Dear members of the Iona community,

As Term 2 draws to a close, we take time to pause and reflect on a season of perseverance, celebration, and deepened connection across our Iona community.

Whether it was cheering from the sidelines at cross country, applauding the courage and creativity on stage during We Will Rock You, welcoming our past students to campus on Old Boys’ Day or gathering staff next week in prayer and reflection for Staff Formation Day, this term has reminded us of the richness of a Catholic education shaped by faith, service, and belonging.

Our students have continued to impress - not just in their achievements, but in the way they conduct themselves: helping others on public transport, supporting organisations like Rosies, helping at local schools including Darling Point Special School and living out our Iona values every day. The leadership of our seniors, the guidance of our staff, and the trust of our families continue to strengthen the fabric of our school and this is evident in the discussions we are currently having in enrolment interviews for Year 5 2027.

As we approach the break, Semester 1 school reports will be issued next week. We encourage all families to take time to read the reports together with their sons. These reports are not just records of academic progress; they are windows into your son’s growth, effort, and engagement. We ask each student and parent to reflect on two key questions: What went well this semester? and What would be even better if...? These conversations help students take ownership of their learning and set clear, meaningful goals for Semester 2 and the growth that can occur then.

We also paused this term to honour the passing of Pope Francis — a man who lived and led with humility and hope. In his example, we saw echoes of our own College Prayer and a challenge to live with compassion and courage.

Finally, with the Primary Years students and staff, earlier this week I shared in a liturgy to honour a man who has exhibited what it means to be an Ionian and himself lead with compassion and courage.  Mr Peter Holmes retires from his full-time role at the end of this term, with his final day with students being today. After 34 years of dedicated service, his impact on Iona has been nothing short of extraordinary. Mr Holmes has not only shaped programs and roles but has helped form the character of thousands of young Ionians and the careers of many wonderful teachers. He is deeply respected and much admired across our community, and his legacy will continue to influence Iona long after his final day. We wish him every blessing as he enters this next season of life. As announced to our primary community earlier in the week, Mr Brayden Teece will take on the role of Acting Dean of Primary Years for the next six months.  We thank Brayden for stepping in to this role.  We will advertise nationally very early next term to fill the role on a more permanent basis from the start of 2026.

Thank you to every staff member, student and family who has contributed to the life of the College this term. May the winter break be a time of rest, renewal and joy.

We look forward to returning in Term 3 with renewed energy, grounded in our mission and inspired by the spirit of St Eugene.

God bless,

Mr Trevor Goodwin
Principal