St Pat’s smashes ‘Break the Cycle’ fundraising goal

St Patrick’s College has come together in an extraordinary display of unity, determination, and compassion during the inaugural “Break the Cycle” spin cycle event.

Initiated by Boarding Captain Ollie Hannaford and supported by our Student Council, this event was much more than a physical challenge — it was a powerful statement of our commitment to promoting respectful relationships and ending gender violence against women.

From 4pm on Friday, 30 August to 4pm on Saturday, 31 August, more than 40 students and staff participated in a continuous 24-hour cycling marathon, symbolising the tireless effort required to break the cycle of gender violence.

The dedication of our participants was truly inspiring, as they pedalled non-stop to raise awareness and funds for Ballarat’s Raven Collective, which supports women impacted by domestic violence through paid work experience, training and employment opportunities.

We are thrilled to announce that our community came together in a remarkable way, smashing our initial fundraising goal of $2,750.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we have raised $5,049 — and counting!

A living example of our College values

The success of the “Break the Cycle” event is a shining example of how St Patrick’s College is committed to providing a holistic education that nurtures young men of character, compassion, and community.

Character: The dedication and perseverance demonstrated by our students and staff reflect the strong character we strive to instill in all our students. Despite the physical demands of cycling for 24 hours, our participants pushed through, driven by a shared commitment to making a difference. This event was a clear manifestation of the resilience, integrity, and determination that we cultivate at St Pat’s.

Compassion: Compassion lies at the heart of everything we do at St Patrick’s College, and this event was no exception. The “Break the Cycle” initiative highlighted our community’s deep empathy and concern for the well-being of others. Our students and staff took a stand against gender violence, advocating for a world where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Their actions underscored our belief that true education extends beyond academics; it involves fostering a strong moral compass and a sense of responsibility towards others.

Community: The overwhelming support we received for this event is a testament to the strength of the St Pat’s community. Students, staff, parents, and local supporters all rallied together, proving that when we unite for a common cause, we can achieve extraordinary things. The sense of camaraderie and collective purpose that emerged during the event is a hallmark of what it means to be part of the St Pat’s family.

Looking Ahead

The ‘Break the Cycle’ spin cycle event is just the beginning. At St Patrick’s College, we are committed to continuing our efforts to promote respectful relationships and work towards ending gender violence. This event has not only raised vital funds but also sparked important conversations about how we can all contribute to a more just and equitable society. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported this cause. Your involvement has made a real and lasting impact, and we look forward to building on this momentum in the future. Together, we are breaking the cycle and making a difference.