The FriarsCast Podcast

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 one another in the year ahead.

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 to be a place where young men are formed with purpose, generosity and pride in the Carmelite tradition.

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 parents beginning career discussions.

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 something enduring. Through this story, Mark invites our community to embrace gentleness as a defining Carmelite strength - one that continues to shape how we care for our boys and for one another.

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 community looks ahead to the year to come.

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 beyond the gates. The episode also honours the life and legacy of Anne McKenna, a much-loved member of the Whitefriars community whose faith and service embodied the Carmelite spirit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friends are Like Family: Starting Fresh for Solo Starters Join Cath Spurritt as she dives into an open-hearted conversation with Oscar, a current student, and two Year 6s who are gearing up to join Whitefriars as solo starters in 2025! These soon-to-be Year 7s bring all their questions to the table—covering everything from finding classrooms and mastering the timetable to navigating bus routes, deciding what to do at lunchtime and exploring the subjects on offer. The boys share thoughts on making friends and making the most of new opportunities. And, of course, no school chat is complete without canteen tips—#50cgarlicbread and Nacho Tuesday! It’s an honest, insightful exchange capturing the excitement and curiosity of stepping into a new school, and it’s proudly sponsored by the legendary Bunnings sausage... or not. #WhitefriarsPodcast #SoloStarters #NewBeginnings #Bunnings

Beyond Comfort Zones: Lessons from Timor-Leste In this episode, join us as we share insights from a life-changing immersion in Timor Leste. Experiencing new challenges—from basic living conditions to engaging in prayerful reflection—our students found joy in simplicity and connection. Through teaching, playing, and reflecting with the welcoming Carmelite communities, they learned that true happiness often comes from living fully in the moment. Discover how stepping outside their comfort zones reshaped their perspectives on gratitude and joy.

The Pursuit of Excellence In this episode, Mark delves into the Carmelite value of excellence at Whitefriars College. With roots in education stretching back to the 1200s, the Carmelite tradition continues to shape a culture of academic achievement and service. Join Mark as he spotlights recent successes in debating, music and sport, and celebrates the rise of our future leaders. Discover how, through the Carmelite spirit, Whitefriars College fosters teamwork, passion and high expectations, empowering young men to strive for excellence together.

Join James Palumbo as he welcomes Graham Hocking from Men's Wellbeing for a special episode in celebration of International Men’s Day. This year's theme, "Positive Male Role Models," shines a light on the importance of men's wellbeing and the influence of strong role models in shaping our lives. Tune in and take a moment to reflect on the qualities you admire in your role models, and the person you aspire to become.

In this episode of the Leadership Lounge, Cath Spurritt and Harry Evans, 2023 College Captain, talk about the synergy between the mindset required for high performance in sport and for learning. Hear about some of the talented Whitefriars College staff who helped Harry to get the best out of himself in Year 12.

Come and celebrate Book Week with us at Whitefriars! Some amazing students talk about what this year's theme, 'Reading is Magic' means to them. How our school supports them in literacy and even what magical superpower they would all choose.  Thank you so much to all those students who participated in the podcast, you know who you are! We appreciated your candid discussion!

Cath Spurritt is again joined by 2023 College Captain, Harry Evans, who speaks about responsibilities, sport, learning and competing demands on his time and attention during Year 12. If you want a job done, ask a busy guy like this one!

Join us for a special episode of our podcast where Mark delves into the rich history of Whitefriars College and shares his personal journey as a 'Friar. Following a Middle Years and Senior Years assembly this week, where students had the opportunity to discuss what it means to be a 'Friar, Mark reflects on the College’s evolution, the stories behind its buildings, and his own experiences that have defined his connection to the school. Discover the significance of being part of the Whitefriars community and gain a nostalgic and insightful look at the heritage that shapes our beloved College.

In our inaugural episode of the Leadership Lounge, 2023 College Captain, Harry Evans, joins Cath Spurritt on the lounge to talk about peak performance and collaboration in learning.

As we reach the middle of Term 3, let's take a moment to reflect on the many achievements that highlight the vibrant life at Whitefriars. From academic honours and sporting triumphs to creative showcases, our community has had an incredible term full of opportunities for students to excel and find their place.

With a focus on resilience and adaptability, Mark talks about Grace Brown's journey from injured runner to Olympic cyclist, Carmelite history, and how our community should bravely pursue new paths and adapt courageously to thrive in new directions.

Episode 1: A Journey of Reflection and Carmelite Tradition How often do we crave time and space to reflect on our lives? I was blessed to embark on a six-week journey to Ireland and the UK. I explored Carmelite history, visiting Terenure College in Dublin and many Carmelite centres. I invite you to join me, as I share these experiences and envision their impact on our Carmelite community at Whitefriars College.

Tanya Vandervelde talks with Year 12 students Max, Hayden and Jack about what Reconciliation Week means to them and what we are doing as a College.

Mr. Wight, Ms. Vandervelde and Mr. Read chat with the English Captain Josh Sarlos about the play Rainbow's End. Topics such as discrimination with Australia in the 1950's, the resilience and hope of First Nations people and whether Que Sera Sera is a happy or a positive song. The first of many! We hope!