.

In this week's Friars Focus Mark contrasts temporary happiness with a lasting, joy derived from community and selflessness, illustrating this enduring quality through recent events at Whitefriars College. Sustaining this energy requires daily reflection, gratitude, and actively spreading contagious joy to others through positive words and actions.

How do we help boys become their best selves? Following their presentation at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference in Johannesburg, Mark Murphy and Tanya Vandervelde explore masculinity, vulnerability and the power of connection. Discover how Whitefriars is helping shape compassionate, courageous and purposeful gentle men.

VTAC explained The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) works with universities and students to help determine where you could be studying in 2027. This episode breaks the process down in plain English: the key dates to know, how preferences work, and the support available along the way. Your House Leader and the Careers team are there to help every step of the way. No jargon. No panic. Jus...

Engineering and trades, how they work together Join us for a conversation with Matthew Joyce, an Old Collegian and geotechnical engineer, as we explore the connection between engineering, residential construction trades, and professional networking. From understanding the ground beneath our feet to building the relationships that drive successful projects, Matthew shares insights into the importan...

In this special episode, we reflect on the strength of community in times of grief, uncertainty and loss. Principal Mark Murphy shares how students, staff, families and the wider Catholic education community have come together to support one another through a difficult period. It is a heartfelt conversation about compassion, presence, hope and the power of walking alongside others when it matters...

In this episode, Jaxon Mullane joins us to discuss life as a Monash University student studying Arts/Law, living on campus and working as a student ambassador. The conversation explores the transition from school to university, the challenges of first year and the importance of resilience and connection. Jaxon shares an honest insight into navigating university life and embracing new opportunities...

In this episode, we explore the deep roots of our volunteers at Whitefriars College—from the early working bees that built a fledgling school in Donvale to the vibrant, generous community that continues to shape it today. Thanks to the parents, past students, committee members and the dedicated College Board, we celebrate the spirit of service that has always defined Whitefriars. It’s a heartfelt...

In this episode, Derek Boothroyd from Deakin University joins us to discuss the growing world of sport and the many career pathways available to students. Recorded during Careers Week 2026 at Whitefriars College, the conversation explores sport qualifications, employability pathways and opportunities across coaching, exercise science, media, events and athlete development. Derek describes the curr...

Servant leadership isn’t a theory at Whitefriars - it’s lived, quietly and powerfully, every day. From ANZAC services to Rosies Street Mission, our young men are learning to lead by serving others. This episode reflects on what it means to put others first and how that shapes the kind of men our boys become.

In this episode, Mark Murphy reflects on why families choose Catholic education and why, at its heart, it is about offering young people hope grounded in faith. He explores how the Carmelite value of gentleness is lived at Whitefriars through welcome, pastoral care and everyday relationships between students. Mark also challenges the community to be courageous, vulnerable and deeply attentive to o...

In this episode, Mark reflects on the remarkable energy of the first few weeks of the school year, from welcoming new students and families to celebrating House spirit, faith and academic excellence. He speaks about the many moments that have already brought the Whitefriars community together and the shared commitment behind them. At the heart of it all, Mark reminds us that Whitefriars continues...

Meet Jo and Luke, our Careers and Further Education Advisors. In this episode, they’re joined by Craig Eastwood to explore how the Morrisby Profile helps students understand their strengths, preferences and potential pathways. Together, they unpack what the assessments really measure and how to interpret unexpected career suggestions. An informative and practical conversation for students and pare...

In his first podcast for the year, Principal Mark Murphy reflects on the quiet beauty of a new school year at Whitefriars College and the gentle anticipation of welcoming the Class of 2031. Drawing on the words of our first principal, Fr Frank Shortis O.Carm, he takes us back to the College’s very first morning in 1961, when one small boy with an oversized bag marked the humble beginning of someth...

With Gratitude and Hope In this episode, we reflect with gratitude on the people who make Whitefriars College what it is — our students, staff, parents, Board and wider community. We acknowledge the dedication of our staff and leaders, farewell Fr Paul Sireh with thanks, and celebrate our students for living the Carmelite spirit. The episode closes with a message of hope and blessing as the commun...

Beyond Kansas: Dorothy Moments at Whitefriars In this episode, we reflect on the “Dorothy moments” at Whitefriars — times when students and staff step beyond their comfort zones and discover growth through challenge, trust and new experiences. From immersion opportunities and city learning to performances, sport and alternative pathways, these stories capture learning beyond the classroom and beyo...

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

On this Whitefriars Day edition, five Old Collegians reflect on how their Timor-Leste immersion shifted their focus from self to service. Mitchell Guest (Class of 2019), Thomas Mecuri (Class of 2016), Luke Murphy (Class of 2014), Hugh Parrot (Class of 2019) and Alex Vander (Class of 2019) share how the generosity of the Timorese people - giving more than their share - continues to inspire them to...

PIVOT POINT – EPISODE 1 In our very first episode, Deputy Principal of Learning and Teaching, Carmel Delzoppo, sits down with three of our Year 12 Academic SRC members to explore subject choices, pathways and life beyond Whitefriars. From discovering subjects they love, to backing their strengths and resisting outside pressure, the students share honest reflections on their journey through school...

In this episode, Principal Mark Murphy reflects on the power of confidence and how it can be nurtured through hard work, individuality and the support of others. He shares inspiring stories from the Whitefriars Vocal Music Soiree and a Year 9 employability skills day, highlighting moments where students thrived with encouragement and mentorship. Mark also celebrates the dedication of the Shortis L...

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

LEADERSHIP In our last podcast for the semester, Mark Murphy speaks of leadership. At Whitefriars, leadership goes beyond titles and authority—it’s about service, authenticity, and heart, rooted deeply in our Carmelite values. Inspired by the words of St. Albert, we believe true leadership is found in humility and the willingness to serve others. Every day, our students demonstrate this through ac...

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

In this episode, Mark reflects on the everyday growth we witness in our young men at Whitefriars College—through their compassion, leadership and quiet acts of service. From hosting student leaders across Melbourne to showing unity on the cross-country track and grace at the Year 12 Formal, our boys continually rise to the occasion. Mark also celebrates the creativity and collaboration showcased a...