In Hoc Signo, Volume 21, No 3 - September 2023

A publication for the community and friends of Iona College

VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 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:

Iona vs Argentina, Rugby Heritage Cup

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

CONTENTS

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OBLATES ON THE MOVE FR JOE ANTONY OMI OUR 2024 STUDENT LEADERS FROM THE PRINCIPAL THE PURSUIT OF GREATNESS OBLATE MISSION ACTION DAY FAITH AND MISSION IONA MUSIC VISUAL ART AND FILM EXHIBITION RUGBY HERITAGE CUP LEARNING AND TEACHING PRIMARY YEARS BLACK AND WHITE DINNER CORPORATE SERVICES IONA SPORT IONA GOLF DAY CALL FOR COACHES ILEGEND ALEX FITZALAN

OBLATES ON MOVE IN NEW ERA FOR IONA September 1 marked an historic day for Iona College, with the Australian Provincial of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Fr Christian Fini OMI, and the Chair of the Iona College Board, Deborah Lonsdale-Walker, announcing the appointment of Fr Joe Antony Susai Manickam OMI (pictured top left with Fr John Sherman OMI) as the new College Rector for 2024.

to Iona to support the Oblates’ pastoral work while Fr Michael is taking his short break overseas.

Fr Joe is currently at Mazenod in Perth, where he is completing studies before moving back to Lindum to take up his role on 1 July, 2024.

Fr Bill, as he is affectionately known, barely needs any introduction to the Iona community - having previously served as a teaching priest here in the 1990s.

Fr Joe is already much-loved by and very familiar to Ionians, having served two years at the College in 2021 and 2022, during which he served as the Rosies Chaplain.

Very soon we will be joined by Fr William Ousely OMI, who is currently at Mazenod WA and will return to Iona to assist with our pastoral needs with Fr Michael and Fr Lewy Keelty OMI both currently out of the country.

Even more notably before that, Fr Bill was the very first student to enrol at Iona College when the school was founded in 1957, ahead of the first classes in 1958. It is indeed a wonderful honour to welcome Fr Bill and his long and cherished Iona history back to the College.

His first message to the Iona community as our Rector-in-waiting appears on P4-5 of this edition of In Hoc Signo.

Fr Bill was the very first student to enrol at Iona College when the school was founded in 1957

At the same time as Fr Joe’s appointment was announced, the Oblates announced that our current Rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI will next year be appointed as the new Rector of Mazenod College in Perth.

Fr Michael is currently enjoying a small break in Europe after the Rugby Heritage Cup tour of France, but we look forward to welcoming him back in November when he will finish off Iona’s academic year.

Finally, next year will also see Fr John Sherman OMI return to Iona.

While he formerly served on the teaching staff at Mazenod WA in the 1990s, his return to Perth means Fr Michael will have served as Rector at all three Oblate Colleges when he takes up his appointment next year.

Remarkably, this will be Fr John’s fourth stint at Iona College, including his five years as Rector in the 1980s.

Fr John first came to Iona in 1966, spending five years here, and most recently was at Iona for one year in 2014.

Before his nine years as Rector at Iona, Fr Michael served as the Rector at Mazenod Victoria from 2010-2015.

The departure of Fr Michael and arrival of Fr Joe will be a major part of a new-look Oblate contingent that will be serving the Iona community for the rest of this year, and into 2024.

Already this year, we have been joined by Fr Mathew Jeyaraj OMI (pictured bottom left), who has come

He will rejoin Iona from St Eugene College at Burpengary, where he currently serves as the College Chaplain.

The Iona community warmly embraces Fr Joe and all of our incoming Oblates - old and new - and offer prayers of grateful thanks for the wonderful service, dedication and friendship of Fr Michael in his time as Rector.

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IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO CALL MYSELF AN IONIAN AGAIN From 2024 Rector FR JOE ANTONY OMI

Dear Iona Community, It is my pleasure to address you, the members of the Iona community in this edition of In Hoc Signo Magazine, and truly my great honour to do so as the incoming Rector of Iona College for 2024.

I am truly grateful to be able to return to Iona after a short stay here in Perth to pursue my studies, and I am very much looking forward to being a part of this wonderful and unique community we share in Lindum.

I sincerely thank the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and especially our Provincial Fr Christian Fini OMI, for the privilege of being Iona’s Rector for next year.

Truly, there are some big shoes to fill by following Fr Michael Twigg OMI as Rector. His contribution over his nine years as Rector at Iona College has been nothing short of immense.

His passion for the school he first joined as a student in Year 5 is inextinguishable, and while I know he will excel to a similar level with his new role as Rector of

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Mazenod College here in Perth, there is no doubt that the black and white of Iona will forever run in his veins.

Fr Michael is currently enjoying a well-earned and well-deserved sabbatical in Europe, but will return to the College in November to see out the academic year, and then remain in Brisbane for the early part of next year before heading west. He will leave behind an incredible legacy at Iona that goes well beyond the bricks and mortar of new buildings, or the College’s other outstanding facilities.

His true legacy is where Iona stands in the eyes of the community that we live in – with our College quite rightly embraced and valued by the people of Brisbane for the depth of our character, the strength of our Catholic values, and the quality of the young men Iona sends forth to serve.

My work as Rector of Iona College will be to continue this legacy, ensuring every Ionian is inspired everyday to follow the teachings of Jesus and the example of St Eugene de Mazenod by playing their part in the betterment of our community, and protecting the human dignity of those in need.

Iona does not just teach Catholic values through the Oblate Charism, it puts them into action every day. I am so proud and very much looking forward to calling myself an Ionian again by joining you in 2024.

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NEW STUDENT LEADERS STEP UP TO ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE Iona College is proud to announce our school leaders for 2024, and congratulates these young men for accepting the responsibility and challenges that come with these prestigious positions.

It means you have been chosen as a student worthy of upholding and exemplifying Iona’s values and principles that have served as our foundation since the Oblates first arrived on Iona Hill in 1957.

In Term 3, Principal Mr Trevor Goodwin announced that Joseph Booker, Hopo Leota and Lachlan McClure had been chosen by their peers and Iona staff as the College Captains for 2024.

Our Student Leaders are expected to lead and inspire every day, being guided by the teachings of Jesus and the example of St Eugene de Mazenod in nurturing and caring for our College and community.

Supporting them in their leadership roles will be College Vice-Captains Samuel Broughton (Academic), Zion Chingwile (Community), Jasper Vinen (Faith and Mission), Oliver Muir (Primary Connect), Ethan Sampaolesi (Spirit and Events), and Liam Catley (Wellbeing).

Like St Eugene, our Leaders are called on to recognise their role is bigger than themselves, and help contribute to the culture of respect, inclusivity and togetherness that Iona treasures.

Iona’s Lead Prefects for 2024 will be Nathan Peach (Academic), Thomas Sullivan (Community), Arie Van Kerkwyk (Faith and Mission), Harley Malpass (Primary Connect), Adam Kelly (Spirit and Events), and Samuel Colley (Wellbeing).

Being chosen as a student leader at Iona College is a significant responsibility that carries a profound impact – not only on the individual, but also on the entire school community.

The honour of being an Iona College Captain, ViceCaptain or Lead Prefect is about more than a badge.

COLLEGE CAPTAINS

Lehopoame (Hopo) Leota

Joseph Booker

Lachlan McClure

VICE-CAPTAINS

Our College Leaders are expected to be the standard-bearers for others to aspire to, and to be role models for our younger Ionians with their passion and dedication to the school, and their commitment and service to the community.

As you can see, being chosen as a School Leader at Iona College is about much more than just the badge.

We congratulate each of these young men for accepting this challenge of leadership in 2024, and look forward to supporting them in their roles of continuing and enhancing our Iona traditions next year.

Samuel Broughton (Academic)

Zion Chingwile (Community)

Jasper Vinen Oliver Muir (Faith and Mission) (Primary Connect)

Ethan Sampaolesi (Spirit and Events)

Liam Catley (Wellbeing)

Adam Kelly (Spirit and Events)

Samuel Colley (Wellbeing)

LEAD PREFECTS

Nathan Peach (Academic)

Thomas Sullivan (Community)

Arie Van Kerkwyk Harley Malpass (Faith and Mission) (Primary Connect)

Arie Van Kerkwyk and Jasper Vinen lead the prayer at a College assembly

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CONTINUING COMMUNITY From the Principal MR TREVOR GOODWIN

Recently we received news from the Oblate Provincial, Fr Christian Fini OMI and Chair of the College Board, Ms Deborah Lonsdale-Walker of the appointment of our new College Rector for 2024.

While, in truth, the community could not go wrong with anyone Fr Fini chose to appoint from amongst the Oblates, our College community is very pleased that Fr Joe Antony Susai Manickam OMI has been appointed as the next Rector of Iona College.

I know there will be a richness to his presence, and his smiling thumbs-up as he walks through the grounds and corridors of the College will be warmly received.

Fr Joe comes to us with a capacity to forge and maintain positive partnerships with young people, staff, families and the wider community.

He has a strong sense of mission and daring, and brings with him a strong connection with the other missions of the De Mazenod Family and a genuine sense of service.

I spent some time with Fr Joe at the annual De Mazenod Family Education Network Conference shortly after he learned of the news of his return to

Fr Joe is well known to us here at Iona, as

Iona in this important leadership position. He was

he spent several years living in the Oblate

very excited to once again be joining our community.

community during his time as Rosies Chaplain.

Staff from Iona, St Eugene College (Burpengary),

He left earlier this year to undertake some study

Mazenod College (Victoria), and Mazenod

in Western Australia and will return to us again in

College Western Australia attended this

July of 2024 to take up his new appointment.

annual conference at North Lakes.

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St Eugene College hosted the event, which included a tour of their campus and Professional Learning focusing on Transformative Learning.

Year 3 students Ellie and Gracie provided an extraordinary insight into the program designed to empower young people to understand and appreciate what they are learning.

Rectors and principals from the four colleges directed conversations by sharing ideas and resources that complemented the De Mazenod Family Charism Signposts.

While Mr Harvey, who travelled with the team as manager, will provide a more comprehensive report of the event later in this edition, I did just want to take the opportunity to thank the many people who worked hard to make this trip possible, and provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for this very lucky group of young men.

Iona’s apparel partners Classic kindly donated the striking Yura-themed jerseys our boys wore in their matches, and the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club donated money from their community grants program to minimise the financial impact on the families of the boys chosen to represent their College and country at this unique event.

Fr John Sherman OMI, Fr Joe Antony OMI, Fr Harry Dyer OMI and Fr Christian Fini OMI attended the conference.

Staff conferences provide an opportunity to learn more about the De Mazenod Charism and share valuable information about the Oblate missions.

Iona College is an important part of this mission, and Fr Joe Anthony will also be able to continue our College’s community understanding of the mission of the De Mazenod Family Mission.

We look forward to welcoming him again in July of 2024.

It would be remiss of me to write my report for the Term 3 edition of In Hoc Signo without mentioning the fantastic achievements of our rugby sevens team that competed in the Rugby Heritage Cup in France in September.

I was very proud to hear of how well the boys acquitted themselves in France - not just on the field of play, but in their duties as ambassadors for Australia and Iona.

They did us all proud with the way they conducted themselves in France in what were occasionally very challenging conditions, and repaid the effort and hard work of the many people who helped to get them there. Well done to all involved.

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THE PURSUIT OF GREATNESS Moments of Spirit MR JOHN FRARE DEAN OF COLLEGE

A fundamental objective of an ‘Iona education’ is to ensure that the various aspects of the boys’ education work in harmony – namely the academic, pastoral, spiritual and cocurricular components.

A flick through this edition of In Hoc Signo will give a very clear view of these tenets, in conjunction with Iona’s co-curricular program, working together to provide a truly holistic education.

While there is ample literature supporting the positive link between co-curricular involvement and academic performance, less is known about the relationship between the spiritual and co-curricular dimensions.

After bingeing the Netflix series The Last Dance, I would like

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to draw your attention away from Michael Jordan, and to his esteemed coach, Phil Jackson.

Jackson released a book entitled Sacred Hoops, detailing his time as coach of the Chicago Bulls team that won an unprecedented six NBA championships in eight years in the 1990s.

This was an eagerly awaited publication, as it provided a first-hand insight into the reasons why this team had achieved such success.

However, the use of the word ‘Sacred’ in the title immediately suggested that this was to be a tale that transcended the game, and contained a religious or spiritual aspect.

It was surprising to learn that Jackson did not attribute the extraordinary success of his team to the obvious brilliance and talent of his players, in particular Jordan, or the quality of his training regime or their collective mental toughness.

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Rather, he celebrated the selflessness that existed in the group and what he described as their ‘spiritual interconnectedness’.

At a level of professional sport where all teams and players are of similar skillsets, it was clear through Jackson’s account of his team that their distinct spirituality was the factor that set them apart.

Iona is not the Chicago Bulls.

But Jackson’s insights do have a real application to what we hope to achieve through the boys’ involvement in co-curricular and indeed, the academic, pastoral and spiritual components of life at Iona College.

There has to be more to their involvement than mere physical actions.

It is about the desire and inspiration to seek more, and to be more, in order to excel.

This is the challenge I offer to all student Ionians in their academic and co-curricular endeavours.

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MISSION: VERY POSSIBLE Oblate Mission Action Day MS SAM RYAN SOCIAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR

For over 60 years, Iona College families have generously donated much-needed funds to support the Oblates’ mission work locally, nationally, and internationally.

The Iona College community has donated over $1 million to MAMI (The Missionary Association of Mary Immaculate) – a community of Oblates working in developing communities throughout Asia and Africa.

These fundraising efforts are not just about money, and have always focused on raising awareness, and providing an enjoyable and sometimes challenging opportunity for staff and students.

In 2023, donations and participation in a range of activities on OMAD raised over $79,000.

OMAD 23 was held on Friday 11 August.

The day had a great atmosphere, and we were blessed with beautiful weather.

This event could not have been a success without the support of our Iona College community, so a massive thank you to everyone who participated.

A very special thanks to all the staff, students and parents who worked tirelessly throughout the day, as we couldn’t have done it without you.

The highlights this year were the Dunk Tank, Staff vs Students vs Old Boys basketball, and the Staff Act. Old favourites were still popular, like the Lolly Wheel, Lob-a-Choc, Choc Pong, Hot Shots, paper plane competition, basketball competition, OMAD Raffle and the Golf Ball Challenge.

During all of these events, many Moments of Grace were experienced.

The return of House Theatre Sports and the House Relay Race also entertained us throughout the day, and students showcased their many talents to us.

It is reassuring to know that every dollar we raise goes directly to the work of Oblate Missions.

A very generous total of $79,683 was announced on the day, which MAMI will put to valuable use in changing the lives of the poor and needy around the world.

‘The work of MAMI not only unites us as a family working in partnership, but it also gives us a unique identity and way of doing things. Making people ‘Humans, Christians and Saints’, as we have been challenged to do by our Founder, allows us to journey with people who we effectively make a part of our family.’

- Fr Eric Alleaume OMI 12

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ASSUMPTION MASS SHOWS OUR LOVE & GRATITUDE Moments of Joy MRS LIZ MADDEN DEAN OF CATHOLIC FAITH AND MISSION

In a celebration of faith and community, Iona College marked the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a whole-college Mass on 15 August.

This special occasion allowed us to affirm Mary’s significance in our Catholic, Oblate tradition and our belief that she found

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her eternal resting place in the Divine Love of God.

Mother of the Church is quite

The celebration was not only a tribute to Mary but also a poignant recognition of the vital role all women play in our Iona community.

Her life shows us that God’s

Gathering as a united community, we offered our prayers and reflections to draw inspiration from Mary’s exemplary life and the abundant grace of God.

Our Oblate congregation

Mary is seen as a sign of hope and therefore, the title of

remarkable grace through the

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rightly bestowed on her. love can work through ordinary women and men to bring positive change to the world. celebrated another day of significance on 15 August – it was the day in 1822 when Saint Eugene received a intercession of Our Lady.

At a time of great anxiety concerning the future of his small missionary group, this moment of grace gave St Eugene hope for the future.

Since then, the Oblates have continuously looked to Mary as a source of inspiration and intercession.

Our Assumption Mass served as a reminder of our shared humanity and the responsibility we have to uphold the inherent dignity of all individuals, acknowledging each person as a beloved child of God.

A highlight of the Mass was the heartfelt gesture by our Year 11 students where they extended their appreciation to the women in our community by presenting them with a beautiful flower and a personal note of gratitude.

This small act symbolised their gratitude for the remarkable women who contribute to their lives in countless ways.

Another touching moment occurred when our Year 12 students prayed, during communion, for their mothers

and significant women who have been pillars of support throughout their lives.

This demonstration of love and gratitude underscored the profound impact these women have on our community and their role in nurturing and guiding our young men.

Let us all remember to respond wholeheartedly to God’s call and celebrate the women who play an integral role in shaping our community and our lives.

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QCMF ANOTHER HIGH NOTE Moments of Celebration MR BRIAN L’HUILLIER HEAD OF INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

For over 20 years, Iona College has participated in the Queensland Catholic Schools and Colleges Music Festival held at Villanova College in Coorparoo.

The festival provides schools with an opportunity to perform in front of industry professionals who provide each ensemble with comprehensive feedback on their performance.

It’s a great way to learn what your strengths and weaknesses are as a musician.

Despite the gold, silver and bronze awards, QCMF is not a competition. There is no competing!

The awards simply reflect how well the ensemble delivered their chosen repertoire.

Even those that receive gold are given many examples of how they can improve and further develop as a musician.

While crossing the finish line before someone else or scoring more points than the other team can make sense in the sporting world, applying the same structure to the arts is problematic.

Being the largest Catholic schools music festival in the southern hemisphere, it is great that we can support it through participation.

My highlights of this year’s festival are as follows: CONCERT BANDS Year 5 band was fantastic. Mrs Corkeron, Dr Kennedy and Mrs McDonald ran a tight ship on the day, encouraging the Year 5s to relax, breathe, to watch their conductor, and to play at their best.

And they did! It was an excellent performance.

Mrs McDonald and Wind Ensemble were also amazing in the A-Grade section. Their attention to detail in the music was excellent and it was a pleasure to watch.

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CHAMBER STRING ENSEMBLES I’m amazed at how Mrs Fletcher and Mr McPherson take our string students and mould them into players good enough to play alongside all the big string schools.

We don’t start them in Grade 1 & 2, or teach them all in individual lessons. But we take what we have and we make it work.

Chamber Strings 1 playing at a silver standard in Division 1 is outstanding!

GUITAR ENSEMBLE 1 Fifteen years ago, I put our only guitar ensemble in the second division at QCMF to see how we’d go. We played at a bronze level. This year, Guitar Ensemble 1 played at a gold standard in Division 1, and have done so for the past few years.

CHOIRS It is good to see one of our choirs perform at such a high standard again. Over 10 years ago, we didn’t even have a singing teacher. But thanks to the work of Ms Forster, Ionian Chorus was able to deliver a fantastic performance at this year’s festival.

IONA’S QCMF 2023 RESULTS (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE) Year 5 Guitars Concert Band Brass Ensemble Guitar Ensemble 3 Guitar Ensemble 2 Symphonic Winds Guitar Ensemble 1 Year 5 Strings Year 5 Band Chamber Strings 3 Chamber Strings 1 Ionian Chorus Big Band 1 Chamber Strings 2 Wind Ensemble

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– – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Silver Silver Bronze Gold Silver Bronze Gold Silver Gold Bronze Silver Gold Silver Bronze Silver

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CREATIVITY AND PASSION ON SHOW Moments of Colour Fr Peter Daly Arts Precinct, MR BRAYDEN TEECE DEAN OF OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY

At Iona, we are fortunate to have so many opportunities in College life where we get to celebrate Moments of Grace.

Without question, one of the most important of these is the annual Visual Art and Film Exhibition.

and another big crowd was on hand to help the College celebrate our commitments and success in the arts.

It was wonderful to see so many proud students and families come together on what is undoubtedly the most colourful night on the Iona calendar.

This is where our community comes together to celebrate God’s gifts of creativity, inspiration and passion being expressed by our students through drawing and painting, sculpting and performing.

This year, the College was pleased to be joined by guest speaker Johnathan Proby, the Studio Operations Coordinator for Screen Queensland, whose industry experience is inspirational and aspirational in equal measure for students of Film and Media.

This year’s Exhibition was held at the end of August at the

It was a fantastic evening of sights and sounds – with our wonderful

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musicians once again providing such an amazing soundtrack to the College’s significant celebrations such as this.

The Iona College community warmly congratulates all of the deserving award winners announced on the night, and we share in the pride of the many families in attendance in the quality of your work, and of all the creations on display on the night.

My sincere thanks to the College’s Head of Arts, Mrs Katie Wood, and Head of Visual Art Ms Courtney Nissen for their year-round hard work and dedication to the arts that culminates with this celebration.

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A WORLD-CLASS DISPLAY OF TRUE IONA SPIRIT IN FRANCE Moments of Inspiration MR MARK HARVEY DEAN OF STUDENTS

The Iona spirit shone on the world stage in September when our under-15 sevens rugby team travelled to Pontlevoy in France for the inaugural Rugby Heritage Cup. This tournament, held at the historic Pontlevoy Abbey 200km south of Paris, involved school, academy and representative teams from all over the world, with Iona choseN to represent Australia.

After 35 gruelling hours of travel, the Iona team arrived in Pontlevoy. The grand opening ceremony followed two days later, where all participants marched through the streets of Pontlevoy village in their national jerseys.

Competition began on the following day with three pool games. In the boy’s competition there were 24 teams spread over six pools, and Iona performed brilliantly to win all three matches and be the No.1 seed for the finals later that week.

During the rest days all teams enjoyed visits to the nearby Chateau de Cheverny and Chambord Castle. The latter’s famous double helix staircase was believed to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Both sites were also of great significance during the French Revolution.

The Catholic faith of both the Abbey School and Pontlevoy village is very prominent, and our Ionians had the opportunity to celebrate mass, led by Father Michael, in the Abbey Chapel.

The Chapel has a unique beauty and intimacy, dating back to 1034 when it began as a Benedictine Monastery. The team also attended the local community Sunday Catholic mass, which was held in Latin. A great experience for our students.

Conditions throughout the week were exhausting, with temperatures around 34C every day and limited shade provisions on site, so fatigue was a factor for our players.

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In the quarter-finals we faced the Tongan national champion team, Tonga College. The Tongan boys produced a fearsome traditional war dance before the commencement of play – another new experience for our boys, who responded respectfully – before Iona won the game 35-15.

A scrappy 20-5 win over our friends from Ballyclare High School in Northern Ireland put Iona into the final against Condor – the New Zealand under 15 national representative side, comprising the best sevens players from all over NZ. Faced with constant rescheduling problems on the day, Iona started hesitantly, and Condor began to dominate. Despite fighting back late in both halves, Condor ran out 40-20 winners.

Second place in the boys’ rugby competition was an outstanding performance.

For the tournament’s overall result however, two other competitions contributed to each team’s performance: The rugby chef cooking competition; and the rugby short video production.

In the rugby chef, our students prepared macadamia-encrusted, Frenched lamb chops with a mango and macadamia salad.

The judges were very complimentary about our dish and, whilst not recording a topthree finish, it was our very best effort.

The rugby short video production saw our students focus on relating the meaning of one of the stated values of the tournament. In what was a very polished performance, our students finished second in this aspect of the boy’s competition.

When the three elements of competition were combined, Iona finished a brilliant second overall – just behind the Madagascan girls team.

A top-two finish amongst more than 44 teams from around the world was a great effort.

Before flying home, we headed north to Amiens and Villers Bretonneux – two towns of great significance in Australian war history.

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Mr Teece and Mr Westlake for generating the funding support to get the team to France.

At Amiens, a highlight was attending mass at The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Amiens, the largest gothic cathedral in France. The Cathedral holds special significance to the Oblates, as it was in this cathedral that St Eugene de Mazenod was ordained a priest.

In Villers Bretonneux, we visited the Victoria School and John Monash Memorial Museum (on the outskirts of Villers) both of which honour the sacrifice of Australian lives during WWI, and particularly in the local region where more than 1200 Australian soldiers died in the battle to save Villers. It was a very moving experience and a great learning for our young men.

Our successful tour to France was made possible by the work of several people.

A great thank you to Mrs Kate Andersen for her organisation and liaising with our parents and the organisers over many months. This was almost a full-time job!

Thanks also to Mr Stariha for his constant support and coaching involvement, and also

Thanks to the Iona parents who travelled with us to France, and kept us going with laundry and replenishing snacks – specifically the Gunner, Hayne and Armstrong families, as well as Laurent Garnier (father of Jack) who was vital for communicating with organisers and officials, and whose great humour kept us sane in taxing conditions.

Iona was fortunate to have the services of Mr Tama Aerenga, a very experienced rugby sevens coach who was always positive, and had an exceptional manner with our students, who followed his precise game plans to the letter.

Finally, the greatest thanks and appreciation is afforded to Fr Michael. He had the vision, the initiative, will and belief in nominating Iona as Australia’s representatives in the inaugural Rugby Heritage Cup. I know that he was immensely proud of the efforts of our boys.

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REPRESENTING AUSTRALIA

RESULTS

IONA COLLEGE RUGBY HERITAGE CUP 2023

POOL MATCHES: • Iona d Old Resian Club (Argentina)

55-0

Jordan Doherty

• Iona d The Rugby School (England)

55-15

Jack Garnier

• Iona d College de Pontlevoy (France)

65-5

Xavier Armstrong

Elliott Gunner Tom Hayne QUARTER-FINAL:

Cooper Kearns Jyce Kendall (VC)

• Iona d Tonga College (Tonga)

35-15

Kobe Sergeant Bailey Swifte SEMI-FINAL:

Kalix Swifte James Turner (C)

• Iona d Ballyclare HS (N Ireland)

20-5

Harrison Wallace COACH: Mr Tama Aerenga MANAGER: Fr Michael Twigg OMI MANAGER: Mr Mark Harvey

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RUGBY HERITAGE CUP FINAL: • Iona lost to Condor (New Zealand)

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20-40

IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

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PREPARING FOR THE ROAD AHEAD Moments of Planning MRS DONNA ELKINGTON DEAN OF LEARNING AND TEACHING

From a learning and teaching perspective, a focus for Term 3 is subject selection for the new year.

When providing subject selection advice, we always suggest students consider the following: •

What are you good at?

•

What do you enjoy doing?

•

What subject/s might align to your future pathways goals?

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Our Year 10 students have had the benefit of the new Senior Pathways Studies (SPS) program to help them develop their Senior Education & Training (SET) Plan for their Senior years.

Plan and determine their pathway and subject choices for Year 11 in 2024. This ensures an individualised pathway for each student.

We are very proud of the many and varied subjects and possible pathways that we provide at Iona. Our students can explore their interests and passions across a wide range of options.

Our Year 10s have one timetabled lesson per week for SPS, and throughout this year they have already covered a range of topics such as post-school pathways, SET-Planning, and ATAR/QCE requirements.

Our Subject Selection Presentations for parents, carers and students were enhanced this year by having faculty staff and displays, as well as representatives from Queensland tertiary institutions, in the Provence Centre.

Our current Year 8, 9 and 10 students have had many opportunities this term to prepare for this important stage of their educational journey.

As part of this program, students are working through the QCAA Short Course in Career Education which, upon successful completion, provides one point towards their QCE.

There was a fantastic atmosphere in the Provence Centre, where families were able to speak to Heads of Faculty and staff about the various subject offerings available in 2024.

Each Year 10 student and their parents have met with a member of the Learning and Teaching team during this term to discuss their SET

Our subject selection and SET Planning processes ensure that our students are well-equipped to plan and prepare for the next steps in their education.

Our Year 8 and 9 students were able to listen to key staff from different faculties to help them identify different subjects and pathways options.

For our Year 8s in particular, it is a time of genuine excitement as it is their first opportunity to take a little more ownership of their academic pathway by choosing their elective subjects.

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IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

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THE PRIDE OF OUR YOUNGEST IONIANS NEVER FAILS TO WARM OUR HEARTS AND INSPIRE US Moments of Sharing MR PETER HOLMES DEAN OF PRIMARY YEARS

The Year 5 cohort welcomed over 260 very special guests on Friday, 25 August. These grandparent guests were engaged in a lovely Liturgy (many thanks to Mrs Carmichael, Mrs Jones and Mrs Begley) and accompanying photo reflection that was very moving.

The students were incredibly proud of themselves and excited to be welcoming loved ones into their community.

It was fantastic that some of the grandparents ‘adopted’ a second grandchild for the morning so that all of our boys felt part of the experience.

Most grandparents were ‘dismissed’ by their grandchildren by late morning, and the lads headed back to classes with some very big smiles on their faces!

This day is such an important part of Iona Primary history, and I am proud to say that this year’s class did justice to the occasion.

From this iconic event, we swiftly moved focus to the preparations for 2024 and the orientation for new students (and many new parents!)

Orientation events quickly bring into focus that 2023 is almost done, and planning and preparations for 2024 are in full swing.

Our current Year 5s are having conversations around Year 6 leadership and service opportunities. Our Year 6s have commenced discussions on their transition to Year 7.

Early planning ensures both groups are well prepared heading into the next chapter of their Iona journey.

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On Friday, 1 September, we welcomed nearly 180 current Year 4 students into our Primary community (as well as another 120 starting 2024 in Senior) for their Iona orientation.

This is a chance to be fully immersed in the classrooms, sit some small tests that assist in creating well-balanced classes for 2024, play some sport, meet key staff and mix with their ‘brothers to be’!

This day is such an important part of Iona Primary history, and I am proud to say that this year’s class did justice to the occasion.

The following Tuesday, it was the turn of the parents and carers to have a similar ‘orientation’ experience at IPAC. The new families for Years 5 and 7 packed the theatre and hopefully, like their sons, left at the end of the night more excited than anxious about the road ahead.

These families and their sons will enhance our 2024 community and provide us with new insights, experiences and opportunities to grow our ever changing community landscape.

With Term 4 being only eight weeks, 2024 will be upon us before we know it, and another chapter will begin in the ‘Book of Iona Primary’.

IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

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BLACK, WHITE, GLITZ AND GLAMOUR BACK ON MENU Moments of Enjoyment MR BRAYDEN TEECE DEAN OF OBLATE IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY

The Iona Black and White Dinner made a triumphant return in July, and marked an incredible celebration of our Iona community.

Held in the prestigious Legends Room at the Gabba, the event witnessed an impressive turnout of over 400 Ionians.

Guests enjoyed a two-course meal, prior to dancing the night away to the tunes of Brisbane band SAVVY, who were a smash hit with the black-and-white crowd.

The success of the event was due to the dedication and support of a large number of stakeholders and their passion for the Iona community.

Many thanks to our generous sponsors and donors, whose contributions enabled successful

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fundraising to support programs and initiatives providing opportunities for our students.

Thank you to the staff at the Gabba and O’Brien Group, who ensured a seamless experience, to the many suppliers who transformed the Legends Room into a space that set the scene for a night filled with enjoyment, and to our MC for the evening, Ben Davis from Channel 7, who did an outstanding job in keeping the night running smoothly.

It is also important to recognise the tireless work of our Events team, led by Mrs Renae Northcott, who worked so hard to deliver a truly special occasion.

Above all, thank you to the Iona community who supported the return of the Black and White Dinner.

Our families supported the event through ticket sales, purchasing raffle tickets, and bidding on auction items. This support is much appreciated.

We look forward to building upon the success of this year’s celebration with the inclusion of the Black and White Dinner as an annual event.

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NEW VISION FOR US TO BUILD ON

In a world defined by rapid change, Iona College stands steadfast, fortified by strategic planning and the strength of its community.

As we navigate these evolving times, our unwavering commitment to unity, community spirit, and service to those in need remains at the forefront of our mission.

Rooted in our Catholic faith, we hold fast to the belief in the dignity of every individual, extending our support far beyond our borders.

To meet this demand, we are dedicated to enhancing our learning infrastructure, building on recent achievements like The Provence Centre and soon-to-becompleted Primary classrooms.

Taking our commitment to the environment to heart, we have embarked on initiatives such as the installation of 500kW of solar panels on our rooves.

With an eye on the future, we have initiated a review of our Master Plan, initially introduced in 2017.

This review aims to align Iona’s infrastructure with the evolving needs of modern society, a

The insights and needs of our current and past students, families and staff will play a pivotal role in this review. Once we have collated and evaluated the information received, the College will be in a position to share the next vision for our future.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we do so with a deep sense of stewardship, not only for our cherished institution but also for our planet.

United by our core values, we look ahead with anticipation, poised to honour our rich legacy while embracing the boundless potential of tomorrow.

R OLD BO IO

IL

YS

These efforts echo the principles of Laudato Si’ from the Vatican, reflecting our duty to safeguard the planet for future generations.

ThomsonAdsett has been entrusted with the task of evaluating the existing Master Plan and, after engaging with key stakeholders earlier this term, they will deliver a revised vision and Master Plan for Iona College through to 2035.

S

Inspired by St Eugene de Mazenod’s wisdom – “When we are presented with new needs, we have to find new means” – we have continuously adapted to meet the evolving demands of our community.

families place in Iona College, underscoring the need for expanded learning spaces.

VERBACK

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MRS SUSAN BOBAN, MANAGER CORPORATE SERVICES

reflection of our adaptability and forward-thinking approach.

SE N

recent surge in enrolment Moments of Growth Our is a testament to the trust

Please RSVP by Sunday 8 October www.trybooking.com/CKPNW

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IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

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HARD WORK BRINGS ITS REWARDS Moments of Success MR CRAIG STARIHA HEAD OF SPORT

There is no resting at Iona.

After a sensational Term 2 where Iona took out the AIC Rugby Union aggregate, First XI football premiership and won the AIC Cross Country Championships (as well as many other premierships), Term 3 was quickly underway with rugby league, basketball and tennis.

Our AIC Tennis Coordinator, Mr Paul Cook together with our Head Tennis Coach, Mr Ian Malpass have worked hard over recent years to build Iona’s tennis program.

throughout the season. The 10A, 10B and 9A teams were second on the ladder, while our 7A&B teams made the podium in third.

With Mr Jarrod Biggs (AIC Rugby League Coordinator & Head of High-Performance Sport) at the helm, Iona continued its dominance in rugby league by again taking out the AIC aggregate, which Iona has done every year since the sport’s inception in AIC in 2019.

Earlier this year Iona launched an iHoops basketball excellence program. With the assistance of a high-level, experienced basketball coach, the aim was to establish a grass roots development program for students from Years 7-10 to identify and develop players who wish to pursue basketball and represent Iona at the highest level.

Iona gained a credible fourth overall in the aggregate, which places our College in the top half of the competition just behind St Laurence’s College.

This year Iona submitted 31 teams into the AIC basketball competition, landing an incredible 11 premierships which resulted in Iona coming second overall in the aggregate – only 1.5 points behind first place.

Our best-performing teams were the Year 5 A&B teams, who remained undefeated

This result has been a significant improvement for Iona. Both basketball coordinators, Mr

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IN HOC SIGNO | VOLUME 21 | NO 3 | SEPTEMBER 2023

Anthony Bannerman and Mrs Karen Otway are to be congratulated for leading a great team of coaches and players to this result.

•

Jackson Dallwitz: Representing Queensland at the Australian U-19 Volleyball Championships

•

The following students won medals at the QLD Short Course Swimming Championships:

Our athletes have been training for the upcoming AIC Track & Field Championships held in Week 1 of Term 4. Overall, 14 of Iona’s best athletes made the Metropolitan East Track & Field team. These boys will now advance to the State Championships.

Term 4 brings AIC tournaments for our boys in e-sports, touch football and water polo, before trials in swimming, cricket, volleyball and AFL in readiness for 2024.

•

Congratulations to the following Ionians for outstanding individual performances: •

•

Jack Bannister: Gold and silver medals at the Australian National Judo Championships; bronze medal for Australia at the Hong Kong Junior Asian Cup and the Macau Junior Asian Cup; selection for Australia at the Pan-American/ Oceania Judo Champions in Calgary, Canada Henry Bader, Finn Haller, Toby Collins and Callum McKeon: Selection for Australia at the World Indoor Cricket Federation Junior World Series in Dubai

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Austin King: 15yr 200m butterfly (gold), 100m butterfly (silver), 200m IM (bronze), 200m freestyle (bronze)

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Cooper Townsend: 13yr 200m back (bronze), 50m back (bronze)

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Hugo Wheeler: 11yr 100m butterfly (gold), 400m freestyle (gold), 400m IM (silver)

Darcy Vella: Won gold at a Capo Powerlifting Federation event, breaking the following records: -

Squat: 2 x State Records, 1 x Australian Record

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Bench Press: 3 x State Records, 3 x Australian Records

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Deadlift: 3 x State Records, 3 x Australian Records

•

Benjamin Spall: Selected for Queensland U-17 Gold Water Polo at National Championships

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Cooper Searston: Won National Schools Touch Championship with Queensland 10-12yr team

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Lehopa Leota: Won Queensland Rugby Union Colts premiership with Brothers; selected for Queensland U-18, and Australian U-18 teams.

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GOLF DAY ANOTHER SMASH HIT On Exhibition Wednesday, past and present

The 2023 Iona Family Golf Day was made possible

Ionians came together upon the picturesque

by the generous support of various event partners

greens of Wynnum Golf Club for the highly

who sponsored holes and donated prizes. This

anticipated 2023 Iona Family Golf Day. This annual

support ensured that funds raised would contribute

event has evolved into a special tradition, with

to the MKM Foundation’s mission, advocating for

tickets selling out within days of release, and

tougher laws to combat youth crime, with other

this year’s edition proved to be no exception.

fundraising contributing towards projects within

A capacity field of Ionians took to the fairways,

the College aimed at supporting its students.

partnering up to participate in a Two Ball Ambrose

Matt King and the Wynnum Golf Club staff

format, all vying for the MKM Shield. This prestigious

deserve special recognition for their ongoing

shield is named in loving memory of Old Boy Matthew

partnership with Iona College. This event stands

Field (2000), Kate Leadbetter, and their unborn

as a testament to the strong bond between

child Miles, whose lives were tragically cut short

the two local institutions, fostering a sense of

in a horrific incident on Australia Day in 2021.

community that goes beyond the golf course.

We were blessed to be joined by Matt’s parents,

The Iona Family Golf Day owes much of its success to

Russell and Ann Field, who were on hand to

the hard work of numerous individuals, including Old

present the MKM Shield to the deserving winners,

Boy Paul Caton. The work of those involved provide a

Michael Hinds and Brayden Teece. Remarkably,

cherished opportunity for Ionians to come together.

Michael and Brayden had been classmates of Matt,

It’s more than just a golf tournament; it’s a celebration

adding a deeply personal touch to their victory.

of tradition, and the power of a community.

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This is a shout-out to all Iona Old Boys looking for a way to reconnect with the College and help out the current generation of Ionians at the same time.

The Iona Sports Department is currently seeking coaches, managers and officials for the Year 5-12 AIC sports program in 2024.

We require the assistance of staff, parents, Old Boys and friends of the College to take on the many duties needed to ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate and enjoy all the benefits that playing sport provides.

This also ensures the ongoing growth and development of our sports program across all areas.

Iona’s success in sport is dependent upon many factors, one being the generosity of members of our community to give of their time and effort to assist students by taking on specific roles, including coach, manager, referee, umpire, scorer, etc. If you can help in any way, please complete the online nomination form below.

All forms received will be compiled into a database.

Before the start of each season, a member of the Sports Department or relevant sports coordinator will contact those who have registered. A final confirmation of commitment will be asked, and further details given.

Please note that all coaches are required to have a Blue Card before they commence any volunteer work at the College. The College can assist with this process. Please be aware that current parents who volunteer their services are not normally paid.

We invite those who would like to assist in 2024 to become involved for the benefit of your son, our students and the College.

If you are an Old Boy, why not get a group of your former teammates together as a coaching team? It will be like a mini-reunion every weekend during the season, and simultaneously allow you to pass on your lessons about the Iona spirit – like someone did for you all those years ago.

To get involved, go to: https://iona.jotform. com/232638805335863.

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iLEGEND ALEX STARS IN ROLE AS INSPIRATION FOR OUR IONIANS Stories of resilience always resonate with our students, particularly when the message is from someone who has walked the walk as well as talked the talk.

The art of persisting and persevering through times of struggle is of incredible importance across so many aspects of our daily lives, and a valuable lesson for students who often have not collected enough life experience to learn how to deal with adversity.

When 2011 Senior Alex Fitzalan returned to Iona in July as part of our iLegends series to talk about his career as an actor, the students who packed into IPAC hoping to hear tales of bright lights and celebrity encounters may have been taken by surprise by Alex’s key theme on the courage and commitment needed to follow a dream.

Certainly, there was enough “Hollywood” in Alex’s story.

As one of the Australian acting scene’s rising stars, Alex – who recently starred in the French Revolution movie Chevallier alongside Kelvin Harrison Jr, Samara Weaving and Minnie Driver – had plenty of intriguing tales of life on set, and enough answers to the string of questions about “famous people” to keep the more starry-eyed boys happy.

But it was his reflections on the big gambles of his career – such as walking away from his law studies to pursue acting and the “terrifying’ experience of moving alone to America

Photographs courtesy of https://www.instagram.com/alexfitzalan

REIGNITE YOUR PASSION FOR THE BLACK AND WHITE

where he knew no one and had to start from scratch that hit a chord.

Alex explained how, as an actor, dealing with disappointment and rejection are a part of the job.

He explained to the students that in his nine years as an actor, he has landed 15 roles from auditions he estimated to be in the thousands.

Alex admitted there were times when the frustration and disappointment at being overlooked for roles nearly became too much, and he contemplated walking away from his dream.

But his determination and desire to pursue his passion always outweighed the negative emotions, and now he is achieving his breakthrough roles as an actor as a reward for his persistence.

We thank Alex for taking the time to share his story with our current Ionians, and there is no doubt his talk left a strong impression – and was a source of inspiration – for those students in attendance who want to follow in his footsteps as an actor.

Iona invites any Old Boy who wants to share the story of their journey after leaving school to join us as an iLegend guest.

Whatever your field of expertise, your knowledge and experience could be invaluable for one of our current students trying to find where they fit in the world.

If you would like to be involved, contact communications@iona.qld.edu.au.

Alex Fitzalan (Senior 2011) recently shared his experiences from his career as an actor with our current Ionians.

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FAREWELL TO AN INSPIRATIONAL OBLATE From the Archives MRS ROSEMARY MAMMINO COLLEGE ARCHIVIST

Fr Austin Cooper OMI (1931 – 2023) Oblate, Teacher, Scholar, Academic, Leader Fr Austin Cooper OMI was an Oblate priest, teacher, scholar, academic and leader who taught at Iona in its very early years from 1959 to 1960. Although only teaching at the College for a few short years, Fr Cooper returned several times, including as Provincial, and for the launch of the College’s 60th anniversary book Iona Hill: Oblates of Mary Immaculate - A Local Story Worth Sharing in November 2019.

EARLY YEARS Fr Cooper OMI was born on 14 January 1931 at Sorrento, Victoria.

He later attended Assumption College, Kilmore before studying law for a year at the University of Melbourne. He joined the Oblates in March 1950. From there he was sent to Kidalton Abbey, Piltown in Ireland to study for the priesthood and was later ordained there as a twenty-five year old on 16 September 1956, completing his studies in June 1957. Once back in Australia, he began work at Eagle Junction while studying at the University of Queensland (BA Hons in History). An appointment to Iona College followed in 1959 where he taught Year 5 for two years.

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One anecdote from Fr Cooper’s time at Iona was mentioned by one of the College’s first Oblates, Fr Denis McCarthy OMI. He noted in a speech presented at the 50th anniversary of the College in 2007 that “in a short time, all in Year 5 were little Fr Austin Cooper’s, they walked like him, they talked like him, they imitated every action of his”. The Melbourne Catholic also highlighted that Fr Cooper had “enjoyed immensely” the experience of teaching Year 5.

At Iona, Fr Cooper would have become part of the Oblate community, sharing the original farmhouse with Iona’s first Rector, Fr Tim Long OMI and other Oblate priests including Frs Denis McCarthy OMI, Fr Kevin Davine OMI, Fr John O’Regan OMI, Fr Tom Shortall OMI and Fr John Cranley OMI. Fr Cooper would have seen first hand the community spirit which prevailed when parents regularly attended the College on weekends working alongside the Oblates to develop the grounds. He may have been present at the wonderful occasion when Long Block opened in May 1959 and could have been involved in preparing the grounds for students to play sport. Unfortunately, existing records fail to provide further information about his years at Iona apart from the fact that he had enjoyed teaching Year 5.

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LATER APPOINTMENTS The Oblates recognised early Fr Cooper’s potential as both a teacher and a scholar and nominated him to be the first Rector of the future St Mary’s Oblate Seminary. To prepare for this new Ministry, Fr Cooper travelled to Washington to undertake further studies. While in America he completed an MA at the Catholic University of America and later finished his PhD on the Oxford movement at Monash University in 1972.

After returning to Australia in 1963, he lived initially at St Joseph’s Lovely Banks, Geelong before moving to the new seminary in Mulgrave once the building was completed. Fr Cooper remained founding Rector from 1963 to 1973 where he developed a close

relationship with Monash University and combined traditional seminary training in philosophy with a university degree.

Fr Cooper served as Foundation Master of the newly formed Catholic Theological College (CTC) in Melbourne from 1972 to 1976 while also serving as Vice-President of the Melbourne College of Divinity from 1974 to 1976.

He was appointed Australian Provincial of the Oblates from 1976 until 1983 and was later appointed for further years as Master at the CTC in the 1990s and until 2002. Fr Cooper was made a Member of the Order

of Australia (AM) for services to theological education in 2004.

According to the current Oblate Provincial, Fr Christian Fini OMI, Fr Cooper was a Professor at the CTC/University of Divinity where he continued to teach Church History and Christian Spirituality until 2022.

He led regular study tours overseas with other colleagues as part of his course in Christian Spirituality. His academic expertise led him to publish several books, including one on the history of the Australian Oblates, A Little by Ourselves (1994).

College Archives holds very few records of Fr Cooper’s time at Iona. However, other sources of information include the “text of an address by Fr McCarthy OMI at the Iona Dinner on 1 October 2007”, a brief summary of Fr Cooper’s career written by the Provincial Executive Officer, Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Ms Jenny McPherson, an article written

by Oblate Provincial, Fr Christian Fini OMI (from www.omi.com. au/oblate-news) and an article published in the “Melbourne Catholic” on 5 July 2023 (www.melbournecatholic.org).

Sadly, Fr Cooper’s health gradually began to deteriorate in early 2023 and he passed away on 2 July this year.

Fr Cooper spent many decades serving as an Oblate. Oblate Provincial, Fr Christian Fini OMI sums up how Fr Cooper will be remembered. It would be as “a man of prayer and deep spirituality” who had been “inspirational to many students with a great kindness and a lovely sense of humour”.

Fr Austin Cooper OMI speaking to College Archivist Rosemary Mammino at the Iona College 60th anniversary book launch in 2019.

Fr Austin Cooper OMI standing third from left at the Iona College 60th anniversary book launch in 2019.

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Deceased Ionian Remembrance Mass 4 November 2023 5pm Iona Chapel Please join us for a light supper after the Mass. www.trybooking.com/CLMUK

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