Whitefriars College

The Friarscast Podcast | New Episode

Volunteers have always been at the heart of Whitefriars.

In this episode, we reflect on the deep roots of service at the College, from the early working bees that helped build a fledgling school in Donvale to the parents, Old Collegians, committee members and Board members who continue to give so generously today.

It is a heartfelt celebration of connection, gratitude and the quiet leaders whose time and care help every young man at Whitefriars thrive.

Listen now:
Podbean: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-4a3au-1ad6488
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-friarscast-podcast/id1804224382
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JuLjq7pcuPGeRxQW8uGx2?si=acb9ca395e924c1b

🎶 Music Showcase 2026 🎶

A few weeks ago, the Whitefriars College community gathered to celebrate the talent, dedication and passion of our student musicians at the annual Music Showcase.

From powerful drumline performances and outstanding vocal ensembles to guitar groups, strings, jazz and brass, the evening highlighted the breadth of musical opportunities available at the College and the commitment of students from Years 7 to 12. The diverse program featured everything from contemporary favourites and rock classics to jazz standards and musical theatre, showcasing the confidence and growth of our young performers.

A special thank you to our Performing Arts staff, music tutors, production crew and the many families who support our students throughout their musical journey.

Congratulations to all performers on an outstanding evening of entertainment and student excellence. We are proud of the way our students continue to share their talents, support one another and bring our community together through music.

Today our Year 11 VM students took part in a Speed X Interview excursion, gaining valuable real-world experience through a series of six-minute interviews with potential employers.

The activity challenged students to think on their feet, practise their interview techniques and build confidence in a professional setting, while also exploring a range of career pathways and workplace opportunities.

A highlight of the day was the chance to meet the Mayor of Manningham, adding another meaningful connection to an already rewarding experience.

Experiences like these help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the workplace, equipping students with practical skills and confidence for their future careers.

👷‍♂️🏛️ Learning beyond the classroom.

Yesterday, our Year 12 Vocational Major students visited Trades Hall in Carlton to explore the history of the union movement and gain a deeper understanding of young workers' rights and workplace safety.

Through engaging discussions and interactive learning, students developed valuable knowledge about their rights and responsibilities in the workplace, helping them prepare for future employment with confidence.

Experiences like these provide important real-world insights and support our students as they transition from school to the workforce.

🎤🍷 LADIES' NIGHT IS CALLING! 🍷🎤

Grab your girlfriends and join the Whitefriars Parents Association for a fun-filled Sip & Sing night!

Get ready to belt out your favourite daggy hits from the 80s and 90s, enjoy plenty of laughs and make some great memories along the way. Whether you're a karaoke superstar or just there for the entertainment, this ladies-only event promises a fantastic night out.

The best part? You'll be home and back in your PJs before you know it!

📅 Friday 19 June
⏰ 7.00pm – 9.00pm
🎟️ $5 per ticket (includes a singalong microphone)
🍹 Drinks available at WPA bar prices

This event is also a fundraiser for the Whitefriars Parents Association, so come along, have some fun and support our school community.

Book now: trybooking.com/DMTRN

🎶 Singing optional. Fun guaranteed! 🎶

Bronze medal at the ACC Culinary Competition 🥉👨‍🍳

A huge congratulations to Ryder R, Shia K, Henry J and Cruz M who proudly represented Whitefriars College at the annual ACC Culinary Competition hosted by Parade College on Friday 22 May.

Competing against seven other schools, our Year 10 and 11 students impressed judges with a sophisticated two-course menu:
• Herb-crusted kangaroo served with roasted pumpkin and pepita labneh
• Spiced red wine poached pear served with whipped mascarpone and brittle

The judges praised the team’s flavours and seasoning, awarding the boys a Bronze Medal for their outstanding efforts.

What makes this achievement even more impressive is that the students worked in an unfamiliar kitchen environment and completed the competition independently, without the assistance of adults on the day.

Special thanks and congratulations must also go to Jane Molloy and Rebecca Flesser for their months of after-school training and support preparing the team for competition.

Well done, gentlemen. Your creativity, teamwork and calm under pressure made the Whitefriars community incredibly proud.

Explore. Connect. Inspire.

Across Careers Expo Week, Whitefriars College students had the opportunity to hear directly from universities, industry professionals, the Australian Defence Force and Old Collegians through a series of lunchtime presentations focused on future pathways and life beyond school.

Throughout the week, presenters from ADF, Deakin University, Monash University and a range of trade and industry backgrounds shared real experiences, study pathways, career journeys and practical advice with students.

These sessions are designed to help boys explore possibilities, ask questions and gain insight into the many different pathways available after Whitefriars.

We are also excited to share that many of our presenters have participated in our upcoming Careers Podcast series, with episodes to be released progressively across Terms 2 and 3.

Thank you to all presenters and Old Collegians for generously giving their time, wisdom and experience to support our students and community.

Big Friar, Little Friar 🤝

Sometimes the best transition support comes from students who have already walked the path.

This week, our senior students spent time with Year 7s during a “High School Survival Chat”, sharing practical tips, answering questions and helping younger students feel more connected and confident in life at Whitefriars.

From navigating lockers and homework to friendships, routines and finding your place, the conversations were simple, honest and full of encouragement.

At Whitefriars, belonging matters. Boys thrive when they feel connected to one another, supported by older role models and known within their community.

Year 12 HHD students immersed in the Road to Zero exhibition at Melbourne Museum.

Through interactive, real-world scenarios, students explored how government policy, systems-based approaches, health promotion and evidence-based strategies work together to reduce road trauma.

The immersion strengthened key HHD skills including applying the study design, analysing case studies, using correct terminology, and linking examples to population health outcomes - all highly valuable for our upcoming SAC and final exam, not to mention great life skills in rethinking road safety.

Year 12 student Harvey K proudly represented Whitefriars College at the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra, joining 113 students from across Australia for three days of debate, discussion and national dialogue. 🇦🇺

Held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, the convention explored the role of Section 53 of the Constitution and the balance between government, accountability and representation.

Alongside workshops, debates and a national vote on constitutional change, Harvey also experienced Question Time at Parliament House and connected with students, MPs and Senators from across the country.

An outstanding opportunity and a wonderful example of young people engaging thoughtfully in the life of our nation.