The Provence - March 2024 Edition

Fr Kevin Davine OMI’s Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

From the Principal

We are thrilled to introduce the maiden edition of The Provence, a magazine crafted with the sole purpose of fostering connection, celebration, and engagement within our esteemed Mazenod College community.

As we embark on this journey together, we envision The Provence as a platform to showcase the myriad talents, accomplishments, and stories that define our vibrant community.

Mazenod College has long been a beacon of excellence in education, instilling values of integrity, leadership and compassion in each student who passes through its halls. The Provence aims to amplify this spirit by bringing forth the voices and experiences of our students, staff, alumni, and supporters.

In this inaugural edition, we delve into the heart of Mazenod College’s rich history, tracing its origins and evolution over the years. From humble beginnings to its current status as a pillar of educational innovation, Mazenod’s journey is one marked by resilience, dedication, and a commitment to nurturing young minds. Fittingly, in the first edition, we farewell a legend of Mazenod College, Fr Kevin Davine OMI, and celebrate the diverse achievements of his many years of dedication and service. Whether it’s academic excellence, sporting triumphs, artistic endeavours, or community service initiatives, each accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Fr Kevin. We also farewell

From the Rector

As Rector of Mazenod College I welcome you to the first edition of The Provence. I hope you will find the articles informative providing a snapshot of community life at Mazenod.

On Friday, February 23rd, we celebrated the beginning of the academic year with our Inaugural Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral. This year we were pleased to welcome the college leaders and staff members from our other three Colleges: Mazenod WA, St Eugene’s and Iona, Queensland.

Mazenod College, and all our Oblate Colleges, are more than an educational institution, they are about faith and community – a community of students, staff, families, Oblates, and Old Collegians.

What brings all these diverse people together is our common faith in the person of Jesus Christ and the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod. These are the foundations of everything we do and want to achieve at Mazenod since our opening in 1967.

Our faith in Jesus and the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod call us to be a people open to using the gifts of the Holy Spirit so that we will dare to believe, dare to make a difference, dare to do our part in caring for the vulnerable, in other words, to ‘Leave nothing undared for the Kingdom of God’.

St Eugene de Mazenod, founder of the Oblates, encouraged everyone not to be a “smouldering wick.” He wanted people to “burn, to burn brightly and to give light.”

a number of long serving staff members who have given loyal and passionate service to generations of students.

We celebrate the great academic success of the class of 2023 and hear from the Dux of the College. Beyond the confines of the classroom, Mazenod College is a community built on camaraderie and shared experiences. In this edition, we shine a spotlight on some of the vibrant extracurricular landscape of Mazenod. It is through these shared passions and pursuits that lifelong friendships are forged, and memories are made.

In the pages of The Provence, you will find stories that resonate, achievements that inspire, and connections that endure. We hear from Old Collegians Brent King, Namik Perera and Gregory White. We invite you to join us on this journey as we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and chart a course for the future of the Mazenod College community.

Thank you for your unwavering support, enthusiasm, and dedication to making Mazenod College a place where every individual can thrive.

Dr Paul Shannon, Principal

The legacy of St Eugene de Mazenod we have inherited, and which led him to being canonised a Saint in 1995, is to live with a zeal which offers all people, especially the disadvantaged, the love of God through the gospel message in action.

Jesus’ own legacy was that he enabled all who listened to realise that their loving God sees them, loves them and is at work in and through them.

In 2024 and beyond our challenge is to leave a legacy, by allowing the Holy Spirit to work with, in and through us, ensuring that our College and society will be a better place for each of us having passed through it.

In the end, the aim of our Christian lives, academically and spiritually, is to be missionary, offering our sisters and brothers a window to God Himself who gives them hope.

St Eugene de Mazenod Pray for us.

Fr Harry Dyer OMI, Rector

Dr Paul Shannon, Principal

Fr Harry Dyer OMI, Rector

79.50

32 Median Study Score

123

40+ Study Scores achieved (12.56%)

2023 Dux - 99.95 ATAR

Alexander Tsipos, the 2023 Dux of Mazenod College, has not only secured a perfect ATAR score of 99.95 but has also left an indelible mark on the history of the College.

Reflecting on his journey, Tsipos shares a mix of determination and humility, emphasising the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned.

“I formulated a meticulous study schedule and planned every aspect of my life down to the minute, believing I’d sustained a strong routine that would carry me to success at the end of the year,” Tsipos recalls. His dedication and careful planning paid off, resulting in outstanding Study Scores, including 47 in Chemistry, 47 in Mathematical Methods, and an impressive 50 in English Language.

Interestingly, Tsipos found Year 11 more challenging than Year 12, having already mastered study techniques the previous year. He candidly admits, “Looking back, I realised how naive I was because it was only three weeks later when I found myself back on Twitter and Instagram reels, mindlessly scrolling through the thousands of memes, videos, and comments.”

Tsipos learned a valuable lesson during his academic journey: “Year 12 was more than just a score. And while I still work the VCE system, studying the key knowledge points and the exam reports, I simultaneously treated Year 12 as a year that I had to enjoy every moment of.” This perspective allowed him to balance hard work with well-earned breaks, ultimately contributing to his success.

Charles

100%

Successful VCE Vocational Major completions

Beyond academics, Tsipos has been offered two prestigious scholarships. The Melbourne University’s Chancellor’s Scholarship beckons him toward a Bachelor of Science, followed by postgraduate studies in Law or Engineering. Alternatively, the Sir John Monash Scholarship for Distinction from Monash University offers a double degree in Engineering and Law. His passion for math, science, and legal subjects has shaped his career aspirations.

Tsipos acknowledges Mazenod College for its unwavering support, particularly emphasising the role of his teachers. “I’d like to extend my immense gratitude to all the teachers and staff I’ve had during my time at the College. Each and every one of them has had a profound impact on my personal and academic development.”

In celebrating Alexander Tsipos’ achievements, we not only recognise an exceptional student but also a trailblazer who has set new standards for excellence at Mazenod College. His journey serves as an inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the importance of dedication, balance, and the support of a nurturing academic community.

Alexander Tsipos (Class of 2023), College Dux

Notable high achievers

In a year of stress and relentless toil, the reward of achieving excellence with a 93.55 ATAR was well worth it. Ultimately, it was the school community’s support and influence that propelled me to this achievement; in a Mazenod that had come to abide by Dr Shannon’s objective for 2023: ‘excellence every day by everybody.’

Undertaking a leadership role among my studies in Year 12, as one of the College’s Vice Captains, was far from the burden that most may think. Rather, this role allowed me to escape and focus on leading the school with a team of peers to the environment of excellence that equally helped me. In the future, I will be studying Commerce

at Melbourne University, while working at the College as an Oblate Youth Minister.

When I began Year 7, I never imagined that this journey would be not only hard and challenging, but also beautifully meaningful in shaping me into who I am today. Year 12 was especially significant, as I had already completed two Unit 3/4 subjects in Year 11 and only had to do four subjects instead of five. This gave me more time

to finish my studies and homework with a peace of mind that I had never experienced before. It was a precious and valuable gift to me, and it allowed me to explore the course of Theology at ACU and CTC. By balancing fitness, academics and reading on theology, I achieved an ATAR of 85.35 and enrolled in Theology at CTC in Fitzroy. Year 12

During my years in school, I noticed that I got easily distracted and had trouble finishing the work when I had to sit down and write or copy from a textbook. On the other hand, I was not distracted at all in my engineering and maths classes. I preferred to do physical work rather than sitting at a desk all day typing or writing for hours on end.

During my time at Mazenod, the VCE Years, especially Year 12, were the most challenging of my schooling years. I studied English, General Maths, Art Making and Exhibiting, Visual Communication Design and Japanese Second Language. I also did Unit 3/4 Religion and Society in Year 11, which helped reduce my workload for Year 12.

That is why I chose the VCE Vocational Major pathway. It taught me many skills that I would need in the workplace, and it also helped me improve my trade skills. I learned many new techniques during my TAFE days as well. I not only learned the basic skills required for the trades, but also many tips and tricks that made my work easier.

As everyone had warned me, Year 12 was the ultimate crucible, filled with late nights, long study sessions and copious amounts of coffee. I finished with an ATAR of 85.90 and I am studying a double degree in Marketing and Media Communications at Monash University.

was an absolute blessing and looking back on it, I feel nothing but joy for the memories and hope that overcoming such difficulties can help me face life’s challenges.

Throughout Year 11 and 12, I completed subjects such as English and Mathematical Methods, as well as a variety of creative subjects: Visual Communication Design, Art Making and Exhibiting, and VET Creative Digital Media. One important thing I learned was how to balance time between creative subjects and content-based

subjects, but most days were mainly devoted to portfolio and folio work. Having a stable school life and social life also helped me keep my composure until the end of VCE at Mazenod, where I achieved an ATAR of 84.55 and enrolled in a Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) at RMIT University.

Although there are many things I would change if I could do Year 12 again, such as the subjects I chose and my study methods, I do not dwell on the long study sessions but rather on the moments I shared with friends. Ultimately, it was only through the hardship and struggles of Year 12 that I was able to prepare for what comes next in life.

Khoa Vu (Class of 2023)

James Kwan (Class of 2023)

Joseph Dinh (Class of 2023)

xavier Montoya (Class of 2023)

Gabriel Chen (Class of 2023)

I entered Year 12 with a goal. Unlike my peers and other students around the state, I knew what I wanted to do. Engineering at Monash had been my main focus since the start of Year 10, but I knew I had to overcome the biggest hurdle of my life by obtaining a 90 ATAR during my VCE studies. Many people believe Year 12 is the most

Looking back, I am thankful for the VCE period, even though it was one of the most stressful times of my life. I could not have imagined the opportunities that it opened up for me, not only for my future career, but also for the social connections that I would not have made otherwise.

draining and challenging year of high school, but I strongly declare that Year 12 was the best year I had at Mazenod. By participating in sports and forming new friendships, I balanced my life and fully developed my academic abilities. Although the countless hours of studying during those final weeks in October and November were a big

After high school, I appreciate every friend and teacher I met along the way to where I am now. Achieving an ATAR of 91.95 and enrolling in the Bachelor of Engineering Honours and Commerce at Monash would not have been possible without these last two years.

challenge, I can proudly look back now at my achievement of a 90.80 ATAR and getting accepted into Engineering and Commerce at Monash University. However, I will mainly remember the friendships I made and the fun times I had during my time in Year 12 at Mazenod College.

At the start of highschool, going to Mazenod right after reaching the top of primary school was a refreshing but also overwhelming experience, and graduating as a Year 12 Mazenodian has only reminded me of that feeling. As a Year 7, I never would have thought that I’d have made it this far and had always enjoyed the present instead of worrying

about the future. This mindset caused some moments of regret but also sparked more than a little fire in my life. My VCE journey, efforts, and assistance from others, have rewarded me with an ATAR of 70.70, which was high enough to obtain my preference of the Bachelor of Information Technology course at RMIT University.

This was only possible with the assistance and guidance of my teachers and fellow peers.

(Photo l-R): Joshua Wilton (2023 College Captain), Vinh luong, and Benjamin Sawaya (Class of 2023) at our Day of Excellence Awards assembly on Friday 16th February, 2024.

Kyle Carboon (Class of 2023)

Trent Do (Class of 2023)

Tony Nguyen (Class of 2023)

2024 Athletics Carnival

Kevin Rudd was the Prime Minister, Google Street View images of Australian city streets were added to Google Maps, and Hawthorn were the AFL Premiers. The year was 2008 and Chisholm House had won their first ever Athletics Championship. Fast forward 16 years and the 2008 triumph was still their sole victory.

The second week of Term 1 saw our return to the track for the 2024 Athletics Carnival. The day was filled with plenty of colour, house spirit and enthusiasm amongst the participants. There were many outstanding performances of the day, and all students should be congratulated on their attitude and participation on the day.

Competition was fierce and it was tight between the Houses for most of the day. In the end it was close, but Chisholm broke through to win over Grandin and Gerard.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

We are excited to announce that the Mazenod/Avila musical for 2024 will be Charlie And The Chocolate Factory!

The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory… but only to a lucky few. Young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a life-changing journey through Wonka’s world of pure imagination.

Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, with music by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the musical also pays homage to the original motion picture including some of it’s memorable songs.

Wednesday 31 July — Saturday 3 August

The Alexander Theathre, Monash University

learn More & Buy Tickets (Coming soon) www.mazenod.vic.edu.au/2024-college-musical

The sixth instalment of the Mazenod Gift (which included each of the year level winners of the 100m event) was a close affair, with Year 10 student Aaron David taking home the honours.

Mr Montoya and Mr Berry used the day to finalise the ACC Athletics team for the ACC Athletics carnival which will be held later during Term 1.

The Mazenod Sports department would like to thank both students and staff for their efforts on the day, which led to a successful carnival.

Footage from the 2024 House Athletics Carvinal, recorded on 9th February, 2024. Scan the QR code above to watch.

2023 College Musical, “Freaky Friday“

Farewell, KD

After 21 years at Mazenod College over 65 years of priestly ordination, including two terms as Principal/Rector and one as Chaplain, Fr Kevin Davine OMI retires to the De Mazenod Family residence on Monday, February 26th, 2024.

Fr Kevin Davine OMI was born in 1936, the eldest of six children raised by loving parents. He grew up in the West Gippsland town of Warragul, about 80 kilometres south-east of Mazenod College, and he remembers the presence of Italian Prisoners of War through those dark years of global conflict.

As a young boy, Fr Davine attended the local convent primary school and quickly made friends - but as there was no secondary school in Warragul at the time, he was later taken in as a boarder at St Patrick’s Sale – a college established by the Marist Brothers.

Fr Davine was on the cusp of furthering his education at university when he made the lifeaffirming decision to join the Oblate Fathers. A motivating factor in becoming an Oblate was the kindness shown to him by the local parish priest when he (Fr Davine) lost his father at the tender age of 14.

Fr Davine has often thought how wonderful his mother was, in somehow managing to keep his late father’s solicitor’s practice going whilst raising six kids on her own. To quote Fr Davine: “Mum never emphasised her selflessness, but we knew she was selfless, and I suppose it made me think unselfishly”.

Fr Davine traversed the globe to further his studies with the Oblates, to a seminary in Ireland for a period of six years. How lonely he must have felt as the sailing ship pulled out of Station Pier – a feeling only exacerbated in Ireland in the days when there were no newspapers to keep one abreast of happenings in the outside world.

On his return to Australia (this time by plane) in the late 1950s, Fr Davine was assigned to a teaching role with Brisbane’s newly-established school, Iona College – the first College opened by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Australia. There he taught classes by day and pursued university studies by night, and he built a wonderful rapport with his students from day one.

Reflecting on those days, Father Davine says: “I suppose I’m probably a fairly shy person, but in school you had to be outgoing - and I loved the kids, and I took an interest in them”.

Beyond Iona, Fr Davine furthered his teaching with six years at Mazenod College, Lesmurdie in

Western Australia, until his return to Victoria as Mazenod College’s second Rector (Principal). Recently asked to paint the picture of the place he inherited as Rector, 1973-1977, Fr Davine replied: “Mud, lots of mud”.

“The freeway wasn’t finished, there was slab of concrete in the middle of the ground and all we had was the building (at the main entrance),” Fr Davine says.

“The school wasn’t very well-resourced and there were 21 on the staff, including myself. Fr John Sherman and Mr Kevin Jones were doing a great job with our financial situation - we had to do our best. I spent a lot of time with Year 12 myself. I taught them English Literature and Religion and got involved with them as much as I could. I also had to coach the football team. We didn’t have much success, but football and cricket brought me close to the kids and they knew you were interested in them.”

In difficult times, Fr Davine’s philosophy served him well – and it’s a philosophy that still resonates at Mazenod to this day. To quote Fr Davine again: “One of my first jobs was to establish confidence and pride in the boys and make them feel that I cared about them. That they mattered. I thought it important that we establish belief in the College”.

In those early establishment days of Mazenod, Fr Davine worked closely with the College Board, led by Mr Mick O’Rourke. As he reflected: “I made it my business to go and meet all the Parish Priests around us because I wanted them to appreciate the fact that we were sincerely trying to make

this their regional College”. Co-operation of the parishes was essential for enrolments, however, finances were not easy, as at that time the parishes had to pay a levy depending on the number of students from their parish.

He encouraged the involvement of parents and friends, saying: “One of the great advantages of a brand new foundation is there are so many things you want and can work for. We built very strongly on that”.

In his second term as Rector, 1989-1995, Fr Davine inherited a very different place - a college that had quite clearly matured in terms of its infrastructure and the many and varied programs it now offered. He oversaw the construction of a new computer center, association with the Box Hill TAFE program and a high level of student success in academic programs.

Throughout it all, Fr Davine broadened his great love of teaching and today he looks back with justifiable pride on the enduring legacy he has left.

“I’m very happy with the spirit of the school... there’s a friendliness there,” Fr Davine says.

“The staff are friendly to the boys and the boys are friendly to the staff - and I’ve always said that if you speak to them in a proper way, you can expect to be treated the same way.”

Fr Davine returned to Mazenod as Chaplain in 2017, continuing in that role until his retirement.

Interview with Fr Kevin Davine OMI (recorded Wednesday, 6TH September 2023). Scan the QR code above to watch.

Inaugural Mass, St. Patrick’s Cathedral (23rd February, 2024).

Thank you, and best wishes

Throughout the year we farewelled several staff members and would like to show our appreciation of the following Education support staff: Bridgette Gray, June Stewart, Stuart Rhind, Wendy Liu, Kerry Wang and Scott Antidormi. In addition, we wish our departing teachers the best for the future: Carolyn Clement, Xin Chen, Lucia Hosking and Learning Diversity Officers Szeyu Chen and Nives Milanovic.

It would be remiss not to make special mention of the teaching staff who have each contributed a minimum of 20 years of service to the College: sporting supercoach Adrian Connolly; Gary Fox, who inspired a passion for basketball; Ian Steel who created the College computer operating system; Joe Moore who introduced the History Enhancement program and was the success story behind Volleyball; Chemistry teacher Kaye Williamson, who will be remembered for her pastoral care of students; and John McCabe, the longest serving teacher and an inspiration to former students with esteemed careers in Art and Design. We will miss our departing staff and wish you all health and happiness for the adventures that lie ahead.

Heartwarming tribute to coach Joe Moore at the 2023 Australian Volleyball Schools Cup (AVSC) in December 2023, where the year 10 Honours team wore custom ‘Moore’ jerseys during their final match of the tournament.

John McCabe

Adrian Connolly

Joe Moore

Carolyn Clement

Kaye Williamson

xin Chen

Ian Steel

Stuart Rhind

Gary Fox

June Stewart

Mission Action Day (MAD)

It’s that time of year when our College community comes together to raise awareness and funds to support the work of the Oblate Missions, as they continue to serve the needy in marginalised communities throughout the world facing increasing hardship.

Our Student Leadership Team are excited to share with you what we’ve got in store in the leadup to Mission Action Day 2024, so get ready for an exciting day filled with community spirit, fun activities and a chance to make a difference!

Learn how you can get involved by scanning the QR code or visiting www.mazenod.vic.edu.au/ mission-action-day

Campus updates

Year 8 and Year 10 Corridor Renovations

To enhance our learning environment, we’ve renovated the historic Year 8 and Year 10 corridors, dating back 56 years. Walls were removed, and in-built lockers with laptop charging outlets were added, along with glass for spaciousness and natural light. Some classrooms now provide direct access to outdoor learning spaces for innovative teaching and interaction with our turtle colony.

The modernised classrooms boast adjustable lighting for audio-visual presentations, larger whiteboards, and flexible furniture arrangements to encourage collaboration. To uphold sustainability, automatic lighting sensors were installed to reduce energy consumption, reflecting our ongoing commitment to creating an optimal educational experience.

Presentation by the Student leadership Team informing about Mission Action Day 2024, recorded on 26th February, 2024. Scan the QR code above to watch & learn more.

During and after the renovations of the year 8 corridor.

College calendar

March

Mission Action Day

Thursday 28 | 2:00pm student dismissal

School Holidays

Friday 29 March — Monday 15 April

April

Term 2 Begins

Tuesday 16

year 8 Grandparents Day

Friday 26 | 9:00am

May

College Tours

Thursday 2 | 8:45am

Mother’s Day Mass & Breakfast

Thursday 9 | 8:00am

Mother’s Day Dinner

Friday 10 | 7:00pm

Feast of St. Eugene de Mazenod

Tuesday 21

June

School Holidays

Friday 28 June — Monday 15 July

July

Term 3 Begins

Tuesday 16

College Tours

Wednesday 24 | 8:45am

College Musical

Wednesday 31 July — Saturday 3 August

August

College Tours

Tuesday 6 | 8:45am

Assumption Day Mass

Thursday 15

Applications close for year 7, 2026

Friday 16

Father’s Day Mass & Breakfast

Friday 30 | 8:00am

September

year 7 2025 Information Evening

Wednesday 4

Music Gala

Tuesday 10

Class of 2023 Reunion

Thursday 12 | 7:30pm

Class of 2022 Reunion

Friday 13 | 7:30pm

Class of 2011, ‘01, ‘91, ‘81, ‘71 Reunion

Thursday 19 | 6:00pm

Class of 2014, ‘04, ‘94, ‘84, ‘74 Reunion

Friday 20 | 6:00pm

Change for Change & Emergency Services Assembly

Friday 13

Performing Arts Festival

Wednesday 18

School Holidays

Friday 20 September — Friday 4 October

October

Term 4 Begins

Monday 7

Night of Excellence

Thursday 17 | 7:00pm

year 7, 2026 Offers Emailed

Friday 18

College Tours

Tuesday 22 | 8:45am

November

Deceased Old Boys Memorial Mass

Friday 8

December

year 7 2025 Parent/Carer Dinner

Monday 2

Junior Music Gala

Tuesday 3

St Eugene de Mazenod Canonisation

Tuesday 3

Term 4 Ends

Friday 6

year 7 2025 Orientation Day

Monday 9 | 8:30am

Office Closes

Friday 20

Parents & Friends Association

We welcome all parents and guardians. Please register to join the association and be part of this growing group of parents who seek to be more engaged and part of the Mazenod life!

Dare to achieve.

Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association

Key Contacts

Address and email updates

MOCA stories

Birth, marriage, and death notices

Calendar and event enquiries moca@mazenod.vic.edu.au

Academic transcripts frontdesk@mazenod.vic.edu.au

Clubs

Mazenod Old Collegians’ Cricket Club (MOCCC)

President

John Raymond

Vice President

Phil Ryan

Secretary Craig Don Paul

Treasurer James Dobeli

www.mazenodcricketclub.com.au

Mazenod Old Collegians’ Football Club (MOCFC)

President Craig Todd

Vice Presidents

Lindsay Moore & Colin Rich

Secretary

Paul Deegan

Treasurer

Dominic Barker

www.mazenodfc.com.au

Mazenod Volleyball Club (MVC)

President Luke Apollonio

Vice President Ian Bingham

www.mazenodvolleyballclub.com

Mazenod Football Club (Mazenod FC)

President

Daniel Paone

Vice President

Bianca Carretta

Secretary

Michael Diamanté

Treasurer Santo Biondo

www.mazenodfootballclub.com.au

You’re invited

Your Mazenod experience doesn’t end with graduation. The Mazenod Old Collegians’ Portal provides valuable opportunities to learn, share and connect with our thriving Old Collegian community every day.

Mentoring and career support

Networking and professional development opportunities

Old Collegian news and updates

Exclusive events and photos

MOCA Insider

Brent King

Class of 2004

I graduated from Mazenod College in 2004. I have many fond memories of my time there from performing in the college musicals, becoming a prefect, Mission Action Day and heavily investing myself into the music program. For me, however, the most influential and formative time was spent in the Art room.

during my studies (BVA, BFA Hons., MFA), however, at the end of my final degree I considered another leap into becoming a Boilermaker and land myself within an employable trade. It was around this time I received a phone call to begin the next chapter of my life as a Technical Officer at Monash University’s Art Design and Architecture Faculty.

I’d spent much of my time at Mazenod thinking I’d pursue medicine, specialising in heart or brain surgery. So much so in fact I went and sat the UMAT (Undergraduate Medical Admission Test). However, my ENTER fell about 7 points short and my UMAT score landed just over half of the 300 possible points! Not all bad news though, in retrospect was a freeing moment of side-stepping this long held academic goal and embracing pursuing my creative passions whole-heartedly – which had always been art, music and writing. I owe a lot to Mr John McCabe for quite literally handing me the course-guide book open at the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Visual Arts page which was the push I needed to take the plunge. I’m proud of myself for taking those steps and indebted to my supporters instilling that courage in me to jump into the unknown.

With a career in the Creative Arts being a bit left-ofcentre for most, being a professional artist means embracing uncertainty and requires a drive to produce meaningful work often without promise of commercial gain. I was fortunate to exhibit, sell, commission and develop a creative arts practice

Combined, I spent 14 years pursing my love for learning, making and later: education, studying and working at Monash University. A love for supporting others with their creative outputs is something that has stayed with me. In 2019 another phone call opened the door for as I’m now working as the Digital Manufacturing CoOrdinator at The Creature Technology Company in Port Melbourne. I’m responsible for running the 7-axis robotic milling machine and suite of 3D printers, predominantly facilitating rapidprototyping needs across projects. Outside of work, spending a lot of time bouldering and working on my classic mini.

It’s a difficult thing to promote to those entering the workforce or planning for a future, but my advice is to keep yourself open to new and exciting opportunities. Foster your relationships with people and maintain your integrity and drive for the things that bring you excitement and joy. Of course we can’t all do work that aligns with our passions, steps may seem slow but I do hope you find your way there. There might just be something to those Latin words on your breast pocket.

Brent King (Class of 2004), Creature Technology

Behind the scenes of rapid-prototyping at Creature Technology

Dr Namik Perera

Class of 2015

Namik Perera, a recent Medicine graduate from Monash University, stands as the Inaugural Recipient of the Gandel Scholarship. Hailing from Sri Lanka, Namik’s passion for children’s health stems from witnessing the healthcare challenges faced by many in his homeland.

The Gandel Scholarship, a turning point in Namik’s life, brought tears of joy and relief when he received the call on ATAR day. Beyond financial support, the scholarship provided peace of mind, security, and comfort to his family, particularly easing his mother’s worries.

Expressing deep gratitude, Namik highlighted the scholarship’s immeasurable impact, shaping not only his future but instilling qualities of kindness, compassion and respect. His heartfelt thanks extended to Mr. and Mrs. Gandel, the Gandel family, and the Gandel Foundation for the lifechanging opportunity.

Namik aspires to emulate the generosity he received, committing to be the best possible doctor and person. His message resonates with

Dr Gregory White

Class of 2013

the core values instilled by the scholarship, emphasising kindness and compassion in medical practice. In thanking Vedran for attending the ceremony, Namik underscored the profound appreciation for the ongoing support

of the Gandel family. Namik’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative influence of education and philanthropy, inspiring others to make a positive impact on the community.

The Mazenod College community proudly congratulates Dr. Gregory White, a distinguished graduate from the class of 2013, on the successful completion of his doctoral studies at Melbourne University. Dr. White’s academic journey has culminated in a specialisation in the groundbreaking field of quantum computing.

Embarking on a path that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, Dr. White has demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in his chosen field. The Mazenod community extends its heartfelt best wishes as he takes on a post-doctoral placement in Berlin, where he will undoubtedly continue to make significant contributions to the ever-evolving realm of quantum computing.

For those with a technical inclination, Dr. White’s research is nothing short of groundbreaking. His focus on developing methods to characterise and control complex noise in quantum devices, and subsequently implementing them on commercial-grade quantum computers, showcases his commitment to advancing the field. These methods not only enhance the performance of quantum computers but also unravel exotic quantum phenomena, including the exploration of temporal entanglement across numerous time frames.

Dr. Gregory White’s achievements stand as a testament to the excellence fostered at Mazenod College. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and groundbreaking contributions in quantum computing make him a source of pride for the Old Collegians community. Mazenod College eagerly anticipates the continued success and innovations that Dr. White will undoubtedly bring to the forefront of quantum computing during his post-doctoral tenure in Berlin.

Monash university’s interview with Dr Namik Perera. Scan the QR code above to watch.

Dr Gregory White (Class of 2013)

Built on solid foundations

In 1973, when Fr Davine assumed the role as Rector, Monash Freeway had not been completed and blackberries were prolific. He recalls that the College had a slab of concrete outside the main building and “there was a lot of mud”. He speaks of his pride in being entrusted to build on achievements of the founders, “supported by the real sacrifices of parishioners and priests and the hard work of voluntary helpers and co-operative parents”.

Through judicious planning and management, and the introduction of government support, the College grew rapidly. Science facilities, library, music, art, administration areas and classrooms were constructed. Tennis courts, ovals and landscaping were a high priority for outdoor activities. When farewelled in 1977, Fr Davine had overseen an era of growth.

On his return in 1989, Fr Davine assumed the role as Rector of a well established school with an excellent academic reputation. By 1995 the computer era had entered education and specialist buildings were under construction.

Construction of the Founders’ Complex, Provence Centre, VCE Complex, Library and Chapel and refurbished classrooms are just some of the recent improvements. The College and its vision for the future are all built on the foundations, courage and foresight of the early Mazenod Oblates.

Camilla Elliott, Archivist

1971 Construction of the 6 bedroom priests’ residence provided accommodation onsite for the Oblates.

1974 Completion of new wing. Administration entrance at front. landscaped entrance with pond.

1987 O’Rourke building provided new library, auditorium and year 12 classrooms.

1990 Aerial view – Mazenod is a well established educational institution.

1976 Aerial view - Shows early growth and settlement.