MOCA

As always, we love catching up with news from our former Collegians.

Congratulations to Fr Christian Fini OMI on the 25th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood!

Congratulations to our very own Mazenod Old Boy, Fr Christian Fini OMI (MOC 1992) who celebrated the 25th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood last Saturday, 25th July. The celebration commended with a beautiful Mass held at Good Sheperd Catholic Church in Wheelers Hill and was followed by a wonderful afternoon tea at the Village Green.

Fr Christian’s unique ability to communicate, to interact with, and to engage with people of all ages, and from all walks of life was evident both at the Mass and at the afternoon tea. His inspirational homily touched on his journey as a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate, and on the joys and ups and downs of life. Amongst these emotive and poignant recollections, Fr Christian’s unique ability to inject humour into his homily kept the congregation enthralled and laughing. It was so wonderful to see Fr Christian’s family, friends, Parishioners, and people from his entire life to-date present at the Mass. 

The fact that so many Oblates, Religious and Diocesan Priests came to concelebrate the Mass is a testament to the immense respect and great affection they have for Fr Christian. It was great to see that Fr Christian’s two Rectors when he was a student at Mazenod College, Fr Pat Moroney OMI and Fr Kevin Davine OMI were present. In fact, Fr Bill Ousley OMI, who was Fr Christian’s Year Seven Coordinator was also present and led all the Priests and Deacon in singing a beautiful rendition of the hymn, “Salve Regina”. Furthermore, the fact that the Church was filled was a tangible reminder to Fr Christian, to his family, to the Oblates, and to all, of our immense love for him.

Subsequently, the afternoon tea at the Village Green was fabulous! It was an afternoon filled with so many happy memories, friendships, and great laughs! Fr Christian’s brother, David’s speech, (MOC 1996) was a moving and precious tribute to his brother, and of the immense love and esteem in which the family holds Fr Christian as a son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend. The speech had me simultaneously both in tears and laughing aloud! It was so wonderful for us all to catch up with people from all areas of Fr Christian’s life at this afternoon tea! 

What a joyous afternoon! Fr Christian, we love you and we congratulate you! May Almighty God continue to bless you, and may our Immaculate Mother Mary intercede for all your needs always!

Amongst the Old Boys who were present at this celebration was Sean Sullivan (MOC 1992), a classmate of Fr Christian’s and our MOCA President. Sean commented: 

“What a wonderful afternoon celebrating the 25-year anniversary of Fr. Christian becoming an Oblate. In front of a packed congregation Fr. Christian gave an informative homily, emotional, and with a bit of humour thrown in. The celebrations continued at the Village Green with drinks and finger food. Great to catch up with our past teachers Giacco, Keady, and Moore, as well as Frs. Davine/ Moroney/Ousley. Especially good to have a beer with some fine men from our cohort!”

The photo below shows Fr Christian Fini OMI surround by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and other Diocesan and Religious Order Priests. 

MOCA Catches up with the Presidents/Leaders of our Sporting Clubs

Last week, following our MOCA Annual General Meeting, we had a great night catching up with the Presidents/Senior leaders of our MOCA Sporting Clubs. The evening was held at the Mulgrave Country Club, and it gave us an opportunity to share MOCA’s commitment to supporting our Sporting Clubs as they are a vital part of our Mazenod Community. Sean Sullivan, (MOC 1992) the President of MOCA, invited Dr Paul Shannon, our Mazenod College Principal, to address us all, and Dr Shannon was wonderful in reminding us of his support, commitment and enthusiasm for MOCA, our Sporting Clubs and our wider Mazenod College Community. During the evening, Brendan Neil (MOC 1983) and Phil Ryan (MOC 1988) outlined to everyone the origins and rational behind MOCA’s decision to undertake a Mental Health First Aid Course. It was a fabulous evening!

The photo below shows our MOCA Committee after our Annual General Meeting on the 29th of July 2026. 

The photo below shows our Mazenod College Principal, Dr Paul Shannon, Sean Sullivan and the presidents/Leaders of our MOCA Sporting Clubs. 

Pastoral Care/Wellbeing

Both of us and our MOCA Committee are always available to chat, or to assist our Old Boys in their times of need. In recent weeks, we have been blessed to support our Old Collegians who are experiencing illness in their families, as well as, Old Collegians who have experienced the deaths of loved ones. We seek to support one another by our prayers, friendship, and actions. Just within the past week, we have been contacted by two families of our Old Collegians, asking for our assistance with pastoral and practical help concerning the funeral, prayers, and pragmatic actions.

Mental Health First Aid Course

Next week, along with a small number of Old Collegians, we will be embarking on a “Mental Health First Aid Course”. This Course aims to assist us with the confidence to recognise when someone may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, have supportive conversations, and connect them with appropriate help. 

Promoting our Old Collegians’ Trades, Businesses, Professions

We are always keen to promote our Old Collegians and their professions, businesses and trades. Please feel free to contact us at Mazenod College. We will include these in our Mazenod College Newsletter, The Mazenod Gazette, as well as on our Alumnly Website and on our Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association Facebook page.

Mazenod Old Collegians Require Work 

In recent weeks, we have had much success in terms of assisting our Old Boys with work. Many thanks to those who have responded positively to our requests for assistance in finding work for our Old Boys. We are still earnestly striving to obtain employment for one of our younger Old Collegians. He is a great person and from a wonderful Mazenod family.

Three Electrical Apprenticeships Needed

George (MOC 2025)

Our Old Collegian, George (MOC 2025) is seeking an electrical apprenticeship. George is a cheerful, friendly, reliable, very hard worker who is passionate about becoming an electrician. He has loved his pre-apprenticeship course. If anyone can help George with an apprenticeship, please contact his Mum, Judy, during the day, as George is away on building sites. He will return your calls in the evening. Please call Judy on 0400 455 396.

Chris (MOC 2016)

I am currently employed as a surveyor within the construction industry and am seeking the opportunity to transition into the electrical trade and build a long-term career as an electrician. Through my current role, I have gained valuable experience working on construction sites and developed a strong appreciation for the technical skills and professionalism required to deliver successful projects. As a surveyor, I have developed strong skills in interpreting technical drawings and plans, using specialised surveying equipment, maintaining accuracy and attention to detail, and working collaboratively with contractors, engineers, and other site personnel. I also have a solid understanding of workplace safety, site procedures, and the importance of effective communication in a fast-paced construction environment.

My experience has shown me that I enjoy the practical and technical aspects of construction, particularly seeing projects develop from planning through to completion. This has motivated me to pursue the electrical trade, where I can continue learning, solve technical problems, and contribute through quality workmanship. I believe my surveying background has provided me with valuable transferable skills that will support my development as an apprentice electrician. I am reliable, hardworking, safety-conscious, and committed to learning from experienced tradespeople. I am also willing to undertake a pre-apprenticeship in Electrotechnology if required to strengthen my knowledge and demonstrate my commitment to the industry. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my construction experience, strong work ethic, and enthusiasm for learning to an electrical apprenticeship.

My contact details are Chris 0405 783 382.

Jason (MOC 2020) - Electrical Apprenticeship Opportunity Sought 

I am currently seeking an opportunity to begin an Electrical Apprenticeship with a company looking for a reliable, hardworking, and motivated apprentice. I have several years of experience working in the surveying industry, where I developed strong skills in working safely, solving problems, using technical equipment, and working both independently and as part of a team. While I have enjoyed surveying, I have realised that electrical work is the career I am genuinely passionate about. I enjoy practical, hands-on work, learning new skills, and tackling different challenges each day.

I am committed to building a long-term career as an electrician and understand the dedication an apprenticeship requires. I am eager to learn from experienced tradespeople and am also willing to complete a pre-apprenticeship if it would strengthen my knowledge and demonstrate my commitment to the industry. Outside of work, I enjoy running, going to the gym, and gaming, which help me maintain discipline and a strong work ethic. If you or someone you know is looking for an enthusiastic apprentice, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I could become a valuable member of your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My contact details are Jason 0404 139 802.

Tina Giacco and Peter Banfield

MOCA: Alumni Digital Platform

We encourage our Mazenod Old Collegians to sign up and join our alumni digital platform. Please download the Alumnly app and register for a FREE account today.

Tina Giacco

Mazenod Old Collegians' Liaison

Executive Officer, Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association

Peter Banfield

Development & Alumni Manager