For 24 hours, the wheels kept turning at St Patrick’s College as students and staff came together to Break the Cycle of gender-based violence.
Now in its third year, the College’s Break the Cycle event has once again brought the SPC community together to raise awareness of gendered violence, challenge attitudes and behaviours that contribute to it, and raise vital funds for organisations supporting safer communities.
This year’s event raised an incredible $7,730.19 with funds going towards Raven Collective Ballarat and WRISC Family Violence Support.
Six bikes were ridden continuously throughout the 24-hour challenge, with more than 100 students and staff taking turns in the saddle throughout the day and night. The event was supported by the wider College community through monetary and goods and services donations, and an online auction.
Deputy Principal – Community John Richards, speaking at the launch of the 2026 event on Friday, 28 August, said the significance of Break the Cycle extended well beyond the fundraising total.
“A very heavy responsibility falls to us as a boys’ school to raise fine young men who will one day be good husbands and partners and parents, hopefully setting good examples to their children, but also—and most importantly—being able to form positive, respectful relationships with all people, but in particular with women,” he said.
“This year, the torch has fallen to our boarding community under the direction of Lachie Lloyd and Rory Bell as our boarding captains, in conjunction with Ebony Corden, who has put in a mountain of work to make this happen. Thank you to all of you who have volunteered to spend some time on a bike over the next 24 hours. It’s a magnificent effort.”
WRISC Family Violence Support FSP Administrator Elisha Smith praised St Patrick’s College for raising awareness of and taking a stand against gender-based violence.
“On behalf of WRISC Family Violence Support, I would like to thank you sincerely for your financial support, your commitment and your willingness to take up this important challenge. Your courage is challenging outdated gender-based norms and empowering yourselves to recognise the positive impact you can have on others and the world around you, helping to create a safer, more respectful and inclusive community,” she said.
“We’re truly grateful for your partnership and support in driving this meaningful and lasting change.”
Event coordinator Ebony Corden thanked the Student Council, particularly Lachie Lloyd, Rory Bell and George Charles, whose “leadership and commitment were instrumental in making Break the Cycle such a success”, along with all those who got involved.
“Whether you rode, donated, volunteered, attended the opening or closing of the ride, purchased an auction item, or helped spread the word, every contribution made a difference,” Ms Corden said.
“This incredible result reflects the generosity and spirit of our St Patrick’s College community. Together, we have raised vital funds, increased awareness, and taken another step towards breaking the cycle of gender-based violence.”
St Patrick’s College thanks the following businesses for their support of Break the Cycle 2026: Adelaide Strikers, Carlton FC, Geelong FC, Ceres Coastal, City Oval Hotel, Dobsons, Ballarat Equipment Hire, The Forge, Hawthorn FC, Richmond FC, Sault Restaurant, Golden City Hotel, Showbiz Cinemas, The Western Hotel and SLC Sound and Light Concepts.
