A publication for the community and friends of Iona College VOLUME 20 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2022
OLD BOYS, PAST PARENTS, STAFF AND FRIENDS
In Hoc Signo is a publication of Iona College.
Editorial Team Alexandra Lowson and Brayden Teece
If you are aware of any births, deaths or marriages in the Iona community please inform us by communications@iona.qld.edu.auemailing,orphoning 07 3893 8888.
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.
Design Alexandra Lowson
Front Cover Oblate Mission Action Day (OMAD)
IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 20 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 20222 CONTENTS 3 FROM THE RECTOR 6 FROM THE PRINCIPAL 7 CATHOLIC FAITH AND MISSION 8 DEAN OF COLLEGE 9 PRIMARY YEARS 10 OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY 12 STUDENT SERVICES 13 LEARNING AND TEACHING 14 CORPORATE SERVICES 18 IONA SPORT 22 IONA MUSIC 23 EUCALYPTUS PLANTATION 24 FROM THE ARCHIVES 26 SPOTLIGHTING IONIANS 28 ILEGENDS 31 RUGBY HERITAGE CUP Oblate Mission Action Day (OMAD) is our major College fundraising effort for Oblate Missions globally. The Oblates work among the poorest and most neglected people in Africa, Asia and South America and over the past 40 years Iona families have contributed over $1million to these communities. Students have said that OMAD 2022 was “the best OMAD ever”. The highlights this year were definitely the dunk tank, the house relay race, the staff vs student games and the staff act. During these events many great memories were made. A very generous amount of $76,127 was raised and the Oblate Missions will put every dollar raised to valuable use.
Photography Alexandra Lowson, Laura Benitez, Pat Hoelscher Photography, Taylor Earnshaw Photography, students and friends of Iona.
If you have feedback or an enquiry about this issue please contact Alexandra Lowson on 07 3893 8888 or email PO85communications@iona.qld.edu.auNorthRoad,LindumQ4178Box351,WynnumCentralQ4178
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
from the FRRECTORMICHAELTWIGGOMI
IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 20 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2022 3
It is a great aspect of the role of Rector to give thanks for many areas of College life and it is a pleasure to be able to say thanks, on behalf of our Oblate community, to everyone who made a contribution to Oblate Mission Action Day this year.
This generosity is at the very core of our Iona Catholic DNA.
Dear Ionians,
involved. At this time, Iona College was invited by the French Ambassador, His Excellency Jean-Pierre Thébault, to register for the tournament in support of this important inaugural event. This invitation is intended to further grow positive relations between France and Australia and provides additional opportunities for the Iona community to be immersed within its Oblate French heritage. Iona and France share a special bond through St Eugene de Mazenod’s birthplace of Aix-en-Provence and this tournament is an opportunity to share our culture and faith with the wider world.
IONA IS HEADING TO THE WORLD CUP IN FRANCE
This generosity is deeply necessary and appreciated by some of the most vulnerable people in our world. Iona’s contribution for 2022 so far has reached over $76,000 and this is testament to both the generosity of the community and trust in the Oblate Missions.
Iona College is delighted to be accepted as the Australian representative school at the inaugural Rugby Heritage Cup to be held in Pontlevoy, France, in the lead up to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
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Commencing on 30 August 2023, this prestigious rugby experience is designed as an U15 Rugby 7’s tournament, which will include some 700 players from across the globe. To be eligible, students must be born between 8 September 2008 and 7 September 2010.
As a result of our growing relationship with the country of France, I was recently fortunate enough to meet with the Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Jean-Pierre Thébault, where we shared great rapport and fellowship. Our aim is to further enhance our French cultural links given that the Oblates were founded in Aix-en-Provence and there are significant aspects of our culture here at Iona yet to be explored.
To be generous people of God is an explicit value and aspiration of the College and while we don’t aim to try and be one of the best schools IN the region, we definitely try and be one of the best schools FOR our region.
I know that Oblate Mission Action Day holds a special place in the hearts of many Old Boys and families and if there was anyone reading this article now who still wished to make a contribution you would be most welcome to do so by going to: trybooking.com/CCLIJ or scanning the QR code.
Each country who has qualified for the Rugby World Cup are invited to enter one team, and Iona College is extremely proud to have been accepted teams,aRHC2023CommitteeTherepresentative.Australia’sasOrganisingforinitiatedsearchforAustralianwithRugbyAustralia
There are also significant challenges for Rosies to navigate and we are assisting them with those.
QUEENSLAND KOALA SOCIETY FODDER FARM AND THE LINK WITH OUR BOYS
Both of these projects hopefully bring a joy to your heart and give you further confidence that your sons are being surrounded by caring and supportive actions to others in our community.
Within this same period of time, another life-changing project came to fruition with the blessing and planting of 500 eucalyptus trees that will become fodder (food) for rehabilitating koalas.
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From the very beginning of Iona College, we have looked for ways to share our College facilities and values. This has taken many forms, with many school and community groups accessing IPAC and our ovals and swimming pool.
This term, two new important community initiatives have been able to be made public and shared with you all.
Some of you may have noticed the temporary fencing up around the Rosies buildings at the North Road entrance of the College. This fence and the associated works inside of it form the origins of the temporary establishment of Darling Point Special School while their whole Manly site is prepared for a brand new school facility.
This enables the students’ continued learning together and is a wonderful example of the type of cooperation that exists between Government, Independent and Catholic Schools in our Bayside region. Every single school in our region has strengths and our wider Bayside community is all the richer for it.
When Archbishop Duhig gifted the land to Iona in the mid 1950s, he did so with the confidence and belief in the service and generosity of the Oblates to share that gift with the wider community.
During this period of time, Rosies will be relocated on site here at Iona and I give them thanks for their generous movement to a new location.
The social, spiritual and wellbeing growth of our students is absolutely enhanced by interactions with students from Darling Point and we hope that their interaction with us enriches their lives also. This is one of the great chapters in Iona’s history and it is a joy to share it with you all.
IONA WELCOMES DARLING POINT SPECIAL SCHOOL
Our relationship with Rosies is further enhanced by the renovation works that will take place at their State Headquarters while DPSS are here.
This very clearly aligns with our Catholic Christian faith and belief in the dignity of every human person, alongside our genuine desire to love our neighbour. Both of these values are most clearly evident in this new initiative.
Our relationship with Darling Point Special School has been deep, constant and life-enriching for both communities over many years and our capacity to host them is deeply appreciated by them.
As some of you will have experienced with raising boys, eating habits can be very fussy and koalas have an ever diminishing supply of appropriate food.
Our space to grow here at the College has now included this new fodder farm with the ultimate goal of welcoming wild koalas back to this region for the first time in over a century.
Iona is both a very big school and a very small school at the same time. It is diverse, awkward, kind, generous, complex, challenging, hope-filled, ugly and beautiful all at the same time.
• They can be very caring and nurturing
One of the other great joys of being Rector is to see the God-given talents of the boys be expressed in the arts and sport and this term has given rise to so many expressions of creativity and talent. We are blessed with moments of great public success and we are also present in moments of individual disappointment and loss. Both of these moments and everything in between are representative of the Iona journey.
Some of you may know that prior to the establishment of Iona in 1957, this land at Lindum had been used by the Queensland Acclimatisation Society to determine which plants would thrive in south-east Queensland. The large mango trees planted 150 years ago are the last remaining evidence of that, so it is no accident that this new fodder farm is in that same region.
• They can lash out when in danger
• They have the ability to fall asleep at a minute’s notice, whether comfortable or otherwise
• They like to wander and find their own path
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• They can be fussy in their eating
That the environment of Iona can assist with this very important task is a true joy, and one that absolutely aligns with our strategic plan to intentionally act to reduce our environmental impact, as well as formalising partnerships with key community partners.
It is our family and we are glad you are a part of it. St Eugene is the patron saint of families in need and we are definitely part of his wider de Mazenod family.
• They communicate through grunting
SPORT AND THE ARTS
On a lighter note, this new feature had me considering that koalas are much like teenage boys at times. They both have the following attributes:
• The ability to wedge themselves into a comfortable position and stay that way for a long period of time
• They are most active at dusk and in the evening
Feel free to add your own reflections based on the teenagers in your life.
“Must strive first of all to lead people to act like human beings, and then like Christians, and finally, we must help them to become saints.”
from the MRPRINCIPALTREVORGOODWIN
Those who are students of history will know that St Eugene lived in a time of much turmoil around the French Revolution. The desire expressed by St Eugene must have been a great focus of Christians at the time, as St Marcellin Champagnat, who also lived in France at the time, had a very similar saying. He desired his congregation to “form good Christians and virtuous citizens”.
Rightly, this desire to bring people closer to God remains a key focus of what we do at Iona College. We do this in a society which is experiencing growing secularism. In the 2021 Census the fastest growing religious affiliation identified was in fact ‘no religious affiliation’. Our role, as our Vision and Mission Statements indicate, is to continue to offer experiences which form young people so that, as St Eugene and St Marcellin said, they can become good people and good Christians. They certainly need to understand how to be the former in order to become the latter.
We see this continuing to be an important part of who we are as the Iona Community and is part of the reason why our recent commitments to the Queensland Koala Society and Darling Point Special School are so important.
We do know from a 2022 Generation Z Study that while a number of Australian teens do not identify with a specific ‘religion’, 67 percent of Australian teenagers ‘believe in God or a higher being’. While this is not anywhere near what as a Catholic school in the Oblate tradition we would want it to be, it does give us a critical group of students to work with to continue the dream of St Eugene to strive to lead people to act like human beings, then like Christians and finally saints.
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It is for this reason that the College continues with our Religious Studies Program in Year 11 and Year 12, known as 3:16 and 10:10. These programs are named after the Gospel of John verses 3:16 (“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”) and 10:10 (“I have come that you may have life and have it to the full”).
Iona strives to be the accessible and aspirational Catholic school for families, forming men who are authentic, grounded, respectful and connected to a community that, like Jesus, serves and inspires others.
OUR MISSION
A key aspect of each of those statements is the desire to participate in the formation of young men who inspire through their service and make a positive contribution to their community. This resonates strongly with the words of St Eugene De Mazenod who proposed that the Oblates:
Through God’s gift of the Oblate charism, Iona College will continue to invest in our local community to form young men who are inspired to grow into their potential to live, learn, lead and serve.
Earlier this year the College launched our new Strategic Plan for 2022 and the next four years. As part of that Strategic Plan, new Vision and Mission Statements were introduced. These statements are consistent with previous iterations; they reflect the Oblate charism and tradition of our College while at the same time articulating a new position within that Oblate heritage.
OUR VISION
ORDINARY PEOPLE
Throughout the term, we continued to celebrate House Family Masses. These celebrations of community recalled the life and actions of our House patrons who were all ordinary men and women trying to be faithful to their calling to continue Jesus’ Mission. This term we recalled the life and work of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Anthony Kowalczyk, Vital Grandin, Charles Albini and St Eugene de Mazenod who, in their humility, recognised God’s presence in the ordinary, in the actual, in the daily and in the now. They encountered Christ in the young poor children they taught and helped, the sick they comforted, the prisoners they gave hope to and the congregations they served. These House patrons continue to provide inspiration to our community.
MRS LIZ MADDEN, DEAN OF CATHOLIC FAITH AND MISSION
This term, the College focused our Social Justice and fundraising attention on the Oblate missions. Before embarking on a fun-filled OMAD, the community was reminded of the ordinary men who are great examples of missionary zeal and daring, going to foreign places to spread the good news of God’s love. In our OMAD liturgy, we were reminded of Jesus’ words to his disciples, ‘You will be my witnesses’ - the theme chosen by Pope Francis for mission celebrations this year. In this statement, Jesus uses the plural pronoun ‘YOU’, highlighting the importance of all of us working together to bring about God’s kingdom of justice and peace. Each year OMAD highlights our collective responsibility to be agents of change.
In our annual Marian Mass, we affirmed the role of Mary and our belief that she found her final resting place in God’s Divine Love. From an ordinary teenage girl was born an ordinary man - Jesus (as I tell my RE class, a ‘chippy from the country’). In her simple acceptance of God’s invitation, Mary responded with full and humble heart and ultimately played her role in changing the face of human history. If God worked through one woman to express such great and unconditional love, God can continue to work through other ordinary women and men in the same way - to heal the brokenness in the world today. What an empowering message for our young Ionians!
Throughout the term, the tradition of daily Mass in the chapel continued. The ordinary staples of everyday life, bread and wine, became the body and blood of Jesus in each of our Eucharistic celebration. Each day, we listened to sacred stories and shared a sacred meal. What a poignant, daily reminder that in the ordinariness of our lives, God is always present.
This time is punctuated by feasts, solemnities and memorials in which we recalled the stories of how God worked through the lives of ordinary people to bring about extraordinary growth. Each of these celebrations reminded us that God calls ordinary people to be witnesses of His great love for everyone.
For much of this term, the Church season was referred to as ‘ordinary time’. The liturgical colour was green and no festive symbols adorned the chapel. “Ordinary” comes from a Latin word meaning: ordered, numbered, counted – NOT boring.
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This moment of grace was received at a time of great anxiety about the future of his small ‘ordinary’ missionary band. It assured St Eugene of the future of the congregation and the good fruit that it would produce. Yet again, God’s love and grace was revealed in ordinary human affairs.
This term, we also commemorated the 200th anniversary of St Eugene de Mazenod’s experience of deeper conversion, affirmation, and moment of grace, which occurred on 15 August 1822, during a ceremony honouring a statue of the Oblate Madonna.
Catholic Faith and MISSION
Carol Dweck Ph.D. is a Stanford University Psychologist who has developed a number of theories specific to motivation, personality and development. In her most recent work, entitled ‘Mindset’, Dweck describes her theory of two disparate mindsets, namely the Growth Mindset and the Fixed IMindset.believe a brief outline of these here is relevant, as they have a direct application to achievement in academic, co-curricular and spiritual wellbeing, not only here at Iona, but throughout life.
While the above is a very simplistic synopsis of Dweck’s assertions, it is directly applicable to the underlying goal of the programs offered here at Iona. This has as its priority, above all results or outcomes, the development of young men who embrace challenges and have a deep understanding and appreciation of the importance of such challenges.
It is understandable and entirely natural that we, as a College community, derive enormous pride and satisfaction from pleasing outcomes or results, such as an undefeated chess team, a stellar result in NAPLAN tests or a rugby championship sporting team. Certainly, it can be difficult not to prioritise such outcomes above all other aspects of the event, as it is measurable and observable. Importantly, striving to succeed should be a part of every young man’s journey.
“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have”
their agendas (initially) to concern themselves with just the final result. Rather, the importance of working hard, week by week, setting short term goals and accepting feedback provides ingredients for success.
Dweck has proven through empirical research that children and adolescents who are praised for their effort, rather than the outcome or results of their effort, are more likely to challenge themselves, enjoy these challenges and have a genuine appreciation of them. In short, they develop what she refers to as a Growth Conversely,Mindset.those children and adolescents who identify the outcome or result as the only measure of achievement tend to remain in a comfort zone, reluctant to challenge themselves for fear of failure and display a tendency to underestimate their capabilities. Dweck refers to this as a Fixed Mindset.
The challenge, therefore, lies in our ability to be perennially cognisant of the context in which this occurs. That is, in a Christian and Oblate educational context where the process must take priority over the Iproduct.feelDweck
ItWORK.isnoton
Ultimately, it is these intrinsic wins of short term goals that enable them to achieve the end result. Significantly, it is these smaller work habits that will endure them for the rigors of the world when they leave the Iona gates after graduation.
MR JOHN FRARE, DEAN OF COLLEGE
IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 20 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 20228
encapsulates this neatly in her theory of mindsets and presents a very valuable lesson that demonstrates the importance of rewarding the effort rather than the result.
Dean of COLLEGE
are given to students who show significant improvement and achievement in their academic or sporting progress. When chatting with these boys around the campus, it is without doubt clear that the underlying value that lies above all in their reasoning comes down to one value - HARD
This has been evidenced in the previous College assemblies where we have presented academic and sporting Theseawards.awards
– Thomas Jefferson.
Primary YEARS
As the day approached and they found out about the incredible number of food and drink options, the games and activities and the chance to ‘dunk’ certain staff (me included ...) the excitement became quite palpable!
On Friday 26 August, another tradition for our students recommenced after a COVID absence. We were able to welcome more than 220 Grandparents to the College. The Year 5 boys shared in a Liturgy, concert, morning tea and tour with their special guests. These moments are an incredibly important part of our connection with the extended members of our Iona Wecommunity.havealso been able to return to Year 5 and 6 excursion season. Our Year 5’s have been on the ‘gold fields of Logan’, delving more deeply into their HASS content.
It is a wonderful location and the boys had a great time setting up miner’s tents, scavenging for gold, baking fresh damper and interacting with ‘the bushranger’! Boys were so well behaved and attentive during the sessions.
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As I write this article for our Term 3 In Hoc, our Primary boys are experiencing a number of ‘firsts’ as we come out of many of the COVID restrictions of the past two and a half years.
Our Year 6’s meanwhile, have visited Fort Lytton as part of their HASS unit on migration. Fort Lytton was the very first place many immigrants experienced upon arrival in Queensland. They were quarantined and isolated from others until being ‘cleared’.
MR PETER HOLMES, ACTING HEAD OF PRIMARY YEARS
The boys were fascinated that the buildings are so much like they were all that time ago and agreed that the process would have been both scary and uncomfortable for those involved. I think the boys looked forward to returning to home comforts.
Basketball results that afternoon were a vast improvement as well - perhaps the sugar consumed during the day provided a ‘performance enhancing’ effect?
At the commencement of Term 4, both our Primary year levels will once again travel to Glendalough for their camps. Hopefully fine weather will greet both groups - Week 2 for Year 5 and Week 5 for Year 6.
I don’t think the day was a let down in any way for our younger Ionians … they ate a lot, they played a lot and they dunked me … a LOT! They were incredibly well behaved given their freedom to move around the school without their teachers accompanying them.
The first of these occurred on Friday 19 August, when the College was once again able to celebrate OMAD (Oblate Mission Action Day) after an extended break. To say the boys were excited is a massive understatement.
Iona are thrilled to partner with ‘Clicking Bricks’ to create a piece of art that will be proudly displayed in The Provence Centre alongside other artworks, demonstrating our commitment to the power of storytelling through creativity and art.
over 70,000 pieces, taking over 350 hours to complete, and weighing over 60kg, this beautifully constructed model creates an important link with our College name and origins through the creative telling of stories.
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Damian and Andrew’s skills were showcased during Season 2 of the hit series ‘LEGO Masters’, where they finished as runners up.
In an attempt to creatively connect this story to our community, we have recently welcomed a slice of our Scottish heritage in the form of a LEGO model replicating one of Scotland’s most sacred sites, the Iona ConsistingAbbey.of
LEGO MASTERS FINALISTS BRING IONA ABBEY TO LINDUM
MR BRAYDEN TEECE, DEAN OF OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY
The use of LEGO mini figures helps to connect our students with a significant historical Christian story through an experience which is engaging for people of all ages, but particularly for students.
Oblate Identity and COMMUNITY
Archbishop Duhig had chosen the name for the school after the original Iona, a tiny island off the coast of Scotland. Iona is one of more than 500 islands in the Hebrides or Western Isles of Scotland.
Finding creative ways to engage our students with the ‘Iona story’ is a deliberate and important priority. We do not live in the past, but the past lives in us.
In 1957, Archbishop Duhig declared that the new Oblate school to be established in Lindum was to be named ‘Iona’. Our Founding Rector, Fr Tim Long OMI, initially referred to our school as ‘Iona Hill’, and later as ‘Iona College’.
It is with great excitement that Iona College welcome the Iona Abbey to Lindum, and we hope that its creation provides a conversation starter which leads to a better understanding and closer connection to the place which our school is proudly named after.
Ionian and current parent, Damian Hinds and his business partner Andrew Tuppen from ‘Clicking Bricks’ have lovingly created an accurate architectural representation that has presented a range of complex technical LEGO challenges.
In 563AD an Irish monk, Columba, accompanied by twelve companions, sailed from his homeland to Iona to establish a monastery. Later, this monastery became famous throughout
Europe as a great centre for learning, where monks were renowned for their sanctity. It was from the Island of Iona that missionaries brought the Christian message to the Scottish Isles and Europe.
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This group challenged what achievement looks like for young people and developed plans to look at each Iona student holistically when considering Forsuccess.theShowcase, Oblate Hall became a gallery for our journey and staff members had an activity they have used at school on display. It was heartwarming to see the immense growth from where we were in 2019 to where we areWenow.have expanded from only looking at strengths to peoplehelping,andwaysCollege.oftheLeaindeedspeakinglanguageImportantly,duringnegativegoodreplacingtrackingimplementingconsciouslygoalinclasses,poorhabitswithones,gaugingwhatemotionsgetinthewaytheschooldayandmanymore.wenowhaveacommoninSEARCH.Nowthatwearethesamelanguage,wecanmakeourwellbeingvisible.alsoextendedherknowledgetowiderparentcommunityandgroupsstudentsfromIonaandStLaurence’sShepresentedmanypracticaltoembracetheSEARCHframeworkwecouldallseeherrealpassionforguidingandempoweringyoungontheirwellbeingjourney.
Student SERVICES
In our June staff professional development week, we welcomed Professor Lea Waters and our Visible Wellbeing facilitators, Marcus Wicher and Sean Inman back to Iona to conclude our initial two-year training period as a Visible wellbeingpleasure.wasmeetingsandlockdownsafterinthemHavingSchool.WellbeingbackpersonZoomagreatTheirwisdom was infectious, and they have left a fantastic impression on many people over the years. Iona College is now accredited as a Visible Wellbeing Partner School and we can’t wait to see where the next part of the journey takes us.
The day started with a small group of staff who are passionate about driving this program at the College. They have worked tirelessly to look at what works well and what we can do in the future to benefit our students.
MR MARK HARVEY, DEAN OF STUDENTS
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The next step at Iona is to expand on our knowledge and continue to grow our students through constant micro-moments of exposure to the SEARCH framework. Everyone at any time can embrace this and create experiences for each student to prosper. I would like to thank the Heads of Wellbeing for their thought leadership in turning a strategic vision into an embedded cultural practice. This has been done with great support from the Oblate community and staff from all realms of the College who continue to champion the importance of positive wellbeing in our community.
VISIBLE SHOWCASEWELLBEINGDAY
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10 subjects are designed to provide an age-appropriate preparation for Year 11 and 12. For instance, the Year 10 Physical Science subject provides foundational content and skills required for Senior Chemistry and Physics courses.
Elective subject offerings for Year 9 include subjects such as: Commerce, Music, Marine Science, Industrial Design and Technology, Drama, Design, Digital Technologies and many more. The College is excited to introduce STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in 2023 and many of our Year 8s are keen to study this new subject.
are always so excited to be given an initial opportunity to choose three elective subjects for Year 9. Up until this point, students are required to study subjects across all learning areas as prescribed by the Australian Curriculum.
Ouroptions.SeniorregardingconsiderationsomechoicesTheserequirecarefulpotentialpathwayYear
EachPlan. Year 10 student and their parents met with a member of the Learning and Teaching team to discuss their SET Plan and determine their pathway and subject choices for Year 11, 2023.
This ensures that our students can make informed subject choices for their Senior years.
Ourdecisions.Year8s
While 2023 still feels like some time away, our planning here at Iona for the year ahead is truly underway.
Each year, students in Years 8, 9 and 10 make plans and decisions during Term 3 about their elective subject choices and pathways for the following year. A great deal of planning and preparation occurs to support our students to make the best
Looking ahead to Senior years, our Year 10s have had multiple opportunities to determine the best pathway for their future. An important part of our Year 10 program is the completion of a student’s Senior Education and Training Plan (SET Plan).
Learning and TEACHING
This ensures an individualised pathway for each student. This process would not be possible without our dedicated Learning and Teaching Team who conducted these meetings: Mrs Tania Cooper (Head of Pathways), Mrs Bianca Doyle (Careers Mentor), Ms Michelle Connors (Head of Learning and Teaching – Senior Years), Mr Peter Mondolo (Head of Learning and Teaching – Middle Years), and Mrs Rachael Mukauskas (Head of Diverse Learning). I thank them for their dedication to ensure our students receive the best possible preparation for their Senior years.
Year 9 students have had an opportunity to experience some of the electives and use this knowledge to help refine their choices for Year 10. Students are able to choose electives from a wide variety of subjects across all learning areas.
MRS DONNA ELKINGTON, DEAN OF LEARNING AND TEACHING
Two special Senior Pathways days were held to help students learn about the QCE, ATAR, the subjects available, and to complete their SET
PLANNING AHEAD FOR 2023
Corporate SERVICES
Looking forward, we are embarking on the design and build of a new Primary building in time for use in 2024.
MRS SUSAN BOBAN, MANAGER CORPORATE SERVICES
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They looked at what was working well, what wasn’t, where efficiencies could be found and where upcoming needs would need to be catered for.
Our Harron Oval Pavilion and amenities building was added in 2021 and has a 22 metre viewing deck looking out onto Harron Oval. This building contains male and female amenities, player and referee change rooms and a first aid facility.
This term, I had the opportunity to be able to present to the staff at the College a summary of our masterplan journey so far.
Since then, a number of the planned projects or works have been achieved.
The major pieces include the staff and student carpark expansions and resurfacing, the reconstruction and improvements to the Old Boys’ grandstand on Davine Oval and of course, the construction of The Provence Centre which was completed last year.
In February 2018, the College Masterplan was presented to our community. This document was created through consultation with staff, students and families.
The Darling Point Special School project is near to our hearts and this partnership provides us with many opportunities in the form of legacy structures which will remain once Darling Point Special School have moved into their refurbished campus in 18 months’ time.
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One of these is the movement of the Wynnum Baptist Church from its current location in Wynnum to the area between IPAC and the creek. This should arrive over the coming months and be renovated to be used as both an additional learning space and community gathering option.
The current Rosies building will be receiving a refurbishment and significant upgrade prior to their return to the existing building. The space where Rosies are temporarily moving to on North Road will also be refurbished specifically for their use.
Due to our connection to the local community and local businesses, we have been provided with opportunities which will provide additional spaces and improvements to our College infrastructure and facilities.
Rosies will return to its refurbished location once Darling Point Special School has left.
These projects are the product of years of prudent financial stewardship, of whole college consultation, partnerships, and strategic master planning by the Board and College leadership members and a real example of our entire community working together.
We will receive an undercover waiting area and additional water bubblers for the students waiting for buses at our bus turnaround, with a pathway adjoining to the footpath near the Daly Carpark for our students to travel safely.
Our partnerships with local community groups have also provided opportunities to expand our facilities and outreach.
The relocation is necessary as the Darling Point site is not large enough to accommodate temporary buildings. Infrastructure works are ready to commence as we prepare to welcome the school community on site.
The Queensland Government is investing in state school infrastructure to build, maintain, improve and renew schools across Queensland. As part of this investment, the Department of Education is proposing to deliver a new learning centre for Darling Point Special WhileSchool.construction takes place, some students will temporarily relocate to Iona College for approximately 18 months.
An additional access road is being created for Darling Point Special School access from North Road, utilising the Lindum State School existing cross-over which the College can choose to retain for future use once Darling Point Special School have vacated our property. This could be utilised for excursion pickups and drop offs or other uses.
The interim relocation of some Darling Point Special School students to the Iona College site will require the temporary movement of Rosies from its current location to another facility on our property.
Upgraded staff car park
Upgraded student car park
Old Boys’ Grandstand on Davine Oval
Concept design of the temporary DPSS buildings to be located at Iona College – indicative only
Concept design of the Wynnum Baptist Church at Iona – indicative only
Harron Oval Pavilion and amenities building
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The Provence Centre
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Iona College has had an Ionian at all Commonwealth Games since 20221998.Birmingham: Tim Howard Hockey – GOLD
Tim Howard continued the history of Ionians performing at the Commonwealth Games. In 2022 Birmingham, Tim won a gold medal in hockey, adding to the silver medal that he won at the Tokyo Olympic Games. His ability to perform as a key defender in world hockey is exceptional.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES REPRESENTATION BY IONIANS
It is also worthy to note that former staff member Gary Brown won silver in 400m hurdles and bronze in the 4 x 400m relay at the 1978 Edmonton Games. He also won gold in the 400m hurdles at the Brisbane Games in 1982. Furthermore, former Head of High Performance Sport, Rick Nalatu won a bronze in 7’s Rugby Union at the Kuala Lumpur Games in 1998.
2006 Melbourne: Ben Turner Weightlifting, 69kg – GOLD
2018 Gold Coast: Daniel Fox Swimming, 200m freestyle S14 – BRONZE
2014 Glasgow: Daniel Fox Swimming, 200m freestyle S14 – GOLD
1998 Kuala Lumpur: Ashley Callus Swimming, 4 x 100m freestyle relay – GOLD
2002 Manchester: Grant McGregor Swimming – finalist in individual medley
CONFRATERNITY RUGBY LEAGUE 2022
The 2022 carnival was held in Mackay and our team finished an excellent 5th, the best performance in recent years. The team was defeated by eventual winners Ignatius Park College, Townsville in the quarter finals. The 5th place was then achieved by cross pool wins over St Mary’s Toowoomba and Marymount College, Gold Coast.
All players played solidly in an arduous carnival. Many thanks to Head Coach Mr Chris McKenna and Mr Jarrod Biggs for coordinating, in addition to also coaching the team. Assisting staff Mr Sean Devlin, Mr Sean Pearce and Mr Alex Sideris also deserve thanks for work undertaken.
2002 Manchester: Ashley Callus Swimming, 4 x 100m freestyle relay - GOLD Swimming, 100m freestyle - SILVER
Iona SPORT
MR KEITH HARRON, HEAD OF SPORT
2010 Dehli: Ben Weightlifting,Turner77kg – SILVER
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2010 Dehli: Ashley Callus Swimming – competed in 50m freestyle
2006 Melbourne: Ashley Callus Swimming, 4 x 100m freestyle relay – SILVER
V Marymount: won 10-4 (5 v 6 position)
V St Mary’s Toowoomba: won 24-12 (cross pool play off)
Rugby union: 10A, 9C, 8A, 8D, 7A, 7C Football: 2nd XI, 10A, 5A, 5B, 5D
Our 15yrs AFL team successfully competed in the statewide 2022 StreetSmarts Schools Cup. After a series of round games against AIC qualifiers, the team defeated Nudgee College and St John’s Sunshine Coast to move into the semi-finals. The game against Palm Beach Currumbin was played at Metricon Stadium with PBC proving too strong.
TEAM AWARDS
Rugby union, football and chess saw 63 Iona College teams play AIC competition. It was a competitive grind each week and Iona teams played skillfully in high standard competitions. The 1st football team narrowly missed premiership success in the final round. The performance of rugby union was exceptional at “A” level in Years 7/8/9/10.
V Rockhampton Grammar: won 24-6
MVP: Ayden Hoad
Mountain biking continued throughout the winter, with the College team winning the Darling Downs Rocky Trail schools event. The riders then competed in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Rocky Trail events.
Track and field is in pre-season stages, as is volleyball and touch preparation for State Championships in Term 4. Much activity awaits.
OMAD SPORTING TRADITIONS
PREMIERSHIP WINNING TEAMS:
RESULTS
The 8 x 400m relay was a popular success with the ChisholmCebula team winning the event ahead of MacKillop and Albini teams. Results of other events: Open 100m sprint gift: Arie Van Kerkwyk Primary 100m sprint gift: Zane Burns Junior Staff v Student football: Staff win Senior Staff v Student football: Draw Junior Staff v Student touch: Staff win Senior Staff v Student touch: Staff win
NATIONAL TEAM RACING SAILING IN SYDNEY
V St Peter Claver: won 20-4
Our team racing sailing crews competed in the National School’s Regatta on Georges River, Sydney over the last vacation. It was our 12th appearance at the event. The Hayden Barney coached team qualified for the final series and achieved 8th place, a strong effort from a young team. It is an elite event and the crews should be proud of their determined sailing. Our best previous performance was in 2015 in Brisbane when the Trevor Koreman and Angus Barker led team gained 2nd place behind the Hutchings School from Tasmania. The 2023 national event will be held in Brisbane where home waters will be an advantage.
Throughout the tennis, basketball and rugby league seasons, our teams played with determination. We won the AIC 1st XIII rugby league and 1st IV tennis premierships. A terrific effort that will be covered in more detail in the Term 4 edition of In Hoc Signo. The 1st basketball team won the Brisbane-based Wildcard Challenge. In a rain affected AIC golf championship, the Iona team achieved 5th place.
Amidst all the activity, the sporting events continued their traditions. The inaugural OMAD relay consisted of 80 competitors, with one runner per house per year level.
WINTER SPORT RESULTS STRONG
Spirit of Confraternity: Sage Van Balen Player’s Player (The Sacre): Ayden Hoad
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V Ignatius Park College: lost 4-30
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In Year 12, Brian L’Huillier suggested that I audition for the Queensland Conservatorium of Music’s Jazz Course. The process of auditioning really pushed me and I was hungry to learn more.
MR JOSEPH RABJOHNS, OLD BOY 2011
After graduating from the Bachelor of Music program I completed a Grad. Dip. of Education and I am now teaching guitar and classroom music at Marist College Ashgrove.
* Joseph Rabjohns’ music can be heard on Spotify, purchased on bandcamp. com and he can be contacted through most social media platforms.
Whenhomework?).MrBrian L’Huillier took over as my guitar teacher a year or so into my guitar journey, my playing and passion for not only guitar but for music in general rose to another level. Mr L’Huillier introduced me to classical and jazz music which really gave me the foundation and sense of discipline I needed to become the musician I am today.
Iona MUSIC
I played in guitar ensembles, jazz bands, and liturgy bands and these opportunities made a significant impact on me.
Mrs Karen Corkeron and Ms Carmel Moynihan (Massingham) also inspired me to immerse myself in music at the school.
I met some amazing musicians and had the opportunity to form many bands and ensembles, one of which is still going today - Kodiak Empire. The original members of that band were all Iona students!
I’m really glad I choose classroom music, and later on extension music, as it was formative in my musical development, especially as a composer.
I was thrilled to be learning my favourite bands’ songs and would go home after each lesson and search up even more songs to learn to impress my older siblings (perhaps I should’ve been doing
I started my musical journey when I was 13 in my first year of high school at Iona with a teacher named Mr Merry. I would be extremely excited for each lesson and started on the guitar learning rock riffs from bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Cream, The Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Silverchair (the list goes on).
I’m a Brisbane based guitarist, composer and music educator and here is how Iona made an impact on my future.
My current endeavourscreativeinclude my solo project, Kodiak Empire, Kieran Stevenson, Prince Peace, Last Lakes, June Cartel, a guitar duo with Tyler Cooney, and Shoal. If you enjoy finding new music, have a listen to some of my works and let me know what you think.
I ended up passing the audition and studied for four years at the Conservatorium. During this time I further developed my guitar playing, using jazz as a framework.
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The planting and eventual harvesting of over 500 eucalyptus trees will provide feed for a growing number of koalas who require rehabilitation after becoming injured, sick, displaced, or orphaned.
The collaboration with Iona is exciting and not only provides us with a valuable resource but also provides the potential for the establishment of a habitat for koalas and other local wildlife.”
Iona College EUCALYPTUS plantation
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Iona College have committed to becoming the first educational institute to partner with the Queensland Koala Society in their fight to conserve and rehabilitate koala populations for future Ingenerations.supporting the incredible work of the not-for-profit organisation, Iona College are establishing a fodder farm on the College grounds in the green space between The Provence Centre and the Lindum train station.
“We have been blessed with a large and expansive campus that compels us to share with others. This is a true expression of our Christian Catholic community in action and is at one with our belief in God,” describes Fr Michael.
with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the ceremonial planting of five very special trees.
An additional 500 seedlings were also planted over the next few days and we look forward to watching this plantation grow and be of service to our community. Further information will be shared over the next period of time as these new trees continue to grow.
Principal, Mr Trevor Goodwin, and Rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI as well as the College Board have fully supported this use of College grounds as it clearly aligns with the College strategic values of ‘respecting and nurturing our local community and environment.’
Ms Christodoulou explains, “Fodder farms play an essential role in the koala’s rehabilitation process. Currently, fodder farms are supported in very few local government areas and are difficult to access. On a typical week my team travel up to two hours per day, seven days per week to collect fresh fodder.
Long serving Ionians, Peter and Leann Holmes have advocated strongly for the formation of a relationship between Iona and the Queensland Koala Society. “Providing an opportunity for our students to actively contribute towards a sustainable future for koalas is a unique and meaningful way to educate our next generation of leaders,” explains Mr EucalyptustheofficiallywasaOnHolmes.31August,ceremonyheldtoopenIonaCollegePlantation,
Supporting the College’s investment into sustainability is Federal Member for Bonner, Mr Ross Vasta MP. Iona College are the beneficiaries of a community-based tree planting grant, which has been initiated to mark the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth.
IONA JOINS FORCES WITH THE QUEENSLAND KOALA SOCIETY TO HELP PROTECT OUR KOALAS
“It is fantastic to see this partnership forming between Iona College and the Queensland Koala Society” Mr Vasta said. “I think it’s an exceptionally fitting way to honour the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and I am proud to have advocated on behalf of Iona College for this tree planting grant.”
Ms Angela Christodoulou, co-founder of the Queensland Koala Society, is delighted to partner with Iona College in promoting a sustainable future for koalas.
Scene from You Can’t Take It With You
Despite this scripted and unintentional comedy, the clear-headedness of the “Reverend Dr Harper”, the “Superintendent of the Asylum, Mr Witherspoon” and the Stage Manager brought calm to the performance.
STAFF PLAY 2 : YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU, 1989
Plays were open to all members of staff. A core group became involved in the productions. Staff member Mrs Sandra Hazel directed many of the plays while long term Iona supporter and College parent, Mr Gordon Voltz, built the sets. Other members of staff and supporters worked collaboratively towards the successful organisation and performance of these plays, including Mr Brian Townsend, Ms Michelle Nicolson, Mr Colin Hazel, Mrs Kay Voltz, Mrs Lindsey Vinen and many others.
From the ARCHIVES
STAFF PLAY 1 : ARSENIC AND OLD LACE, 1987
Most performances were held in Hannah Hall while the last play was performed in the newly opened Iona Performing Arts Centre (IPAC).
Scene from Wild Goose Chase
MRS ROSEMARY MAMMINO, COLLEGE ARCHIVIST
STAFF PLAYS AT IONA FROM ARSENIC AND OLD LACE TO FUNNY MONEY
The origin of staff plays can be traced to a small number of staff who made a decision to stage a play in 1987. The whole idea of staff plays was to provide entertainment to the staff and broader Iona community.
All plays were complex and took time to rehearse before being performed. They were self-funded and sought to raise funds for the College. This was the beginning of a tradition which led to the staging of seven plays from 1987 to 1999.
Parents and students were then treated to a real performance where no such audience interruptions were expected. The play featured interesting episodes of trumpet blowing frequently and horribly with the Copsplayed“Kleinback-upamasqueradinghopefulportrayedenthusiastically“Officerwhitewearingto“Einstein”character,tryinglookcoolwhileacrumpled,tropicalsuit.O’Hara”aplaywrightaspoliceman.HisteamofandBrophy”theKeystonetoperfection.
This fast and slick comedy was set in New York and featured a happy but eccentric family. Three performances were organised and held in early September while the staff night was held on 8 September. Unfortunately, only a few photographs have survived of this play.
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Fourteen committed staff members prepared for their first performance to an all-staff audience. During this performance, it appears that a member of the audience believed in audienceactor interaction - witnessed through the use of a water pistol and a machine that wheezed, gasped and giggled at the most appropriate dramatic moments.
Sources for this article included “The Ionian” 1987-1999, Brian Townsend, Michelle Nicolson and material in Archives.
According to one staff member, “The Man who came to Dinner” was another play performed by some of the staff. It was a complex play with a large cast. Unfortunately, records related to this play have been largely lost.
Lord and Lady Elrood, their daughter, Patricia and niece, Jenny were in residence. Lord Elrood’s job was to keep his imaginary troops in order while Jenny had set her cap on the local policeman and Patricia sought to introduce some degree of sanity to the household.
STAFF PLAY 7 : FUNNY MONEY, 1999
A few current and former staff members as well as some Iona parents and supporters worked together to make staff plays an unqualified success. However, it is unclear why the plays concluded when they did. It is clear that times had changed for the people involved.
Scene from Wild Goose Chase
STAFF PLAY 5 : SEE HOW THEY RUN, 1992
Scene from Funny Money
Another keen group of thespians came together to rehearse and perform this play to capacity audiences, who enjoyed being transported back to the baronial hall of Elrood Castle. The stage was then set for romance, murder and mayhem.
There is a script in Archives for this play. However, no further information is available about the play or when it was performed.
STAFF PLAY 6 : WILD GOOSE CHASE, 1996
The addition of further characters including a crooked police officer, a dead body, an interfering cabbie, a dutiful policeman, a missing cat and a gun waving gangster in the context of multiple identity changes culminated in a rollicking evening of fun.
STAFF PLAY 3 : THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER (DATE UNKNOWN)
STAFF PLAY 4 : ONE WILD OAT (DATE UNKNOWN)
Some staff returned three years later to rehearse and perform “Funny Money” which contained a great many elements. These, when combined, made for a hilarious night of entertainment.
A staid accountant and his wife receive a very large financial windfall. Once publicly known, their best friends aimed to claim a share in the windfall.
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A vicar poured tea from a silver service while another teachercome-performer burst onto the stage brandishing a ‘rod of iron’ and held the cast hostage with a revolver, while personifying a thoroughly unpleasant escaped German prisoner of war.
Just when the new maid, Ada, is coming to understand her employers, Chester Dreadnought enters the castle seeking refuge while on the run from two villians. He convinces Ada to pass him off as a distant family relative. The two villains arrive at the castle and chase Chester through various guises. In the end, good eventually won over evil.
This play was set in the vicarage of a sleepy English village of Merton-cumMiddlewick near the end of World War II. It seems that the cast embraced their characters and over three evenings, Hannah Hall rang out to the sounds of hilarity to the great delight of audiences.
Every attempt has been made to accurately review the history of staff plays according to the available sources in Archives. However, if readers have further information about the plays, please contact College Archives on mamminor@iona.qld.edu.au Thank you.
The Bishop of Lax arrived together with a confused visiting cleric, who found himself in the middle of the madhouse drama. Several members of the hapless household became incarcerated in a cupboard. It took Fr Eric Alleaume OMI, as the belligerent bobby, to restore harmony.
Scene from See How They Run
My proudest accomplishment is raising four beautiful children and becoming a teacher. I completed my degree while working full-time and caring for my family, which was challenging. I love the ‘light bulb’ movement on students’ faces when they understand a new concept. While I may not change the world, I hope to change a student’s life by supporting and encouraging them.
What makes you laugh?
My favourite family tradition is our Sunday night dinners. We come together to chat about the week. Lots of laughter and funny stories are shared. As my children and I get older, I cherish every moment we are together.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My children! They send me funny TikTok videos that exaggerate my “mum” life! Of course, I always tell them it is nothing like me!
MRS CAROLYNE KELLY DIVERSE LEARNING TEACHER
What’s your favourite family tradition?
What makes you laugh?
How would your friends describe you?
My favourite family tradition has to be our Easter holidays at Evans Head. Holidaying there every year has been so influential to the person I am today. We are able to spend great quality time together and just detach from our separate work lives. Nowadays we are all extremely busy and don’t get to spend too much time together, so that long weekend is wholesome.
Nothing makes me laugh more than my friends. Honestly, it doesn’t matter what we’re all doing together, it is always hilarious and a good time.
MR LANCE WEGNER
As you reflect on your time at Iona so far, is there one person or action that has particularly influenced you?
Knowing that the work I do matters. Some days are tougher than others, but knowing that the work I do that day may make someone else’s day better is motivating to me.
As you reflect on your time at Iona, is there one person or action that has mainly influenced you?
Working in The Growth Hub with Megan Vardanega has been a great help for sure. Megan has made what was the old gym such a wonderful and inviting space for everyone and it’s a breath of fresh air working there every day.
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My parents inspire me. They gave up and invested so much of their time into me all through my younger years. Looking back on it now as an adult, it’s extremely inspiring to see how much they believe in me and want me to succeed.
Spotlighting IONIANS
My friends would describe me as someone who is caring and passionate. I’m always up for a laugh and prioritise spending quality time with my mates. Having a balance in life is extremely important to me, including completely switching off and enjoying the beauty around us.
What’s your favourite family tradition?
Who inspires you in tough situations? Who do you inspire?
Who inspires you in challenging situations?
PASTORAL CARE | CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT OFFICER
What motivates you to work hard and give your best?
Learning new things. I love working in a team and sharing my learning with colleagues and students. I aim to not only teach my students but pass on information that inspires them. I am motivated to make each term more exciting and relevant to the real world, which drives me to bring my passion into the classroom.
Being part of the Year 7 team has been a highlight. Alex, Andrew and Kevin have been wonderful and welcoming of my ideas. Many staff have made me feel welcomed and part of the community. I volunteered for the Rosies Outreach Program last month, and had a great time being part of this program. I recommend that each staff member take advantage of being part of Rosies.
There have been many people who have inspired me. My dad overcame many challenges when he arrived in Australia and he taught me to face challenging situations and work hard for my dreams. My husband inspires me daily with his patience and tells me to be the change I wish to see in the world, especially working with young people.
What motivates you to work hard and give your best?
What is your proudest accomplishment?
What’s your favourite family tradition?
YEAR 11
What inspires you in tough situations?
What’s your favourite family tradition?
ALISTAIR MYLNE
In Year 9, I won the national final of the Kid’s Lit Quiz with Nathan Peach, Max Sinclair and Xavier White. We finished middle of the standings in 2018 and second place in 2019. We won in 2020 but unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic prevented us from participating in an international final.
What motivates me is how happy I get when I get a good outcome. If it is for a sporting event or a mark on a report card, it is the best feeling when you have studied or trained for it and it finally pays off. Nothing is better than when you see your report card and get a good grade, or the siren goes and your team has won.
What motivates you to work hard and give your best?
Through my time at Iona, the person who has influenced me the most was my Year 6 teacher, Mr Greenbank. He has inspired me to know that hard work will always pay off and that if you are under pressure, just calm down and breathe.
My favorite family tradition is going camping. It’s super fun going fishing every day and swimming and paddle boarding whenever you feel like it. It’s great going on adventures through the bush and up mountains.
CHARLIE ABELL
For a long time, it was an ingrained attitude. Your Primary teacher tells you to work your hardest, so … you do. Now, it’s a sense of pride. I try my hardest playing team sports because if I don’t, that hurts the team. In academics, I know I can do well if it’s something I care about. I wrote an assignment in Year 8 about medieval peasants becoming action figures, because I found that interesting and fun.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment was when I made the Met East team for AFL. It was the best feeling when the coach was standing in front of all the kids calling out the team and I heard my name being called.
I think my friends would describe me as sporty and caring because I like to help them if they are injured or hurt.
What makes you laugh?
Certain quotes keep me going. “This too shall pass.” is one of the best. It’s simple but true. Whatever situation you are in will not occupy you forever. Perspective is everything and having a mindset that stress and difficulty will not be permanent is important.
How would your friends describe you?
As you reflect on your time at Iona so far, is there one person or action that has particularly influenced you?
Apart from Have You Been Paying Attention? and Rowan Atkinson, rare occurrences. I work at Domino’s in Wynnum and once saw a guy in an Edmonton Oilers ice hockey jersey. It reminds me that even though many things stay the same, there’s always something new and different around the corner.
I like our Christmas traditions best. We rotate our Christmas Day gathering between both sides of the family on a yearly basis and the other side holds a gathering beforehand, so we don’t rush. We make shortbread every year and decorate the tree together. It’s a beautiful time to be together as a family and to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
What motivates you to work hard and give your best?
The things that make me laugh are the conversations and jokes with my mates. I find it funny when one of my mates says something funny out of the blue.
As you reflect on your time at Iona so far, is there one person or action that has particularly influenced you?
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Mrs Pearce. She has given me more opportunities than I can count (literally). As my homeroom mentor, she always assists boys who need it and always has our best interests at heart, so much so that we’ve occassionally had Old Boys come back to say hello.
What makes you laugh?
YEAR 8
The grades from Iona that went to support all linked arms and sang the hymn ‘Ancient Words’ as loud and proud as we could.
I was and still am so grateful for being able to play my part and belong to such a great community. I never woke up dreading school, there were always awesome things to look forward to, top mates to be with and opportunities to serve and be part of the wider community which set me up for the future.
The hightlights were:
FIRST IV AGAINSTFINALSTPAT’S
School sport was awesome, fun and a passion but most importantly it developed in me the things that really matter in life, which I am so grateful for. Resilience, knowing how important and valuable it is to give and receive support in a strong community, faith, friendship and hope.
2018 AIC SWIMMING CHAMPS
There were many teachers at Iona that had a great influence on me. Brendan Merrotsy was my home room teacher and cross country coach and helped me to achieve my full potential, both in schoolwork and especially sport. Iona and my teachers helped me to find my passion for sport and I remember being overwhelmed with how many opportunities Iona had to offer.
Finally, the sound of the Iona supporters as I ran around the track at the Track and Field Championships.
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CLASS OF 2018
It has been four years since I graduated from Iona College. Sometimes it feels like yesterday and other times it feels like a lifetime ago. One of the things I miss the most is hanging out with the boys, but that’s the awesome thing about the Iona brotherhood even after school - there is always an opportunity to be a part of the Iona community.
I guess one of my main “take aways” from school was the importance of serving the community. Being part of the Faith and Mission Portfolio, having the opportunity to go to Fiji as part of the immersion trip, serving others through Oblate Mission Action Day (OMAD) and Rosies and right from Year 5 being given many opportunities to support others outside of Iona.
iLEGENDSMANNINGELMS
My final year was by far the most memorable. Some of my greatest memories come from that year, both from supporting and participating in sport.
The mateship from old school friends is such a special thing. It is something that is never lost. Four years later I am extremely proud to say I went to Iona and loved every opportunity that Iona College gave me.
It felt like the whole school was there on the Saturday to see the boys win the Premiership.
My memories of College life are varied … Primary camps at Tallebudgera, fetes, bingo, the Dead Bunnies playing at a school dance at the “50 and Over Centre” (well before it became the Bayside Music Hall), the opening of Oblate Hall, the introduction of Kia Kaha and getting mummified with masking tape by Phil Bell and Darren Cowles in our last ever Tech Drawing class.
strongest memories are of those that taught and guided me, and there were some beauties: Les Kricker and Dave “Smoothie” Watson for Maths; Paul “Skeg” Lenaduzzi for Chemistry. The most classic of physics teachers, Ron Boyle; Bev Geldart for Biology; a young Fr Peter Daly OMI for Religion; Damian Courtney in my Primary years (yes, the same Mr Courtney …) and Fr Kevin Davine OMI, who steered the ship for nearly all my time at the College.
I had opportunity to give and serve in the community which gave way more back to me than I could give. Putting faith into practice - an awesome opportunity!
I still love running and while I don’t run as much as I did at school, I still catch up with old school mates. When we get together there is an instant sense of community, shared memories and values. I know I am welcome at Iona at any time - once an Ionian, always an Ionian! I enjoy my life and I enjoy the work I do. It is enriched and made better because of my time at Iona.
If you have news you would like to share in the next edition of the In Hoc Signo, please let us know by emailing communications@iona.qld.edu.au
Before I started at Cruise Craft I worked at a couple of different places and every workplace I was involved in had old boys from Iona working there. It was an awesome feeling having an instant mateship and community with people I had just met.
I am currently an apprentice boat builder for Cruise Craft Boats. I’ve been lucky enough to have built a few different models since I have been there e.g. Explorer 720HT and F360M.
It was certainly a highlight to be named as College Vice-Captain in Year 12, although there was nowhere near the work and involvement back then as the current College leaders
GERARD VINEN CLASS OF 1985
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My connection with Iona commenced in 1979. Moving up from Tasmania in Year 6, my obvious request to join Gerard House was happily accommodated. Thanks to Fr Michael for pointing out at a recent Gerard House Mass that I was the “longest serving” member of Gerard House present.
Someexemplify.ofmy
A highlight has been my role as Programming Manager on the Legacy Way Tunnel and being there as the first tunnel boring machine broke through at Kelvin Grove.
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iLEGENDSGERARDVINEN
A sign of the times and what always makes me laugh is the memory of my cross-country coach, Byron Moss, standing there smoking thin little cigars while directing laps around the College boundary or long sprints over the hill that now houses IPAC and The Provence Centre.
In my spare time, I still enjoy a love of running, playing my bass guitar and undertaking charity work for young autistic kids through an organisation I helped create, called Team Jacob.
My ongoing connection with the College is alive and well, with my son Jasper currently in Year 10 and enjoying all the opportunities available to him at Iona. I am also the current Sailing Coordinator and enjoy spending time with this dedicated group of respectful and talented Ionians.
I look forward, with some trepidation, to three years’ time and my 40-year reunion (ouch). I will be sharing it with not only my mates from school, but also with Jasper, for whom it will be his first as an Old Boy.
It has also allowed me to stay connected with Iona and the local community via BMD Constructions, where I have worked for the past 15 years.
degree has led me into civil construction, working on a variety of infrastructure projects.
Myachievements.CivilEngineering
Being in the small band of one from my cohort that went on to study Engineering after Year 12, I lost touch with many of my Year 12 mates as University life took me down a different path. However, stories of Iona, its students and teachers, both past and present, were never far away. With my Mum remaining as a staff member at the College for a further 22 years after I graduated, she regularly told me with great pride of their
CLASS OF 1985 (cont.)
Iona College is delighted to be accepted as the Australian representative school at the inaugural Rugby Heritage Cup to be held in Pontlevoy, France in the lead up to the 2023 Rugby World CommencingCup.
College Rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI
Fr Michael Twigg OMI recognises the value of growing our relationship with both France and rugby through this opportunity. “Our students thrive in moments of significance and express a confidence and humility in representation. Iona is a community that seeks to form young men who make a positive difference to their lives and the lives of others. The RHC2023 provides that opportunity well.”
Rugby HERITAGE CUP
“Iona and France share in a special bond through St Eugene de Mazenod’s birthplace of Aix-en-Provence and this tournament is an opportunity to share our culture and faith with the wider world”
Each country who has qualified for the RWC are invited to enter one team, and Iona College is extremely proud to have been accepted as Australia’s representative.
This invitation is intended to further grow positive relations between France and Australia and provides additional opportunities for the Iona community to be immersed within its Oblate French heritage.
on 30 August 2023, this prestigious rugby experience is designed as an U15 Rugby 7’s tournament which will include some 700 players from across the globe. To be eligible, students must be born between 8 September 2008 and 7 September 2010.
Abbaye de Pontlevoy, Pontlevoy, France
The College will share further news, updates and application processes in the near future and looks forward to entering into this exciting opportunity.
PONTLEVOY, FRANCE 2023
Iona College Principal, Mr Trevor Goodwin is “proud to be partnering with the Organising Committee of RHC2023 for this wonderful sporting and cultural occasion. We commit to representing Australia and our values to the wider rugby community to the best of our ability.”
IONA RUGBY TO REPRESENT AUSTRALIA IN FRANCE
The Organising Committee for RHC2023 initiated a search for Australian teams, with Rugby Australia heavily involved. At this time Iona College was invited by the French Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Jean-Pierre Thébault, to register for the tournament in support of this important inaugural event.
IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 20 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2022 31
THURSDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2022: 6.00 - 8.00pm FRIDAY 11 NOVEMBER 2022: 6.00 - 8.00pm Adapted from the playscript by J.M. Barrie Featuring music by IONA PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (IPAC) | 85 NORTH ROAD, LINDUM TICKETS ARE $15 EACH - GO TO TRYBOOKING.COM/CCEEV TO BOOK OR SCAN THE QR CODE
