Dear Iona Community,

First and foremost, I am indeed delighted to share with you all, the new appointment of the Archbishop of Brisbane, Bishop Shane Mackinlay. He will be installed as the Archbishop on 11 September 2025.   Below is Archbishop Mark Coleridge's statement regarding the recent appointment.

As Term 2 comes to an end, it’s a good time to pause, take a breath, and look back on the journey we have shared so far. There has been so much happening across our College and through it all, a strong spirit of commitment, hard work, and working together has stood out.

Learning this term has taken many different shapes not just in our classrooms, but in sports, music, service, and day-to-day moments of kindness and courage. We have seen students grow, teachers support, and families walk alongside us. At the heart of our identity as Ionians lies a quiet yet powerful blend of daring, respect, compassion, honesty, and a commitment to always doing our best - values that have subtly shaped the way we live and learn together.

There is something truly special about our community that celebrates a shared sense of purpose. Every small effort, whether it’s a word of encouragement, a job done well, or a challenge faced with perseverance, adds to the deeper life of our College. This is what makes Iona more than a school. It’s a home where hearts and minds are formed, where people grow, and where God is gently at work in all we do.

Now, as we step into the mid-year break, may we take this time to rest well. Rest isn’t just a break from work but rather it’s part of how we live fully and remain grounded. May the holidays be a time to reconnect with family and friends, to slow down, and to reflect on how far we have come.

Thank you for all that you have given this term: your time, your care, and your presence. May these coming weeks be safe, peaceful, and renewing. And when we return for Term 3, may we come back with fresh energy, open hearts, and hope for all that lies ahead.

A special word of thanks to all our staff who will be taking part in the professional development week during the break. Thank you for continuing to lead, learn, and inspire with dedication and care by your example.

God bless,

Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector