Villa View – Issue 14, 13 August 2026

Pope Leo XIV Precinct update
It is hard to miss the progress in the Pope Leo Precinct as we move rapidly toward finalisation of the entire project.
At this stage we will take possession on Monday October 12, although there is still a few hurdles to jump as we move toward that date but fingers crossed we will be enjoying the fruits of our investment, and the boys can play and train in the best possible setting.

While the classrooms will be complete there is quite a large amount of technical science equipment to be placed in the building and so as not to interrupt curriculum time we will not timetable classes in the Prevost Centre until the 2027 academic year.

Our first large scale function will occur on November 17 when we will host the annual College Celebration of Excellence in the Cor Unum Hall. This should be a landmark occasion.
The official blessing and opening will occur in the first few weeks of Term 1 next year.

St Augustine’s Feast Day Mass
On Tuesday 24^th of August we will welcome Archbishop Shane Mackinlay to Villanova for the first time to celebrate the Eucharist on the feast day of our orders founder St Augustine.
It is a wonderful opportunity to share our community, spirit and identity with the Archbishop and hear from him his hope for both Villanova and our boys as they grow as men of faith, Christian values, leadership and example.

Parents and community members are most welcome to attend.

Solemn-Mass-Invite-AUG2026

Annual Track and Field Carnival
Thursday, we held the annual track and Field carnival out at Villa Park and it was again a wonderful experience and opportunity for our students. It may on occasion be seen as some as a bit of a relic of school times of yesteryear. However, these moments are pivotal in the broader educative process and function and deliver options and opportunities that are difficult to access in ‘normal’ moments in the school day.

I think many still have the concept of the best eight or so athletes in a year level performing on the day and everyone else siting in the hot sun being forced to watch and cheer the pre-ordained ‘athletically gifted’ of the community. If you weren’t one of those then you spent your time inventing ways to get an extra opportunity at the tuckshop or developing elaborate ‘escape’ plans so you could get home early. Those with permissive parents were allowed to stay at home because it was deemed a wasted day, which, to be fair in the 80’s it may well have been! But that is not the case in 2026.

Too often parents and broader community lament that young people are increasingly absorbed by screens, social media and individual pursuits. To be an authentic education we must be think more broadly and creatively about education and provide compelling alternatives inside the framework of traditional industrialised education. A formation-based Inter-House Athletics Carnival at Villanova does exactly that.

The Carnival deliberately creates a space for boys to belong, participate, lead, laugh, compete and contribute together. Success is measured not simply by who runs fastest or jumps highest, but by the willingness to become involved, encourage others and place House and community ahead of self.

Through student leadership, House identity, shared rituals and spirited participation, our Augustinian values of Community, Humility, Interiority, Restless Search for Truth and Ongoing Conversion become lived experiences rather than words on a page. Likewise, the GREATS behaviours of Growth, Respect, Effort, Accountability, Teamwork and Service become visible in action.

In a world increasingly concerned about disconnection among young people, experiences such as these remind us that fun matters, movement matters, belonging matters and being together matters. Education is ultimately about forming human beings. At Villanova College we embrace the understanding that sometimes the most powerful formation occurs when young people put down the screen, step into the arena, cheer for a friend, accept a challenge and discover the joy of being part of something larger than themselves. As St Augustine has reminded us, God delivers the wind but we must raise the sail.

Queensland Colleges Music Festival (QCMF)
This week and weekend we again play organiser and host of the QCMF, the largest student music festival in the southern hemisphere!

We will over the next four days host some 15,000 student performances from schools across Queensland and Northern NSW. These performances are, for these students, their years ‘grand final’! It is for them the performance moment of the year and is the opportunity to deliver their very best and be judged, according to criteria, as a Gold, Silver or Bronze level performance by highly esteemed and experienced adjudicators.

I would encourage all community members, regardless of your sons engagement in music, to come along and experience the atmosphere pf the festival and the wonderful talents of both the Villa boys and the broader student community of Catholic Education.

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.

As we rapidly conclude the halfway point of this third term, our young men have an opportunity to make strong contributions to community both through a College and House lens. This Thursday’s Interhouse Track and Field carnival is a test of showing up for your House as expressed by Thomas House Captain Alex Solomon in his assembly address on Tuesday when he extoled the value of Teamwork.

Across the long weekend, Villanova College becomes the epicentre of musical expression when we once again host the largest Catholic music festival in the southern hemisphere- QCMF. I have often stated this is the grand final moment for our musicians and I wish Music Captain Sammy Landmann and all musicians the very best.

Finally, as I expressed to some of my Year 12 mentees during last Friday’s EmpowerEd session, the public holiday and long weekend provides a significant opportunity for many students to recharge and re-orientate towards upcoming examination periods. I wish all Senior School students positive wellbeing and good health across the coming weeks as winter flus continue to offer significant challenges.

Year 11 Leadership Camp
Last week’s Year 11 Leadership Camps at Emu Gully Adventure Education’s Tamborine site was more than an opportunity to step away from the classroom for three days; it was an experience that challenged the cohort to grow not just as individuals but as a year group. Situated in sprawling hinterland and with seasonably cold mornings and evenings, the camp placed our young men in situations where leadership, resilience, service and connection became the foundations upon which built an experience where the group took some significant steps forward in their Villanova journey.

Emu Gully’s Tamborine programs are designed around challenge, teamwork and character development, with activities drawing on courage, mateship, sacrifice and perseverance as reflected in their ANZAC theming.

Throughout the camp, leadership was demonstrated not simply by taking charge, but by encouraging others, communicating clearly and recognising the strengths of those around them. The challenges often pushed the boys beyond their comfort zones, requiring resilience when things became physically or mentally demanding.

Service was also central to the experience. Whether helping prepare meals, supporting a teammate through a challenge or contributing to the group’s success, they discovered that serving others strengthens the whole community. These shared responsibilities created opportunities to build trust and appreciate one another in new ways- the building blocks of a strong sense of community.

Most importantly, the camp strengthened their connections. Away from the routines of school, they laughed, encouraged one another, faced challenges together and created memories that will last beyond Year 11. It was the perfect platform leading into this week’s official commencement of the selection process for the leaders that will lead the student body in 2027.

I would like to thank the Emu Gully facilitators for their contribution to the success of the camp as well as Mrs Sheridan Carey, the Heads of House, Mrs Amanda Waterson and the rest of the staff team for their commitment to the boys and sacrifice in taking time away from their own families.

“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” – Nelson Mandela

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

As we reach the midpoint of the term, I would like to wish all members our Middle School students a wonderful reset over this week’s break from the normal routines of classrooms, assessments and timetables. I hope this pause provides an opportunity to recharge and return refreshed for the remainder of the term.

Last week also marked Old Boys Muster Week and it was a wonderful reminder of the rich history and legacy of Villanova College. Throughout the week, our current students had the opportunity to interact with Old Boys at a range of events and it was heartening to see the conversations, laughter and connections shared across generations. These moments serve as a powerful reminder that our students are part of something much bigger than themselves, it’s a community that stretches back through the many men who have walked these halls before them.

One particularly special moment was Sunday’s Veritas Lunch, where our student leaders had the privilege of sitting with and sharing a meal alongside some of our oldest Old Boys. Watching these conversations unfold was truly touching. The respect shown by our students and the genuine admiration our Old Boys continue to hold for Villanova College highlighted the enduring impact of a Villanova education.

The pride, gratitude and loyalty demonstrated by our Old Boys remind us all of the importance of wearing our uniform with pride, striving to be our best selves each day and representing not only ourselves and our families, but also the generations of Villanovans who have come before us. We are custodians of a proud tradition, and it is our responsibility to continue building upon the legacy that has been entrusted to us.

I look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready for the weeks ahead.

Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Putting Relationships First: Restorative Practices at Villanova College
Every Monday afternoon, our teaching staff come together for professional learning. While much of this work is understandably focused on curriculum, pedagogy and the practical business of teaching, this term we have also been deliberately turning our attention to something that sits beneath all of these areas: relationships.
At the beginning of the year, we challenged ourselves to “Put Relationships First.” This has become an important lens through which we are considering how we teach, communicate and respond to our boys.

This term, our professional learning has focused particularly on Restorative Practices (RP). Restorative Practices are not simply a set of strategies for responding when something goes wrong. Rather, they encourage us to build strong relationships proactively, respond to conflict with curiosity and accountability, and create opportunities for students to repair relationships when harm occurs.

A significant part of our recent professional learning has been exploring the language we use when correcting and guiding students. As adults, we know that the way feedback is delivered can influence how willing we are to listen, reflect and learn. The same is true for our boys.

We have been exploring the concept of shame and how it can influence behaviour. When a child feels shame, their instinct may be to withdraw, become defensive, blame others or even attack. These responses can make it difficult for a child to reflect on what has happened and take responsibility.

Our goal is not to avoid accountability or to lower expectations. Quite the opposite. We want our boys to be able to hear difficult feedback, recognise when their actions have affected others, take responsibility and make things right—without feeling that they themselves are the problem.

This has led our teachers to consider the difference between language that can unintentionally create shame and language that promotes reflection and repair. Rather than “What’s wrong with you?”, we might ask, “Help me understand what happened.” Rather than simply identifying a mistake, we can help a student consider, “Who has been affected, and what can we do to make things right?”

This work connects beautifully with the Developmental Relationships Framework developed by the Search Institute, which has also informed our thinking around how we support our boys. The framework reminds us that young people thrive when adults express care, challenge growth, provide support, share power and expand possibilities.

Ultimately, this is what we are trying to create in our Junior School: classrooms where boys know they are valued, where they feel psychologically safe to make mistakes and learn from them, and where high expectations and strong relationships go hand in hand.

Our professional learning each Monday is helping our teachers to not only know these ideas, but to see them, practise them and reflect on how they show up in our everyday interactions with boys. Because putting relationships first doesn’t mean putting learning or expectations second.

It means recognising that strong relationships are the foundation upon which both are built.

Mr Stephen Rouliadeff, Head of Junior School

As we reach the midpoint of Term 3, the busyness of the assessment period is well and truly upon us. Across the College, students are engaged in meeting draft submission deadlines and preparing for end of term examinations. For many subjects, this period includes formative assessment, ongoing feedback and continual checking of progress to ensure students are well placed for success in the weeks ahead.

With this week including the Ekka holiday, the Athletics Carnival and participation in the Queensland Catholic Music Festival (QCMF), students have a valuable opportunity to pause, take stock of their progress, and plan for the remainder of the term. We encourage families to regularly engage with the relevant year level assessment calendars, so they remain informed about upcoming due dates, examination periods and key academic milestones. Strong organisational habits and effective planning remain critical to student success.

Subject Selection 2027
Term 3 has also been an exceptionally busy period from a subject selection perspective. Across Weeks 2 to 5, we have conducted our Year 11 2027, Year 10 2027, Year 9 2027 and Year 8 2027 Subject Selection Information Evenings.

It has been wonderful to see such strong attendance from students and parents/carers at these events. These evenings provide an important opportunity for families to hear key information regarding subject offerings, pathways, prerequisites and the broader subject selection process.

This year, our Year 8, 9 and 10 events were held in Goold Hall, allowing families to engage directly with Heads of Faculty and teaching staff following the presentations. With more than 300 attendees at each evening, these events demonstrated the strength of the Villanova community and reflected the importance families place on supporting their son to make informed decisions about their future studies.

My thanks to all staff who contributed to these evenings and to the many families who attended. We appreciate that not every family was able to be present, and remind parents and students that subject selection resources, presentations and supporting information remain available through myVilla.

SET Plan Interviews
Our SET Plan interview process for current Year 10 students is also drawing to a close. These interviews represent an important milestone in a young person’s educational journey and provide a valuable opportunity for students, parents and College staff to discuss future pathways and subject selections.

At Villanova College, we place significant value on the partnership we share with families and appreciate the commitment parents make in attending these conversations. My sincere thanks to all families who have participated in the process and to the many staff members who have generously contributed their knowledge, expertise and time to support our students in making informed decisions about their Senior Phase of Learning.

As a reminder, subject selections for current Year 7 and Year 8 students close on Wednesday 19 August.

Looking ahead, work on the 2027 timetable will commence in the coming weeks. Student subject choices form a significant component of this process. While we work hard to accommodate student preferences and subject combinations, there may be occasions where requests cannot be accommodated due to timetabling constraints or class viability considerations. In these situations, reserve preferences may need to be utilised. We anticipate communicating confirmed subject selections to students later in Term 4.

EmpowerED Program
Last Friday, students across Years 7 to 10 participated in our Semester 2 EmpowerED program. The morning provided students with an opportunity to step away from their normal classroom routines and focus on personal reflection, learning habits and future-ready skills. Students engaged in a rotation of activities including Goal Setting, Literacy Workshops, Responsible Use of AI presentations and College singing practice.

A significant focus of the program was the Semester 2 Goal Setting process. In the week prior, students completed an AI-supported reflection through CE Chat, which guided them to consider their Semester 1 experiences, achievements, areas for growth and goals for the remainder of 2026. These reflections formed the basis of individual conversations with House Mentors, allowing students to discuss their goals, identify strategies for success and consider how the College can support them in achieving their aspirations.

The Literacy Workshops, led by our Literacy Strategy and Improvement Lead, reinforced the importance of reading, writing, comprehension and communication as skills that underpin success across all learning areas. Strong literacy skills enable students to engage more effectively with curriculum content, think critically about information and communicate their understanding with confidence.

Students also participated in presentations focused on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. These sessions, led by our Director of e-learning encouraged students to consider both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI technologies and reinforced the importance of academic integrity, independent thinking and ethical decision-making when using these tools. The use of CE Chat as part of the goal-setting process provided students with a practical example of how AI can be leveraged to support learning and reflection in a safe and structured environment.

Programs such as EmpowerED play an important role in helping students develop greater ownership of their learning, strengthen their reflection skills and build the habits necessary for long-term academic success. My thanks to the many staff members, House Mentors and support staff who contributed to the success of the program.

Celebrating Science Week and Book Week
The coming fortnight includes two significant national events that celebrate learning in different but equally important ways.
Beginning on Monday 17 August, the College will celebrate National Science Week, followed by Book Week commencing on Monday 24 August.

Our Science and English Faculties have planned a range of engaging opportunities to foster curiosity, creativity and a love of learning. Science Week provides a chance for students to experience the wonder of scientific discovery through a variety of hands-on activities conducted across the College.

Our UQ Science Ambassadors will lead several interactive investigations exploring questions such as:

• What makes an elephant toothpaste explosion bigger: more soap or more yeast?
• How does water travel from a plant’s roots all the way to its leaves?
• Can we use the speed of chemical reactions to create a functioning clock?
• What building shape is strongest during an earthquake?

These activities will provide students with opportunities to engage with science in a practical, hands-on and exciting manner.

We are also excited to launch Mission Sprouts, a collaboration involving the Australian Space Agency, Swinburne University of Technology and the National Australia Day Council. Through this initiative, students will work with seeds that have travelled to the International Space Station, providing a unique opportunity to explore scientific inquiry and space research in an authentic context.

The following week, Book Week will provide another opportunity to celebrate literacy, imagination and the joy of reading. We look forward to sharing the many activities planned by our English Faculty and Library team to encourage students to engage with literature and develop lifelong reading habits.

Year 12 Update
For our Year 12 students studying General subjects, a significant milestone has recently been achieved with the completion of all Internal Assessment. This accomplishment should be recognised and celebrated. Students have demonstrated considerable commitment and perseverance throughout the year and should be congratulated on the effort they have invested to date.

While this marks the completion of one phase of their Senior studies, there remains significant work ahead. Students must now focus their attention on preparation for the upcoming Mock Examination period and ultimately the External Examinations in Term 4.

For students studying Applied and Certificate courses, it remains important that momentum is maintained. Assessment requirements, including IA3 and IA4 submissions, continue throughout the semester and students enrolled in certificate qualifications should be working proactively to complete outstanding modules and competencies before the conclusion of Term 3.

Information regarding additional study opportunities and support programs leading into the Mock Examination period, and potentially over the September holiday break, will be communicated to students and families in the coming weeks.

Artificial Intelligence and Learning
Few developments in education have emerged as rapidly as Artificial Intelligence (AI). In a relatively short period of time, AI tools have become readily available to students, teachers and the broader community, creating both exciting opportunities and important challenges.

There is no doubt that AI has already transformed many aspects of modern life. From assisting with everyday tasks and improving workplace productivity to supporting innovation across industries, AI offers significant potential benefits. However, like any major technological advancement, its use requires thoughtful consideration and responsible decision-making.

The challenge for schools is not simply whether students have access to AI, but rather how they learn to engage with it appropriately. One of the greatest considerations within education is ensuring that students continue to develop the critical thinking, reasoning, problem-solving and communication skills that remain fundamental to learning. While AI can provide information quickly, genuine understanding comes from students engaging deeply with concepts, analysing information, asking questions and constructing their own knowledge.

At Villanova College, our approach is guided by the belief that AI should enhance learning, not replace it. Through our College AI Guidelines and Policy, we continue to educate students on the ethical, responsible and effective use of AI technologies. We recognise that AI literacy is becoming an increasingly important capability for young people and, as such, students must understand not only how to use these tools, but also when their use is appropriate and when independent thinking remains essential.

The introduction of CE Chat this year is an excellent example of this approach. Through CE Chat, students can engage with AI within a secure educational environment that includes appropriate safeguards and educational guardrails. Rather than simply providing unrestricted access to external AI tools, CE Chat allows students and teachers to explore how AI can support reflection, feedback, research and learning whilst maintaining a strong focus on digital citizenship and responsible use.

From a teaching, learning and assessment perspective, schools across Australia continue to adapt to the emergence of AI technologies. At Villanova College, we continue to review assessment practices to ensure we can confidently ascertain student understanding and achievement. Increasingly, assessment tasks and process are being developed to provide authentic opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. These approaches help ensure that student achievement remains a genuine reflection of individual progress and understanding.

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting students as they navigate this evolving landscape. We encourage families to engage in conversations with their sons about AI, its capabilities and its limitations. Discussing the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, ethical decision-making and independent learning can help students develop a balanced approach to technology use.

As AI becomes an increasingly common part of education, workplaces and everyday life, our shared responsibility is to ensure students develop the judgement, knowledge and skills required to use these technologies wisely. Through ongoing education, strong partnerships with families and carefully considered learning experiences, we can help prepare our students to thrive in a future where AI will undoubtedly play a significant role.

Mr Kirk Astill, Dean of Teaching and Learning

At this week’s assembly, my address was centred around our GREATS attribute of Teamwork. Teamwork is far more than working together to achieve a goal; it is a fundamental part of the Augustinian value of Community, reminding us that we grow, learn and succeed most fully when we support one another. While this spirit is evident in the many sporting teams, music ensembles, service groups and co-curricular activities across the College, I reminded students that there is one team to which every Villanovan belongs: their learning team. Every classroom is a community where each student has the opportunity to contribute to the success of others through preparation, participation, encouragement and respect. St Augustine calls us to “honour God in each other” by recognising the dignity and value of every person. When we help others learn, contribute positively and give our best effort for the good of the community, we strengthen not only our classrooms but the entire College. Great teams are built when every person does their part, every day, and it is through these small, consistent acts that we continue to build a stronger Team Villanova.

This spirit of teamwork is equally evident in the vibrant work of our Mission in Action groups at the College, where students are encouraged to live out their faith through service, reflection and community.

We especially congratulate all students from Junior to Senior School who participated in the Vinnies Street Retreat and Sleepout. Through the Street Retreat and sleepout, students gained a deeper appreciation of the realities faced by those experiencing homelessness and grew in empathy, gratitude and compassion.

Many of our students continue this commitment throughout the year through Rosies – Friends on the Street, offering conversation, connection and hospitality to people doing it tough. Their service reminds us that everyone deserves to be seen, valued and welcomed.

Our commitment to stewardship was also evident this week as the Green Team, supported by student leaders and the College Leadership Team launched a Backyard Blitz to help keep our College grounds clean and cared for.

Finally, congratulations to our Year 9 EcoMarines Ambassadors who represented Villanova at the EcoMarines Tangalooma Adventure Day on Mulgumpin. Inspired by sustainability workshops and environmental initiatives, they returned eager to support National Arbor Day and continue protecting the wildlife that shares our school grounds and how to continue to be stewards of God’s creation.

Mrs Eleni Greenaway, Dean of Mission and Identity

Last week in Wellbeing our Year 10 students recently had the opportunity to hear from acclaimed journalist and author Madonna King in a Q&A forum focused on the growing risks of sextortion, image-based abuse and deepfake technology.

Rather than simply presenting information to students, Madonna encouraged an open and honest conversation about the realities young people can face online. She explored how quickly a seemingly innocent interaction can escalate into manipulation, pressure or blackmail, and the importance of knowing when something is not right and having the confidence to speak up.

A particular focus was the emerging threat of AI-generated deepfake images. With technology making it increasingly easy to manipulate ordinary photographs and create highly realistic fake content, students were challenged to consider the very real consequences these technologies can have for another person’s privacy, dignity and wellbeing.

From a wellbeing perspective, the key message was simple: if something happens online that makes you feel uncomfortable, threatened or unsafe, you should never feel that you have to deal with it alone. Speaking to a trusted adult early is one of the most important steps a young person can take.

The session also reinforced the responsibility that comes with being part of an online community. Students were encouraged to think beyond simply asking, “Can I share this?” and instead consider, “Should I share this?” and “What impact could this have on someone else?”

At Villanova, wellbeing education is about giving our students the knowledge, confidence and values to navigate the challenges they face both inside and outside the College. Conversations like this help our young men understand that respect, consent, empathy and responsible digital behaviour are not just online skills — they are essential parts of being your best self.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Programming

Muster Week 2026: A Celebration of Our Villanova Community
With Muster Week now wrapped up for another year, I can honestly say it has been an incredible experience. As my first Muster Week at Villanova, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but the week gave me a wonderful insight into the strength of our Old Boys community and the lifelong connection so many have with Villa.
Muster Week 2026 was a wonderful celebration of our Old Boys community, bringing together generations of Villanovans across a week of events, connection and plenty of memories shared.

From the Flag Raising Ceremony and Generations Breakfast to the Old Boys Dinner, Mass for Deceased Villanovans and Vincit Veritas Luncheon, there were many opportunities throughout the week for Old Boys to return to Villa, reconnect with old friends and celebrate the lifelong connection they share with the College.

For me, this was my first Muster Week at Villanova, and it was eye-opening in the very best possible way. I had the opportunity to meet so many of our Old Boys from different generations and hear their stories, memories and experiences of Villa. Seeing the genuine friendships and connections that continue decades after leaving the College was incredibly inspiring and gave me an even greater appreciation for the community we are fortunate to be part of.

A highlight of the week was seeing so many generations of Villanovans together. From our current Year 12 students at the Flag Raising Ceremony to Old Boys who graduated many decades ago, Muster Week was a wonderful reminder that being a Villanovan doesn’t end when you leave the College gates.

Supporting the Terry Hendle Bursary
Muster Week also provided an opportunity for our community to support the Terry Hendle Bursary, with an incredible $16,000 raised throughout the week.
This generosity will help provide educational opportunities for a future Villanovan and is a wonderful reflection of the continued commitment our Old Boys have to supporting the next generation.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended an event, purchased a raffle ticket, supported the Bursary or simply came back to Villa and helped make Muster Week so special.

If you’re an Old Boy and haven’t been hearing from us, we’d love to stay connected with you. Please take a moment to update your details – by clicking here – so you can receive our Foundation communications, hear about upcoming Old Boys events and stay connected with the wider Villanova community.

With gratitude,

Mrs Effie Kent, Development and Foundation Manager

Director Of Sport Address

Our GREATS focus this week is Teamwork.
Teamwork is not defined by the scoreboard. It is revealed through how we communicate, fulfil our roles and support one another – particularly when a match is difficult or the result does not go our way.

Across Round 3, our students experienced both success and disappointment. The most important measure is how each team responds. Strong teams celebrate success with humility, accept setbacks together and return to training ready to improve.

Beanie Round provided a powerful example of teamwork beyond competition. More than $1,300 was raised at Villa Park in support of the MND and Me Foundation and the Mark Hughes Foundation. Thank you to Mr John Holroyd, the Mission Team and everyone who contributed. The day demonstrated what can be achieved when our sporting community works together for a purpose greater than any game or result.

Thank you also to Mr Todd Kropp, Mr Angus Sullivan, Ms Bec Bailey and Mr Andrew Lund for supporting our students at the Queensland Schools Cup. Opportunities such as these depend on staff generously working together behind the scenes.

Teamwork will again be central to Thursday’s Interhouse Track and Field Carnival. Every student can contribute through participation, encouragement and service to their House. Success will not belong only to those who finish first; it will also be seen in those who have a go and support their mates.

With regular AIC competition paused during Ekka Week, our teams have an opportunity to reset before Round 4 against Iona College. I encourage every student to return prepared to contribute, encourage others and place the team ahead of individual recognition.

Thank you to our staff, coaches, volunteers and families for continuing to work together in support of Villa Sport.

Winning is possible, but learning is guaranteed.

Go Villa! 💚💛

Mr Matthew Hannan, Director of Sport

Season Results to date:

2026 Basketball Round 3.pdf

2026 Rugby League Round 3.pdf

2026 Tennis Round 3.pdf

Key Updates and Announcements
Week 5 Sports Training Arrangements
Regular sports training will not proceed during Week 5 due to Ekka Week, QCMF and the Interhouse Track and Field Carnival. Monday and Tuesday gym sessions will proceed as scheduled. Selected Firsts teams may also train; however, the relevant coaches will communicate directly with those players regarding their specific arrangements. Regular Saturday AIC fixtures will also not proceed.

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 Villa View 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 Villa 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 3 Weeks 2 to 9 Training Schedule has now been published to the Locker Room page. If any changes or cancellations occur, the Villanova College App will also be updated accordingly.
Please note also: In the event of cancelled sessions or extremely poor weather, sessions may be adjusted or rescheduled where possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Team Lists
Team lists are published via The Locker Room. Basketball team lists will be released by Thursday evening, with Rugby League and Tennis published by Friday lunchtime ahead of the round. This is the earliest possible time this information can be finalised and shared.

Key Links

Sport Results – Associated Independent Colleges

Trimester 3 Sport Uniforms
Families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Villanova College Uniform Look Book, which can be found on the Uniform Shop page of the College website. Uniform Shop opening hours are also available on this page. All students selected in AIC teams are expected to wear the correct Villanova College uniform for AIC fixtures each week.

2026 Uniform Shop Hours (School Term Only)
Monday: 7:30am – 9.30am
Tuesday: 7:30am – 9.30am
Wednesday: 7:30am – 9.30am
Thursday: 2.00pm – 4.00pm
Friday: CLOSED

For students preparing for Trimester 3 Sport, please refer to the correct uniform requirements below.

Spot 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 The Locker Room.

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 – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Tennis Coordinator – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Track & Field Coordinator – Andrew Lund (andrew.lund@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Sport Office Administration
Sports Administrators – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Maria Mascadri (Mon/Tues/Thursday only) (mmascadri@vnc.qld.edu.au)
AIC Sports Leader – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Central Sharks District Sport – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Assistant Director of Sport – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Director of Sport – Matthew Hannan (matthew.hannan@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)

Trimester 1 Sports Coordinators
AFL Coordinator – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Cricket Coordinator – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Swimming Coordinator – Julie Colbert (jcolbert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@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 – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au)
Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding (ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au)

Sports 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 Notifications section. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villanova College Application and updated your preferences and settings.

Regional and External Sports
Central Sharks trial information (formerly Composite/Lytton): Paperwork for the following sports is now available from the Sports Office. Nominations returned after the due date will not be submitted.

The table below lists the sports/activities that are currently available to students wishing to nominate for the district & regional school sport pathway. Students wishing to nominate should have extensive experience in their chosen sport including club or previous representative history.

Mr Todd Kropp, Regional Sport Coordinator

State Football Success
Congratulations to Oscar D. and Lenix N., who represented Met East at the recent State Football Championships.
The boys helped their team secure third place in Queensland following a closely contested tournament against the state’s leading young footballers.

A further congratulations to Year 7 student Lenix, who was selected in the Queensland team following his performances at the championships.
Oscar and Lenix demonstrated outstanding commitment, teamwork and resilience, representing both Met East and Villanova College with distinction.

Well done, boys! 💚💛

#GoVilla #VillaSport

Traffic Disruptions 13 -16 August during QCMF – Important information available here: Please click here to read more about the Traffic Disruptions During QCMF 2026 | Villanova College

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:

 QCMF – Volunteers are still needed over the weekend!
Until Sunday 16 August, Villa is once again buzzing with the sounds of QCMF – one of the largest school music festivals in the country! With thousands of students, families, and visitors coming through our gates, it takes a village to make the magic happen. Volunteers and get your tickets here: https://qcmf.com.au/

Would you like to see our Villanova College students perform? Here is our boys’ performance schedule:

VillaMusicGroupsQCMF2026

Reminder 2026 Co-Curricular Photo Day – Thursday 20 August
Schedule will be published to Daily Notices over the coming week

Friday 21 August – Battle of the Bands is coming to Villa!
Get ready for an evening of live music, big performances and plenty of Villa talent as six student bands take to the Hanrahan Theatre stage next Friday 21 August. The evening will feature live performances from D9sh, Knights at the Round Table, Blank, Kevin, Reuben’s Band and Overdrive. Paul and Dean from Ball Park Music will judge the competition, with opportunities for students and guests to meet them on the night. There will also be raffle prizes, including a signed Ball Park Music merchandise pack, while food and drinks will be available for purchase. Friday 21 August | 5.30pm for a 6pm start – Hanrahan Theatre, Villanova College Come along, support our musicians and see who will be crowned VNC Battle of the Bands champions! Get your ticket here: https://vnc-battle-of-the-bands-2026.raiselysite.com/

Saturday 5 September – Villa P&F Ignite
Villa’s Riverfire event is planned for Saturday 5 September 5 from 4pm to 10pm – and it will be bigger and better! This year we are opening tickets to Present and Past Villa parents, Old Boys and your own friends. Join us and enjoy our front row Riverfire views. (Strictly 18+ event)
Your ticket includes – $85pp

• Canapes by In a Pickle – food service from 4.30pm.
• 2-hour beverage package – 4pm to 6pm. From 6pm to close at 10pm, cash bar. (no BYO)
• Opportunity to Pre-Order champagne bottles for your evening.
• DJ and entertainment + dancing – 4pm – 10pm
• Opportunity to purchase and win raffle prizes

Registration link – https://ignite-2026.raiselysite.com/

A Reminder About MyVilla and the Villanova College App
As we continue to streamline communication across the College, we would like to remind parents and caregivers that MyVilla remains the central hub for important information relating to your son’s education and College life. The Villanova College App provides convenient access to MyVilla directly from your phone.

2026 Census Privacy Collection Notice
Census and special circumstance applications privacy collection notice

About
The Australian Government Department of Education (the department) would like to advise all staff, parents, guardians and students (where applicable) that it will collect certain information about your school, its staff and student body as part of the non-government schools census collection (the census) and special circumstance applications.
How and what information is collected for the census?
Census information is provided to the department by your school’s legal entity (the approved authority) via the Education Funding System (EFS).
The census provides information about your school and the number and characteristics of the school’s staff and student body during a specific reference period. Information and characteristics collected through the census include:
•teaching and non-teaching staff
•students’ year level and workload
•students’ gender and age (as on 1 July 2026)
•Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students
•students with disability
•students receiving distance education
•day, boarding and overseas students.
The names of students and staff are not collected, apart from the name, position and contact details of the staff member nominated as the primary contact for the census.

Census special circumstance applications
A census special circumstance application is for a student who did not attend during the census reference period and/or did not have a pattern of regular attendance at a school during the year but otherwise meet the non-government schools census eligibility requirements. Schools can apply to have a student individually considered for inclusion in the census through a census special circumstance application. Any information provided to the department through this application should be de-identified by the school.
Purpose of the census collection
The information provided during the census is collected by the department in accordance with the Australian Education Act 2013 (the Act) and the Australian Education Regulations 2023 (the Regulations). The Act and the Regulations require the legal entity responsible for the administration of the school (the approved authority) to provide this information to the department to:
•ensure the provision of Australian Government funding to schools is properly calculated and appropriately managed
•conduct research, statistical analysis and develop school education policy for the Australian Government
•meet national and international reporting obligations on school students in Australia
•publish and provide information about schools to the public.

Use and disclosure of personal information
Your personal information is protected by law under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act). Personal information is information or an opinion about an identified individual or an individual who is reasonably identifiable.
Any use or disclosure of your personal information must occur in accordance with the Privacy Act and the Act and Regulations and any other applicable laws.
Your personal information provided to the department through the census may be:
•Used or disclosed by the department for the purposes outlined above under the heading Purposes of the census collection.
•Disclosed to the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to publish on the My School website and include as high-level data for ACARA’s National Report on Schooling in Australia.
•Disclosed to state and territory government departments and authorities in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to Australian Government departments and authorities in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to non-government school representative bodies in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to a contracted auditor where the department decides to audit or verify the information provided by an approved authority about a school. The contracted auditor may use previously collected information or request access to individual student records for comparison purposes. The contractors may pass this information onto officers within the department, if there is a discrepancy in the data provided by the school and the school’s records and further investigation is required. The contracted auditor must handle personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act.
•Disclosed to its service providers for the purposes of the provision of information and communications technology support services to the department.
•Used to validate data from other collections undertaken by the department.
•Used or disclosed where it is otherwise required or authorised by law including under the Act or Regulations, or otherwise permitted under the Privacy Act.
Other than in exceptional circumstances (for example, investigation of fraud relating to overseas students), the department does not disclose any of the personal information collected to overseas recipients.
You can find the department’s privacy policy on the Department of Education website or request a copy from the department at privacy@education.gov.au. The privacy policy includes information about how to access or correct personal information held about you or your child, how to make a complaint about a breach of the Australian Privacy Principles and how the department will deal with such a complaint.

What do you need to do?
You are not required to do anything. The approved authority of the school is responsible for providing the information to the department.

Contacts for further information
Your school can provide information about data provided for you or your child for the purposes of the census. To find out more about the census collection and reporting, visit EducationHUB