From Our College Captains
Volunteering With The Companion Van
As part of our Outreach Program, we offer student volunteering opportunities to help those in need in our own city. The Companion Van, coordinated by John Paul College, allows our students to serve people in need around Frankston.
Our students pack the van with donated food and personal items, make hot drinks and toasted sandwiches. T'zario Lay, La Salle Vice-Captain shares his personal volunteering story for this service.
"Volunteering for the JPC Community Companion Van was unforgettable. It taught me invaluable lessons as we connected with the Frankston community. We were given the task of making toasties, coffee and tea, as well as handing out non-perishable items such as groceries, toiletries, food and drinks.
Meeting members of the community itself was eye-opening, as we heard many different stories and experiences from a range of unique lives. Many individuals within the community were very kind and sharing, always supporting one another even though they were much less fortunate. It brought me awareness of how fortunate I am to have the opportunities I do and to recognise how much larger life is than just my own life. The experience was also really enjoyable, and I would recommend it to anyone wanting to get involved."
To express your interest in upcoming dates for volunteering with the Companion Van, please contact Brother Tony at btc@stbedes.catholic.edu.au
Catholic Education Week Mass
Ethan Thredgold, Lasallian Captain and Will Aufner, Public Speaking & Debating Captain were among students who enjoyed their opportunity to represent the College in the Catholic Education Week Mass on St Patrick's Day at St Patrick Cathedral in Melbourne's CBD.
"I had the opportunity to attend the Catholic Education Week Mass at St Patricks with around 334 Catholic schools. Will and I had the opportunity to carry the St Bede's College Banner among other students carrying their school banners representing their school's community.
The theme for Catholic Education Week 2026 was ‘Christ beside me: Walking in the footsteps of St Patrick’, celebrating the legacy of St Patrick and hid influence on faith and education. The Mass was a great way to come together and celebrate Catholic Education Week and St Patrick as one big community." Ethan
"We arrived at St Patrick’s Cathedral amidst a swarm of Catholic school students, both primary and secondary. I was fortunate enough to carry the school’s banner alongside Ethan in the opening and closing processions. Waiting in line, we saw so many familiar faces and schools, with waving, smiles and laughing everywhere – it truly was a joyous occasion. When we walked into the Cathedral with our banner, it was only then we began to realise the magnitude of the occasion, with a packed Cathedral, hundreds of banners and thousands of school representatives. It was great to see everyone across the Melbourne Archdiocese, especially meeting others from different regions and schools that we don’t often encounter.” Will
