Villa View – Issue 3, 19 February 2026

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

In keeping with the Spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand. We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community.

It has been a dynamic few weeks across the Senior School, such is rich fabric of College life that is woven in the commencing stages of another academic year.
This week we saw the opening event of our House Cup be conducted at the Langlands Pool with our Interhouse Swimming Carnival. It was pleasing to see strong participation levels and authentic spirit which reflected the continuing growth and development of our House system.

Our Year 12 students and parents/carers also had the opportunity to meet virtually with their teachers to discuss their progress and areas for improvement leading into their fast-approaching examination block in Week 7.

Amidst the busyness of academic schedules, sport commitments and work shifts, it is vitally important that our young men ensure they are carving out time within their program to maintain their wellbeing- whether that be exercising, eating healthy and recording consistent sleep patterns of ideally eight or more hours.

Paul Dillon Drug and Alcohol Education Talks
On Monday this week, all Senior School students had the opportunity to listen to renowned drug education expert Mr Paul Dillon during three separate sessions targeting each year level. The College has retained the services of Mr Dillon for a number of years, such is our strong commitment to regular drug and alcohol education for our young men.

Through his own business, Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA) Paul has been contracted by many agencies and organisations across the country to give regular updates on current drug trends within the community. He continues to work with many school communities across the country to ensure that they have access to good quality information and best practice drug education.

Thank you to those parents who attended Paul’s parent talk on Monday night at Loreto College. I extend my appreciation to our sister school for hosting this event.

Year 12 Academic Mentoring Program
Tomorrow we will conduct our EmpowerEd goalsetting morning for Semester One. Within this time, we will launch a new Year 12 Academic Mentoring Program. With the transition from a Year Level to House Pastoral system and the removal of the Academic Coaching Program line from the College timetable, I have designed a new program to support our Seniors in the final year of their Villanova journey.

The purpose of this program is to ensure that our Year 12 students are maximising their academic performance and fulfilling the responsibilities associated with their chosen learning pathway.
Underpinning the program is the intrinsic value of the relationships which is fundamental to our Augustinian identity. Through the nurturing of a positive mentor-mentee relationship, our Seniors will be supported and challenged to achieve their goals.

“Our chief want in life is somebody who will make us do what we can.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

What a tremendous few days we have shared at Year 7 Camp across the last two weeks. As I write this, I am incredibly proud of the way our newest Middle School students embraced the experience — with enthusiasm, courage and a genuine willingness to connect.

There was certainly plenty of fun: laughter echoing across the fields, friendly competition, shared challenges, late-night conversations and yes, some very enthusiastic reviews of the food! The meals were well-received and there is something powerful about sitting together, breaking bread and simply enjoying each other’s company.

However, what stood out most was the building of connection.

Camp provides a space where relationships grow quickly and authentically. Students begin to see one another beyond the classroom. They learn names more quickly, find common ground, support each other through challenge and develop the foundations of friendships that will carry them through their Middle School years.

Equally important was the presence of our staff. I want to sincerely thank all of our Year 7 teachers and Heads of House who attended. Their willingness to give their time — to supervise, to laugh, to listen, to encourage and simply to be present — makes an enormous difference. Not all schools offer camps in this way and it is a privilege that every one of our Year 7 teachers and Heads of House attends. Their presence signals clearly to our boys that relationships matter and that connection is at the heart of learning.

This camp is not a standalone event; it is part of our broader formation journey. From Junior School camp, through the Middle School experience, into Senior School camp, and culminating in the Year 12 Retreat, we are intentional about providing moments away from routine where growth, reflection and belonging can flourish. These experiences shape character as much as curriculum.

As St Augustine reminds us:

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

Our Year 7 students have begun reading a new chapter – together.

Hot on the heels of camp came another highlight of the Middle School calendar — our Swimming Carnival. What a fantastic celebration of House spirit and College community it was.
A sincere thank you to our Sports Office for the organisation behind the scenes. Events of this scale do not run themselves and the preparation, scheduling and coordination were first class.

Thank you also to our Heads of House for the way they led and facilitated their groups throughout the day – encouraging participation, ensuring boys were where they needed to be and building that all-important House pride.

And to the boys – thank you for bringing the energy. Whether competing in the pool, stepping outside comfort zones to try a new event (we all know that means butterfly) or cheering loudly from the sidelines, you created a wonderful atmosphere. The chants, the colour, the camaraderie and the respectful competition reflect what Middle School community is all about.

Days like these remind us that education extends well beyond the classroom. They strengthen belonging and create shared memories that bind us together.
We are grateful for the spirit shown by all and look forward to many more moments where connection and community continue to define our Middle School.

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

The past fortnight in Wellbeing has provided a number of valuable opportunities and experiences for students across different year levels.

As part of the new Men’s Health Unit, our Year 11 cohort last week heard from Emmanuel “Lucky” Peterson – former Brisbane Premier Cricket first-grade captain and now a full-time cricket coach and academy director.

Lucky shared his story with honesty and courage, speaking openly about his struggle with gambling addiction. What began as casual bets gradually escalated into a serious addiction that saw him lose hundreds of thousands of dollars and significantly impact his life and relationships. His presentation was both powerful and confronting, highlighting how quickly risky behaviours can escalate and the importance of seeking support early.

The boys were deeply engaged throughout his talk. Lucky’s authenticity, humility and willingness to be vulnerable made a strong impression, and his message about personal responsibility, resilience and asking for help resonated strongly. I am confident his story will stay with many of the boys, and I encourage parents and caregivers to continue the conversation at home.

Our Year 12 students, as part of their Leadership Unit, heard from motivational speaker Manny Lynch, who challenged them to consider what it truly means to be a good man and the responsibility that comes with leadership. Manny emphasised that leadership is not defined by title, but by influence, integrity and daily example. His message encouraged our senior boys to reflect on the impact they have on peers, younger students and the wider community.

Year 5 students, through their Identity Unit, heard from members of the Student Leadership Team about their Villa journey and how their experiences have shaped their identity as Villa men. The honesty and insight shared by our senior leaders gave the younger boys a clear sense of the growth that occurs across the years at the College.

Our Year 6 students also benefited from conversations with several Year 12 leaders, including House and Portfolio Captains. They asked thoughtful and insightful questions about memorable moments, lessons learned, challenges faced and advice for younger students. These cross-year connections are invaluable in building belonging and aspiration, helping younger boys see what is possible in their own Villa journey.

We were also fortunate to welcome back Old Boy Tom Price from You Are Not Alone, who spoke to the boys about mental health and the importance of treating it with the same seriousness as physical health. Tom shared openly and encouraged the boys to look out for themselves and for one another, reinforcing that strength includes speaking up and seeking support when needed.

It is always powerful to have Old Boys return and give back to the school, particularly in such an important space. Hearing these messages from someone who has walked the same corridors makes them all the more meaningful.

For our Year 8s – it was participation in an Inclusive School Sports Program delivered by Sporting Wheelies, an organisation dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through sport and active living. The boys had a ball!

They absolutely loved the chance to play basketball, but more importantly, they experienced firsthand some of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

One of the highlights for me was when a student came up afterwards and said he would think twice before dropping chewing gum or rubbish on the ground, realising it can end up on the hands of someone using a wheelchair. That small but powerful reflection made my day.

That’s exactly what we hope the boys take from these experiences – not just fun, but a genuine shift in perspective. If they walk away with greater empathy and a stronger awareness of how their actions affect others, then we’re on the right track in helping them grow into thoughtful, respectful young men.

It has been a full and impactful period in Wellbeing, providing boys across the College with opportunities to gain insight into the experiences of others and, in turn, strengthen their own character and growth. More exciting initiatives are to come as we continue to prioritise the holistic development of every Villa student.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Programming

Lenten Season
This week, our Villanova community stepped into the Lenten season with reflection, purpose and a renewed commitment to compassion. Lent invites us to slow down, look outward, and consider how even small acts of generosity can transform the lives of others. Our students embraced this call with energy and heart.

Archdiocesan Launch of Project Compassion & Lenten Appeal
A group of Villanova students joined schools from across the Archdiocese for the official launch of Project Compassion, with the Archbishop presiding over a meaningful liturgy. The students heard powerful testimonies from Caritas Australia guest speakers and took part in workshops exploring practical ways to live compassion this Lent through advocacy, awareness and acts of solidarity.

Throughout the Lenten season, Villanova College proudly supports Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion Appeal. Each House Mentor Group is engaging in some friendly competition, striving to make the biggest contribution in the spirit of generosity and solidarity.

This year, we hope to make an even greater impact families can donate by cash donation to the Project Compassion box in their classes or homeroom or can do so using the link below Caritas Australia – Villanova College – Coorparoo

Shrove Tuesday
On Tuesday, the College came together in the spirit of Shrove Tuesday. Pancakes were shared, conversations flowed, and the campus buzzed with a sense of community.

Every plate carried more than a sweet treat it carried intention. Funds raised will contribute to Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion, supporting projects that provide education, food security and sustainable futures for communities around the world.

Ash Wednesday
On Wednesday, millions of Christians around the world marked the beginning of Lent, and our staff and students joined in this solemn tradition.

The College gathered for a reflective liturgy, praying with courageous and hopeful hearts for the grace to live simply, to be open to change, and to walk gently with others. House Mentor Groups also held student‑led Ash Wednesday liturgies, making space for personal and communal reflection on what it means to begin these forty days with intention and humility.

A prayer for our families this Lent

Loving God,
May we know what we can contribute to those around us.
May we give generously.
May we forgive easily.
May we share honestly.
May we contribute fully.
Help us to build a community that is ‘stronger together’.
Amen.

National Apology Day and Jarjum Garden Gathering
On 13 February 2008, the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, delivered a historic and long awaited apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples that caused hurt for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. At Villanova, we also take this moment to recognise and honour the First Nations students, families, staff and Old Boys within our own community who may have been affected by the government policy.

This week, our Jarjum group gathered for a shared lunch to mark the day and celebrate the launch of our new Bush Tucker Garden initiative. We were joined by School Captain Reid and Vice Captain (Ministry) Harvey, who shared a meaningful story from his family heritage, and we welcomed several new students into the group.

The students sampled native ingredients such as Bunya Nuts and Lemon Myrtle, which were transformed into Lemon Myrtle Cookies and Bunya Nut Pesto by our Director of Service Learning, Ms Cleary. It was a delicious way to deepen cultural learning and connection.

Our Bush Tucker Garden will grow into a space that strengthens cultural understanding, encourages care for creation, and supports sustainability in the spirit of Laudato Si’ – a place for reflection, learning and community.

Conversations of the Heart: Year 12 Retreat with AHS
Last night, our Year 12 students joined with All Hallows’ for a retreat facilitated by Br Damien, rooted in the wisdom of Catherine McAuley, St Augustine, and the Gospel of Jesus. The evening centred on respectful relationships and affirmed to the students that they are each “God’s work of art” (Ephesians 2:10).

We were also grateful to welcome back several Year 13 students who shared honest reflections about respect and the challenges young adults face today.

Our Year 12s will now design and lead a similar program for our Year 9 students in March and we were so impressed by the maturity, openness and leadership they showed throughout the evening.

Mrs Eleni Greenaway, Dean of Mission and Identity

The academic year is now well underway. Classrooms are purposeful, expectations are clear, and students are settling into sustained patterns of learning. At this point, effective routines should be firmly established — consistent homework habits, structured study schedules, deliberate preparation for assessment, and thoughtful and active engagement in the classroom.

These disciplined practices are not incidental; they form the architecture of strong academic performance across the year. When embedded early, they position students to respond confidently to increasing academic demands.

EmpowerED Program
On Friday students engaged in the College’s EmpowerED program. This program is conducted in both Semesters 1 and 2 and is designed to provide dedicated time for reflection, academic development, and personal growth beyond the normal timetable structure.

Across the program, students participated in goal-setting conversations with their House Mentors, academic integrity and assessment preparation sessions, study skills development workshops, wellbeing initiatives linked to effective learning, senior-led mentoring forums, and targeted academic conversations for older year levels. The central element of EmpowerED remains the individual mentoring conversation. These one-on-one conferences ensure that every student articulates clear academic goals, reflects on their current performance, and identifies practical strategies for improvement. Creating protected time for these conversations reinforces accountability and strengthens each student’s ownership of their learning journey.

Year 12 Parent–Teacher Conferences
We thank our Year 12 parents and caregivers for their engagement in the recent Parent–Teacher Conferences. These conversations are significant at this point in the senior year. They allow for timely communication regarding academic standing, application, assessment preparation, and areas requiring refinement. More importantly, they strengthen the partnership between home and school. Academic success is built through disciplined routines, early identification of concerns, responsiveness to feedback, and sustained application over time. These conversations help to position our Year 12 cohort strongly as they progress toward internal assessment milestones and external examinations later in the year.

Scholars Assembly
On Tuesday 10 February, we gathered as a College community to celebrate the academic achievements of students from Years 5–11 (2025 cohort) based on their Semester 2 performance.

Students who demonstrated excellent subject performance, along with those who sustained high achievement across both semesters, were formally recognised with Academic Badges. It was a great to recognise so many of students on their academic performance across Semester 2 and celebrate this success with the community.  Importantly, whilst the assembly recognised the high academic achievement of students, all students were challenged to reflect on their own progress in 2025. It was shared that recognition is not only about awards or badges, but an opportunity for every student to pause and reflect honestly on their learning, on their effort, their habits, there growth and the choices they have made as learners.

Our Academic Portfolio Captain, Christian Snell, challenged students to reflect on a confronting question drawn from the well-known exchange between former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Admiral Hyman Rickover: Did you truly do your best?

He reinforced that excellence is not defined solely by rank or recognition, but by knowing that every opportunity for growth has been pursued. Quoting Confucius — “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop” — he reminded students that perseverance, discipline, and daily habits ultimately determine outcomes.

The success we celebrated at the Assembly reflects precisely this mindset. Achievers are distinguished not only by ability, but by consistency of effort and commitment to improvement.

2025 Year 12 Graduate Achievements
At the Scholars assembly we warmly welcomed back members of the 2025 cohort whose academic achievements placed them among the very best in the state.

We congratulate the following students who achieved 5 As and 1 B across their six subjects:

We also acknowledge students who achieved A grades in all subjects (approximately 85% or above in each subject) and achieved the QCAA academic commendation award.

The following students were recognised for achieving an ATAR of 99.00 or above (top 1% in Queensland):

• Patrick Smyth
• Samuel Mar Fan
• Dylan Fryga

We also recognised a perfect subject score:

• Liam Curtis – 100/100 in Physics

College honours were awarded to:

• College Proxime Accessit – Samuel Mar Fan
• College Dux – Dylan Fryg

These outcomes reflect sustained effort and consistent commitment over many years. We extend our congratulations and best wishes to all graduates as they pursue their next stage of learning.

NAPLAN 2026
NAPLAN will commence on Wednesday 11 March and conclude on Friday 20 March.  Students will participate in practice testing next week to familiarise themselves with the online platform. Preparation for the testing period commenced for our Year 7 and 9 during this week’s EmpowerED program and will continue during English classes.  In Year 5, students core teacher will introduce students to the platform to familiarise them with its function. A letter will shortly be distributed to families that outlines the specifics of the preparations and how you can assist your son with being organised.

At Villanova College, we recognise that NAPLAN is one data point within a broader assessment framework. We encourage students to approach the tests with calm confidence, to apply themselves fully, and to treat the experience as an opportunity to demonstrate their current level of literacy and numeracy development.

As reinforced at the Scholars Assembly: effort matters. Preparation matters. Consistency matters. We ask students simply to commit to doing their best.

Mr Kirk Astill, Acting Dean of Teaching and Learning

Lessons and Rehearsals
Students who are currently enrolled in the music program will have been allocated a lesson time and ensemble rehearsal time.  This information will have come to students and parents via email.  It is also visible in your son’s MyVilla Calendar.  The Calendar element of MyVilla will contain all lessons and rehearsals scheduled for the term in advance of the current date (inclusive of that day).  All historic dates ‘disappear’ from the calendar due to the nature if it’s operation.  If you are unsure of your son’s time, please use the MyVilla Calendar as your source of truth. 

Please remember that rolls are marked at the beginning of each rehearsal.  If you receive an alert regarding your son’s attendance, its purpose is to open a dialogue around the situation.  We take our duty of care of your son very seriously and want to ensure all students are safe and where everyone expects them to be. 

As always, if you have any queries regarding your son’s schedule, please don’t hesitate to contact the music office.   

Year 5 Instrumental Music
The music team have been enthused by our interactions with the Year 5 musicians of 2026.  Our AMP students have engaged extremely well with our co-curricular program, and we have almost completed our allocations for those students commencing their musical journey this year.  We will be distributing loan agreements to all students before our next lesson – the music office will make contact to share when these have been delivered to your son so that you may intercept them from the school bag before the old banana finds it! 

Students in Year 5 who are now attending band or string orchestra rehearsals on a Wednesday or Friday morning, are taking their Tuesday lesson with Mrs Hinrichs, and have a scheduled music lesson (not for guitar or piano) in a separate day, are involved in our Aural Musicianship Program.  All other students are involved with our Immersion Music Program. 

Students in our immersion music program only attend lessons on a Tuesday (excluding piano/ guitar students) with their whole class, and are beginning their IM journey this year.  These gents have a rehearsal before school on Tuesday mornings; this term it is ‘chorale’ – next term it will morph into our Year 5 Band and Year 5 String Orchestra. 

We had a great attendance at this week’s chorale rehearsal.  Mrs Hinrichs and Mrs Hall led the cohort in developing their vocal awareness through a number of activities and games.  We finished the session singing part of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ in three parts – it was an amazing outcome in 30 minutes!  We are really looking forward to next week’s session. 

Reminder – House Breakfast’s
We are aware that next week our community is holding our annual festival of House Breakfast’s.  The school expectation is that students attend House Breakfast with their parents as a means of building community.  We ask that you contact your child’s conductor, or the music office, to advise your son’s absence so that we may ensure our records are accurate and we can avoid an absentee message being sent.  We thank you for your assistance with this and hope all goes well across the week. 

Calling all Old Boy Musicians
Communications have been distributed through the Old Boy network, Foundation, and Music Office, regarding a community outreach event occurring in May this year.  We are inviting all Alumni Musicians to come back and join us in celebrating the 21st Birthday of the Augustine Centre and Hanrahan Theatre.  The voracity of the contacts list is a little haphazard so we would appreciate your assistance in sharing the news far and wide.   

The event will take place on the weekend of the 16-17 May, 2026.  We hope to create massed ensembles of past students and having them grace the stage of our theatre once again.  Aside from marking a key milestone in our program, we look forward to reconnecting with our past students and the possibility of creating some community ensembles that will continue beyond this event. 

Please contact the Music Office if you would like to participate or would like further information:  music@vnc.qld.edu.au – (07) 3394 5691. 

Loreto College Musical – Beauty and The Beast
Over the coming week, Loreto College are utilising Hanrahan Theatre for their production of Beauty and The Beast.  We have a number of students involved in this event, both on and behind stage, in performing and production roles.  On behalf of the music team, we wish the students all the best for a great run of shows. 

The production runs from next Wednesday evening through to the Saturday evening.  Admission is $50pp; tickets are available via the Loreto College website. 

Key Dates Term 1
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary: 

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the link to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.   

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College. 

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music 

Director of Sport Address
Happy Week 4 Team Villa! Commencing next week, the Sports Office will reintroduce the Sports Bulletin on alternate weeks to the Villa View Newsletter, ensuring consistent fortnightly sport communication.
The Locker Room willl remain the primary platform for real-time updates, with urgent notifications communicated through our Villanova College App.

As we move through the early rounds of Term 1 AIC competition, there is steady and encouraging momentum building across Villa Sport. Rounds 1 and 2 have provided strong learning opportunities, and while we remain humble in our approach, the habits forming across our programs are positive.

In AFL, Round 1 saw our Year 6 teams undefeated, demonstrating cohesion and intent early in the season. In Round 2, our First XVIII produced a courageous performance against reigning State Champions St Laurence’s College, interchanging the lead across each quarter before narrowly going down by two points. While the result did not fall our way, the composure and resilience shown were signs of growth.

In Cricket, Round 1 delivered 13 wins from 22 matches, including a Year 5 clean sweep. Two hat tricks in the same round, one to Koshal in the First XI and one to Paddy M. in the 9A team, reflected preparation meeting opportunity. The First XI’s four wicket win, led by a captain’s knock of 85 from Alex B., was a disciplined team performance built on partnerships and belief.

In Volleyball across Rounds 1 and 2, results have been mixed, yet progress is clear. The 8D and 7C teams recorded strong wins, and our First VI pushed quality opposition deep into sets, showing improving cohesion and composure. Growth takes time, and consistency will be key in the weeks ahead.

Swimming has continued to prepare steadily through lead up meets. Meet 2 at Iona College was cancelled due to severe weather, yet the focus remains firmly on preparation before performance as we build toward the AIC Championships in Week 7.

Across Rounds 1 and 2, momentum is forming because habits are improving. Our Junior teams are laying strong foundations. Our Senior teams are competing with resilience. Across all programs, growth is being earned through effort, preparation and accountability. Standards matter. Leadership is shown in how we train, how we respond and how we represent Villanova College each week.

Earlier this week, as we headed to Langlands Pool for our Interhouse Swimming Carnivals, our focus sharpened around Respect. When you wear the Villanova College uniform, you are a visible representative of the College. Respect must travel with you. At Langlands, students represented their House with pride and composure. They were reminded to speak respectfully to staff, lifeguards, officials and canteen workers, to use appropriate language at all times, to leave change rooms and seating areas clean and to compete hard while celebrating well and showing humility in both victory and defeat. We were guests in their facility, and our conduct needed to reflect that expectation.

The same standards apply on buses, at training and at weekend fixtures. Follow instructions immediately. Be mindful of behaviour in public spaces. Offer courtesy to others. Respect referees and opposition players. Support teammates positively from the sidelines. Encourage, do not criticise.

Respect is not passive. It is active. It is shown in the words you choose, the way you carry yourself and the standards you hold when no one is reminding you.

Thank you to our coaches and staff for their strong presence across the opening rounds. Your leadership ensures our boys are supported in meaningful ways. Thank you to our families for reinforcing these expectations each week. Together, we are building something steady and sustainable.

We will continue to compete fiercely, remain humble in our progress and hold firm to the standards that define Villa Sport.

Go Villa! 💚💛

Mr Matthew Hannan, Director of Sport

Key Updates and Announcements
Communications
Families should access sports information via the Villanova College website and App. The Locker Room and Villanova College phone application will be relied on to provide key updates between our Newsletter issues. All training and match changes or cancellations will be communicated via the Villanova College phone application.

No Dog Policy
A reminder that there is a NO DOG policy at all AIC sporting fixtures. Venue coordinators at and adjacent to Villanova Park have reported that some pet owners are ignoring the gate signage. Pet owners who ignore the signs will be asked to remove their pets immediately.

Fixtures Results and Training Information
AIC Draw 2026
Please find linked the AIC Draw for 2026.

Training Schedules
The Term 1 Training Schedule has now been published to Student Café, Parent Lounge and the Locker Room pages.
If any changes or cancellations occur, the Villanova College App will be updated accordingly.

Please note: In the event of cancelled sessions or extremely poor weather, sessions may be adjusted or rescheduled where possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Key Links

AIC Sport Results – Associated Independent Colleges

Team Lists
Team lists appear in the Parent Lounge and Student Cafe sections of the portal. Team lists will be posted by Thursday evening, prior to the round ahead. This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Term 1 Sport Uniforms
Families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Villanova College Uniform Look Book. This information is found on the College website Uniform Shop page. Opening hours for the Uniform Shop can also be found here. All students selected in AIC teams are expected to wear the correct uniform for AIC fixtures each week.

Sport Specific Updates
AIC Sport Contact List
For information about a specific sport, please first visit the Locker Room page on our website. If you require further clarification, please contact the relevant Sport Coordinator, listed below. Until coach contacts become available online, please report training or game absences directly to the Sport Coordinator and relevant coach; available on Parent Lounge and Student Café.

Trimester 1 Sports Coordinators
AFL Coordinator (Monday to Friday) – Brendon Brauer (brendon.brauer@vnc.qld.edu.au)
AFL Coordinator (Saturday) – Chris Paterson (cpaterson@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Cricket Coordinator – Nathan Dufty (ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Swimming Coordinators – Julie Colbert (jcolbert@vnc.qld.edu.au) & Lauren Robinson (lauren.robinson@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Sport Office Administration
Sports Administrators – Nathan Dufty (ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Maria Mascadri (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday) only: mmascadri@vnc.qld.edu.au)
AIC Sports Leader – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Central Sharks District Sport – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Anthony Kemp (AKemp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Assistant Director of Sport – Anthony Kemp (AKemp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Director of Sport – Matthew Hannan (matthew.hannan@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Trimester 2 Sports Coordinators
Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill (kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Cross Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe (bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Football Coordinator – Nathan Dufty (ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding (ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Trimester 3 Sports Coordinators
Basketball Coordinator – Sharon Casey (sharon.casey@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Rugby League Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Tennis Coordinator – Nathan Dufty (ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Track & Field Coordinator – Andrew Lund (andrew.lund@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Term 4
Touch Football Coordinator – Sports Office staff – (SportsOffice@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Water Polo Coordinator – Lauren Robinson (lauren.robinson@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Specialised Services
Term 1 Speed & Agility Program
Registrations are now open via Parent Lounge – the program begins in Week 2 of Term 1.
Registrations are now live in Parent Lounge for the Term 1 Speed and Agility Program – a fantastic chance for students to sharpen their skills and build confidence! Sessions kick off on Thursday of Week 2 (5 February).

Details
• Open to all students in Years 5–8
• Cost: $175 for 8 sessions delivered by Matty Scott and elite-level coaches
• Day: THURSDAY mornings ONLY
• Time: 7:00am to 8:00am
• Venue: Whinstanes Oval
• Start Date: Week 2 – Thursday 5 February.

This is a great opportunity to build speed, coordination and confidence in a dynamic and supportive setting.
Please note: In the event of cancelled sessions or extremely poor weather, sessions may be adjusted or rescheduled where possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Sport Department Reminders
Wet Weather Cancellations
If there is any reason to cancel training sessions or weekend games, this information will be posted to the Villanova College phone application in the Notices section. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villanova College Application and updated your preferences and settings.

The Villa Sports Department will endeavour to cancel morning training sessions by 6am and afternoon training sessions by 2pm. If a training session is cancelled, students must not be dropped at training venues, as supervision cannot be guaranteed. Please check the Villanova College phone application regularly for these notifications.

If any AIC fixtures are cancelled, we will follow the same procedure above. Timing will be dependent on when that information becomes available.

Year 7, 2028 applications are open
This is a reminder that Year 7, 2028 applications are now open. More information can be found at Year 7 in 2028 | Villanova College

Tuckshop
The 2026 menu and price list for Tuckshop is now available by clicking here https://www.vnc.qld.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-Tuckshop-menu.pdf
We ask for students to use CASH ONLY for the first 2 weeks of school. All students new to the school are asked to bring cash for tuckshop purchases until student ID cards have been received and a Flexischool account has been created and linked. Existing students with student ID cards and Flexischools accounts are reminded to bring cash as a backup for purchases until new ID cards have been received.

Volunteering at Tuckshop
The Tuckshop is a modern, commercial area of your school that provides an affordable and nourishing breakfast, morning tea and lunch service for the boys. Breakfast preparations begin from 7.00am and Morning Tea and Lunch preparations beginning at 8.30am with the day concluding at 2pm. We run a self-service system, with a diverse menu consisting of both freshly prepared and pre-packaged items.

It’s managed by a paid convenor but could not exist without its dedicated volunteer helpers. We welcome help from Mums, Dads, grandparents, other caregivers, friends, etc.

If you are interested in volunteering at Tuckshop you would be rostered on one day every four weeks generally from 8.30am to 2pm but for those of you who can accommodate or prefer an earlier start and/or finish, you can be rostered on the breakfast shift from 7.00am. Even if you can only give just an hour or two, this is still very welcome – we can make use of any time you are able to give us. Our helpers are provided with a cuppa & cake for morning tea, a delicious lunch, lots of laughs and an opportunity to see their sons in their school environment.
If you’re a little nervous about volunteering alone, why not join with a friend!
Current volunteers have mentioned the following reasons as to why they enjoy working at the Tuckshop:

• it helps our boys and the school community
• it is great opportunity to meet other parents & chat to others with similar interests
• boys enjoy seeing their parents at school (even though they won’t always admit it)
• it’s a chance to get to meet your son’s friends and their teachers
• it’s a great way to seek advice from parents who have “been there, done that”
• it’s a lot of fun!

If you are interested in volunteering you can register you interest at: Volunteering at Villanova » Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au) .
Thank you.

Mrs Dot Blair, Villanova Tuckshop Convenor
Ph: 3394 5592 Email: tuckshop@vnc.qld.edu.au

Second Hand Uniform Shop
Do you know you can purchase quality, pre-loved Villanova College Uniforms through the P&F Second-hand Uniform Shop?
2026 Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Times will be fortnightly on Tuesdays Week B, 730-9am.

The second-hand uniform shop is now located under Lecceto building (behind Goold Hall), best access is via Gate 3, Goold Hall Gate, on Eighth Avenue.

Drop off tub locations for pre-loved uniforms for sale or donation. Don’t forget to include your form!

• New Alinta Uniform Shop
• Outside Tuckshop
• Directly to the second-hand shop during opening hours

Click on link for all Second Hand Uniform shop info (scroll down the page for the 2^nd Hand shop section).=

Beauty and the Beast Musical– Tickets now on sale!
Loreto College and Villanova College are thrilled to present the 2026 musical spectacular Beauty and the Beast, and tickets are now on sale!
Step into an enchanted world where a curious young woman, a mysterious castle and a misunderstood Beast collide in a story that celebrates compassion, bravery and seeing the good in others. With iconic songs, striking sets and moments of humour and heart, this production is set to delight audiences young and old.
Brought to life by a gifted cast of students, Beauty and the Beast features dynamic choreography, show-stopping costumes and the energy of live theatre at its best.

Hanrahan Theatre, Villanova College, 25–28 February 2026
Join us for an evening of music, magic and memorable performances! Get Your Tickets Now: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1509491

Safer Schools Program
Brisbane City Council, Safer Schools Program
Villanova College (Coorparoo) is confirmed to be included in
the Brisbane City Council (Council) Safer Schools Program for Term 1 2026. This program
aims to promote safe parking practices and ensure compliance with local traffic regulations
around schools.

Child safety is paramount, and illegal parking within school zones remains a significant
concern for parents, residents, and schools. Limited parking spaces around peak drop-off and
pick-up times often leads to competitive and potentially dangerous parking behaviours.

While we understand the challenges parents face in navigating school zone drop-off and pickup,
it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Over the coming term, Council officers will be conducting
regular patrols around your school to monitor parking compliance. Our enforcement approach
will use a combination of foot patrols as well as our highly visible Community Safety and
Regulation vehicles that can identify alleged offences using Automatic Number Plate
Recognition and GPS software. Compliance action will be taken on any observed breaches.
We kindly request that you encourage parents, guardians, and visitors to adhere to all parking
regulations in the vicinity of the school. The following may be useful to include in your school
newsletter and/or other communication forums utilised by your school.

School Zone Parking
Parking in accordance with all road rules and signage is important to keep our
children and other road users safe. Unfortunately, Brisbane City Council has
received an increase in the number of reports of illegal parking around our school. As
a result, our school has been added to Council’s Safer Schools Program this term.

What does this mean?
Brisbane City Council’s Parking Compliance Officers will be actively patrolling the
streets surrounding our school over the coming term to encourage safer parking
behaviours. These patrols will be conducted on foot and in highly visible Community
Safety and Regulation vehicles that can identify alleged offences using Automatic
Number Plate Recognition and GPS software. Please be kind – they have a job to
do.

What are the common parking signs around schools?
A guide to common parking signs around school zones can be found on Council’s
website by searching the term ‘School Parking’.
We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students and other
road users. If you wish to discuss the matter further, please contact Parking Supervisor Curtis
Boyle, Parking Supervisor on 3027 4337.
City Safety | Compliance and Regulatory Services

Brisbane City Council
2026 School Bus Tip Sheet & Contact Update – refer link below

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:ap:d2aea4c6-314b-4e06-ba4f-b8f29dd95ca

Collection notice for parents/guardians
2026 Student residential address and other information collection (address collection)
The Australian Government Department of Education (the department) would like to notify you that we have requested for your child’s school to provide residential address and other information.
Under the Australian Education Regulations 2023, the school is required to provide the department with the following information about each student at the school:
• names and residential addresses of the student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s)
• student residential address (excluding student names)
• whether the student is a primary or secondary student (education level)
• whether the student is boarding or a day student (boarding status).
The school collects the above information by generating a unique and unidentifiable student reference number (SRN) for each student record. The school only uses the SRN for this collection. The SRN cannot be used for any other purpose. The number only indicates to the department that each record provided is for one student.
Purpose of the collection
The address collection informs Australian Government school education policy and helps ensure funding for non-government schools is based on need.
The information collected is used to inform school funding calculations. It is combined with Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data to calculate a non-government school community’s anticipated capacity to contribute to schooling costs, known as the capacity to contribute (CTC) score. More information is available on the CTC page.
Use and disclosure of personal information
Your personal information is protected by law under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (the Privacy Act). Personal information is information or an opinion about an identifiable individual. Personal information includes an individual’s name and contact details.
Any use or disclosure of your personal information must occur in accordance with the Privacy Act, the Australian Education Act 2013 and Australian Education Regulations 2023.
Your personal information provided to the department through the collection may be:
• disclosed to the ABS for the purposes of the ABS linking names and address(es) with their personal income taxation data using the capacity to contribute calculations and analysis as a part of the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA – previously known as MADIP). Find more information about PLIDA on the ABS website PLIDA page
• disclosed to an authorised person (for example, contracted auditor or identified departmental official) where the department may audit a school’s collection submission. The authorised person compares the school’s submission with the student enrolment information. The authorised person will not use the information for any other purpose
• disclosed to our service providers for the purpose of providing the department with information and communications technology support
• used or disclosed where it is otherwise required or authorised by law.
The department does not intend to disclose your personal information to any overseas recipients.
Aggregated information will be provided to your school in the form of school level median income for the last 3 years, rounded to the nearest $5,000. This information is provided to help your school understand their level of government funding. Your personal income information will not be provided to your school.
Find the department’s privacy policy on the Department of Education web site. This includes information on:
• how individuals can access and modify personal information held by the department
• how complaints about potential breaches or breaches of the Privacy Act can be made
• how the department will deal with these complaints.
In association with this, the department commissioned an independent Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA). The PIA assessed the flows of information under the address collection, compliance with the Privacy Act and measures in place to safeguard the personal information being collected. The current version is available on the Department of Education web site.
What do you need to do?
You are not required to do anything. Your school is responsible for providing the department with the requested details; however, you can contact the school to update your family’s details.
Contacts for further information
Your school can provide additional information about the address collection process.
Alternatively, please visit the EducationHUB address collection page.