SITTING in the music room at Mansfield Secondary College with teacher Jack Morrish, there is no doubting his passion – which he describes as “being everything” – and he laughs off a performance at the MCG as a mascot for Vegemite as a one-off.
Jack arrived at the college in Term One to commence his new music teaching career as part of the Teach for Australia (TFA) Leadership Development Program, aimed at addressing teacher shortages in rural areas.
He is one of 48 TFA associates placed in Victorian schools this year, earning a salary while working towards a Master of Teaching.
Growing up in a remote rural area, Jack is well aware of the challenges for young students with aspirations – especially those wanting to pursue music.
Living near the state border in Mildura, the South Australian capital of Adelaide was much closer than Melbourne, although Jack ended up completing his Bachelor of Music at Victoria University in 2023.
Latest Stories
He described Melbourne as having “all the right stuff”.
Fortunately, Jack was surrounded by music from an early age.
“My grandfather was a bass player in a blues band,” he said.
His parents shared his love of music and were encouraging of their son’s interest.
“My dad is proud that he can play Amazing Grace on the recorder,” said Jack.
“I wanted to learn bass, but my grandfather told me to learn to play acoustic guitar,” to provide a broader musical base, he said.
During his schooling at St Joseph’s Catholic College, there were some opportunities for music and performing in school productions such as Top Deck.
Jack is passionate about playing music and names world-renowned guitarist Tommy Emmanuel as one of his inspirations.
While studying at Victoria University, he developed a love of country music.
He is drawn to Shawn James, an American musician, singer and songwriter who performs both solo and with his band, The Shapeshifters.
“He has a darker, heavier style. Country has that emotional aspect,” said Jack.
Outside the classroom, Jack plays gigs with some mates in Melbourne.
He is also passionate about supporting First Nations musicians to fulfil their dreams.
“My current big project is working with an Indigenous girls’ group, Dungala Baimi, who will be playing during NAIDOC Week,” he said.
Indigenous and world music also form part of the music curriculum Jack teaches at Mansfield Secondary College.
If not already busy enough with his music, Jack has also played with Melbourne-based, award-winning country duo Patsy & Dave (previously known as The Long & Short of It), who have reached number one in the ARIAs.
His sense of humour and absolute love of music is evident in his classroom sessions.
“Music is everything and is important to have in our lives,” said Jack.
For him, being able to share his passion with students is a dream role, and music can be a way to “advocate” for things.
During Term Two, Jack is teaching Years 7 to 10.
“We encourage as much instrumental as we can, which hooks the kids in, and theory to have an understanding of music,” he said.
What does Jack get out of teaching?
“It is so great to be so passionate about music all day,” said Jack.
“The students pick up on that and share that passion."
He is grateful for the opportunity to come to Mansfield to teach and continue his studies through Australian Catholic University, thanks to the financial support of TFA.
While Mansfield is rural, Jack says being so close to Melbourne allows access to other resources and outings for his students – opportunities that weren’t possible in Mildura.
He has found the Mansfield community to be a welcoming one, and the support from the secondary college staff “awesome”.
Jack is particularly appreciative of the mentoring provided by Jane Hampson, head of the music department.
His Master’s will be completed at the end of 2026, and while he’s not sure if he will remain in Mansfield, staying rural is definitely an option.
Jack strongly recommends anyone interested in a teaching career consider a rural placement, especially through the TFA program.
What about a return performance as Mighty the Vegemite mascot?
The gig was part of the entertainment during a Melbourne Stars T20 cricket match.
“While not the lowest point of my career, it is on hiatus,” he laughed, with plans to aim higher.
Leaving the classroom, the sound of guitars and drums fills the space as students learn and explore their own passion for music in all its various forms.
