In Hoc Signo, Volume 21, No 1 - April 2023

OLD BOYS, PAST PARENTS, STAFF AND FRIENDS

We invite you to stay in touch with Iona College and let us know where you are and what you are doing in your family and working lives.

If you are aware of any births, deaths or marriages in the Iona community please inform us by emailing communications@iona.qld.edu.au, or phoning 07 3893 8888.

If you are an Old Boy and would like to update your contact details, please submit the ‘Old Boys Connect Form’ available via the Old Boys page on the Iona website www.iona.qld.edu.au

In Hoc Signo is a publication of Iona College.

Editor Michael Westlake

Layout Alexandra Lowson

Front Cover Andrea Thompson Photography

Photography Alexandra Lowson, Pat Hoelscher Photography, students and friends of Iona.

If you have feedback or an enquiry about this edition, please contact Alexandra Lowson on 07 3893 8888 or email communications@iona.qld.edu.au

85 North Road, Lindum Q 4178 PO Box 351, Wynnum Central Q 4178

DIGITAL-FIRST FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT

Iona College is proud to announce a new initiative focused on sustainability, the environment and reducing consumption and waste for the long-term benefit of our community.

In conjunction with the College’s Strategic Plan of 2022, and the identification of sustainability as one of five key strategic priorities, the ‘Black, White & Green’ initiative is a visible reminder that ‘green’ thinking will lead the way for all Ionians for the future.

Since 1957, this College has been dedicated to serving its community, and part of that is ensuring that all Ionians are committed to making a positive impact on the environment which we share.

The Oblate Charism also challenges us to be compelled to act, and be bold and daring in the pursuit of positive change.

Our campus at Lindum – and the incredible, wildlife-rich wetlands we are blessed to have as neighbours on Sandy Camp Road – are truly a gift from God.

As with all of God’s gifts, we must do what we can to nurture and protect it.

Koala fodder farm on the Iona College grounds

‘Black, White & Green’ encourages all Ionians to minimise consumption and waste, and to always be conscious of the environmental impact of products and services produced by, or engaged by, Iona.

St Eugene de Mazenod challenged us to put words into action – to be remembered as saints, we must live like saints.

To demonstrate Iona’s commitment to sustainability, this edition of In Hoc Signo will pioneer a ‘digital-first’ approach – dramatically reducing the consumption of paper and ink previously used for printed copies.

While a small number of copies will still be printed for those members of our community who prefer a hard-copy edition, the vast majority of copies sent to students, families and our wider community will now be digital – to make production more environmentally sustainable, in accordance with the Strategic Plan.

Further, the number of editions of In Hoc Signo this year will be reduced from four to three.

If you would still like to receive a physical copy of In Hoc Signo, you can email the College at communications@iona.qld.edu.au and one will be posted to you.

3:16 students sorting recycling bins

‘MOMENTS OF GRACE’ AT IONA COLLEGE

from the Rector

FR MICHAEL TWIGG OMI

would just like to share some examples of that so far in 2023.

I asked one of our Year 8 students for his permission to share this, while protecting his privacy.

His 62 words contain a range of the hopes that we had for the ‘Moments of Grace’ theme for 2023. I hope you experience the same joy I did in reading it: Dear Father Michael, This afternoon a boy who is going to Darling Point Special School and his mum came up to me and my friend and thanked me and the school for the opportunities he has got at our school.

His mum also thanked us and complimented our basketball courts. I was very touched by this moment of grace.

Thanks for your time reading this.

Then there was this from a recent visitor to our school:

Dear Fr Michael,

abounds everywhere and I

I was travelling (with luggage) last Saturday, 4 Mar 2023 via train to Lindum then walking into Iona grounds to view my grandson’s volleyball match.

On approaching the steps up to the gym/volleyball courts, a young student dropped his bag and ball at the top of the steps above me and approached me, offering assistance with my luggage and also pointing out the lift.

I was so appreciative of his friendly and polite assistance and after reaching the courts thanked him but, am ashamed to say, I didn’t ask his name. I’m sending this email as a way of acknowledging a fine example of this student’s (unknown name) thoughtfulness and behaviour especially towards me, an older member of society.

Regards, (name withheld)

As these examples show, a ‘Moment of Grace’ need only be a moment. But the impact of feeling God’s love working through us or those around us can truly last a lifetime.

The Iona community has been fortunate to experience many of these moments during Term 1, and we get to reflect on some of them in this edition of In Hoc Signo.

On behalf of the Oblate Community, I wish you all a sincere, happy and Holy Easter.

I hope that the incredible love that Jesus displayed for us through his life, death and resurrection can give you joy and happiness throughout the ups and downs of life.

God bless.

SUCCESS AND GRATITUDE

from the Principal

MR TREVOR GOODWIN

It is hard to believe that we are already a quarter of the way through the year. But as we approach the Easter Holiday period, we are thankful that the start to the 2023 school year has been the most ‘normal’ since 2019.

While COVID is still present and has impacts on staff and student attendance, we have certainly now learnt to live with its presence amongst us and this has meant that the beginning of the year has been more settled than the previous three.

Throughout this term, we have enjoyed music concerts, sailing success, many sporting premierships – including in volleyball, cricket and AFL – and our swimmers competing well at the AIC Swimming Championships.

These challenges and successes have been significant in the 25th year of the AIC sporting competition.

As part of the celebration for the 25 years of competition, three former Iona students were inducted into the AIC Sporting Hall of Fame – Australian Paralympic Swimmer Daniel Fox, Rugby League International Jared WaereaHargreaves, and Australian Hockey player and Olympian Tim Howard.

Iona is very proud of these three men, and we congratulate them on this great honour.

Just as the AIC competition turns 25 this year, so too does the Iona College Performing Arts Complex (IPAC).

To celebrate its milestone, we look forward to the performance of the musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – as you will read in Mr David Cooke’s report on Page 22.

IPAC also recently hosted Darling Point Special School’s Harmony Day Concert.

A number of our Year 11 and 12 students who have visited Darling Point recently were fortunate to join them for this special occasion. We have been blessed to be joined on our campus by the students and staff from Darling Point Special School, in many ways answering St Eugene’s exhortation that where we see new needs, we need to invent new means.

This is certainly something that Iona College has done throughout our history, leading the way in a variety of areas.

The continued growth in the relationship between our two communities has been another cause for celebration this term.

Finally, I hope you and your family are able to have some peaceful time together over Easter to acknowledge and share the hope that is present for us in Jesus’ resurrection.

NOTHING STRONGER THAN GENTLENESS

Dean of College

MR JOHN FRARE DEAN OF COLLEGE

During this term, I have enjoyed walking the grounds and indoor venues watching the volleyball, cricket and, recently, the AIC Swimming Championships.

I have been enlightened by the underlying values of sportsmanship and, in winning, humility. However, at times there has been evidence of unsportsmanlike behaviour, often involving heated exchanges, or some niggle, push and shove and aggression.

There can be a tendency, among males especially, to equate gentleness with being weak.

pressure to conform to the group or the mob –to ‘man-up’ so to speak.

This pressure is very real, and forces adolescent boys to revert to traditional male stereotypes of bravado and masculinity.

As Norah Vincent in her book Self-Made Man describes it: ‘Every man’s armour is borrowed and ten sizes too big, and beneath it, he’s naked and insecure and hoping you won’t see it’.

This is the gentleness that exists beneath the surface. This is the gentleness that we hope can be seen on the field of ‘battle’.

Understanding that this gentleness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of emotional recognition, is what we hope is apparent in our AIC fixtures, and in academic classes.

We must ensure Iona students understand there is great strength in being gentle.

This is why the above quote resonates so strongly with me, in terms of the strength of gentleness and the apparent, inherent paradox.

There is nothing weak about this understanding of ‘gentle’. In fact, I would argue that it is diametrically opposed to being weak. However, for young men there is a genuine fear of being seen as weak or soft, underpinned by

It may fly in the face of traditional conventions of ‘maleness’ and ‘masculinity’, but there has never been a greater need for gentle men.

In my own life, there is no better example than my own father, and I have been blessed to work with and learn from outstanding gentle men.

Our students will have their own models of gentle men. These should be acknowledged and celebrated, for it is our hope that these boys will grow into men who, at their heart, are gentle.

‘There is nothing stronger in the world than gentleness’ – Han Suyin

NEW PRIMARY SPACE FOR IONIANS OF THE FUTURE

teachers working together in the same space with multiple classes.

Currently, the students in Primary have limited space to eat or play under shaded areas, and the existing amenities are inadequate to cater for the number of students.

The addition of an undercroft area and the new amenities close to sporting fields and play areas will serve Primary students and visitors to the College during weekend sport.

Corporate Services

MRS SUSAN BOBAN MANAGER, CORPORATE SERVICES

The Iona College Strategic Plan from 2017, and subsequent Master Plan developed in 2018, identified the need for the redevelopment of the existing Primary area to create contemporary learning spaces that support 21st century learning.

The spaces identified in the Master Plan recommendations included contemporary flexible learning spaces, as well as play areas specifically designed to cater for the unique needs of the youngest members of our community.

The College is about to embark on a new project with Tomkins Commercial and Industrial

Builders in creating an opportunity for our Primary School to have access to purpose-built facilities designed specifically for our Year 5 and Year 6 students.

Currently the Primary School facilities are located across three separate buildings (Fr Sherman, The Annex, and a prefabricated demountable building).

The construction of four flexible learning classrooms with connecting verandahs, a lift and outdoor learning spaces connected to the existing Fr Sherman Building enables our entire Primary community to be connected, and close in proximity.

This allows for the sharing of resources and activities more readily and easily, while also supporting the Primary staff to teach collaboratively, involving

The extension to Primary will be built on the area that now houses our College chooks and will fit neatly between the student handball courts / ovals and the existing Fr Sherman building – creating a true Primary Precinct area that is unique and distinct from the Secondary part of the College. Our chickens, of course, will get a new home.

This project is planned to begin soon for completion by the start of the 2024 school year. The previously announced relocation of the Wynnum Baptist Church from its current location in Wynnum to our College is still underway.

The church is due to arrive over the coming weeks, and will be renovated to be used as both an additional learning space and community gathering option.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ‘CLASS OF 2022’

Learning and Teaching

MRS DONNA ELKINGTON DEAN OF LEARNING AND TEACHING

In Term 1, we celebrated the successes of our 2022 Senior cohort at our annual ‘Strive to Achieve’ assembly. It was wonderful to be able to celebrate this with the whole school in The Provence Centre.

We are so proud of their achievements and the many, varied pathways they have pursued after finishing their secondary schooling. Our Seniors have commenced tertiary study, entered the workforce, and commenced apprenticeships.

Whilst data about academic outcomes is not the only measure of success, it does provide a snapshot of the achievements of our Senior cohort. I am proud to share that:

• 99.5% of the cohort received their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)

• 13 students completed a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT)

• 7 students received the QCAA Certificate of Academic Commendation for achieving six A results in six General subjects

• 108 students completed one or more Vocational Education & Training (VET) courses

• 92% of our students who applied to QTAC for tertiary study received their first or second preference.

During the Strive To Achieve assembly, the College presented a variety of academic awards including the ‘Top of Subject’ awards to the student/s who achieved the highest final result for each Senior subject offered at the College.

Congratulations to our College Dux for 2022, Isaac O’Brien. Isaac’s speech at this assembly included important messages for our current students. Isaac spoke about the importance of:

• Asking for help from teachers

• Being involved in the College community

• Taking opportunities for relaxation to balance your workload

• Finding a pathway that you are interested in and set goals to help you get there.

These strategies helped Isaac achieve success and are valuable for all current students to consider as they work towards their learning goals.

To the ‘Class of 2022’, congratulations and best wishes for the future!

MOMENTS OF CONNECTION

Catholic Faith and Mission

MRS LIZ MADDEN DEAN OF CATHOLIC FAITH AND MISSION

Engaging in our 2023 college theme ‘Moments of Grace’ has provided many opportunities for staff and students to reflect on those points in time when we feel the presence and love of the Sacred in a poignant way.

Students from our Faith and Mission Portfolio had a profound experience of God’s grace at the annual National Oblate Youth Encounter (NOYE) in early January.

This was a time of joy and connection, and the students came away with meaningful friendships with other young people who are associated with the De Mazenod Family.

At our Year 12 retreat and our Commitment Mass, we hoped to provide staff and students with opportunities to recognise and experience God’s limitless and unconditional love by connecting with each other and the Divine.

The Year 12s have had several opportunities to experience God’s grace through the art, language and stories of First Nations Elders. At our first assembly, we were Welcomed to Country by Quandamooka Elder, Earl Morgan. His wisdom and generosity are greatly appreciated as we dialogue with First Nations Peoples on the path to reconciliation.

At the Year 12 retreat, Old Boy, Mu’raay Djeripi inspired staff and students with his stories, wisdom and the artwork that he has created for each House.

These new Iona icons, created in conjunction with student representatives, reflect the identity and spirit of each House.

In preparation for the annual Commitment Mass, Quandamooka Elder Dr Sandra Delaney, gifted the Year 12 students with the Jandai words that were used and will continue to be used during the Penitential Rite.

Confident in the mercy and love of God, the Penitential Rite is a time during every mass when we humbly come before God, express our sorrow for our mistakes and ask for His forgiveness.

While there is no direct translation for ‘Lord have Mercy’ in Jandai, Dr Sandra taught us the closest equivalent which is Wali ngali ngana banmal (wally ngar-lee ngar-na bun-mull).

This roughly translates to asking God to ‘forgive us for our mistakes’.

We are grateful to Dr Sandra for her wisdom and for continuing to trust us with her ancient language.

We are honoured to play our part in reclaiming Jandai which is held sacred by the Quandamooka peoples, upon whose lands Iona College stands.

WELCOME TO THE IONA ‘SILVERBACKS’

Oblate Identity and Community

MR BRAYDEN TEECE DEAN OF OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY

In 2023, Iona marks an incredible 65 years since the first classes began in service of the community we cherish. It also marks a special occasion for our first graduating class of 1963, who celebrate their 60-year anniversary.

Ionians share in a lifelong connection to the College, and we treasure these relationships as they strengthen over time.

As our Old Boy community continues to mature, it is important that we recognise the contribution that our Senior Old Boys have made to our school in establishing our valued culture and traditions.

To acknowledge this contribution, Iona is pleased to announce a new initiative to recognise and honour our longest-serving Old Boys.

In 2023, the College is proud to introduce ‘The Iona Silverbacks’ – a membership group created to honour our Old Boys who have reached 50 years since graduation.

Over the past 30 years, the gorilla icon has become synonymous with Iona’s identity, symbolising key messages of strength, resilience, confidence and humility.

The introduction of the Iona Silverbacks is an extension of this theme.

In nature, the silverback is the mature male that is the leader of a gorilla troop, responsible for protecting and nurturing the younger

members, and teaching the next generation their responsibilities so they may one day lead.

It is a fitting analogy for our most senior Old Boys, and reflective of the role they play in Iona’s culture and tradition.

It is also a way of formalising the importance of our Senior Old Boys, by creating this distinguished group whose membership will be aspired to by other Old Boys, and respectfully revered by all Ionians.

Each year, a new cohort of Silverbacks will be inducted into this group, enabling them to experience engagement opportunities that may be more accessible for their generation.

The Iona Silverbacks will be launched on Sunday 15 October with a special brunch at Iona in Hannah Hall.

We hope that those who are eligible will join us as we acknowledge your contribution.

Kia Kaha.

Condolences

Our prayers are with the families of these members of the Iona community who have recently passed:

Joseph Lewis (2018)

Daniel McGurk (1987)

NEW YEAR, NEW COMMUNITY

Primary Years

MR PETER HOLMES DEAN OF PRIMARY YEARS

The commencement of every new school year is both exciting and frenetic. This year was slightly different, in that it was the first in recent times where we were free of COVID interruptions, and able to resume with our traditional ‘staggered’ start.

Fr Michael often relays the sentiment that every time new staff and students commence at Iona College, we – in essence - become a ‘new community’.

In January, Iona Primary welcomed new staff and 168 new students to Year 5 (and one to Year 6), so there was indeed a strong sense of excitement around building that ‘new community’.

During the summer break, the Primary block gained a new, purpose-designed office and a Primary Assistant (which

meant a very warm welcome back to Mrs Gaynor Begley from our Secondary school) to work with staff and ensure all students were well catered for in all things administration.

We welcomed back Old Boy Mr Connor Russell (2016) to Iona as a Year 6 teacher; we welcomed back Mrs Kerrie Malt to our Diverse Learning team and added a new Teacher Aide, Mr Lachlan Sayers, to the DL family.

Primary has also initiated some organisational changes. Our students are taking advantage of the size and shade of our handball courts for both eating breaks.

We have introduced a ‘munch and crunch’ mid-morning as a result of the timetable change for morning tea.

All students have the opportunity to play in a quieter area in the old eating spaces as a result of the change to eating arrangements.

In 2023, Iona College is focusing on a theme of ‘Moments of Grace’, and reminding all within our community of the opportunities – gifted and earned – that are offered within those moments. We are also reminding all within our community of the positive impact ‘rigour’ has on our endeavours, both within and outside of the classroom.

‘Moments of Grace’ and ‘rigour’ complement each other, and certainly are not independent in thinking or behaving.

We hope our staff and students will benefit from a conscious awareness of both within their lives this year.

It has been a busy but exciting start to the year, and as we celebrate Lent and Easter, may we all be mindful of the need for prayer, fasting and almsgiving and how each of these ‘pillars of Lent’ assists us to be of service to those around us.

MAJOR MOMENTS IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Student Services

MR MARK HARVEY DEAN OF STUDENTS

To properly convey the message of what our students have experienced at Iona during Term 1, I have asked the students themselves –represented by our College Captains and Vice-Captains – to detail in their own words some of the major moments to date for our 2023 Seniors.

I thank the boys for their contribution, and I hope you enjoy their view on Term 1.

PAUL DILLON

One of the most memorable speakers we have had was Paul Dillon, who we were fortunate enough to have talk to us for the past three years in a row.

Paul Dillon isn’t one of the normal presenters that talk to you about drugs, alcohol and the new addition of vaping. He doesn’t talk at you the whole time, and tell you not to do them.

Instead, he focuses on the effects of vaping, drinking and taking drugs, what these substances can do to our bodies and the consequences

for both your health and in the law, but still in an interesting and engaging way.

This close to adulthood, we need to learn how to manage risks for ourselves. For us boys, Paul is a trusted figure who ensures our choices are informed.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Term 1 marked the beginning of the new school year, bringing us all so many new and exciting opportunities.

As student leaders, we have a common goal in everything that we do: We want to make

Iona College an even better place for students, staff, families and, of course, the wider Iona community.

Student leadership at Iona is shared into six College portfolios: Faith and Mission; Spirit and Events; Academic; Primary Connect; Community; and the Wellbeing Portfolio –which is an exciting addition this year.

Through these portfolios, we are able to collaborate and progress with a range of exciting initiatives.

In Term 1, we raised funds for Project Compassion through the sale of meat-free pizzas and donations, fostered the growth of native trees on the College property, implemented weekly wellbeing tips into daily bulletins and ignited the Iona

spirit amongst students with student-lead chants and ‘Spirit Round’, which saw over 100 proud Ionians supporting our Saturday sport.

This is just the beginning. We are all so eager to share with you some of our upcoming projects for the year ahead.

OBLATE STUDENT LEADERS CONFERENCE

On 12 February, the College's Captains and Vice-Captains travelled to Mazenod College in Perth.

After a five-hour flight to Perth, we were keen to see our Perth, Melbourne and Burpengary Oblate counterparts.

On the first night, we enjoyed a Sunday evening Mass, followed by a barbeque and swim.

We stayed with families as boarders for the three nights, which was an interesting experience.

We all enjoyed the banter, host-family meals and indoor cricket matches. However, the reason for the experience was the annual Oblate Student Leaders Conference, which Iona hosted last year.

Throughout the four days, we participated in general discussion with other students, learnt more about the Oblates and their education goals in Australia, as well as the critical skills all leaders need.

We all agreed that the experience was most enjoyable and a key event leading into the school year.

LENDING A HELPING PAW

Parents & Friends Association

Not content with offering a helping hand to the Iona community, our amazing Parents and Friends Association this year also offered a helping paw.

The introduction of the Iona Therapy Dog Program at the start of the year proved a massively popular addition to life at Iona – not just among students and staff, but on social media where Digger, Fluffles and Ted became cult heroes on Iona’s social media channels.

Iona College Social Worker

Megan Vardanega said the Iona Therapy Dog Program was working alongside existing programs to help students feel connected to the College.

“I had been following the idea of therapy dogs and wellbeing dogs in schools for a very long time, and we were lucky enough that the Iona P&F had some money set aside that they were looking to put towards something to benefit many students,” Mrs Vardanega said.

“Thanks to the Iona P&F, we now have three dogs and three handlers to support our students on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the year.

“At the moment, the program is just about encouraging kids to read – especially those who may be a little anxious or nervous about reading out loud to people.

“We will never be able to measure the benefits that a program like this could have on a child who needs it, but it is just another way that we seek to provide that connection for our students at the College.”

The Therapy Dogs Program was just one of the initiatives organised by the Iona P&F in Term 1 to support our students and families.

The annual welcome BBQ for new families was as popular and successful as usual, allowing families joining Iona in 2023 to immediately feel a connection to their new school and begin

building relationships that could potentially last a lifetime.

This year also saw all Iona families given a free subscription to the Happy Families website – an online portal that gives parents and carers access to an online library of resources, articles, videos and webinars to support them with raising children.

Finally, there was the annual Colour Run, a spectacular community event that not only engages our families and supporters, but is a major fundraiser that allows the P&F to finance the other initiatives.

HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING

Iona Sport

MR CRAIG STARIHA HEAD OF SPORT

Iona wasted no time hitting the ground running on a massive year of sport, with the black and whites savouring on-field success before the new school year had even started.

As with most things in sport and in life, success was born out of proper preparation and dedication, with countless –sometimes thankless – hours put in over the Christmas vacation and in Term 4 last year to ensure Iona was in the best shape possible to meet the new year.

This hard work has paid fantastic dividends across all of our AIC sports for Term 1, with tremendous results and Iona spirit on display in cricket, volleyball, swimming, sailing and AFL at a team and individual level.

In December, our First XI cricketers won the Oblate Cup, our traditional annual cricket competition against our brother schools Mazenod College Victoria and Mazenod College WA.

Two days later, they backed up to win the Oblate Invitational Cup – defeating Kent St (WA) in the final to return from the trip to Victoria with a cleansweep of silverware.

In January, Iona submitted three teams into the Brisbane Cricket Tournament – a preseason tournament featuring schools in the AIC, TAS and GPS competitions.

Iona again performed exceptionally well, with a resounding win over Nudgee College one of the highlights. Iona’s cricket program has surged ahead in recent years with many teams either leading, or close to, the top of the table in their respective age groups within the AIC competition.

We have seen some standout performances during Term 1, including a remarkable innings of 252 not out from our First XI captain, Zayne Thomas, against St Edmund’s. This is a record score for First XI games in the history of AIC competition.

Zayne’s partnership of 317 with Harley Malpass (118 not out) on the same day was also an AIC record in First XI cricket.

Toby Collins, playing for the Iona 10A team, scored 245 not out in a 35-over game against Ambrose Treacy College –another AIC record score.

Toby’s partnership of 403 with Joshua Ritchie (128 not out) also went into the record books as the new run partnership record for any AIC fixture. The First XI game against Marist College Ashgrove was another highlight.

Marist scored 272 runs after 50 overs, and at one stage Iona were 4/48 after 15 overs.

But in a tremendous display of true Iona grit and determination, our boys clawed their way back into the game to win in the 48th over.

Performances such as these, and many others, have placed Iona in the top echelon of the AIC cricketing colleges.

Iona’s volleyball program continues to go from strength to strength, with many teams from Year 7 to Opens in premiership contention. At time of publication, it is likely that Iona will again take out the volleyball aggregate, through consistent, dominant performances through the season.

It is promising to see that many of our junior teams are playing well, which bodes well for our future.

Well done and congratulations also to our AIC swim team, who placed fourth overall in both the Primary and 12-Opens competitions at the AIC Swimming Championships held in March at Chandler.

Many boys broke their PBs, but all certainly gave their very best on the day and were a credit to their school.

Well done to the Year 5 boys who won the Year 5 AIC Championship, with a special mention to Year 5 student

Hugo Wheeler, who broke AIC age-division records in the 100m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 50m butterfly and 50m freestyle (swimming the first leg of the 4x50m free).

Along the way, Hugo also broke the Iona College records for Year 5 in 100m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 50m butterfly, 50m backstroke and 50m freestyle.

A truly outstanding performance by any standard, and an exceptional display from a student new to the College this year. Well done, Hugo!

With sailing, chess, cross country and mountain biking underway, and pre-season rugby and football trials about to begin for an estimated 65 teams representing Iona in the AIC next term, there are plenty of opportunities for Ionians to represent their College. The keys, as always, are to have pride in your colours, pride in your school and have fun with your mates.

IONA TO SHINE ON WORLD STAGE

For the first time, Iona College is proud to reveal the jerseys our team will wear when representing Australia at the Rugby Heritage Cup in France in September.

The Rugby Heritage Cup (RHC2023) will be held in Pontlevoy in France the week before the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in September.

Every nation competing in the RWC was asked to nominate boys and girls teams to compete in an Under-15, seven-a-side tournament to celebrate rugby’s 200th anniversary.

Iona has selected a preliminary squad of 12 players to make the tour, which will be held from 2-7 September.

The striking designs are unmistakably Australian, and uniquely Iona – bringing together the familiar Indigenous imagery of our Yura artwork, with the traditional black and white of Iona.

Two jerseys were produced by our partners at Classic to avoid any potential colour clashes with other teams, with the word ‘Australia’ alternating between green and gold.

On the back, our famous gorilla sits proudly with the Australian flag – symbolising the two communities Iona is proud to represent.

Iona will be joined in France by the Stuartholme School, who have been announced as Australia’s representatives in the girls’ competition.

RHC2023 is a birthday party for ‘the game they play in heaven’, but will double as a celebration of the saints who shaped two Catholic faith communities in Brisbane.

Iona College’s heritage is French, through the Founder of the Oblates who run the College –St Eugene de Mazenod OMI – who began the order in Aix-en-Provence in 1816. Stuartholme is a school of the Sacred Heart, a congregation of Catholic women established by St Madeleine Sophie Barat – also in France, in 1800.

“With Stuartholme joining us in France, the RHC2023 will be a celebration of culture and faith, as well as sport and education,” said Iona College Rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI.

“Both our religious orders were founded in France by saints, just years apart. It is quite incredible that now, all those years later, our two schools will get the opportunity to celebrate this amazing shared heritage together by representing Australia on a global stage.

“There is certainly a lot of synergy between our two schools in being able to share this journey together.”

JUVENTUS JOINS WITH IONA

Iona College will play host to global football giants Juventus when the Italian super club brings its Academy Training Camp to Brisbane for the first time in April.

The Juventus Academy currently operates in 50 countries around the world, and has regularly conducted camps in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, but the Iona College event will be the first time the club has an official presence in Brisbane.

Juventus Academy Head Coach Sebastiano Disco said partnering with Iona for the club’s first foray into Brisbane was an easy choice.

“In Iona College, we have found a partner that not only provides world-class facilities but, like Juventus, is focused on growing the local community by offering opportunity and fellowship,” he said.

“Juventus and Iona obviously share a number of synergies –most obviously our black and white colours.

“But we also share enormous pride in our histories, and a dedication to upholding our values and improving the lives of the people in our community.”

Iona College Rector Fr Michael Twigg OMI said the school was pleased to partner with Juventus and bring an opportunity to the local football community previously beyond their reach.

“To be able to bring one of the genuine giants of football globally to Lindum is fantastically exciting,” Fr Michael said.

“We are also humbled that Juventus have chosen Iona to be its Brisbane home for

their Academy program that is currently held on every continent and in more than 50 countries around the world.

“Juventus already have a relationship with our Oblate brother school in Victoria, Mazenod Melbourne, through the Mazenod Football Club.

“The connection between the Oblates and Italy is also strong and historic. Our patron Saint, Eugene de Mazenod, was at one stage exiled from France and granted refuge in Italy at Turin – the home of Juventus.

“The Juventus Philosophy is one that is dedicated to raising quality people before quality footballers. Iona is similarly dedicated to producing men of substance who leave our school dedicated to serving their community.”

AFTER 25 YEARS, IPAC IS STILL SWEET College Production

MR DAVID COOKE

This year, Iona celebrates the 25th anniversary of our fabulous home of performing arts, the Iona Performing Arts Centre. IPAC, as it is affectionately called, has stood steadfast overlooking the Iona Hill since its inception in the early months of 1998.

I was, in fact, in Year 5 at Iona at the time. I remember walking up the green pastures of the Iona Hill and seeing this amazing building, still under construction with scaffolding wrapped around its massive exterior.

I looked up in awe on my first day at Iona. I knew something special was being created. Now, 25 years later, I know for sure I was right.

The hundreds of productions, musicals, performances and events hosted in IPAC over the past 25 years are something to be celebrated. It is a truly magical part of our College.

One way we are celebrating this amazing occasion is our 2023 whole-school musical –Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The New Musical

This musical will be spectacular. It is fresh off Broadway, first appearing on stage in 2017 to universal acclaim. Those who are a fan of the original Gene Wilder film will fall in love with this musical.

It has many fan favourites, including Pure Imagination, I’ve Got a Golden Ticket, Candyman and The Oompa Loompa Song, with a lot of interesting twists and turns along the way. Additionally, our orchestra consists of some of the best in the business – professionals who have come from far and wide to make this a monumental event.

I guarantee it will sound and look incredible.

The cast and crew have been rehearsing since the end of January, and will have a well-deserved break over the holidays. They will come back to start rehearsing again at the start of Term 2.

The cast, consisting of 80 boys and girls from Years 5-12, have all demonstrated a generous sense of commitment, passion and enthusiasm. We are certainly in for a treat!

Iona College presents:

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Thursday 1 June: 6.30pm - 9pm

Friday 2 June: 7pm – 9.30pm

Saturday 3 June: 7pm – 9.30pm

Sunday 4 June: 12pm – 2.30pm

Get your tickets now:

trybooking.com/CFYCF

EXPRESSIONS OF GRACE

In Week 9, the Iona Art Competition was held in the breezeway of the Fr Peter Daly Art Centre.

Students were asked to create a 90cm x 90cm chalk drawing to tell a story relating to the College’s 2023 theme of ‘Moments of Grace’, and turned the Fr Peter Daly Arts Precinct walkway into a canvas of colour, creativity and community.

Before creating their work, the students were challenged to research the definitions of grace, and ask different people about what a ‘Moment of Grace’ would look like to them.

The students were challenged to be original and innovative,

and look at the interpretation of grace through different lenses, such as nature, figurative expression, or an inspirational quote or bible verse.

They then had to plan, sketch and brainstorm their ideas, before finally capturing their vision in chalk.

The project was an initiative of Iona’s Head of Department – Visual Arts, Film, Television and New Media. Mrs Courtney Nissen, said she was delighted with the results.

“I can’t believe it. I am absolutely ecstatic, and I just love the energy in this space at the moment,” she said. It has been a great way to start the

day and it’s just putting a smile on so many people’s faces.”

Perhaps fittingly, given the theme, the artworks were not made to last. In a busy area, it wasn’t long before foot traffic and exposure consigned the art to memory.

“But that’s okay,” Mrs Nissen explained, “because sometimes the process of making the artwork is more important than the final result. I’m so proud of the boys and what they have achieved.”

In all senses, this was truly a ‘Moment of Grace’.

KEEP A DREAM IN YOUR POCKET

Iona College was privileged to start the new school year with a celebration of pure joy, as the Darling Point Special School community gathered for their first assembly to officially move into their new temporary facilities on the Iona campus at Lindum. In a beautiful and moving coming together of friends and communities, DPSS were officially welcomed to their new home, where they will be based while demolition and new building works are completed at their regular site on the Manly Esplanade.

While the assembly was a welcoming party, it was also a dual birthday celebration – with both schools marking 65 years since they opened their doors to students.

Remarkably, both Iona College and Darling Point SS began on the same day – 28 January, 1958.

Now, 65 years later, it was a poignant touch that the two schools were able to celebrate their birthdays and strengthen the bond between the two by sharing a campus at Lindum.

The assembly was attended by a number of special guests, including Member for Lytton Joan Pease MP, DPSS Principal Charmaine Driver and the Iona Leadership Team, headed by Rector Fr Michael Twigg OMI and Principal Trevor Goodwin.

Fr Michael expressed his joy at being able to welcome DPSS to Iona, building on the history of Lindum with a new chapter of cooperation.

“Lindum is still alive, it still has its own identity, and (DPSS) make it better and stronger by being here,” Fr Michael said. “There are more students in Lindum, with you being here, than there have ever been before.”

Ms Driver said the DPSS community had embraced their new home at Iona.

“With Iona providing this facility, we have been able to keep all of those relationships between students, and with their teachers – and it is just so important,” she said.

“There was nothing here and look at where we are now. And where would we be without it? Well, we would be nowhere, because we wouldn’t have been

able to start demolition until we found somewhere to go.

“By being here, they still have their own place together.”

The morning finished in a fitting fashion, with the cutting of a birthday cake for the two schools, and the singing of Happy Birthday, before the DPSS and Iona students shared a wonderful dance party to the DPSS song, Keep a Dream in Your Pocket

SPIRIT OF OUR HOUSES

Last year, Iona Old Boy Mu-raay Djeripi  (Peter Mulcahy, 1985) was commissioned by the College to produce Indigenous artworks representing each of our 10 Houses.

We are happy to share his breathtaking creations with our wider Iona community for the first time here.

As standalone pieces, the 10 paintings are incredible examples of Indigenous art, using brilliant colours and traditional symbolism.

As a collection, they are a beautiful and amazing gallery of original art that would look as much at home at GOMA as they do at their current home in the Fr Peter Daly Art Precinct gallery.

But it is when viewed as representations of the very fabric of the Iona spirit, and an exquisitely

detailed storytelling device, that Peter has truly delivered a collective masterpiece that will educate and inspire Ionians for generations. The paintings are not just beautiful, they tell the stories of the Houses they represent –incorporating the stories of each House patron, and the character traits attributed to – and aspired by – the members of each House. Each painting shares a common element, with the black and white stripes acting as a border. These obviously represent Iona. But as with everything in the paintings, there is a deeper meaning in every brushstroke.

“These markings, which are uniform across all the paintings, stand for the things that shape and make us,” Peter explains.

CAPTURED ON CANVAS

“They are cut lines, similar to how Aboriginal people used to scar themselves for the purpose of showing who you are, what you’ve been through, your initiations.

“Sometimes, we have to lose something to become more. Through that sacrifice, through that cut, you can step up and be a bigger man.

“The cuts that shape and make us – the things that define you as men, both good and bad, as Ionians or as good men in general.

“The things that take little chips off us are what shape you. Like the statue of David starting from a block of marble, the edges were chipped and cut away to reveal the sculpture.

“The more cuts you have, the more experiences you have, the greater your knowledge. And then you have to choose your wisdom and how to implement that.

“So remember that. Don’t be afraid of hard things that happen to you. They’ll make you better men.”

This depth of meaning attached to simple black and white stripes delivers some understanding of the intricacy of the story told by each painting – stories which would take an entire edition of In Hoc Signo to convey.

Peter will return to the College in the months ahead to record these stories in full, so they are preserved, and understood by the Ionians who will wear them.

Albini House Anthony House

Charlebois House

Chisholm Cebula House

Gerard House

Grandin House

Long House MacKillop House

Mazenod House

McAuley House

SHARE YOUR HISTORY WITH US

From the Archives

MRS ROSEMARY MAMMINO COLLEGE ARCHIVIST

The College Archives hold many wonderful treasures related to the history of Iona. They include photographs, publications, pennants, uniforms, medallions, historical documents, building plans, glassware and a few overworked schoolbooks. Below are some of the historically significant items being kept in the Archives.

Photographs

Archives has a large collection of photographs dating from the 20th century to the present, which provide a visual history of developments at the College. They capture a broad range of subjects including the founding Oblates, staff, student leaders, class groups, buildings,

grounds, aerial photos, musical and dramatic performances, public speaking and sporting events.

Publications

Publications include newsletters, College Liturgy booklets, a set of The Ionian, the 60th College anniversary publication, Iona Hill, College diaries and calendars, all editions of In Hoc Signo magazine, materials related to different sporting, musical and College productions, and newspaper items.

Pennants

Archives also holds pennants which demonstrate success on the sporting field from the 1960s. Many were donated by Old Boys and retired teachers in the fields of athletics, rugby league and other events.

Uniforms

The Iona community has generously donated uniforms and other special event clothing to Archives over the years.

Some items include parts of the 1958 uniform, grey felt hats, House t-shirts, one of the first harlequin jerseys worn by a member of the First XV rugby union team in 1987, and a jacket worn during the First XV rugby tour of New Zealand in 1993. There is also an Iona supporters shirt that was signed at a national swim championship in Brisbane by Old Boy and Olympian, Ashley Callus, his fellow Ionian and Commonwealth Games medallist Grant McGregor, and Olympic swimmers Geoff Heugill and Michael Klim. Rugby jerseys worn by an Old Boy during College and

Assembly gathering in 1961

AIC competitions in the early 2000s were also donated, along with drama and production t-shirts.

Year Boxes and Year Albums

Archives holds a series of annual Year Boxes, which include paper-based historical material and photograph albums. Together they provide an overview of the development of the College.

Shields, Trophies and Medallions

The College has several historic shields, trophies and medallions presented to individuals and teams. From sports trophies for Primary Interhouse swimming, rugby skills, and health and physical education, through to major awards like College Dux, Sportsman of the Year and for College Duty.

Trophies were awarded for sporting excellence in track and field, cross country, swimming and to the Ionian of the Year.

Several medallions are displayed within Archives, and a few volleyball ones are framed with a uniform from the championship year of 2018.

The Under-17 team of 2017 were Queensland and Australian volleyball champions. In 2018, the Firsts volleyball team were the undefeated AIC Champions.

These framed medallions, uniform and team photo are hanging in the entrance to Oblate Hall. You can search for particular items of interest through the College website at: iona.qld.edu.au/services/archives/.

Recycling? Tidying?

If you have an item from your time as an Ionian that you think may be of significance to the College, why not join many other Old Boys and other members of the Iona community in helping to document our history by donating to the Archives.

If you have photographs, programs, uniforms or any other memorabilia – particularly from prior to 1980 – and you would like to donate them to Archives, email Rosemary Mammino at mamminor@iona.qld.edu.au or call 3906 8941.

Supporting Iona Sport Polo shirt featuring name of Old Boy and Olympian Ashley Callus

First XV wore the harlequin jersey in TAS competition in 1986

Volleyball medallions from 2017 and 2018

Maths Olympiad participants and banner in 1987

KINDESS KEY TO LEADERSHIP FOR DR JEREMY WELLWOOD

After a disrupted few years with COVID lockdowns, the Iona iLegends series roared back to life in Term 1.

The iLegends series is where we invite Old Boys back to the College to address current students about their life journey – their time at Iona, and the life and career experiences they have encountered since walking down the hill for the last time as a student.

In February, we welcomed back Dr Jeremy Wellwood – our

Iona College Captain of 1988, and the recently appointed Executive Director at Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Jeremy spoke to a big crowd of students and imparted his incredible knowledge on subjects as varied as haematology, COVID, leadership – and Tom Hanks. “It's been 35 years since I've been here and now that I'm back in Brisbane, I think it was a great opportunity to come back and maybe share some

of the things that have helped me,” Dr Wellwood said. “I've really had a very privileged journey since school, and it's great to be back.

“I ended up getting into haematology and blood disorders, and I felt that dealing with cancer patients really brought me back to what I learned when I was at Iona.

“The time I did with Rosie's, learning about people that are less fortunate, are disadvantaged, and really

trying to use my skills to give them a better experience.”

After leaving Iona in 1988, Dr Wellwood has spent much of his career in leadership positions at hospitals on the Gold Coast and in Cairns. He is relishing the opportunity to return closer to family with his new role heading up the PA Hospital.

Jeremy’s key message to his fellow Ionians was to be a leader – and that means

following the example of St Eugene de Mazenod and living a life of compassion.

“That's what leadership is all about,” he said.

“Some of the key messages for me are to be the person you want to be – don't be the job you want to be.

“Have courage. Be curious about the world. Ask questions, because it'll take you in directions you didn't think it was going to take you.

“Most of all, be kind. Kind words will go a long way.

“You just don't know the struggle that another person is having.

“The kind word you say to someone might be the thing that gets them through the day.

“The harsh word you say might be the thing that pushes them over the edge.”

Iona is pleased to welcome Jeremy back to Brisbane, and to the College community.

‘Most of all, be kind. Kind words will go a long way’

OUR iLEGENDS GIVING BACK IN DIFFERENT WAYS

Iona’s connection to its Old Boys is a bond that runs deep. The iLegends program is one that serves multiple purposes. It continues the connection between the College and its former students.

It allows current students to learn about potential career paths. It provides stories of aspiration and potential mentorship for students needing direction.

Our first iLegend visit for this year was 2017 Old Boy and flight instructor Bryce Hafner, who spoke to students interested in careers in aviation.

Iona offers incredible opportunities for students in this area with the Iona Aeronautics Program.

Bryce is now living that dream, and explained to current students the varied career

opportunities available in aviation, such as military, civilian, commercial, search & rescue, and Royal Flying Doctor Service.

But some Old Boys that come back to visit take a more ‘hands on’ approach.

Brendan Gabbett is about as Iona as they come - he has been involved with the College as a student, an Old Boy, a member of staff, and the father of an Old Boy.

This year, he found yet another way to connect with the black and white – as its official school barber.

Brendan is the owner of the popular Chinwags Barber, already very familiar to a number of Iona families.

In January, Brendan came to the College as part of an innovative idea – offering discount haircuts to students before they started the new school year.

Brendan set up shop outside the Uniform Shop, allowing families who were already at Iona getting supplies for the new school year to ensure their

son’s haircut would meet Iona’s haircut policy guidelines for the return to school.

The “Mulletbusters” and “Gorilla Cuts” were born.

To the delight of many parents, a multitude of awful holiday haircuts crashed to the floor past the forlorn faces of schoolboys realising the summer break was well and truly over.

Despite his new title as ‘Chief Mulletbuster’, Brendan proved very popular with students and staff alike, and said he was delighted to be back at Iona again.

“I started here in 1985, and here we are in 2023 – and I am still involved with the place,” he said.

“That is the thing about Iona. It has always been a place of big connections.

“It is a good place. That is why I keep coming back, and the same reason that a lot of other guys do too.

“I think staff members are the best example. You don’t get too many places where people are 42 years in the same job. But Iona seems to breed those types of people.”

IONA COLLEGE

Old Boys Day

Saturday 20 May 12.15pm-8.30pm

• Football and rugby against Padua College from 12.15pm

• College tour at 3.30pm

• Mass in the Iona Chapel at 4.30pm

• Reunion dinner in Oblate Hall from 5.10pm (tickets essential)

Book now: trybooking.com/CGKNW 85 North Rd, Lindum, Qld 4178