An inner city public school is seeking to keep up with elite private schools by building a $1 million rowing shed by the Yarra River.

Melbourne High will kick off fund-raising with a concert by the three male members of 1960s super group The Seekers, who all went to the school.

Melbourne High School old boy Athol Guy, will perform with fellow Seekers Bruce Woodley and Keith Potger at a fund-raiser for a $1 million rowing shed. Credit:Penny Stephens

Principal Jeremy Ludowyke​ said Melbourne Girls' College was the only Melbourne public school with its own Yarra-side rowing shed, and a boys' public school should have one, too.

Private schools such as Xavier, St Kevin's, Scotch, Wesley and Melbourne Grammar all have their own rowing sheds. Melbourne Grammar is among some that pay a token $1 rent to the City of Melbourne.