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Dear members of the Iona community,
It is remarkable that in just one week’s time, Term 1 will draw to a close. The past nine weeks have been filled with energy, commitment and growth across many aspects of College life — spiritual, academic, cultural, and sporting.
From the very beginning of the school year, the activities around the College have been ongoing and we are incredibly grateful for the efforts of all who have contributed so generously to the life of our College including staff, volunteers and students.
It has been wonderful to see the school spirit and dedication to classwork evident in so many students this term. Despite the challenge of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, it has certainly been a term of achievements and growing into our potential as individuals and as a community.
As we enter the Easter break, following the busyness of the term, I invite you to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning that this season offers.
Easter is at the heart of our Christian faith — a time of hope, renewal, and transformation. It reminds us that light follows darkness, that life conquers death, and that love ultimately triumphs.
Pope Francis once said: “Do not let yourselves be robbed of hope.” These words feel particularly fitting at this time of year.
The Easter story is one of profound hope — hope that renews us, not only spiritually but also in the way we face life’s challenges and uncertainties. No matter what burdens we carry, Easter offers a moment of grace and the promise of new life.
In the spirit of that hope, I pray that the holiday period will be a time of renewal for all in our community. For many, this will be a time to step away from routine. It should rightly be a time to rest and recharge in one form or another.
For some students, family and staff it will be a two-week period of rest or taking on other challenges in life. For others, especially some of our dedicated staff who continue preparations for Term 2, it will only be a brief break over the Easter long weekend to perhaps rest and reflect.
Whatever the case for our staff, I offer my heartfelt thanks for their mostly quiet and perhaps at times unnoticed but ongoing contributions.
I hope all get the opportunity to return from the Easter break feeling a sense of hope, peace and calm that Christ’s resurrection can bring to us as Christians.
May we return after the break renewed by the message of Easter ready to share kindness, patience and joy with others, and inspired and energised by a shared commitment to the growth of every member of our Iona community.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Easter.
God bless,
Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal
Dear Iona community,
As we approach the end of Term 1, my heart is filled with gratitude for the energy, dedication and spirit that each Ionian has exhibited in an excellent way.
The Oblates and I appreciate all our staff for their continued commitment, and our students for embracing their studies and extracurricular pursuits with great enthusiasm.
We celebrate their remarkable achievements, particularly the outstanding success in the AIC – with premierships for our Firsts in AFL, volleyball and cricket.
These victories are not just about trophies. They are a testament to teamwork, perseverance and the dedication of our students and coaches.
Thank you to all students, coaches, staff and families who have contributed to these moments of joy and pride for our Iona family.
As we approach Easter, we are invited to reflect on the deeper meaning of this sacred time. For us as an Oblate school, the story of St Eugene de Mazenod offers a profound insight into the power of faith and transformation.
His personal encounter with Christ on Good Friday changed the course of his life, filling him with an overwhelming sense of God’s mercy and love. His words continue to inspire us today:
“I looked for happiness outside of God and outside of Him found only affliction and misfortune, but happily – happily a thousand times over – that Good Father, despite my unworthiness, showered me with riches of His mercy.”
Easter reminds us that God’s love is always present, even in our struggles. Just as St Eugene experienced renewal through Christ, we too are invited to embrace the hope and joy that comes with the Resurrection.
This season calls us to reflect on what truly matters: Our relationships, our faith, and the ways in which we can share Christ’s love with one another.
I encourage you to use this Easter break as a time for rest, reflection, and reconnection. Whether through moments of prayer, time with family and friends, or simply stepping back to appreciate life’s blessings, may this be a time of renewal for each of you.
I am deeply grateful for the warmth, generosity, and faith that make the Iona community so special. Your commitment to one another and to the values that define us is a gift, and I thank you for the way you continue to support and uplift those around you.
May the joy and peace of Easter fill your hearts and homes. I look forward to all that is to come as we journey together in faith, hope, and love.
On our final day of Term 1 next Friday, April 4, is a very special day in the history of our College as we will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the opening of Our Lady Help of Christians Chapel.
The Chapel has served as the centre of our faith life in the College for 50 years and we pray it continues to be a place of solace, faith and hope for many years to come.
You would have all noticed some tremendous works happening on our Chapel to prepare it for a special celebration next Friday.
In order for the work to be completed, our dedicated workmen will need to work round the clock and have access inside the Chapel as well.
Therefore, no morning masses will be held in the Chapel next week. The Chapel will be re-opened on Friday 4 April for our Anniversary celebrations.
Finally, Fr Josh and I will be in Adelaide for most of next week for the Oblate Ongoing Formation Conference.
We ask for your prayers as the Oblates gather to further develop their skills in spreading God’s word to meet the needs of our community.
Likewise, we will keep you all in our prayers for your final week of Term 1.
Wishing you a blessed and restful Easter.
God bless,
Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector
Dear Ionians,
I have discovered Iona College is a wonderful community that embraces life’s challenges with fierce determination and a can-do attitude.
The passion and energy that staff and students have for the black and white is palpable.
Watching my Year 9 Art class grow in confidence as artists, seeing the First XI cricket team competing on Davine Oval and witnessing the grit and determination that was evident in the First VI volleyball game against St Edmund’s last weekend are just some of the moments I have witnessed in Term 1.
These are examples of young men digging deep, persevering, and putting in the effort with a positive attitude as they work toward achieving their goals.
The strong foundation that exists at the College provides every student with every opportunity to make a valued contribution to this thriving community every day. To this end, I want to bring the following to your attention:
High Expectations
- Be the best version of yourself: Eat your PEAs by persisting, putting in the effort and adopt a growth mindset attitude.
- Set yourself goals that you can work toward throughout the term.
- Engage in class: Contribute to the lesson and build your understanding/skills.
- Discipline: Make choices that will give you the greatest chance of achieving personal excellence at Iona.
Hair and Uniform
- No faux-mullet hairstyles.
- Blended on the sides.
- Hair is not to touch the collar, and be clear of the eyes and face.
- Bags: Must have your laptop bag and backpack as a minimum.
- Senior students are to continue wearing their felt hat to and from school.
- Important Note: Students will be sent home if they arrive at the College with an inappropriate haircut in Term 2. For hair cut too short, students will lose breaktime privileges until the style can be rectified (up to three days).
Train Etiquette
- Pay for your travel.
- Students should give up their seats to the elderly and pregnant women.
- Respect ‘quiet carriage’ protocols.
- Regulate your behaviour so all passengers enjoy their travel.
Sport Shoes
- Must be a sport shoe / jogger designed for running.
Ionians past and present are proud of this College and the traditions that have been established by those who have gone before us.
We will continue to be values-driven and futures-led, pursuing high expectations for all where each person is able to achieve personal excellence on the field, in the classroom and on the stage.
Mr Adam McPhee
Deputy Principal
| March |
|
| Friday 28 | Years 7-10 Exam Period Year 12 Mothers Celebration, Bayside Events Centre, 6.30am |
| Sunday 30 | 4th Sunday of Lent |
| Monday 31 - Thursday 4 April | Oblate Formation Meeting, Adelaide |
| Monday 31 |
P&F Social Morning, Cambridge Lane, 9am
|
|
April |
|
| Tuesday 1 | Year 8 Riverlife Excursion (Group 2) Music Concert - Winds and Percussion, IPAC, 6.30pm |
| Wednesday 2 |
Year 8 Riverlife Excursion (Group 3) College Assembly, The Provence Centre, P2 |
| Thursday 3 | Year 8 Riverlife Excursion (Group 4) Free Dress Day See Faith & Mission section of this newsletter for more information |
| Friday 4 |
Last Day Term 1 |
| Sunday 6 |
5th Sunday of Lent |
| Sunday 13 |
Palm Sunday |
| Thursday 17 |
Holy Thursday |
| Friday 18 |
Good Friday
|
| Saturday 19 |
Holy Saturday |
| Sunday 20 |
Easter Sunday
|
| Monday 21 |
Easter Monday |
| Tuesday 22 |
Term 2 Commences |
| Wednesday 23 |
Music Concert - Jazz Night, IPAC, 6.30pm |
| Thursday 24 |
College ANZAC Service, The Provence Centre, 9am |
| Friday 25 |
ANZAC Day Public Holiday |
Sport
Please see the sport newsletter for upcoming dates, training and sport information.
Project Compassion
"Wear a Touch of Purple" free-dress day - Thursday 3 April.
A $2 donation will be collected in homeroom or parents can pay via the link below.
All profits will go to Project Compassion.
Social Justice Coordinator
Daily House Mass Roster
The Iona College Parents & Friends Association invites you to a relaxed catch-up at Cambridge Lane on Monday, 31 March 2025, from 9am to 11am.
Feel free to stay for the whole morning or swing by for a quick coffee (available for purchase). It’s a great chance to meet other families and connect with the Iona community.
Grab a coffee, enjoy some friendly conversation, and come and go as you like.
We would love to see you there!
Iona Passion Play
Experience the powerful story of Easter live on stage at the 67th anniversary performances of The Iona Passion Play!
Join us for this moving tradition, a performance that has captivated audiences for over six decades. Witness a passionate portrayal of events that changed history, performed by dedicated volunteers from all walks of life.
The Iona Passion Play is a massive part of our history.
Since being founded at Iona by Fr Thomas Shortall in 1958, the Iona Passion Play has travelled right around Australia to big crowds, telling the story of Jesus’ Passion, crucifixion, death and resurrection.
Tickets are now available!
Book online at www.ionapassionplay.org.au or purchase at the door (subject to availability). Early bird and group discounts (10+ people) available!
For enquiries, email info@ipp.org.au or call (07) 3333 1993.
Would you like to be part of this incredible journey?
The Iona Passion Play are looking for volunteers to assist with bump in and bump out as well as box office duties. Every helping hand makes a world of difference in bringing this meaningful event to life.
ANZAC Day Photo Upload
Following the success of previous years’ presentations, families and staff are again invited to provide a photograph of their son with a relative or relatives who represented their country in armed conflict as part of our ANZAC Day commemorations.
This extends to those family members who have served in any role, such as soldiers, nurses, pilots and medics in operations including World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Afghanistan and modern peacekeeping missions.
Please note that submitted images will be collated and displayed publicly at the Iona ANZAC Day Ceremony. Some may also be displayed on other Iona media, such as the newsletter, website or social media pages.
If the relative is deceased but you would like your son to participate, you might consider:
- Photographing your child in Iona uniform holding an image of his relative.
- Photographing your child in Iona uniform wearing his relative’s medals. The Australian War Memorial website asks that, “If wearing someone else’s medals, they should be positioned on the right-hand side (of the chest)”.
- Photographing your child in Iona uniform with the spouse of a relative who served.
Please ensure that your photos are submitted by Tuesday 22 April.
Iona P&F Ladies' Lunch 2025 - Sunday 18 May
The annual Iona College Ladies Lunch, hosted by the Iona P&F Association, is back for 2025!
This year, the Ladies Lunch will be at the Manly Harbour Boat Club, and all ladies of Iona are invited to come along and join us from 11am – 3pm.
Tickets are $70 each, this includes live entertainment, canapes, and signature lolly bar!
Tickets will go on sale at 7pm on Friday 4 April. Tickets are limited and will sell out fast.
A highlight of the Iona Ladies Lunch as always been the wonderful array of prizes for the multi-draw raffle.
If you would like to contribute a gift or voucher to the raffle, please leave your donation at College Reception labelled ‘Ladies Lunch’. Cut-off to donate items will be Wednesday 14 May.
So, save the date in your diary, and we look forward to you joining us for a fun afternoon with the ladies of Iona, supporting our wonderful P&F!
Mr Brayden TeeceDean of Oblate Identity and Community
Reminder for all Iona Families
Community is at the heart of everything we do at Iona, and we are always mindful of the role that this College plays in making life better for the people in our wider community, and how we as Ionians are perceived by them.
This is why the College continually reminds students about the expected standards around behaviour, uniform and haircuts.
As important as issues like these are at school, they are even more critical outside of the school gates where people outside of the College will form opinions about the collective reputation of all Ionians by what they see in front of them.
The responsibility of being an Ionian does not end with the final bell of the day, or on leaving school grounds.
This responsibility applies to all members of Iona community, our staff and families – not just our students.
Recently, the College was contacted by a member of the wider community who lives very close to the campus expressing their dismay at the occasional aggression and lack of courtesy shown by Iona families driving to and from the College during pick-up and drop-off times.
When congestion is heavy during these peak times, these local families have struggled to get in or out of their own driveways as they are not being allowed to merge into traffic.
“We also have kids to take to school and jobs to get to,” our neighbour said. “Your website states, ‘You won't understand the power of a community until you are a part of one’.
“I would appreciate it if you could send a message to all parents reminding them to be considerate of the neighbours in the area when driving and maybe a reminder that a three to five-second pause to let someone out of their driveway isn't going to delay their entire day.”
The College requests all families to be mindful of situations like this, and the impact that positive or negative behaviours have on our community’s impression of Iona and all of us as Ionians.
Respectful consideration of others is not just an example for younger Ionians, but reinforces our sense of community and the standards we uphold as Ionians.
We’re excited to announce that tickets for Iona College's 2025 musical production of We Will Rock You will be on sale THIS MONDAY, 31 March, at 7pm!
This is a show that will truly rock you – our talented students have been working hard to bring Queen’s legendary music to life, and we promise it’ll be a kind of magic!
The musical will be performed from 22 - 25 May in IPAC.
The Iona College productions are a fantastic celebration of talent, hard work and community. The boys love seeing you there to showcase their skills and what will be a musical 8 months in the making.
You can grab your tickets through the link below, but get in quick – they’re sure to bite the dust fast!
Mr David Cooke
Head of Co-Curricular Arts, Public Speaking and Debating
The producers of the acclaimed and Tony Award-winning stage spectacular Peter and the Starcatcher have offered Iona families the opportunity to enjoy this adventure-filled prequel to Peter Pan at QPAC for just $79 per ticket.
Starring Pete Helliar (The Amazing Race), Colin Lane (Lano & Woodley), Alison Whyte (Frontline), Paul Capsis (La Cage Aux Folles), Olivia Deeble (Home and Away), and Otis Dhanji (Aquaman), the production is in Brisbane until 6 April.
Iona’s drama students enjoyed the production at QPAC during the week, and now all Iona families have the chance to see the fun for themselves.
This special ticket price offer ends this Friday 28 April at 6pm.
To find out more, and to book your tickets, go to Peter and the Starcatcher - Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
Holiday Reading
A reminder that the library has many exciting eBooks and audio books on the Sora platform that would be a perfect companion on the upcoming holidays, or a rainy weekend.
Students can log in to their Ioan account and chose the library home page from any device. There is no need to carry heavy books, just jump in and explore with your laptop, iPad or other device.
Overdue Books
A reminder to have your child check their library account for any overdue books.
If you have lost a book, please let us know at library@iona.qld.edu.au
Student ID Cards
Please encourage your child to contact the IT department immediately if they have lost or misplaced their library ID card, as they need it for printing, charging their laptop and checking out books.
Zomster
On Wednesday 2 April, Zomster Books will be coming to the library to share books with the students. Students will be able to vote for their favourite manga books, which the library will purchase and add to our member collection.
Many thanks,
The Library Team
Term 2 is coming, and so is the cooler weather.
All stock is available for purchase now at the uniform shop or through the online store: https://iona-college.mybigcommerce.com/.../winter-uniform/
Compulsory items for Term 2 and Term 3 include:
- Ties for Years 5-12
- Long grey trousers for all Seniors (Years 10-12)
- Blazers for Years 11 and 12 (optional for Year 10)
- College tracksuit jackets to be worn over the College striped polo shirt on sports days - no other jackets are permitted. Tracksuit pants are optional.
- Rain jackets are also in stock and available for purchase at the Uniform Shop.
Uniform Shop Term 2 Opening Hours
Week 1
Tuesday 22 April , Wednesday 23 April, Thursday 24 April 8am – 3.30pm (Monday and Friday are Public Holidays).
Normal hours will resume Week 2:
Monday, Wednesday and 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
Noticeboard
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