The Eagle 27 June 2025
Principal's Report
Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,
As Term 2 draws to a close, I want to express my thanks to our staff, families and especially our students for a term marked by learning, growth and connection. Whether in classrooms, on stage, in sports or through daily interactions, you have brought our College’s mission to life with commitment and character.
This week, I have had the privilege of representing Marcellin College at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) Annual Conference in Boston. With the theme Better Together, the conference allowed us to reflect on how boys learn, connect, and thrive and how schools like ours can continue to support them to become men of courage, character, and compassion.
A proud moment for our College came as two of our staff - Mr Simon Annett and Mrs Sarah Moss-Holland - shared our evolving Pastoral Program with the international audience. In their session, Cultivating Culture and Connection: Strengths-Based Pastoral Care and Shared Values, they explored how Marcellin has drawn on research and reflection to reimagine how we support boys through the lens of our Marist HEART values: Humility, Excellence, Acceptance, Resilience and Trust.
Now in their second year, these values are taking deeper root in the life of our College. They are becoming more than principles we promote - they are becoming habits of the heart that shape how we relate to one another, how we teach and lead, and how our students grow. Every act of courage, kindness, honesty or determination seen across our campus is a living sign of this transformation.
The conference itself has been rich in insight and inspiration. General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, challenged us to reflect on our influence as educators. He reminded us that real leadership is not defined by authority, but by service, and that the values we model shape the world our students will inherit.
We were also deeply moved by Shabana Basij-Rasikh, co-founder of the School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA). Her story of founding the country’s first girls’ boarding school under Taliban rule - and continuing her mission in exile, was a powerful reminder of the transformative and liberating power of education, particularly when grounded in hope, resilience and belief in the dignity of every child.
While Hugh Jackman was unable to attend in person, he introduced the final keynote speaker via video — Australian mental health advocate Gus Worland. Gus offered an emotionally resonant call for all of us working with boys to lead with empathy, build safe spaces for emotional honesty and continue creating cultures of connection. His message affirmed the importance of what we do: forming not just capable learners, but good men - men who can listen, trust, care and stand up for others.
This experience has reminded me that working in a boys’ school is a profound privilege. It calls us to understand the specific needs of boys, not to limit them, but to open them to a wider horizon of possibility - to help them grow into men who lead with heart.
Thank you once again for your support, partnership and trust throughout this term. I wish all our families a restful and renewing break, and I look forward to all that awaits in Term 3.
God Bless,
Marco Di Cesare
Principal
Loving God,
You call us to be people of compassion, justice, and peace.
In a world marked by conflict and suffering,
may we be instruments of Your peace—serving where there is need, listening where there is pain, and acting where there is injustice.
Bless our students, families, and staff at Marcellin College
as we seek to live our faith through action.
Inspire us to serve generously, love courageously, and walk humbly with You.
May our small acts of kindness ripple outward—
bringing hope to the vulnerable, healing to the broken-hearted, and peace to a world in need.
St Marcellin Champagnat, pray for us.
Mary, our Good Mother, pray for us.
And let us always remember, To pray for one another
Faith & Mission
Year 12 Christian Seminar - Interfaith Panel
As part of the Year 12 Christian Seminar program, students recently took part in a rich and inspiring Interfaith Panel, featuring guest speakers from the Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, and Jewish traditions. Each representative offered an insight into their faith, sharing stories, teachings, and practices that shape their lives and communities.
The session was thoughtfully guided by Mr McNulty, Ministry Assistant and Emil, our Faith and Mission Captain, who led the panel through a respectful conversation about the challenges each religious tradition faces in the world today, as well as the best way to be involved in interfaith cooperation in the modern world.
Students and staff were then invited to ask questions, sparking thoughtful discussion and fostering a deeper appreciation of religious diversity. The panel was a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and shared humanity in an increasingly interconnected world.
This experience challenged students to think critically, listen openly, and continue exploring the role of faith in shaping both personal identity and global community. Thanks to Ms Marchese, who was the driver of this initiative.
Living the Gospel Through Action: Faith-in-Action at Marcellin
At Marcellin College, our Faith-in-Action program is more than a collection of service opportunities—it is an invitation for our young people to embody the Gospel values of compassion, solidarity and justice.
Rooted in our Catholic Marist identity, the program offers students authentic ways to serve others, develop empathy, and reflect on the needs of our wider community. Whether it’s preparing meals for the homeless or tutoring primary school students, each act of service becomes a moment of grace and growth.
Our cornerstone Christian Service programs—such as the Bread Run and the St Pius Homework Club continue to provide students with powerful encounters with those on the margins. This semester, we have also commenced our pancake breakfasts at St Mary’s House of Welcome, providing food and connection to those experiencing homelessness in inner Melbourne and volunteering at local Vinnies stores. This has been a deeply moving experience for our students, and we warmly extend an invitation to all students and staff to join us in this initiative.
The Year 9 curriculum now embeds service learning through a Social Justice unit, including partnerships with the Exodus Community and a new Comfort Cross project, where students craft hand-held wooden crosses to be gifted to elderly parishioners in our community.
In 2025, we’ve broadened opportunities to meet student needs and schedules. We’re developing partnerships with local Vinnies stores, supporting Eat Up’s sandwich-making initiative, and fundraising for causes aligned with each of our eight House groups. From domestic violence and youth homelessness to First Nations justice and anti-trafficking advocacy, our students are forming a deeper understanding of the world—and their capacity to make a difference.
We acknowledge the challenges: balancing co-curricular demands, transport logistics, and part-time work can make participation difficult. But we are committed to creating accessible, meaningful and diverse opportunities for all students to engage in Christian Service.
Parents and families are essential partners in this mission. By encouraging and supporting your child’s involvement in Faith-in-Action, you are nurturing a faith that does justice.
As St Marcellin Champagnat reminds us, "To educate children, you must first love them, and love them all equally." Through Faith-in-Action, our students learn to love generously, act justly and grow into people of hope and service.
Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal, Faith & Mission
Learning & Teaching
Term 2 in Focus: Learning, Pathways, and Looking Forward
As we reach the end of what has been a big and busy Term 2, it’s a wonderful moment to pause and reflect on all that has taken place in our College community.
This term has seen our students engage in significant milestones, including mid-year exams, the General Achievement Test (GAT) and most recently, the commencement of our subject selection process for 2026. These events sit alongside a rich variety of curriculum and co-curricular experiences, such as Generations in Jazz, Outdoor Education Camps, Geography fieldwork, the Senior Production, Structured Work Placement and the always-popular Year 7 Night at the Museum. I promise I have only mentioned a few here.
I would like to briefly acknowledge the importance of exams in a student’s learning journey. While results are one aspect, the most valuable lessons often come from the process itself – learning how to prepare, manage time and develop effective study habits. I encourage families to have meaningful conversations with their students about how prepared they felt for their exams, what worked well, and what they might do differently next time. Building these skills takes time and reflection.
As many education experts note, the ability to plan, practice, and reflect are not only key elements of becoming an effective exam taker, but more importantly, they help develop resilience and foster the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for lifelong learning.
I also want to thank families for partnering with us as we navigate the subject selection journey together. These conversations are vital in supporting students to choose pathways that align with their interests, skills and future goals. Ongoing dialogue between families, students and teachers is key to ensuring each student is in the best possible pathway to experience success and fulfil their potential.
With that in mind, please save the date of our upcoming Subject Selection and Careers Expo on Thursday, 24 July.
To help stagger visitors and ensure that all students have a chance to speak with teachers and universities, we recommend attendance at the following times:
- Year 8 students – between 5.15pm and 6.15pm
- Year 9 students – between 6.15pm and 7.15pm
- Year 10 students – between 7.15pm and 8.15pm
- Year 11 students are welcome throughout the evening.
This event will provide an excellent opportunity to speak directly with subject teachers, explore pathway options and engage with a wide range of tertiary providers who can offer insights into future possibilities.
As we approach the holiday break, I offer my sincere thanks to all members of our community for your support, partnership, and the energy you bring to the life of the College. I wish you all a safe, restful and refreshing holiday.
Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching
News from Our Learning Leaders
Music Department News
As Term 2 wraps up, it’s hard to believe we kicked things off with three buzzing Jazz Ensembles heading to South Australia for Generations in Jazz! That exciting weekend now feels like a distant memory – but what a start it was.
Since then, our students have been busy performing in everything from the Senior Production and Mass services to our formal Intermediate and VCE Recital Evenings. It’s been a huge term, full of music and growth.
Our Instrumental Music Program continues to go from strength to strength, with fantastic new tutors joining the team. Students can learn everything from trumpet and saxophone to guitar, drums and strings – with special group lesson rates for all 2025 Year 7 students. Email music@marcellin.vic.edu.au to find out more.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to return to Upper Plenty for Music Camp in Week 6 of Term 3. Congratulations to the selected Year 7 students joining us through the Junior Ensemble Program – we can’t wait to see you in action!
And finally, save the date! Our 75th Anniversary Music Gala Concert will take place at The Centre, Ivanhoe on Sunday, 12 October – a celebration of music from the College past and present. With alumni and students coming together on stage, it promises to be a night to remember. Tickets on sale in Term 3!
Timothy Webster, Acting Head of Music
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!
There’s no better way to ignite a passion for the performing arts than by experiencing it live, and our 2025 production students were given a great treat!
On Thursday, 19 June a group of our talented and enthusiastic senior performing arts students attended a performance of Beetlejuice the Musical at Melbourne’s iconic Regent Theatre. Known for its witty humour, high-energy music and jaw-dropping stagecraft, this acclaimed Broadway show was a source of inspiration for our future performers, designers and directors.
Opportunities like this are a vital part of the Marcellin experience. They allow students to immerse themselves in professional-level productions, deepen their appreciation for the craft and dream big about where their own creative journeys might take them. Students interested in theatre studies in the senior years are encouraged to pick it as part of their subject selection.
Callum Byrne, Performing Arts Teacher
Auditions for the 2025 junior production Into the Woods
Do you love to act, sing, or perform? Now’s your chance to shine on stage!
We’re excited to announce auditions for this year’s junior production in collaboration with Our Lady of Mercy (OLMC) will be Into the Woods Jr., and we’re especially encouraging junior Years 7 – 9 students to get involved.
Auditions will be held on Friday, 25 July from 9am – 12pm in the MPAC Theatre, Marcellin College.
To audition, you’ll need to prepare a short monologue (around 1–2 minutes) to perform on the day. Click here to access the material.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying something new, this is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a magical and rewarding production experience.
To sign up, simply click here by Thursday, 24 July
Break a leg – we can’t wait to see what you bring to the stage!
Beyond the Classroom | Chess Report
On Thursday, Marcellin Chess Club competed in the Secondary Chess Victoria Zonal Tournament at Yarra Valley Grammar School. It was an intensive yet stimulating day of matches, filled with strategy, tactics, time scrambles and inspiring comebacks.
The highlight of the day was witnessing the Marcellin Firsts team steadily climb to a Marcellin-record 5th place finish in a zonal tournament, qualifying us for the state finals for the first time in school history! A true testament to the determination, grit and resilience of the team.
Special shoutout to Dom, Rian, and Brian (me!) for winning 5 out of their 7 games, and congratulations to the newcomers who played their first-ever tournament to the best of their abilities.
Thank you to our chess coach, Mr Kourchatov, for his impactful lessons and preparation leading up to this and future events. And a big thank you to Ms Nanni for her behind-the-scenes work, making this tournament and the overall success of the Chess Club possible.
Marcellin Chess Club will see you at the State Finals. Go Marcellin!
Brian Nguyen, Chess Captain
Student Wellbeing Programs
Year 7 & 8 Wellbeing Day
In a continued effort to enhance the holistic development of our Year 7 and 8 students, the College recently hosted a dedicated Wellbeing Program Day. The day featured a series of enriching and age-appropriate sessions designed to build resilience, promote safety and foster a strong sense of community.
Students took part in a diverse range of workshops and activities. Metro Trains Victoria delivered an informative session that not only addressed how to navigate public transport safely and responsibly but also emphasised the importance of safety around trains, as well as etiquette and appropriate behaviour.
The Pat Cronin Foundation, represented by Martine, facilitated a powerful and deeply moving presentation. She shared the tragic story of Pat Cronin, a 19-year-old who lost his life after being punched while attempting to remove his friends from danger during a night out. Pat had not engaged in any violence himself and his story served as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of senseless aggression and the importance of non-violence.
Speak and Share delivered a thought-provoking session on emotional wellbeing, highlighting the importance of seeking support and having the courage to confide in someone during challenging times. Their message, encapsulated in the motto “a problem shared is a problem halved,” resonated strongly with the students.
To support physical well-being, Vida Fitness led an energetic session that encouraged healthy habits and teamwork. The boys enjoyed an hour of soccer, during which they revisited key rules of the game and engaged in spirited play.
Literacy was another key focus of the day, with House Leaders delivering an engaging program aimed at strengthening reading and communication skills. The day concluded with a reflective workshop led by Deputy Principal Mr Rocky Gentile, who reinforced the values and lessons explored throughout the day.
The Wellbeing Program Day for Years 7 & 8 was a meaningful and memorable experience, designed to support both the academic and emotional growth of our Year 7 students. It provided them with valuable tools to navigate adolescence with confidence, empathy and resilience.
National Men's Health Week - Pastoral Fitness Challenge
Congratulations to Brooklyn from Year 7 Redden House for completing all 12 activities on the fitness bingo card. Below you can see all the activities that Brooklyn completed.
An outstanding effort, well done, Brooklyn!
Christina Cammarano, Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator
Staff Profile
Hello, I’m Phil Tankey and I am the Business Manager at Marcellin College. I commenced in 2015 and will chalk up 10 years' service next week. I have a very long association with the College going back to 1975 some 50 years ago, when a small young boy walked through the gates at Marcellin Camberwell to commence in Year 5. After 4 years at Camberwell I moved to the Senior School in Bulleen, where I completed my education in 1982 and was the very proud recipient of the inaugural JJ Boyd Award in my final year. I loved sport and captained the school athletics team. After studying Commerce at the University of Melbourne, I joined a big 4 accounting firm and qualified as a Chartered Accountant. My career there was very rewarding and I had wonderful opportunities to work overseas in Vanuatu, New Zealand and the UK.
After stints with some large corporate organisations, I moved into the Not-For-Profit sector and reconnected with Marcellin on the Advisory Council and as Chair of the Finance Committee. Before too long I was appointed as Business Manager overseeing Finance, Facilities, ICT and Capital Projects. I am particularly proud of the major building developments at Marcellin including the Hermitage Project & Marist House refurbishment, multi-purpose sports area and more recently the Placidus Building upgrades and Champagnat Chapel. Working at Marcellin has been an absolute pleasure and I am particularly proud of an amazingly talented and hard-working Finance Team that support the College every day. Whilst we complete the payroll, collect the fees and pay the bills, we also assist our wider community through our bursary program and it is very gratifying when we are able to support families who are having financial hardship to allow their son to have a Marcellin education. I also had the privileged opportunity to be part of the Marist Pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Italy and France, together with supporting our students on the Cambodian Immersion and the Italian Tour.
In more recent times, I have dedicated a significant period of time in working with the North East Link road project (NELP) that sits right on our doorstep. Whilst a distraction from our main purpose of educating young men, we have protected our beautiful property from too much interruption and ensured that our students have always been the centre of our attention. Marcellin is all about Community and we do it so well.
I have recently announced my retirement to move into the next chapter of life, and I take away many fond memories of my time here. I give great thanks to the Principals I have served under being Mark Murphy, John Hickey and Marco Di Cesare together with our Leadership Team members. The future is exciting as I embark on spending time with my family, undertaking some travel in Australia and overseas, improving my (very average) golf game, watching my beloved Demons, keeping fit and looking at volunteer opportunities.
Thank you, Marcellin for a magnificent journey!
Phil Tankey, Business Manager
Student Profile
Hi, my name is Emil and I’m currently in Year 12. Last year, I was appointed as the Senior Faith and Mission Captain for 2025 - a role that has allowed me to grow as a leader by working closely with both my peers and staff, particularly Ms McCarthy, our Deputy Principal of Faith and Mission.
Alongside my Year 12 studies, I’ve recently begun a university diploma course in Business (Event and Sport Management), which I’m incredibly passionate about. I’m excited about the opportunity to turn this passion into a career next year and beyond, and I hope to one day manage large-scale events that make a lasting impact on people and communities. This early start at uni has given me a great head start and insight into the industry, and I’m really enjoying the challenge.
At school, I love being involved in co-curricular activities. This year, I had the opportunity to play Uncle Fester in our school production of The Addams Family.
Outside of school, I enjoy working part-time, going on walks with my dog, and spending time with my friends and family.
Emil, Year 12 Faith & Mission Captain
College Administration
Applications close 4 July - final reminder for eligible families.
Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF)
The Victorian Government provides CSEF to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities. Families holding a valid means-tested concession card or temporary foster parents may be eligible for CSEF.
CSEF eligibility will be subject to the parent/legal guardian’s concession card being successfully validated with Centrelink on 28 January 2025 and/or 15 April 2025
- Please lodge a CSEF application form at the school.
- CESF payment amount – Secondary School $250.00 per year
- The CSEF program for 2025 closes at the end of term two 2025.
Click here to access the application form, or for more information about the CSEF, visit here.
College Events
Save the Dates – upcoming events!
Year 7 2027 Information Evening
We invite prospective families to attend our Year 7 2027 Information Evening on Tuesday, 29 July from 7pm. The evening will showcase what makes Marcellin College a leader in boys’ education and provide important details about the enrolment process and key dates.
To register your attendance, click here.
Families who already have a child at the College are welcome to attend, though it is not required. However, please ensure your application for Year 7 2027 is submitted to avoid missing out on a place
Past and Present Mums Luncheon
Our annual Past and Present Mums’ Mass and Luncheon will take place on Thursday, 14 August in our newly renovated Champagnat Chapel and Functions Room.
Originally started by the Ladies Auxiliary, this cherished tradition celebrates the special bond between past and present members of our community and reflects the strong sense of connection and belonging at Marcellin College.
Tickets are now available and can be purchased here.
Term 3 2025 Key Dates
A reminder to regularly check Compass for key dates and events, as these are subject to change. Any updates will be communicated through the platform. You can also download the PDF below for the Term 3, 2025 Key Dates.
Community News
Celebrating 75 Years: A Legacy of Excellence & Community
On Sunday, 15 June, we came together as a Marcellin community to celebrate a special milestone — our 75th Anniversary Mass and Luncheon. The day began with a beautiful Mass in our newly renovated Champagnat Chapel, followed by a joyful luncheon at Leonda by the Yarra. It was a truly memorable occasion, honouring 75 years of educating young men in the Marist tradition since 1950.
A highlight of the day was welcoming several of our cherished ‘first dayers’ alongside some of our longest-serving staff members — a heartwarming reminder of the strong bonds and lasting legacy that define Marcellin.
Click here to view highlights from the day.
75th Anniversary Commemorative Book
Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Marcellin College history!
Pre-order The Legacy That Is Marcellin College: 75 Years, 75 Stories—our stunning 75th anniversary commemorative book.
This beautifully crafted coffee table book is more than a history; it’s a moving celebration of the people, events and moments that have shaped the spirit of Marcellin over the past 75 years. With only a limited number of copies available, secure yours today before they’re gone! Pre-order price $75 inc. GST and delivery.
To pre-order a copy, please email community@marcellin.vic.edu.au
Vale William (Bill) Rogers
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Bill Rogers, a cherished member of the Marcellin College community and one of our original students from the very first intake in 1950. Bill’s enduring connection to the College was a testament to his deep Marist spirit and pride in being part of our foundation story. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace.
Year 7 2027 Enrolments
Secure your child’s place at the College. Enrolments for Year 7 2027 are now open! Students in Grade 5 are required to enrol before the closing date on Friday, 15 August 2025. For more information and to apply online click here.
Second-Hand Uniform Shop
A reminder, the Second-Hand Uniform Shop, located behind Marist House, is open the first Friday of every month from 9:30am to 12:30pm.
The first opening date for Term 3 will be Friday, 1 August. Pick up those winter warmers for your sons!
Good quality and clean second-hand uniform donations are happily accepted.
Interruptions to the Hurstbridge Line (1 – 24 July)
Families should prepare for significant disruptions to the Hurstbridge train line in July 2025. These disruptions, due to essential maintenance and upgrade works, will involve evening and weekend service alterations, with buses replacing trains on affected segments.
This means students returning to the College from Term 3 need to plan ahead.
📅 Key Disruption Dates that may affect students travelling to the College are:
- Tuesday, 1 July to Thursday, 24 July: Buses will replace trains between Heidelberg and Eltham from 8:30pm to last service each night. (ptv.vic.gov.au)
- Monday, 21 July to Wednesday, 23 July: Evening services between Heidelberg and Hurstbridge will be replaced by buses from 8:30pm to last service each night. (ptv.vic.gov.au)
🧭 Planning Your Journey
- Journey Planner: Use the PTV Journey Planner to map out your trip during disruptions.
- PTV App: Download the PTV app for real-time updates and service information.(ptv.vic.gov.au)
- Stay Informed: Subscribe to PTV's weekly travel alert emails to receive the latest disruption news. (ptv.vic.gov.au)
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/disruptions/mernda-and-hurstbridge-lines-disruptions/
Please see the flyers below to try out community water polo. It might be fun to try out a new sport during the school holidays. For further details, please contact DVE Aquatic.
Marcellin College is not affiliated with Dve Aquatic.
Manningham Council are providing some great school holiday programs. The program offers a range of fun, low-cost activities designed to keep kids active, engaged and entertained during the winter break, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, hockey, wellbeing sessions and more.
Dates: Saturday, 5 July – Friday, 11 July 2025
Locations: Various local venues including Mullum Mullum Reserve and Manningham DISC
Bookings are essential for most activities.
North East Link Project Update
Over the coming weeks, there will be works on Bulleen Road that will affect the entry to the College.
Please refer to the attached flyer for details.
Careers News
Subject Selection Meetings Year 9 and 10
On Tuesday, 17 June, all Year 9 and 10 students had the opportunity to meet with their pastoral teacher to discuss their subject options. As a reminder, students can access their Morrisby profile by using their login details here: morrisby.com.au. The students can access their Career Action Plan on Compass.
The Subject Selection and Careers Expo will run on Thursday, 24 July
A subject selection drop-in session for students will take place in the Chirat Learning Centre (CLC) during Period 1 on July 30. Any students with questions about their subjects for 2026 are welcome to come in during this time. Students and parents are also welcome to book a follow-up session with a member of the Careers Team if they would like more support with subject options for 2026.
Early Entry programs- University
A resource on Early Entry programs for university was released to families and students on 18 June. Year 12 students considering applying for university are recommended to investigate these programs.
Open Days - University details of open days can be found on our Marcellin Careers website.
A reminder that the careers department has a dedicated website providing the latest information to help you make informed decisions about your future career and life beyond school. You can use this site to find universities, TAFE and other courses across Australia, and get information on VCE and much more.
Feel free to drop into the Careers Office or book a meeting with either Lara Ingram or Kevin Kelly if you have any questions.
Kevin Kelly & Lara Ingram, Careers & Further Education