OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY

MR BRAYDEN TEECE, DEAN OF OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY

Connection to our Iona community is what unites us, brings us together, supports us during times of challenge, and drives us to be genuine contributors. Our commitment to serving our community is part of our ‘DNA’, it is a key value of the Oblates, and it characterises our mission. During Term 2 we have shared in a number of experiences that are expressions of this commitment.

OLD BOYS’ DAY

We welcomed back many Old Boys to the College to share in a day that has become a wonderful tradition. Generations of Old Boys enjoyed supporting the 1st XI football and 1st XV rugby matches, were involved with College tours, attended a special Mass, and shared many stories over a meal and a drink at the annual reunion dinner.

Congratulations to Old Boys from the class of 1972 who celebrated their 50 years reunion and a special mention to the classes of 1982, 1992, 2002 and 2012 for their turn out.

OPEN DAY

On 30 May we welcomed over 1,300 visitors at our Open Day experience. This is one of the most important events on our College calendar and provides an opportunity for our local community and beyond to absorb aspects of our culture, tradition, mission and values.

P&F LADIES’ LUNCH

The Iona P&F Ladies’ Lunch took place on Sunday 5 June and was attended by over 500 Ionians. The lunch provided a wonderful opportunity for our community of ladies to come together to share in conversation.

Thank you to the P&F organising committee for their efforts in creating what was a wonderful experience.

YEAR 7 MOTHER AND SON AND YEAR 8 FATHER AND SON ENGAGEMENT EVENINGS

These evenings provided an opportunity for parents to connect with their sons through an experience that promotes open dialogue, sharing and connection. Over 600 Ionians joined together in Oblate Hall across two events to find ‘Time & Space’ to celebrate, challenge and extend their relationships. These events focus on transition and the importance of open conversation as participants discussed the joys and challenges of change.

Community engagement is a wonderful vehicle to developing, in partnership with families, young men who leave Iona to serve and to make a positive difference. Our special connection is a God-given strength that has enabled us to achieve so much during the most recent period of time.

CONDOLENCES

Our prayers are with the families of these Old Boys who have recently passed: Mr Alan Casey Old Boy (1972) Jack Wilson Old Boy (2014)