At Pepper Advertising, we believe that the most powerful brand stories are the ones rooted in truth. That’s why we were proud to partner with St Patrick’s College Ballarat to create a bold new brand campaign that puts the school’s core values, Character, Compassion and Community, front and centre.
VIEW THE SPOT
The campaign is anchored by a 60 second TV commercial, written and directed by our own Nicolas Dunn. Featuring over 30 current students from across year levels, the piece offers an authentic glimpse into what it truly means to be a “Paddy boy”, not through achievements or accolades, but through heart, integrity, and connection.
At the heart of the commercial is an original poem written by Nicolas, a reflection on the deeper meaning of excellence:
Excellence is not confined to laurels gilded bright,
Nor spotlight’s glare, or fields where triumphs soar.
It dwells within the heart, the depths of one’s character,
The courage to speak the truth…
“The team at St Pat’s impressed us from the outset,” Nicolas says. “As the son of two educators, I was moved by their deep understanding of education as a human journey, not just an academic one. They genuinely care about shaping young men who are emotionally intelligent, socially aware and grounded in compassion. That’s the story we set out to tell.”
The campaign was deeply personal for our team. Producer Jed Manley, an Old Collegian (1994–1999) and current St Pat’s parent, led the project with passion and pride. Art Director Josh Kennedy, also an Old Boy (2002–2007), played a central role in developing the campaign’s visual language.
“As a former student, this project meant a lot,” Jed said. “It was an opportunity to give back to a community that helped shape me, and to help tell a story that truly reflects the spirit of St Pat’s. Credit to the College for having the courage to lead with values.”
The film was shot in part at the College’s state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre, a space built on the legacy of Old Collegians past and present. One of those young alumni, Oskar Folkes (2019–2024), composed and performed the campaign’s original piano score.
OSKAR FOLKES ORIGINAL PIANO SCORE
“There’s a lot of heart in this piece,” Oskar said. “I’m proud to have contributed something that reflects the emotional depth of the College, not just in academics or sport, but in the arts and beyond.”
St Patrick’s College Principal Steven O’Connor described the campaign as more than a marketing exercise, but a reflection of the College’s mission.
“This campaign expresses our unwavering belief in educating hope filled, compassionate and confident young men for their place in the world,” he said. “We are proud of our students and the values that guide them, and we’re grateful to work with a creative partner who understands our story so deeply.”
The campaign will roll out across TV, Cinema, Print, Display and Social Media channels.
Credits
Client – St Patricks College, Ballarat
Principal – Steven O’Connor
Business Manager – Andrew Jirik
Marketing & Communications Manager – Katie Spurgo
Creative Agency – Pepper Advertising
Creative Director/Writer – Nicolas Dunn
Account Manager – Abbey Cartledge
Production – Pepper Advertising
Producer – Jed Manley
Director – Nicolas Dunn
Cinematographer – Aaron Foley
1st Camera Assist – Austin Haigh
Gaffer – Andrew Lock
Best Person – Mark Blanch
Make-Up/Hair – Emily Walkear
Casting Manager – Katie Spurgo
Music – Oskar Folkes
Sound Design – Nicolas Dunn
Sound Mix – Sonic Playground
Voice Artist – David Binks
Editor – Nicolas Dunn
Colourist – Ted Deacy
Senior Graphic Designer – Josh Kennedy
Graphic Designer – Oscar Thomas
Stills Photography – Adam Trafford
Media Agency – Pepper Advertising
Head of Media Buying – Peter Humphrey
Digital Advertising Manager – Abbey Cartledge
Social Media – Alycia Morrow
