Dear Members of the Iona community,

On Wednesday, we gathered as a College in the spirit of faith and gratitude to celebrate the Feast Day of St Eugene de Mazenod, the founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and a guiding presence in our College’s mission and identity. In the celebration of the Eucharist, we were reminded of St Eugene’s profound commitment to the marginalised and his enduring belief in the transformative power of love, faith, and education. His legacy continues to inspire our community to live lives of purpose and compassion.

It was of significance that during this week we also announced the retirement of a man who, like St Eugene, has been devoted to the service of others.

It is with both sadness and deep gratitude that I inform our community that Peter Holmes has shared his intention to retire at the end of this term.

Peter has been a member of staff at Iona College for 34 years. Across more than three decades, he has made a remarkable contribution to the life of the College and the lives of countless young Ionians. His roles have included Year Level Coordinator, Head of Wellbeing and Formation, Confraternity Coordinator, Acting Dean of Faith and Mission, and Dean of Primary Years. In every role, Peter has modelled compassion, wisdom, faith, and a steady commitment to the holistic development of students.

His daily presence will be deeply missed, but Peter has already indicated his willingness to stay connected to the College in the future – once he has enjoyed some extended time off and the adventures of the caravanning lifestyle.

The College will conduct a comprehensive search process beginning next term, to appoint a permanent Dean of Primary from the start of next year. In the interim, an internal appointment will be made to fulfill the role through to the end of 2025.

Please join me in thanking Peter for his exceptional service and in celebrating the meaningful impact he has made over his long and faithful career at Iona.

In the spirit of welcome and new beginnings, it was also a great joy to host many families and prospective students at our College Open Day on Friday 16 May. We were thrilled to share our story and showcase our facilities, programs, and the vibrant life of the Iona community with around 1500 guests. I hope those who attended enjoyed their student-led tours and gained a genuine sense of who we are—not just as a school, but as a community dedicated to character, creativity, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

A reminder that enrolment applications for Year 5 in 2027 close on Friday 30 May. If you have already submitted your application, we look forward to welcoming you to the next stage of the journey. If not, we hope to hear from you soon as you consider taking the first step in an Iona education—a journey of learning, faith, service, and community, where our students are supported to grow into their God-given potential and become young men who seek not only personal success, but to make a difference to the lives of others. That is what St Eugene wanted for all.

Amid farewells and gratitude, we also look forward in celebration. This evening we anticipate with excitement the first performance of We Will Rock You, our 2025 College Production. This production is a celebration of talent, teamwork, and the transformative power of the arts.

Set in a world where music has been banned, We Will Rock You has reminded us of just how essential the arts are to the human spirit. At Iona, we believe deeply in the role of the arts in education—not simply as entertainment, but as a vital means of imagination, empathy, and expression. Whether through music, performance, or the craft of backstage work, the arts give our young people the space to discover who they are—and who they have the potential to become.

To the cast, crew, musicians, and production staff—thank you. Your courage, persistence, and creativity have brought this story to life. You have not only lit up the stage, but enriched our community. We wish you every success over the coming performances and hope you feel the full support and pride of the Iona community behind you.

God bless,

Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal

Dear Iona Community,

Yesterday we came together to celebrate the Feast of our Patron, St Eugene de Mazenod - a moment of great significance for our College and the wider Oblate family. On behalf of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, I wish each of you a joyful and blessed Feast Day.

St Eugene’s life was marked by both hardship and grace. At just eight years old, he and his family were forced to flee their home during the French Revolution. Once privileged, they became displaced and dependent on the kindness of strangers. It was during this time of deep uncertainty that God led them to the welcoming home of the Zinelli family in Venice. Their generosity, especially in supporting Eugene’s education, would shape his future and vocation. In honour of this transformative moment, our newest Primary facility was named the Zinelli Building, reminding us that quiet, faithful acts of care can leave a legacy.

St Eugene once said, “When we are aware of the indwelling presence of God in others, we give dignity to all the people.” This truth lies at the heart of the Oblate Charism and the mission of our College. Just as St Eugene faced trials and distractions in his time, we too are called amid the challenges of the modern world to recognise Christ in one another, especially in those who are most vulnerable.

A big thanks to our dedicated teachers and staff. You are more than educators. You are mentors, companions, and living signs of God to over 1900 young people who walk the path of becoming the 'Eugenes' of today. Inspired by the words of Scripture, “He has sent me to bring the good news to the poor”, you bear witness to the Gospel in your words, your presence, and your example.

At the heart of our mission is a deep desire to form not only capable students, but authentic humans, deeply Christian, and truly saints - young men who are compassionate, courageous, and committed to serving others. This vision is captured in our College Prayer, which asks Jesus to fill our hearts with His compassion and courage, to enlighten our minds with His wisdom, and to help us lead others to Him by our example.

As a College community, we give thanks today for the life and legacy of St Eugene de Mazenod. May his example continue to inspire us to walk with courage, to educate with love, and to serve with joy.

St Eugene de Mazenod - pray for us.

God bless,

Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector

Dear Parents & Caregivers,

At our recent College Assembly, I reflected on what we mean when we say ‘I am Ionian’. What I have witnessed at our College, is young men who embody courage, integrity, and kindness. These values are not just words—they are lived out daily in classrooms, on the sports field, on the stage and in our local and broader community. To declare yourself an Ionian, means you are an upstander—you speak up, support others, and lead by example. It takes courage to stand up for what is right, it takes integrity to act when you see an injustice and it takes kindness to create a genuine sense of welcome.

Together, staff, students, and families are encouraged to contribute to a culture where everyone is safe, respected, and welcomed. When your son feels welcomed, when they feel as though they belong and are valued for their contribution, we are developing men who have self-confidence. We are contributing to a positive masculinity that balances strength and gentleness and giving your son every opportunity to achieve personal excellence and contribute positively to the College and the local community.

Please note the following as we move into the second half of the term:

Train etiquette

• Avoid standing in larger groups and blocking the priority seating.
• Show consideration for fellow passengers, especially the elderly, pregnant women and young children.

Homework and study

• Homework is set by the classroom teacher.
• Study is independent work that YOU take responsibility for. Review work you aren’t confident with, practice questions and summarise key information.
• Regular study, each evening starting yesterday will put you in good stead for any exams you have later in the term. Remember – exams require you to recall information, so practice questions under exam conditions and get that brain in the zone for exams.

I look forward to working in partnership with all of our Iona families in realising the vision of the College and supporting every young man to know and grow into their potential.

Mr Adam McPhee
Deputy Principal

Social Justice

Rosies Fundraisers

Get ready to pick up your delicious pre-ordered Yatala Pies! Collection is happening on Thursday 29 May from 2pm - 4pm in the Heritage Room.

Thank you for supporting the Rosies Pie Drive!

Excitement is growing for the upcoming Black & White Dinner, which will be held Saturday 26 July at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.  All the Iona College families are welcome to attend, which means there will be plenty of interest in grabbing a ticket.  Tickets are strictly limited and will go on sale 7pm Friday 6 June.

Prior to this, the College is offering one lucky person the chance to win a table of 10 to attend this very special Black & White celebration.  All profits from the raffle will be donated to Rosies-friends on the streets.

Valued at $1,650 this fabulous prize will be drawn 3pm Thursday 5 June.

Raffle tickets cost $30. Don't miss your chance to share a table of 10 with your Iona friends and support a wonderful cause.

Purchase your raffle tickets here https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=ptp58

Year 6 Mother’s Day Liturgy

We are looking forward to hosting our Year 6 mums and guests next Friday 30 May at our Year 6 Mother’s Day Liturgy.

The Liturgy commences at 9.30am, so we ask for our guests to be in attendance by 9.20am at the latest.

Parking will be via our main entry from North Rd and there will be staff to assist in directing vehicles onto the main grassed section below the bitumen staff car park.

If a Nanna or Grandma is attending in place of a mother and needs to be dropped closer to the IPAC entry, just let the staff assisting with parking know and you will be directed drop them off at the turnaround in front of IPAC.

The deadline for the submission of photos has been extended to Friday 23 May. Please note that photos submitted after this date may not be included in the presentation.

Please refer to the invitation emailed on 7 May for further information.

Iona Catholic Primary Schools Leadership Day

On Thursday 5 June, our Primary Leaders and House Leaders will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with student leaders from local Primary schools Guardian Angels’, St John Vianney’s, St Oliver Plunkett, St Luke’s and Lourdes Hill College Junior School at our annual leadership day in IPAC.

The purpose of the day is to provide an opportunity for student leaders to share their experiences in leadership and discuss ways in which they can continue to develop their leadership skills as they transition through high school. Students will also hear from guest speakers and participate in leadership activities.

Primary Years Disco

Tickets to our Primary Years social event of the year are selling like hotcakes!

Tickets:  $10 per student and must be pre-purchased via Trybooking.
Students must show identification to gain entry to the Disco.

Note: Ticket numbers are limited and each school has a predetermined allocation of tickets for this event. Parents/guardians are welcome to contact Iona College directly for further advice if this allocation is exhausted.

Parent/guardian volunteers for the Disco

All registered parent volunteers from Years 5 and 6 were emailed further information today. The email contains a link to sign up to assist on the night.

Mr Peter Holmes
Dean of Primary Years

We are excited to introduce a new addition to our school newsletter 'Connecting with Culture'. 

This section is a celebration of the diverse cultures that shape and strengthen our school community. 

It’s a space where we can embrace the traditions, languages, and values that make each of us unique.

Through student voices and cultural highlights 'Connecting with Culture' aims to build understanding, foster respect and authentically work towards a sense of belonging for everyone. 

Let's unite and continue the journey together.

Upcoming dates of significance:

Monday 26 May National Sorry Day

Tuesday 27 May to 3 June National Reconciliation Week

Tuesday 3 June Mabo Day 

Queensland Premier’s Reading Challenge

The 2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge has officially begun! This fantastic annual initiative invites students from Prep to Year 9 across Queensland to embrace the joys of reading while enhancing their literacy skills.

Key dates:

• Reading period: Tuesday 6 May - Friday 22 August.

Challenge details for Iona (Years 5-9):

• Read 15+ books to complete the challenge.
• Entry forms are available at the Eugene de Mazenod Library. Completed forms must be signed by a parent or guardian and returned by Friday 22 August.

Celebration party:
Students who successfully complete the challenge and submit their signed forms will be invited to a catered celebration party at the library, where their efforts will be recognised and rewarded.

Why participate?

• Discover exciting new authors and genres.
• Revisit cherished books and uncover fresh perspectives.
• Strengthen literacy skills.
• Earn a Certificate of Achievement and enjoy a special celebration.

Whether exploring new stories or revisiting old favourites, the Premier’s Reading Challenge is a wonderful opportunity to dive into the magical world of books.

Student-Driven Book Collection

The Mad Hatters Bookshop will visit the Eugene de Mazenod Library during first break on Friday 23 May. Students will have the chance to browse a selection of fantastic titles and recommend books to add to our library’s collection. Best of all, if your chosen book is selected, you’ll get to borrow it first!

Sora Sweet Reads

From 12 May to Monday 25 August 2025, join us for Sora’s annual reading program, designed to keep students engaged with reading throughout the year. A curated collection of free, simultaneous-use eBooks (and select audiobooks) will be available for primary and secondary students. These titles will be prominently displayed in Sora, making it easy to find your next 'sweet read'!

Author Visit: Josh Donnellan

Josh Donnellan, an author, musician, and poet, brings thrilling stories and creative energy to Iona College!

Josh was almost devoured by a tiger in the jungles of Malaysia, nearly died of a lung collapse in the Nepalese Himalaya and fended off a pack of rabid dogs with a guitar in India.

He will visit Year 9 and Year 10 students on Wednesday 28 May, and Friday 30 May.

We’re excited to welcome him and look forward to a memorable visit!

Write like an Author Writing Camps

These holidays, take your writing to the next level with the Write Like an Author camp! Perfect for young storytellers, poets, and playwrights, this camp offers a chance to develop your skills, explore new ideas, and connect with fellow creative minds. It’s a fun and supportive way to grow as a writer and bring your ideas to life!

Ms Donna Stephens
Head of Library

Uniform Shop Term 2 Opening Hours

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

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.

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