Students at St Patrick’s College Ballarat are expanding the reach of their annual Break the Cycle campaign, with this year’s event supporting two local organisations helping victim-survivors of family and gender-based violence.
The third annual event, to be held on 28–29 August, will raise funds for Raven Collective and WRISC Family Violence Support through a 24-hour spin bike challenge and an online auction.
Since its inception in 2024, Break the Cycle has raised more than $12,000, while also encouraging important conversations about respectful relationships and the role young men can play in preventing violence against women.
College Principal Steven O’Connor said Break the Cycle reflected the College’s commitment to educating compassionate young men who are prepared to make a positive contribution to society.
“At St Patrick’s College, we believe educating young men extends far beyond the classroom. It means helping them understand the impact they can have on the people around them and empowering them to be part of positive change,” he said.
“Break the Cycle is a powerful example of our students putting those values into action. They are sending a clear message that respect matters, that violence has no place in our community, and that everyone has a role to play in creating safer relationships.”
Mr O’Connor said the decision to support both Raven Collective and WRISC this year would enable the College to extend its impact even further.
“Both Raven Collective and WRISC provide invaluable support to people experiencing family and gender-based violence across our region. We are proud to partner with these organisations and help raise both awareness and much-needed funds for the critical work they do every day.”
Boarding Captain Lachlan Lloyd said the event gave students an opportunity to lead by example.
“As young men, we know we’ve got an important role to play. Being an all-boys school gives us a unique opportunity to lead by example and show what respect looks like in the way we treat others every day,” he said.
“Break the Cycle isn’t just about riding a bike for 24 hours. It’s about starting conversations, challenging attitudes and showing that our generation wants to be part of the solution.”
Lachlan said seeing the event grow each year had been inspiring.
“It’s pretty special to see the whole school get behind it. Students, staff and families all jump on a bike, help out or support the auction, and it’s a reminder that everyone can make a difference,” he said.
“Knowing we’ve already raised more than $12,000 over the past two years makes us even more determined to make this year’s event our biggest yet.”
The College is calling on the Ballarat community to support Break the Cycle by donating to the fundraiser, bidding in the online auction or contributing goods or services for the auction.
To donate or bid on the auction, visit Break the Cycle 2026.
For further information or to offer your support, contact Ebony Corden at St Patrick’s College on 5331 1688 or ecorden@stpats.vic.edu.au
