Dear members of the Iona community,

The end of the school year is always a special time. For our Year 12 students, it carries a profound sense of completion and new beginnings.

While we are not there yet, this week marked the start of some of their final celebrations as Ionians.

On Tuesday night, our Year 12 musicians were part of their final music concert. It was, as always, a fitting beginning to this season of farewell — an evening filled with talent, energy, and pride.

The concert highlighted individual performers and the remarkable quality of our ensembles. Groups such as the Iona Singers, whose depth of tone and unity of sound were exceptional, reminded us of the high standards that have been nurtured through years of dedication.

Our bands, choirs, and instrumental groups offered performances that reflected technical excellence and a genuine joy in making music together.

I hope our graduating students carry this love of music into the next stage of their lives, whether through continuing their instruments at university, joining choirs or community ensembles, or simply keeping music as part of their daily rhythm.

I trust that they will remember that music enriches them as individuals and the community as a whole. The skills of discipline, collaboration, and creativity they developed through the arts are gifts that will serve them well wherever their journeys take them.

Focus now turns to the Year 12 Mock Examinations, which begin next week. These exams provide students with a vital opportunity to experience the demands of external assessment, refine their study strategies, and build confidence for what lies ahead.

The feedback from these assessments will be an invaluable tool as each young man prepares himself for the final step in his academic journey at Iona.

Very early next term, the celebrations will deepen in meaning. The Valedictory Mass will allow us to come together as a faith community, giving thanks for the gifts of the graduating class and entrusting them to God’s care as they move into the next chapter of their lives.

Following Mass, families, staff, and students will gather at the Valedictory Dinner — an evening of gratitude, reflection, and celebration of the friendships and support that have shaped the boys’ years here.

The culmination of these events will come with the Final Assembly, where the entire College will stand together in black and white to honour our Year 12s. It is always a powerful moment when the graduating class hands on the baton of leadership and legacy to those who follow, and when we as a community acknowledge their contribution to Iona’s story.

While these moments are not quite imminent, I urge our Year 12 students and families to prepare well for these moments and savour the experiences. 

Talking to some parents of Senior students following the final concert, and some who have had sons graduate previously, the concert on Tuesday night certainly marks the beginning of ‘lasts’.

As we begin the final stages of your time as Iona students and prepare for your final exams, know that you carry with you the pride, prayers, and support of the entire Iona family.

At the other end of the spectrum, today we welcomed many grandparents to the College for Year 5 Grandparents Day. This wonderful occasion brings together our newest Ionians and the grandparents who hold such an important place in their lives.

These events for our Year 5 and Year 12 students bookend the journey of an Ionian, and remind us that our story is one of growth across time, of traditions passed between generations, and of a community bound together in black and white from the very first day to the very last.

God bless,

Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal

Dear Ionians,

This morning, the Iona community was filled with joy and gratitude as our Year 5 students led us in celebrating Grandparents Day. The day began with a moving liturgy, prayerfully guided by our Primary Chaplain, Fr Lewy Keelty OMI, where we welcomed grandparents with open hearts and deep appreciation for the gift they are in our lives.

The Scriptures remind us: “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children” (Proverbs 17:6).

Indeed, grandparents are a crown of blessing. They carry with them wisdom, faith, and love that knit generations together in a bond that reflects God’s own faithfulness.

I wish to especially thank our Year 5 students, whose reverence and joy shone through the liturgy. Their thoughtful messages, heartfelt prayers, and the beautiful music concert, offered in honour of their grandparents, lifted our celebration and showed us how powerfully faith and love can be expressed through word, prayer, and song.

I am also grateful to the dedicated teachers and staff of our Primary Years for their tireless work in preparing this day. Their care and effort ensured that our grandparents felt truly welcomed, cherished, and celebrated.

At the same time, we hold in prayer our Year 12 students as they prepare to begin their trial examinations next week. We ask God to bless them with strength, clarity, and peace of heart, knowing that they are supported by the prayers of their Iona family.

On behalf of the entire Oblate family, I give thanks for the extraordinary generosity shown during OMAD 2025. In true Oblate spirit, our community has once again witnessed the Gospel through compassion and concrete acts of love, bringing hope to those in need.

Finally, we celebrate with joy the 89th birthday of Fr John Sherman OMI on 31 August. We thank God for his life of faithful service and assure him of our prayers and gratitude.

May the spirit of St Eugene de Mazenod continue to guide us to see the face of Christ in one another and to live with courage, gratitude, and love.

Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector

OMAD 25

What an incredible day we had for OMAD 25!

A huge thank-you to every student, staff member, parent, and volunteer who made the day such a roaring success – your energy, effort, and enthusiasm were nothing short of amazing!

This year’s event was packed with fun and unforgettable moments.

Crowd favourites like the Dunk Tank, the thrilling Staff vs Students vs Old Boys basketball game, and the inspiring Head Shave brought laughter and cheers.

Classic stalls like the Lolly Wheel, Lob a Choc, Hot Shots, and the Golf Ball Challenge were as popular as ever, and the return of the buskers added a vibrant soundtrack to the day while showcasing the incredible talents of our students.

Thanks to your generosity, we raised an astonishing $67,000 for Oblate Missions!

Every dollar will go toward making a real difference in the lives of others – a true testament to the power of our community.

A special shoutout to all the families who donated prizes, the amazing Iona mums, and our fantastic barbers Sukhi and Angela from The Gentlemen’s Lounge in Edith Street, Wynnum – we couldn’t have done it without you!

It's not too late to make an online/ tax deductable donation towards OMAD  using this link www.trybooking.com/DDALP 

Congratulations to our Chisholm Cebula Raffle prize winners:

Mitsubishi Electric fridge + Apple Series 10 Watch
Sam Hudghton

Broncos vs Storm Tickets
Leigh Schoeman

Deep Grey Photography Voucher
Kelly Ledger

Deep Grey Photography Voucher
Sam Hudghton

Deep Grey Photography Voucher
Rebecca Hayes

$250 Voucher
Rachel ONeill

20L Black Esky
Annalise Olm

Shade Tent - Artwork by First Nations artist Angel Riley
Marissa Pluck

Shade Tent - Artwork by First Nations artist Angel Riley
Clare Hardie

Juventus Training Kit
Kylie Brumwell

$100 Sunfox Voucher
Emmeline Nichols

Lash Out Eyelash Extensions
Narelle Gunner

Manly Harbour Village Pack
Brett Gillan

Wynnum Manly Leagues Club Voucher
Loretta Mills

The Athlete's Foot Voucher
Sera Lalagavesi

Sunglass Voucher
Sam Hudghton

Sunglass Voucher
William O'Neil

$100 Gift Voucher
Leo Micallef

Chocolate Hamper
Sharon Ritchie

Mrs Sam Ryan 
Social Justice Coordinator

Acting Dean of Oblate Identity and Community

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself in my new role as Acting Dean of Oblate Identity and Community until the end of this year. Although I have had the privilege of teaching many of our students since joining Iona a few years back, I am grateful for the chance to serve the College in this new capacity. Over the years, I have come to deeply appreciate the values, traditions, and spirit that make our community unique.

In this role, I look forward to supporting the rich community life that already thrives at the College. It is a privilege to walk alongside students, families, and staff, and I am excited for the months ahead. I also warmly invite parents to join me at the upcoming Parents & Friends meeting, where I look forward to introducing myself in person and connecting with our wider community.

Mr Wayne Wilden
Acting Dean of Oblate Identity and Community

P&F Meeting - Monday 1 September

Join us at the next Parents and Friends Association meeting and be part of our vibrant College community!

It’s a fantastic chance to meet other parents, share ideas, get involved, and hear the latest news about what’s happening at the College.

Whether you’re new or have been part of the community for years, your presence makes a difference and we can’t wait to welcome you!

The next meeting will be held on Monday 1 September at 6.30pm in Lindum-mere.

If you can’t make it in person, an online option via Microsoft Teams will also be available. The access link will be emailed and shared in Parent Lounge on Monday afternoon.

P&F Lads and Dads Breakfast

Tickets to the annual Iona College Lads and Dads Breakfast are on sale now.

This year’s Lads and Dads Breakfast will feature adventurer Oliver Foran, an Iona Old Boy from the Class of 2016.

Oliver will reflect on his time at Iona and how the support of this community helped him turn one of the most challenging periods of his life into an incredible journey of resilience and achievement.

Overcoming incredible personal tragedy, Oliver found the strength to pursue extraordinary goals, culminating earlier this year in his nearly 7000m ascent of Ama Dablam in the Himalayas.

At the summit, he unfurled an Iona flag in tribute to the support he and his family received during that difficult time.

At the breakfast, Oliver will share his story of overcoming adversity, the determination required to reach the world’s highest peaks, and details of his next adventure. It’s an inspiring story you won’t want to miss.

Tickets to this event are $30 each and are on sale now via the link below:

The big raffle prize on the day will be one of Iona’s legendary ‘Gorilla Grillers’ – a custom Weber Family Q+ Premium barbecue valued at $900. The only way you can get a ticket to be in the draw is by being at the Lads and Dads Breakfast.

Please note that seating will be unallocated, and numbers are limited, so we encourage families to secure their tickets early to avoid disappointment.

We look forward celebrating this special P&F annual event with the Iona community on Friday 19 September!

Continuing Enrolment 2026

Each year, the College requests confirmation of your son's continuing enrolment for the following school year.

This provides the College with the certainty we need to assist our planning for the next 12 months.

For nearly 70 years, the families of our local community have entrusted their sons to an Oblate education at Iona. It is a responsibility we are privileged and proud to accept.

By ensuring our enrolments are accurate, we are able to maintain affordable fees to support our families.

Of course, we hope all families will continue their educational journey with us next year, as we strive to deliver a quality education and create quality men of character to serve our community.

Your completion of this short form will help us confirm your son’s continuing enrolment into 2026.

If, however, your circumstances are changing and there is a need for you to advise the College that your son will not be continuing at Iona next year, we respectfully request that you inform the College via this short form.

Please be advised that the College requests one (1) term's notice in writing should your son not be continuing at the College.

Failure to provide one (1) term's notice may result in one term's fees in lieu of sufficient notice being charged as the College commits resources based on our understanding of enrolment numbers.

Therefore, an end-of-year departure needs to be communicated by the last day of Term 3 - Friday 19 September 2025.

Year Level Sport Uniform Expectations

A reminder for all families about Tuesday sport uniform expectations:

• To and from school: Students wear their Iona College polo.
• For sport lesson: Students change into their House shirt (not their Yura shirt).
• All students must bring a hat.

In recent weeks, we have noticed a drop in consistency with how this uniform is being worn. We ask for your support in helping the boys maintain these standards.

Following these guidelines helps keep our boys prepared and ready for their lessons. If the uniform expectations aren’t met, students may miss out on their sport lesson or face a consequence.

Thank you for reinforcing these expectations at home and supporting our Ionians in wearing their uniform with pride.

Year 5 Gold Rush Excursions

For our Year 5 HASS excursion this year, students had the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the historical goldfields of Beenleigh, Eureka Excursions.

Students once again donned the iconic attire of the gold rush era, immersing themselves in Australia's vibrant history. The dedicated facilitators from Eureka Excursions brought history to life by staying in character throughout the day, offering our students an experience that was both authentic and engaging.

Our students participated in a variety of exhilarating activities, from outsmarting crafty bushrangers to negotiating with sly shopkeepers, and even experiencing the thrill of 'striking it rich' on the goldfields. The day was brimming with laughter, learning, and adventure, reaffirming the idea that education can be both informative and incredibly fun.

We are immensely proud of our students for their enthusiasm and curiosity, and we are grateful to the team at Eureka Excursions for providing such a memorable day.

Thank you for your continued support and for making experiences like these possible for our students.

Year 6 Real Talk

Thank you to the Year 6 parents who attended the Real Talk Parent Information Evening last night. For those who were unable to attend, a link to the Real Talk Parent Portal will be sent to all Year 6 parents in the near future.

There you will be able to view the slides from the evening including the “How babies are made” video which will be shown to the students at their Retreat Day on Tuesday 9 September during school hours. Further information regarding the Retreat Day has been emailed to parents.

Year 5 Grandparents Day

Our youngest Ionians were excited to host their grandparents and special guests for Grandparents Day this morning. We welcomed more than 200 guests, and thank them all for making the time to join us today.

Thank you also to all of the staff who made this event memorable for all who attended.

Mr Brayden Teece
Acting Dean of Primary Years

QCMF 14 August – 17 August

Recently, nine of our ensembles participated in the Queensland Catholic Schools & Colleges Music Festival.

It was a lighter year for us regarding participation in the festival due to the Marian Mass and OMAD, but we still had a great spread of beginner, intermediate, and advanced ensembles.

I was extremely proud of the way our students represented the College both on stage and throughout their time at the festival. The feedback reminded us that, while many ensembles can already perform at a high level, focusing on the finer details comes only with more regular practice and preparation.

As some students move into higher ensembles next term with the departure of the Year 12s, we will again emphasise regular practice, organisation, and attendance.

Results (in order of appearance):

• Year 5 Band – Gold
• Year 5 Guitars – Silver
• Concert Band – Gold
• Guitar Ensemble 2 – Bronze
• Symphonic Winds – Gold
• Guitar Ensemble 1 – Silver
• Brass Ensemble – Gold
• Percussion Ensemble 1 – Silver
• Big Band 1 – Gold

A special Award of Excellence was presented to Jake Bullpitt, our Year 5 bassoon player. Jake did a fantastic job playing his parts and leading the band — and we’re thrilled that the adjudicators noticed!

Essentially Ellington – Big Band 1

Big Band 1 had the incredible opportunity to work with Vincent Gardner last Monday night. It was a truly inspiring experience.

Vincent has taught at The Juilliard School, Florida State University, Michigan State University, and The New School, and has performed with icons including the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Bobby McFerrin, Harry Connick Jr, Chaka Khan, A Tribe Called Quest, and many more.

Having that level of expertise in the room with our boys was fantastic — and gave us all the inspiration to keep striving to be better.

Senior Farewell

And that’s a wrap! Tuesday night saw our final concert for our Year 12 musicians in IPAC. With nine ensembles and a very memorable Year 12 item fusing together the bands Journey and ABBA, it was a fantastic night of music and celebration.

We wish all Year 12s the very best as they begin preparing for their external exams and their final term of schooling.

Duke of Edinburgh

Congratulations to Anthony Emery on receiving his Duke of Edinburgh Award. Anthony’s commitment to the Iona College choirs played an important role in his achievement, and we are proud to see his dedication to music recognised as part of this prestigious award.

Individual Lessons

When students begin their musical journey in Year 5, they start with group lessons, which allow us to introduce many boys to an instrument or voice in a supportive and accessible way.

From Year 6 onwards, families also have the option of individual lessons. While many students continue in groups, we often find that boys make even greater progress in a one-on-one setting, where teaching can be personalised to their pace, interests, and strengths.

Individual lessons also provide more opportunities for detailed feedback and encouragement, helping students to progress faster and deepen their enjoyment of music-making.

Spaces for individual tuition are limited and in high demand, so if you would be interested in individual lessons for 2026, please get in touch with us as soon as possible.

Year 5 Step-Up Program

Re-enrolment for the 2026 Instrumental and Vocal Music Program is now open. Families who wish for their son to continue into Year 6 must complete the online re-enrolment form by Friday 29 August to secure their place.

Families discontinuing also need to complete the form by the deadline.

Emails with the re-enrolment link have been sent home to all families.

All continuing students will take part in a special Term 4 Step-Up program, introduced at the Year 5 concert, which helps boys transition from the in-school music model to our co-curricular ensemble program.

During Term 4, students will continue their Year 5 group lesson during school time while also joining a morning rehearsal once a week before school, starting at 7.30am.

This is a valuable opportunity for boys to play or sing alongside older students, gaining encouragement and skills from being part of a larger ensemble.

Please see the table below for ensemble allocations, rehearsal days, times, venues, and teachers.

Mr Brian L'Huillier
Head of Instrumental Music

Over the past couple of weeks, we have seen an increase in students presenting with coughs, colds, and other viral infections, including covid, influenza, rhinovirus, slap cheek (also known as fifth disease), and scarlet fever. We encourage families to reinforce good hand hygiene, ensure plenty of rest, and maintain adequate fluid intake to help prevent the spread of illness.

A reminder that any medication sent to school with your son, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, must be delivered to the Health and Wellbeing Centre for safe storage and administration.

For helpful information on distinguishing between the common cold and the flu, please see the link below.

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/621253/ed-colds_and_flu.pdf

If your son is unwell, please consider keeping them home from school, this assists us in preventing the spread of infection and disrupting your day.

Staff Celebrate Book Week 2025  

This year’s Book Week theme, ‘Book an Adventure’, was brought to life in the College staffroom as we kicked off the celebrations. Staff enjoyed themed cakes, and a few lucky winners took home Book Week prizes.

The Duhig staffroom book swap shelf was a hive of activity and displays of favourite reads from our staff provided plenty of inspiration for new adventures in reading. A wonderful way to spark ideas for our next great reads!

Book Donations

Parents are invited to support the Great Book Swap by donating books or swapping a book for a gold coin. It’s a win-win for everyone: we raise funds for a vital charity, preloved books find a new home, and you can pick up a great read for a bargain. What’s not to love!

You can also donate here.

Book an Adventure 2025

The library has been buzzing this term with a fantastic line-up of weekly activities:

• Week 1: Introduction of the Book Week CBCA shortlisted books
• Week 2: Kick-off of the Book an Adventure photo competition
• Week 3: Author visits with Tristan Bancks and Nick Earles
• Week 4: Launch of the QBD Books competition
• Week 5: Book an Adventure Book Week activities for staff
• Week 6: Where’s Wally? and other Book Week fun
• Week 7: The Indigenous Literacy Foundation Great Book Swap
• Week 8: Great Book Swap continues at the Iona Art Expo
• Week 9: Announcement of winners from the CBCA shortlist competitions
• Week 10: Qld Premier’s Reading Challenge Pizza Party

Each week brought something new and engaging, making the library a hub of excitement and creativity all term!

Book Week

During Book Week, students eagerly took part in fun library activities, including Kahoot, a Literary Scavenger Hunt, and the Book Week Crossword, all while competing for Iona showbags, other prizes, and tasty treats. Morning tea became a whirlwind of excitement as students rushed in with their entries to join the fun.

New eMagazines on Sora

Sora offers an incredible range of magazines available for use. Covering topics like sport, cooking, hobbies, health, and more, these are the latest additions to the platform - ready for you to enjoy!

Ms Donna Stephens
Head of Library

Australian South Sea Islander Recognition Day is celebrated annually on August 25th.

In 1994, the Australian Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group. This recognition was important because it acknowledged their unique identity, culture, and history.

Between 1863 and 1904, more than 62,000 South Sea Islanders were brought to Australia, mostly from places such as Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. Many of them were brought here to work in very tough conditions in the sugarcane fields of Queensland and northern New South Wales.

This part of history is sometimes called “blackbirding”, where people were tricked or taken against their will to work. Despite this painful past, Australian South Sea Islanders have shown great strength, resilience, and pride in keeping their culture and stories alive.

Why it matters

Recognition Day is about honouring their contributions, remembering the struggles faced, and celebrating the important role Australian South Sea Islanders continue to still play in shaping our communities today.

For our students, this is a reminder that:
• Every culture has a story worth listening to.
• Understanding history helps us show respect.
• Recognising different cultural groups makes our school and country stronger.

This link is a video of Sydney’s Raising the Flag Ceremony from earlier this week.

Many Australian South Sea Islander families still live in the same regions where their ancestors worked, especially in Queensland and northern New South Wales. Their culture, food, dance, and traditions remain a proud part of Australia today.

Ms Tamekin Pearce
Cultural and Engagement Support Officer

Father's Day Gift Ideas

Treat Dad this Father’s Day with a thoughtful gift from the Uniform Shop - the perfect way to show your appreciation and celebrate the special day. Visit the shop to find a gift that he’ll love!

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 3.30pm

Tuesday CLOSED

Wednesday 8am – 3.30pm

Thursday CLOSED

Friday 8am – 3.30pm

Ordering from the Uniform Shop

Orders can be sent home with your sons.

• Email orders to: uniformshop@iona.qld.edu.au
• Phone orders with credit card details: 07 3893 8863
• Online shop

All stock is available for purchase now at the uniform shop or through the online store: https://iona-college.mybigcommerce.com/.../winter-uniform/