Dear members of the Iona community,

This week across Queensland, we celebrate Catholic Education Week — a time to give thanks for the gift of Catholic education and to reflect on the unique role our schools play in shaping young people who are not only well-educated but also formed in faith, compassion, and service.

The theme for Catholic Education Week in 2025, "Communities of Faith, Hope and Love", beautifully captures what we strive to live each day at Iona College.

As a community inspired by the life and mission of St Eugene de Mazenod and the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, we are proud to be part of the wider Catholic education system that serves over 220,000 students across our state.

At Iona, this week provides a special moment to recommit ourselves to forming young men who are faith-filled, generous in spirit, and ready to make a difference in the world.

It’s a reminder that Catholic education is not just about what happens inside a classroom — it’s about the values that guide our lives and the community we build together.

That spirit of community was well and truly on display over the weekend.

On Saturday we proudly launched our new partnership with NRL giants the Sydney Roosters, marking an exciting moment in the College’s co-curricular story. This partnership is not only a recognition of the strength of Iona’s sporting culture, but also an opportunity to offer new pathways and experiences for our students in elite sport and leadership.

We look forward to working closely with the Roosters in the years ahead to foster growth, development, and aspiration among our young Ionians.

Later that same evening, our Black and White Dinner brought hundreds of Iona parents, staff, Old Boys and supporters together in a celebration of community. From the beautifully styled venue to the warm conversations and laughter shared across tables, the night was a powerful reminder of how much people value belonging to our special community.

Events like these don’t just raise funds or fill calendars — they strengthen bonds, spark friendships, and remind us of the wider Iona family that surrounds our young men every day.

Another important expression of our role as partners was seen this week through our Student Progress Meetings. These conversations are vital opportunities for collaboration between home and school — moments where teachers and families come together to celebrate growth, identify areas for improvement, and plan meaningful steps forward.

At Iona, we know that when parents, carers and teachers work in unison, the impact on student learning and wellbeing is profound. We thank all families who made time to engage positively in these conversations and encourage ongoing dialogue to support each boy in his journey toward becoming the best version of himself.

Catholic Education Week invites us to reflect on our collective mission — to educate hearts and minds, to form young people of character, and to build a future marked by hope and love. Whether in classrooms, on sporting fields, or around dinner tables, we give thanks this week for the many ways our community lives that mission each day.

As we move forward into the rest of the term, may we continue to walk together in faith and gratitude, proud of what we share and excited for what lies ahead.

God bless,

Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal

Dear Members of our College Community,

As we celebrate Catholic Education Week, on behalf of the Iona Oblate community, I extend our warmest blessings and heartfelt thanks to each of you for the unique role you play in shaping our shared mission. The theme “Communities of Faith, Hope and Love”, reflects the spirit of our College family and the values we are called to nurture in every student, staff member, and in ourselves.

This year’s celebration holds special significance as it coincides with the birthday of St Eugene de Mazenod, founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, on 1 August. Born in 1782, St Eugene was a man of deep faith, steadfast hope, and courageous love. He saw the face of Christ in the poor, the forgotten, and the young, and responded with a heart committed to mission, education, and transformation.

As an Oblate school, St Eugene is not just part of our history but rather his vision continues to shape who we are today. His legacy lives on each time we foster a learning environment where students are encouraged to grow, are recognised and valued as individuals, and where kindness and belonging are part of daily life. In living this out, we strengthen our identity as a community rooted in faith, guided by hope, and committed to love.

Following Catholic Education Week, we enter National Vocations Awareness Week (August 3–10), a sacred time to reflect more deeply on how our Catholic communities form young people not only for careers, but for Vocation: discovering how God may be calling them to serve the world. Whether that call is to priesthood, religious life, marriage, teaching, healthcare, or other paths of service, every vocation is rooted in love and lived for others.

As we remember St Eugene’s life and mission, let’s keep building a College where faith grows, hope is shared, and love is shown. As Ionians, let’s care for one another and pray for our young people, so they can trust in God’s call and bring light and goodness to the world.

With every blessing in the spirit of St Eugene,

Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector

Middle Years Matters: Masks, Camps, and Leadership

As the term gets underway, it's timely to reflect on a message shared with students during our last Phase Assembly of Term 2 about the masks we wear. Students were encouraged to consider how we all wear masks in different situations, sometimes to feel confident, sometimes to protect ourselves. These masks can serve a purpose in moderation, but if worn for too long, they can become harmful, hiding our true selves and limiting authentic connection. Part of growing up is learning when to wear a mask and when to have the courage to take it off.

This theme of challenge and authenticity carried through to the Year 9 Camp, where students who attended were challenged to step outside of their comfort zones in a three-day experience that demanded resilience, teamwork, and independence. Camps offer rich learning moments which are not always possible in a classroom. Some of these include learning to navigate discomfort, build stronger peer relationships, and discover new strengths. The students were exceptional across the three days, and we thank them for their positive engagement and behaviour.

Our camp program is evolving to offer developmentally aligned opportunities at each year level. In the future, students will participate in:

• A 2-day Year 7 day camp to foster early connections,
• a 3-day Year 8 experience designed to build confidence, and
• the 5-day Year 9 Wilderness Camp as a rite of passage marking the end of the Middle Years phase journey.

To ensure every student gets this chance, 2026 will serve as a transitional year, with tailored experiences offered across the 7 to 10 year levels.

Another exciting initiative is the launch of our Middle Years Leadership Program. Year 9 students recently began lunchtime sessions focused on developing leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and confidence. This program offers a space for young leaders to reflect, learn, and grow. A more formalised version of this program will be introduced to Year 8 students later this year, creating a clear leadership development pathway in the Middle Years.

Over the last week, our Year 7 students have had the opportunity to take part in presentations delivered by Elevate Education, focusing on essential study skills. This engaging and practical session introduced students to effective strategies for organisation, time management, and active learning techniques. By equipping our youngest high school learners with these foundational skills early in their journey, we are setting them on the right path for academic success. Developing good study habits now not only builds confidence but also promotes independence and a proactive approach to learning that will benefit them throughout their schooling years and beyond.

Finally, to our parent community, raising teens can be difficult at times. One moment your teen is laughing with you, and the next, they’re slamming doors or serving up one-word answers. It’s natural to take this personally but remember it’s rarely about you. Adolescents are navigating huge internal shifts. Their brain is still developing in areas like impulse control and emotional regulation. Their mood swings and defiance often reflect their growing need for independence, not a rejection of you.

So here are some tips and hints to help when you find yourself in the trenches with your teen. Remember to stay calm and set clear boundaries without anger. Be empathetic, but don’t let their mood dictate yours. Most importantly, stay connected. Small gestures of kindness and presence matter, even if your teen ‘pretends’ they don’t. The respectful, trusting relationship you’re building now will stand strong into the future.

In this journey of masks, camps, and growth, thank you for walking beside your child and our College community.

Mr Steven Hohn
Dean of Middle Years

Social Justice

Last term our Social Justice focus was Rosies and together we raised a massive $10,980, plus donated 98 bags of groceries and sold $598 worth of Rosies merchandise.

Thank you to everyone who played a role, whether you:

-made a donation in your homeroom
-bought a B&W dinner raffle ticket
-made or bought an Anzac biscuit
-bought a hot Milo
-bought and wore Red laces
-participated in the Run for Rosies
-supported the Rosies stall on Old Boys Day
-participated in the Rosies Sleepout
-bought a Yatala Pie
-wore Red for Rosies

Also a huge thanks to the Finance and Marketing and Communications team for their valuable assistance.

Together we have shown our support for Rosies and the valuable work they do with our friends on the streets.

Thanks again to everyone for your support!

OMAD 25 (Oblate Mission Action Day)

Iona College is part of a wider De Mazenod Family within our Australian Provence. This generous community is united in our support of the Missionary Association of Mary Immaculate (MAMI) to continue the principles set down by St Eugene.

As part of our commitment to providing support for the poor and vulnerable, our annual Oblate Mission Action Day (OMAD) this year will be held on Friday 15 August, and is our major College fundraising effort for Oblate Missions globally.

The Oblates work among the poorest and most neglected people in Africa, Asia and South America. Over the past 40 years, Iona families have contributed over $1 million to these communities.

As the money is being directed via the Oblate communities in each country, we can be assured that all of our contributions are reaching their destination in the clearest and most direct means.

Iona Parents – How you can help

You can contribute to the fundraising goals of OMAD in the following ways:

- Donate a gift voucher from JB Hi Fi, Coles/Myer, Rebel Sport or Event Cinemas.
- Donate suitable raffle prizes (electronics, sporting gear etc.)
- Donate food items like cartons of soft drink or water, or chocolates (all sizes) or bags of lollies.
- All of the above items can be dropped at Main Reception by Monday 11 August.
- Bake a dozen cupcakes and drop them off to the Davine Oval Canteen on OMAD morning. If you donate baked goods, please complete this form https://iona.jotform.com/212158118754052 
- Make an OMAD donation using this link (using this link means there is no need for your son to return his donation envelope) https://www.trybooking.com/DDALP  Tax receipts will be issued in late 2025.
- There will be plenty of volunteer opportunities on the day, so please sign up to assist. Please note that you MUST be an approved Iona volunteer to assist at OMAD, and only approved volunteers will be emailed the link to sign up. If you would like to become an approved volunteer, please use this link https://iona.jotform.com/241907423699871 

If you would like any further information about the day, please contact Mrs Samantha Ryan at the College at ryans@iona.qld.edu.au or 3893 8881.

Pre-ordered Food and Mission Money

This year we are once again giving families the opportunity to make a pre-order food and pre-order Mission Money.  Mission Money will be collected on the morning of OMAD from LONG 4 and students can spend it like money on the day. Therefore students won’t need to bring as much cash with them from home. If students are pre-ordering food, they just need to take their ID card to that location on the day and have their name marked off the lists there. All activities will be excepting EFTPOS, cash and Mission Money on the day. Please note that you will be charged a 50c processing fee by trybooking per item.

Please note that purchasing “Mission Money” is not related to an OMAD donation. This is money that students can spend on OMAD.  

Purchase Mission Money and pre order food here https://www.trybooking.com/DEFZH

Pre-ordering food and Mission Money will close on Monday 11 August at 9pm.  No late orders will be accepted, sorry.

There will be lots of food available on the day, even if you haven’t pre-ordered.

If you would like any further information about OMAD, please contact Mrs Samantha Ryan at the College on 3893 8881, or via email at ryans@iona.qld.edu.au

Chisholm Cebula Raffle

Get your tickets for the Chisholm Cebula House OMAD Raffle – with fantastic prizes up for grabs, you won’t want to miss out! Winners will be notified and will have two weeks to collect their prize.

A huge thank you to our generous sponsors for supporting the raffle and helping make OMAD a success:

• Mitsubishi Electric
• Sign Right
• Lashout Eyelash Extensions
• Bayside Optometry
• Wynnum Manly Leagues Club

Mrs Ryan and the Faith & Mission Portfolio

P&F Meeting - Monday 4 August

The next Parents and Friends Association meeting will be held on Monday 4 August, at 6.30pm in Lindum-mere. 

An online option will also be available via Microsoft Teams for those unable to attend in person. The access link will be shared on TASS on Monday afternoon.

We warmly encourage all parents to attend and support the P&F. This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved, contribute to our community, and stay informed about what’s happening at the school. We look forward to seeing you there!

Black and White Dinner – A Night to Remember

Just when we thought last year’s Black & White Dinner was a big success, the 2025 edition blew it out of the water!

On Saturday 26 July, more than 400 guests gathered at the stunning Plaza Terrace Room at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre for an unforgettable evening celebrating all things, Iona.

The night was not only a celebration of our vibrant community but also a vital fundraiser supporting the programs that empower our students to thrive.

A huge thank you to everyone who made this night shine.

Our amazing sponsors and donors, your generosity and commitment to Iona never ceases to inspire.

• Platinum Sponsor: Educlean
• Live Auction Sponsor: Ocean Realty
• Gold Sponsors: F45 Training Wakerley, Emphasis Jewellery Collection
• Silver Sponsors: BMD Group, Green by Nature, Zone Plumbing and Backflow, Joan Pease MP
• Bronze Sponsors: 3 Elements Coffee, Crafty Monk Brewing, Continental Carpets, Cr. Alex Givney, Deep Grey Photography, Lipke Motors, Malpass Tennis, Opal Skin & Beauty, Stretch Pilates and Barre, Wynnum Golf Club

Thank you also to our wonderful Iona families and friends who enthusiastically took part in the Ocean Realty live auction — congratulations to all successful bidders!

The Baseline Studio Band had the dancefloor buzzing from start to finish with an electrifying performance. Meanwhile, LUXE Entertainment’s GLAM photo booth was a huge hit, drawing queues longer than the tuckshop on a Friday!

Our MC, Steve Haddan, hosted the evening with humour and heart, keeping the energy high and the smiles wide throughout the night.

The spectacular balloon display by Balloons By The Bay made a striking entrance that added a touch of magic to the venue.

To all the Ionians who joined us, thank you for being the heart of this incredible community. Your support makes events like this possible and helps shape the future of Iona College.

Same time next year? We can’t wait!

Iona Golf Day – It’s Almost Tee Time

We’re excited to announce that the General Painting and Decorating Iona Golf Day, proudly held in partnership with the Iona College Old Boys’ Association, will take place on Wednesday 13 August (Ekka public holiday) at the beautiful Wynnum Golf Club.

With 128 Ionians ready to tee off, we’re looking forward to a fantastic day of friendly competition and community spirit under hopefully sunny skies.

A huge thank you to General Painting and Decorating for their continued support as our naming rights partner for the second year running. Your commitment is greatly appreciated and helps make this event possible.

We’d also like to extend a warm welcome and thank you to our brand-new hole sponsors, Velocity Fitness & Health Wynnum, for joining the Iona community in supporting this event.

And of course, a big thank you to our returning hole sponsor, MTA Tax, for their ongoing generosity.

A special acknowledgement for Pressed Dry Cleaning Wynnum who are supporting the event with donations for the nearest-the-pin prizes.

We’re grateful to all our sponsors who help keep the spirit of Iona alive on and off the green!

Hole sponsorship opportunities are still available. If you and your business would like to support the Iona community by becoming a sponsor of the Iona Golf Day, contact events@iona.qld.edu.au 

P&F Lads and Dads Breakfast – Friday 19 September

The annual Iona College Lads and Dads Breakfast, hosted by the Iona P&F Association, is back for 2025!

This special event will take place on Friday 19 September in Oblate Hall from 6.30am.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students, their fathers, and other significant male role models to come together for a much-loved Lads and Dads Breakfast celebration.

Seating in Oblate Hall will be unallocated, and numbers will be limited when tickets go on sale.  We encourage families considering attending to secure their tickets early to avoid missing out.

We look forward to sharing with the community ticketing information and an announcement of the special guest speaker in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned for more information.

TASS Transition – Thank You for Your Patience

Thank you for your continued patience and support as we navigate our transition to TASS. While there have been a few expected teething issues, I want to assure you that the short-term inconvenience will be worth it. We are moving toward a more streamlined and connected system that will enhance communication and coordination across all areas of College life.

Year 6 Camp at Glendalough

Term 3 is off to a vibrant and energetic start. Last week, our Year 6 students embarked on their much-anticipated camp at Glendalough, an enduring highlight of the Primary journey. This cohort continues to go from strength to strength, with their time away helping to stretch their comfort zones, forge new friendships, deepen connections, and build key social and emotional skills.

We now shift our attention to the upcoming Year 5 Camp in Term 4, with more information to be shared with families in the coming weeks.

STEM Cup at Griffith University

Today, a group of 30 Primary students proudly represented Iona at the Griffith University STEM Cup. STEM experiences like this spark curiosity, promote critical thinking, and help develop the collaborative skills our young learners will need for the future. We are eagerly awaiting their results and commend them for the enthusiasm, teamwork, and curiosity they demonstrated throughout the day.

Term 3 Sport

Sport in Term 3 is now well underway. Our participation rates across Primary in Basketball, Tennis, Rugby League, Track and Field, and Touch Football are outstanding. These opportunities allow our boys to connect with Iona’s proud tradition of sport while developing teamwork, resilience, and a strong sense of identity through involvement.

Year 5 Concert

Another highlight this week was attending the Year 5 Concert on Tuesday evening. For many boys, this was their first performance in front of an audience - and for all, their first as Ionians. The courage it takes to step onto that stage is no small thing, and I want to congratulate each performer for their bravery, energy, and commitment. It was a fantastic night, made even more special by the support of our families in the audience.

Student Progress Meetings

Thank you also to the many families who took the time to meet with teachers this week for our Term 3 Student Progress Meetings. Partnering with families in the development of each young man is one of the most important parts of our work. These conversations help strengthen the connection between home and school, especially as students refocus for the second half of the year.

Year 6 Immigration Excursions

A reminder to Year 6 families that consent for students to attend the upcoming Immigration Excursions is now due through TASS Parent Lounge. Please note the early arrival times for certain classes below. Further information can be found in TASS Parent Loung via the Accounts & Payments tab, then Events and Payments.

Tuesday 5 August – 6S & 6W – 8.30-11.30am
• Students are to arrive on the Primary Handball Courts no later than 8.10am.
• As Tuesday is their normal sport day, students may wear their Iona polo shirt, sport shorts, socks and sport shoes.

Thursday 7 August – 6M & 6R – 8.30-11.30am
• Students are to arrive on the Primary Handball Courts no later than 8.10am.
• Students attending the excursion on Thursday are to wear their grey winter uniform, including ties.

Thursday 7 August – 6B & 6E – 11.40am – 2.50pm
• Students attending the excursion on Thursday are to wear their grey winter uniform, including ties.

Year 5 Grandparents’ Day

We would like to warmly welcome all grandparents of Year 5 students to Grandparents’ Day on Thursday 28 August. In the event that a grandparent is unable to attend, we extend our invitation to ONE family member, or a person of significance.

The morning’s program will commence with a liturgy and concert in IPAC, followed by student-led tours around the College and will finish up with morning tea in IPAC.

Further information has been emailed to Year 5 families, including the Trybooking link to book seats and we look forward to welcoming these special guests to the College.

Thank you to the parents who have generously volunteered to assist with catering for our special guests, these volunteer spots were snapped up in a matter of hours!

Term 3 is always a busy and exciting time at Iona. We look forward to sharing many more experiences and celebrations with you in the weeks ahead.

Mr Brayden Teece
Acting Dean of Primary Years

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD)

Each year, all Australian schools participate in the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD). This important process helps ensure that students with disability receive appropriate support and recognition within our education system. At Iona College, this work is supported by our dedicated Diverse Learning Team.

The NCCD involves schools identifying and documenting the types of adjustments made to support students with disability, in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005. Schools report the following information to the Australian Government:

• Year level
• Category of disability (physical, cognitive, sensory, or social/emotional)
• Level of adjustment (quality differentiated practice, supplementary, substantial, or extensive)

This information allows governments to plan and allocate funding more effectively and enables schools to:

• Recognise and record the support provided to students
• Review and enhance learning programs
• Strengthen inclusive education practices

It is important to note that the NCCD has no direct impact on your child. Students are not required to undergo any testing or assessments as part of this process. All data is de-identified before being submitted, ensuring privacy and confidentiality are maintained under Australian privacy laws.

Students are included in the NCCD if they receive regular, ongoing adjustments at school to access learning on the same basis as their peers. These supports may range from minor classroom strategies to more significant, individualised assistance. Parents and caregivers are informed and consulted as part of this process, in partnership with staff from our Diverse Learning Team.

The NCCD plays a vital role in helping schools like Iona College ensure that every student is supported to reach their personal excellence. For more information, visit the NCCD Portal or refer to the Australian Government’s Privacy Policy. If you have any questions about the NCCD, please don’t hesitate to contact the school or speak with a member of our Diverse Learning Team.

Year 5 Concert

The Year 5 Concert earlier this week was a huge success! Just under 90 of our newest musicians took to the stage to present their very first performance at Iona. It was a fantastic evening celebrating the beginning of their musical journey. Our most senior ensembles also performed on the night, giving our Year 5s and their families a glimpse into what’s possible with dedication and consistent practice. We’re so proud of all involved.

Instrumental Lessons – Compass and TASS

A reminder that students should continue checking Compass for their instrumental lesson times while we transition to TASS. Once the full changeover is complete, families will be notified, and Compass will no longer be used for lesson schedules.

Flutes and Clarinets – New Students Welcome

We are currently looking for more flute and clarinet students. These are beautiful instruments to learn and are also excellent options for students considering a second instrument. Learning music has been shown to improve focus, memory, and academic performance, while also building perseverance and confidence—skills that benefit students well beyond the music room. If your son is interested, please get in touch with us as soon as possible.

Queensland Catholic Schools Music Festival (QCMF)

A full schedule for QCMF can be found on the co-curricular page of our website.  Please check which day and time your son is performing, and whether collection from Villanova College is required. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event!

Big Band 1 Assembly Performance

Congratulations to Big Band 1, who performed at last week’s assembly. Their rendition of Shiny Stockings, made famous by the Count Basie Orchestra, was a hit with the audience and a great way to celebrate their achievements.

SHEP – State Honours Ensemble Program

Congratulations to Baxter Coglan, Grant Gaka, and Ashton Featherstonhaugh, who recently represented Iona at the State Honours Ensemble Program held at the Queensland Conservatorium. This is a significant achievement and a wonderful opportunity for our students to extend their musical skills among some of the best young musicians in the state.

On the horizon

Please check the Semester 2 Music Schedule on the co-curricular page of our website and add dates to your calendar.  

Mr Brian L'Huillier
Head of Instrumental Music

Honouring Remembrance and Respect Across Cultures

Papua New Guinea National Remembrance Day – July 23

Each year on July 23, Papua New Guinea observes National Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honour the bravery and sacrifice of PNG soldiers who served in World War II and other conflicts. This day recognises the enduring legacy of those who made a stance for freedom and resilience, including the famed Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who supported Australian troops along the Kokoda Track. It is a time for reflection, pride, and national unity.

Celebrating Cultural Respect and Wellbeing

Through embracing cultural diversity, we not only strengthen our community but nurture the wellbeing of every individual within it. Respecting the histories, identities, and traditions of all cultures builds safe spaces for dialogue, belonging, and understanding. When students and staff feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are, we cultivate a stronger, more inclusive learning environment. Together, we walk a path of mutual respect, compassion, and cultural humility.

MaPPs Group

We’re excited to introduce the newly formed MaPPs Team, which now includes Ms Marsh, Mr Aerenga and Ms Pearce.

With the ongoing support of Leadership Team, we are fully committed to strengthening and growing this important initiative.

Our first meeting with all MaPPs students will be held this Friday 1 August, during Second Break in B7.

Your voice, ideas, and input are valued as we shape the direction of MaPPs together.

We hope to see you all there.

Ms Tamekin Pearce
Cultural and Engagement Support Officer

Chickenpox

Please be aware that there has been a case of chickenpox within our senior school community.

Please see the following link for information regarding chickenpox, it’s symptoms and treatment. If you have any further questions regarding chickenpox, it is recommended that you consult your doctor.

If you child is unwell or displaying any signs/symptoms, please keep them at home and consult your doctor. Please also note that QLD Health ‘Time Out’ guidelines require an individual with chickenpox to be excluded from school until all blisters have dried up. This may take up to 5 days for a non-immunised person but may be less for those vaccinated.  

Please contact the Health & Wellness Centre if your son has chickenpox on 3893 8865 or allnurses@iona.qld.edu.au

Nick Earls Author Visit Brings Year 6 Novel to Life

Our Year 6 students have been immersed in the powerful novel New Boy, and earlier this week, they had the unique opportunity to meet the author, Nick Earls, right here at the College.

In a captivating presentation, Nick shared stories from his own life, including his journey from the turbulent streets of Northern Ireland to a new beginning in Brisbane. These personal experiences inspired the storyline of New Boy, where the main character navigates a similar transition from South Africa to Australia.

The students were deeply engaged and asked insightful questions, wondering whether Nick had missed his grandparents, if he had ever returned to Ireland, and whether he was good at writing in primary school.

Encounters like this help bring literature to life and inspire our young readers and writers. We are fortunate at Iona to welcome such accomplished authors and storytellers into our learning community.

Inspiration and Imagination: Author Tristan Bancks Visits Iona

Last week, students in Years 7 and 8 were fortunate to welcome acclaimed author Tristan Bancks to the College for an inspiring and engaging presentation.

Drawing on his extensive experience as a writer, Tristan shared valuable insights into the creative process, from planning and storytelling to the unexpected role music can play in sparking ideas. His visit also included a dedicated writers’ workshop, where aspiring young authors had the opportunity to develop their craft and gain practical tips, techniques, and inspiration to elevate their writing.

It was a memorable and motivating experience, and we’re confident the students walked away with a renewed passion for storytelling and a deeper understanding of what it takes to be a successful writer.

CBCA Book Week “Book an Adventure” Photo Competition

Whether you’ve been surfing, hiking, hang gliding, camping under the stars, exploring hidden places, or trying something totally out of the ordinary - we’d love to see it.

How to enter:

• Bring a printed photo of your adventure to the library
• or email it to: library@iona.qld.edu.au

Entries close Thursday 22 August - so don’t wait!  Prizes awarded for the most unique, daring, or original adventures.

Show us just how bold, brave, and adventurous you can be, and inspire others to “Book an Adventure” of their own!

Tutoring is Back – All Students Welcome

Whether you're aiming to boost your grades or strengthen your understanding of key subjects, come along and take advantage of this great opportunity. Everyone is welcome.

QBD Book Week Competition

We’re taking part in the 2025 QBD Book Week Competition, and you can help us score a massive $2,500 book voucher for our library!

Here’s how to get involved:

- Students grab an official flyer from the Library.
- Visit any QBD Books store (there's one at Carindale) - no need to buy anything.
- Hand the flyer to the counter staff.
- Each flyer = one point for Iona.

The competition is now open and runs through 23 August, with winners announced on 16 September.

Let’s pack QBD with Iona spirit and fill our shelves with epic new reads!

Flyers are waiting in the Library - grab one today and head to your local QBD!

QBD Book Selection at the Library

Last week, the St Eugene de Mazenod Library welcomed a special visit from QBD Books, who brought with them a diverse range of titles to support our patron-driven collection initiative. Over two lunchbreaks, students were invited to browse the selection and nominate books they’d like to see added to the College’s library collection.

This engaging initiative empowers students to have a say in shaping the library’s offerings, ensuring the shelves reflect their interests and reading preferences. Keep an eye out as these new titles start to appear in the collection and make their way into the hands of Iona’s keen readers.

Ms Donna Stephens
Head of Library

Uniform Shop Term 3

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/