Dear members of the Iona community,

This morning we welcomed back students from our 2024 graduating class who joined us to celebrate their academic achievements from last year at the Strive to Achieve Assembly.

We were also fortunate to welcome back former Iona Rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI, along with students from Mazenod WA and parents of past and present students.

At last week’s assembly, we came together to celebrate students who excelled in co-curricular activities by making it to the First teams in volleyball, AFL, and cricket, and applauded our musicians who participated in the State Honours Ensemble Program.

The annual Strive to Achieve Assembly is not just about recognising those who have attained excellent academic results. It is equally a celebration of the virtues of perseverance, dedication, and personal growth.

Beyond the outstanding results, we acknowledge the students who have demonstrated significant improvement over time and those who have consistently applied extraordinary effort in their studies. This is what education is intended for.

Central to our school's mission is the belief that the purpose of education encompasses growth — personal, spiritual, academic, and social. Each challenge faced and success achieved at school moulds our students into the individuals they are capable of becoming.

Our ‘Strive to Achieve’ Assembly represents this philosophy, focusing not only on current achievements but also on the journey and effort our students have invested.

These efforts in perseverance, dedication, and personal growth transcend academic achievement; they are essential life skills that lay the groundwork for future success. Life, much like schooling, is filled with challenges, and it is the ability to persevere, stay dedicated to goals, and continuously seek growth that will steer students toward success in whatever paths they choose.

A special note of appreciation was passed on to the parents who joined us today as representatives of all parents. Your involvement and support are crucial to your children's successes, providing not only encouragement but also important life lessons that reinforce their commitment to hard work.

Congratulations to all of the students recognised today for their remarkable efforts and achievements. We hope that they continue to support one another, strive for excellence, and in that way inspire every member of our community to grow into their full potential.

This week, we also celebrated some of our students’ journey to excellence through the 2025 De Mazenod Family Education Network (DMFEN) Student Leaders Conference.

Hosted by St. Eugene’s College at Burpengary, this gathering was a special moment for our Year 12 leaders from Iona, Mazenod College Victoria, Mazenod College Perth and St Eugene’s to connect, share experiences, and deepen their understanding of what it means to lead guided by the teachings of Jesus and inspired by the legacy of St Eugene De Mazenod.

The conference emphasised that leadership is not about superiority but about empowering others, a message that resonates deeply with Iona’s vision of “forming men who are authentic, grounded, respectful and connected to a community that, like Jesus, serves and inspires others”.

Last weekend we also welcomed many new families to the P&F Welcome BBQ. With over 450 people in attendance, it was a great opportunity for friendship and connection. We would like to thank members of the P&F and volunteers who contributed to the organisation of this event.

Iona has embraced a significant piece of Wynnum’s history through the acquisition and restoration of the former Wynnum Baptist Church, now renamed Lindum-mere.

This historic building’s journey to Iona and today’s official opening and blessing was a long and complex exercise, completed by the care and dedication of many. But I would particularly like to mention the Power family and their firm BMD Group, whose generosity, connection to Iona and commitment to our community made the project possible.

Along with Iona’s stewardship of other historical properties like Hannah Hall and the heritage-listed mango trees. Lindum-mere aligns with the College’s ongoing commitment to cultural enrichment and educational excellence.

It is fitting then that Lindum-mere’s first engagement after the opening and blessing will be Iona’s Indigenous Banji group to celebrate past achievements and welcome in 2025.

It may have a new name and new location, but 113 years after it was constructed on Edith Street at Wynnum, Lindum-mere continues its legacy of bringing community together.

God bless,

Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal