Around the College
Panthers Claim Sharp/Johnson Shield in Spirited Contest
A thrilling contest under lights on Wednesday night saw the annual football match between the Mazenod Panthers and a team of Mazenod College students deliver yet another closely fought encounter—this time with the Panthers holding on for a well-deserved three-point victory.
Played in great spirit and with genuine camaraderie, the match is a highlight of the College calendar and a proud celebration of inclusion through sport. The Panthers, an all-abilities team affiliated with the Mazenod Old Collegians Football Club, compete in the AFLVIC/FIDA league and represent the strength of community connection beyond the classroom.
The teams competed for the Sharp/Johnson Shield, named in honour of Andrew Sharp and Mazenod Teacher & Old Collegian, Matt Johnson, who were instrumental in establishing the original Panthers sides. We were also pleased to welcome Eden Foster MP, State Member for Mulgrave, who presented the shield to the winning team at the conclusion of the match.
Congratulations to all players, coaches, and supporters for a fantastic evening of football, teamwork, and shared pride in the Mazenod spirit.
The Long Walk Naarm & Dreamtime Game - Friday 23rd May
Last Friday, 23rd May, our student leaders attended the Long Walk Naarm and the Dreamtime Game at the MCG. This powerful event was more than just a football match—it was a celebration of culture, a call for unity and a meaningful step toward reconciliation.
Listening to the moving words of Michael Long, the founder of the Long Walk, our students were reminded of the vital role education plays in fostering understanding and driving reconciliation. Joining thousands of others on the Long Walk, they embraced the spirit of the Sir Doug Nicholls Round and National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June). They listened, learned, and walked in solidarity, deepening their understanding of First Nations histories and voices.
The Dreamtime Game itself was an electrifying experience, showcasing not only great sport but the rich traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The event left a lasting impact on our student leaders, reinforcing the importance of respect and our collective commitment to fostering an inclusive, culturally aware school environment.
Day of Immunology Excursion
Enhancement Biology students from Mazenod College recently took part in a special Day of Immunology event, held in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand Society of Immunology (ASI). Designed for Years 10–12, the program offered students a deep dive into the immune system and disease through an inspiring keynote by Professor Stuart Berzins, who introduced the key players in immune responses and his research on tumour immunity. Students then engaged in two hands-on workshops—examining immune cells under the microscope to diagnose disease, and using the ELISA technique to trace an influenza outbreak. The day concluded with a careers panel, where scientists shared their journeys and offered insights into future pathways in immunology and biomedical science.
Year 9 Students Connect and Grow
Junior Prefects and Year 9 SRC recently attended a Middle Years Network Meeting at Whitefriars College, where they connected with fellow Year 9 leaders from other Catholic secondary colleges. This collaborative event provided an opportunity to share ideas, plan initiatives, and strengthen leadership skills. A highlight of the day was hearing from a panel of senior Year 12 leaders, who reflected on their leadership journeys and offered inspiring insights into the challenges and rewards of student leadership. The experience left students motivated to bring fresh ideas and meaningful change to our school community.
