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