Welcome - Headmaster
Anthony Micallef
Moogerah Turns 50
Gift in Will – John Hoare
Donor Profile – Howard Stack
The impact of a BursaryDamian Winterburn
Old Boys in the Spotlight
Impact Update - Giving Day
Celebrating our Community
Upcoming Events and Reunions
A warm welcome to the first edition of The Impact of Giving Newsletter, our refreshed and repurposed Impact Report.
At the close of a remarkable year for Brisbane Grammar School, I am proud to introduce this new publication highlighting the projects that shape BGS, the people who bring them to life, and the generous donors whose support makes extraordinary things possible
Our fifth annual Giving Day, held on 12 August, raised an outstanding $242,906 in support of the Sports Science Lab - part of the next phase of our Sports Science Precinct – and the School’s bursary program
Bursaries continue to enrich our community by bringing together boys from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
This diversity strengthens our culture of respect and understanding, and nurtures independent thought and character. In this way, every bursary not only shapes individual futures but also enhances the collective identity of Brisbane Grammar School
As we continue to pursue our ambition to be the best school for boys in Australia, the environment in which our students learn, grow and thrive remains central to our vision
In 2026, we will focus on the development and upgrade of Pepperina Hill at Lake Moogerah Next year marks a milestone for Pepperina Hill, the School’s purpose-built outdoor education centre and a cornerstone of our holistic education philosophy.
After five decades of active use, this site now requires revitalisation The planned redevelopment will transform student and staff accommodation, enhance safety and compliance, and enrich the cultural and environmental experience for all who attend
The generosity of our community has always been central to the success of our building projects and we look forward to continuing this spirit of support in 2026 as we embark on these exciting new campaigns to deliver world-class facilities that will shape the future for generations of BGS boys
Thank you for your ongoing commitment and support I hope you enjoy this first edition of The Impact of Giving Newsletter and take pride in the collective achievements of our community
Sincerely,
Anthony Micallef Headmaster
For five decades, BGS students have been making unforgettable memories with their mates against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Lake Moogerah
Every year, hundreds of students attend camp at Pepperina Hill, on the shores of the lake, as part of the Outdoor Education Program.
Hiking through rough terrain in the rain, balancing skills and nerves on the high rope course, and chatting under the stars are just some of the ways the boys connect with nature and each other
Next year, Brisbane Grammar School will celebrate the 50 anniversary of Moogerah th
To mark the momentous occasion, the School is launching a major fundraising campaign with the hopes of raising $1 5 million to upgrade facilities
Outdoor Education Director Derek Jervis, who has lived onsite for 15 years, said the improvement work is crucial to providing the best outdoor education experience possible
“The program has grown, and expectations have changed," Mr Jervis said
“These upgrades will make Pepperina Hill fit for the future safe, comfortable and ready for the next generation of boys to experience its magic ”
Construction underway
Stage One – which consists of new road access, the construction of a new shed, and waterway upgrades – is due to be completed in early 2026
“Every boy who has spent time here carries a piece of it with him; a respect for nature, for culture and for community.”
Donations are needed to fund Stage Two, which includes modern student dormitories, new staff accommodation, improved landscaping and a new uncover area
Careful consideration and meticulous planning have gone into the design phase to enhance the learning environment for the benefit of students, staff and the broader Lake Moogerah community
Mr Jervis pointed out that the fundraising campaign is more than just a financial investment but an opportunity to provide a unique learning experience that improves the boys’ physical and mental wellbeing
"Memories are not the only takeaway from Moogerah - students learn the importance of leadership, self-belief and never giving up "
“The relationship with this place is what stays with them – that is the legacy we are protecting
“Every boy who has spent time here carries a piece of it with him; a respect for nature, for culture and for community”
The traditional owners, the Ugarapul people, have given permission for boys to learn their stories, helping to strengthen their connection to Country
In the past decade, Outdoor Education staff have engaged with cultural burning advisors and traditional owners to create a comprehensive conservation strategy
The upgrade includes a landscape strategy focused on Indigenous native species and an interpretive walk, visiting significant viewpoints and sites to honour First Nations storytelling. Plans also include a flora and fauna regeneration zone to improve biodiversity
For Old Boy Jon Hodges ’83, his first camp at Moogerah was life changing
“I remember vividly riding the bus out here in 1979,” he recalled
“I looked across the lake to the mountains and realised this is a special place ”
Mr Hodges has dedicated almost 40 years to the Outdoor Education Team, having worked as both a teacher and director of the program, and now as a groundsman He lived onsite with his family for 10 years when working in the director role
“When students hike in the heat, paddle in the middle of the lake and look around at this place, they build a relationship with Country,” Mr Hodges said.
“Feeling connected to this country and understanding how important the experience is, is immeasurable and potentially life changing ”
“I know I speak for many Old Boys when I say how valuable Moogerah was throughout my formative years, and how grateful I am to the School, my parents and those who believed in the value of being immersed in experiential education ”
“When students hike in the heat, paddle in the middle of the lake and look around at this place, they build a relationship with Country,”
Moogerah is a conservation success story, made only possible through the hard work of the Moogerah Support Committee – which is part of the P&F Association – and students who take part in annual weed clearing and tree planting
“The Moogs have been incredible,” Mr Jervis smiled “Their belief in what happens here is infectious.”
When BGS became owners of Pepperina Hill in 1972, six trees remained on site after it had been cleared for farmland for four decades
Now, the area is home to an abundance of native wildlife and bushland
In the past decade, more than 1500 native trees – including the endangered Boonah Tuckeroos – have been planted by the Year 10 students as part of a reforestation program
Plans to develop koala habitat and build bird and sugar glider boxes are also in the pipeline
To learn more or donate, please contact the Brisbane Grammar School Advancement Team
Brisbane Grammar School honours the legacy of Old Boy John Hoare ’56, whose recent passing marked the end of life lived with humility, intellect and generosity.
Alongside his beloved wife Desley, who passed away in 2022, John made the thoughtful decision to leave a gift in his will to BGS the donation of their Tewantin estate
Their story is one of quiet impact and shared purpose.
John and Desley met on a train while commuting home from work a chance encounter that led to nearly 60 years of marriage
Desley was the love of John’s life. Together, they built a wonderful partnership
He often spoke about how it was Desley who encouraged him to generously donate their parcel of land on the Sunshine Coast to BGS
John attended BGS between 1953 to 1956. John was a strong academic and a strong leader, serving as a School Prefect
He was a dedicated rower in the First Four and won the prize for most improved oarsman in his final year
It was a time when rowing was re-establishing itself, with crews having to borrow boats from other clubs As part of rebuilding the program, John returned post school to coach and continued building momentum at the boat shed
John spoke fondly of his time at BGS and commented that it was where he realised, he wasn’t always the smartest person in the room
A poem written in the 1956 school magazine mentioned John, referring to him as a “handsome chap who was good to the core”
He loved wearing his BGS blazer and often wore it for lunch at the Royal Mail Hotel in Tewantin, when catching up with Headmaster Anthony Micallef and Senior Deputy Headmaster David Carroll
The blazer is now persevered in the School’s Heritage Precinct.
John studied civil engineering at the University of Queensland and graduated with First Class Honours in 1961, before a career spanning engineering consultancy, site management and eventually software
Diversifying as a result of his time working with IBM, he developed his own software designed to assist businesses streamline their practices Despite this, John never owned a PC
John remained connected to BGS in his later years, regularly attending Old Boy events and campus visits
During COVID-19 in 2020, the School’s community relations team sent a crossword to Old Boys over the age of 70, hoping to provide intellectual stimulation and connection amid lockdowns and isolation periods
John filled out the crossword correctly and sent it back, sparking the beginning of his reconnection with BGS and his later decision to leave his land to the School
For John, it was never just about the gift It was about legacy, memory, and contributing to something bigger than himself
John is remembered by his family as a caring older brother who helped guide his younger siblings He was intelligent, thoughtful and deeply loyal
He passed away peacefully in August 2025, shortly before what would have been his and Desley’s 70th wedding anniversary Those close to him will remember the long phone calls, shared meals, strong opinions and generous heart
Thank you, John and Desley. Your legacy lives on.
When Old Boy Howard Stack left Brisbane Grammar School in 1962, he never imagined he would help shape its modern identity decades later.
Yet his decision to stand for the School Board of Trustees in 1990 defined a transformative era for BGS
“It wasn’t part of my plan,” Howard reflected on his election as Chairman aged 46
“Being thrown in the deep end turned out to be a blessing It gave me the opportunity to work closely with Headmaster Peter Lennox and understand his vision for the School ”
That shared vision saw the School purchase 30 hectares at Northgate to develop its playing fields, secure the former Queensland Rail “cattle-yards” site to build the Indoor Sports Centre, construct the Middle School, design the Lilley Centre, and acquire the former QMIR site, now home to the STEAM building
“It was a challenging time. We had a strong, experienced Board, but financing those projects required creativity and persistence,” Howard said.
The Impact of Giving | November 2025
“Being thrown in the deep end turned out to be a blessing. It gave me the opportunity to work closely with Headmaster Peter Lennox and understand his vision for the School.”
Sir Charles Lilley’s founding vision for BGS was to provide quality education through a combination of fees and government scholarships When government-assisted access ended in the late 1960s, rising costs placed pressure on the School’s ability to maintain socioeconomic diversity
To address this, Howard and his fellow Trustees established the Bursary Fund, dedicated to restoring fee-assisted access
With contributions from commitment fees, generous Old Boys, and more recently, Year Group Sub-Funds created by graduating families, the Fund now stands at approximately $25 million.
“It’s a strong start, but we still have a lot of work to do,” Howard said
“Our first goal is to see 10% of students receiving fee-assisted places That principle of accessibility was part of the School’s DNA for its first 100 years it deserves to be again.”
Howard continues to advocate for the role of philanthropy in sustaining the School’s excellen
Through the Stack Family Foundation, Howard has supported major projects, such as the Lille Centre and STEAM building, as well as a full refugee student bursary
The Foundation allocates its support evenly across medical, educational and arts initiative with BGS receiving the lion’s share of the education stream Upon Howard’s passing, it provide 85% fee assistance to six BGS familie perpetuity.
“I’ve made that commitment public because hope it encourages other Old Boys to do the same,” Howard said
“I know I am not alone and that other Old Bo are already making significant contributions space, so if enough of us contribute, I can se Grammar evolving into a kind of ‘mini-Harvar school of excellence and opportunity, where significant proportion of students are suppor by a strong and enduring bursary fund
Family and friends aside, chairing Grammar gave me more satisfaction than anything else in my life. The chance to make a difference for future generations that’s what kept me motivated.”
‘I grabbed every opportunity with both hands’
The day that Old Boy Damian Winterburn ‘99 learned he was the recipient of a Brisbane Grammar School bursary remains a defining moment in his life
In Years 8 to 10, Damian attended BGS as part of a scholarship program; however, his family could not afford the fees for his senior years and had already enrolled him to change schools
Receiving the bursary enabled Damian to complete the crucial Years 11 and 12 in an environment that provided both social and academic stability
“Without it, I would have had to start again, at a new school, in my senior years, leaving behind my friends, my sporting teams, and all the continuity that comes from staying within that community,” said Damian
“The bursary gave me stability at a time when everything in life feels like it’s changing, and I recognised it as a major investment in my future education ”
Damian understood the privilege of receiving a bursary and seized opportunities both sides of the classroom wall
A talented basketballer who went on to captain BGS, Damian also earned a W A Morrow Prize for General Merit and was actively involved throughout his time at the school in both Cricket and Debating
After graduating with a degree in property economics from the Queensland University of Technology, Damian’s passion for the real estate and construction, pushed him towards a career within the property industry.
Damian, who is the Founder and Director of real estate investment group Boulder Capital, has since had a successful career spanning more than two decades and many countries, including Australia and the USA.
“The
bursary gave me stability at a time when everything in life feels like it’s changing, and I recognised it as a major investment in my future education.”
The Bursary Program creates opportunities for boys who are motivated and capable but might not otherwise have had the chance to attend the School.
“The bursary gave me the drive to succeed it gave me lifelong friendships and created a platform for my life beyond school ”
He points out the fact his childhood friend Old Boy Andrew Crunkhorn ‘99 is one of the reasons he attended BGS in the first place.
“Andrew’s family told me about BGS, helped with my application, and even drove me to school every day in my first year”
“Without them, I might never have become a BGS boy”
The Old Boy network – which Damian affectionately refers to as the “the school tie connection” – has been also constant source of support and collaboration after school
“I’ve built businesses and completed projects with other Old Boys, employed several Old Boys, and even sold a business to a global enterprise with the help from one
“The BGS connection creates an instant level of connection ”
Damian is encouraging other Old Boys to donate to the Bursary Program to give future generations of students the chance to access a world class education
“The Bursary Program creates opportunities for boys who are motivated and capable but might not otherwise have had the chance to attend the School
“Bursary recipients bring in different perspectives and life experiences - diversity benefits everyone.
“It changed my life completely”
For Old Boys Shayne Gilbert ’87 and Simon Tolhurst ’87, helping women and girls access period products isn’t just a charitable cause, it’s personal
“I’ve got a daughter and two stepdaughters, and I think it’s every Australian’s responsibility to take care of one another,” says Shayne Gilbert, Share the Dignity Director
Shayne and his wife Rochelle have turned their ambition to help vulnerable women into a nationwide movement Together, they run ‘Share the Dignity’, a charity dedicated to breaking down barriers to accessing period products This year, the charity celebrated its 10th anniversary
Simon decided to take on the role of Chairperson after a chat on Shayne’s back deck about how they could make a real impact. Two other Old Boys, Matt Smith ‘97 and Nick Long ‘89, also sit on the Board
“The ultimate goal is to deal with the stigma associated with periods Let's get over that ”
“And let's just say it's almost a human right to have access to those period products ”
“We had 153,000 women participate in the 2024 survey 64% said they had experienced some form of financial stress and had gone without period products at some point in time in their life,” added Shayne
Real feedback from women and girls around the nation has allowed the charity to advocate for change at every level, from vending machines in Queensland schools, to improved access in hospitals.
The organisation also campaigns for menstrual equity, helping remove the tampon tax in 2018 while challenging the stigma around periods
“The ultimate goal is to deal with the stigma associated with periods. Let's get over that.”
“We had 153,000 women participate in the 2024 survey… 64% said they had experienced some form of financial stress and had gone without period products at some point in time in their life,”
“10 years ago, it probably took me a while to get used to quite openly talking about it, but I openly have it in the workplace now,” Shayne admits.
“I'll have that conversation, and if someone's uncomfortable with it, it's on them, not on me ” For them, it’s about normalising the conversation and teaching younger generations to be champions for change
“Get over yourself, have the discussion. Let's normalise it,” Simon says
Each year, the charity distributes hundreds of thousands of period products to those in need through its Dignity Drives, vending machines, and its ‘In the Bag’ program
These initiatives are just a few examples of why Share the Dignity was recognised as the Queensland winner of the Building Communities category, in the 2025 Best of Business Awards.
Equally remarkable is how comfortable the men behind Share the Dignity are when talking about periods
“And particularly for the guys at this school, become a champion of change You know, it's a normal bodily function Why on earth is anyone scared about talking about it?”
Their message to the boys at Brisbane Grammar, and young men everywhere, is simple: normalise the conversation and act
“Being able to change somebody else's life when you've never met them, and you never will meet them… I don't think there's much better in life than that,” Shayne says
“Rally the troops around your business,” Simon says “Just be that champion of change ”
Held on Tuesday 12 August, the annual BGS Giving Day raised an outstanding $242,906 from 251 donations, with an average gift of $904.71.
Funds raised will go towards supporting two of the School’s key priority projects: the Sports Science Lab, located in the STEAM Precinct, and the Bursary Program
Of the total raised, $131,678 will go towards the Sports Science Lab, while $94,501 will help the School provide bursaries to students who might not otherwise have been able to access a BGS education
In June, a further $47,500 was received through End of Financial Year donations thanks to our generous supporters who see the value in investing in young minds
Work has commenced on the state-of-the-art Sports Science Lab in September 2025, with its official opening scheduled for Term 2, 2026
The lab is designed to complement the new Sports Science Gym, located in the STEAM Precinct, which opened in July
The lab will be utilised by the physical education and athletic development departments, as well as cocurricular sports
The facility will support performance analysis and improved rehabilitation using data tracking Students will collect information through wearable technology, whether it be in the gym, pool, oval or court, which will be analysed, interpreted, tested and challenged by students
The Bursary Program continues to honour the legacy of Sir Charles Lilley, who envisioned a school built on opportunity and inclusion
Bursaries remain a strategic priority for the School, as we work toward the ambitious goal of ensuring that 10% of students receive some form of bursarial support
To achieve this, BGS is working toward establishing a $100 million endowment fund, ensuring the sustainability of bursaries for generations to come
The success of the 2025 Giving Day reflects more than our community’s financial generosity - it represents a shared belief in our mission to provide a world class education while also teaching boys the moral values needed to become people of good character
With continued community engagement and strategic focus, Brisbane Grammar School is well positioned to build on this momentum, deepen its impact and extend its reach in 2026 and beyond
Brisbane Grammar School thanks every donor who contributed to Giving Day 2025 your generosity is shaping the future of our students, our facilities, and our community.
$24,720,505
$842,906.88 $246,727 $2,500 $226,179
On Tuesday 21 October, Brisbane Grammar School hosted its annual Celebrating Our Community evening a tradition that brings together parents, Old Boys, staff and friends to celebrate the volunteers whose service shapes school life
Since 2011, the School has held the annual ceremony where the winners of the Betty Howell Awards are announced. They are named in honour of Mrs Joan Elizabeth “Betty” Howell, a dedicated volunteer who served the School for more than 25 years.
It is with great sadness that we note Betty passed away earlier this month Betty, the wife of former Headmaster Dr Maxwell Howell, was a leader and mentor within the P&F Auxiliary and the Art Committee, and a maternal figure to many boarders and day students Her generosity, warmth, and dedication left a lasting mark on the BGS community
Headmaster Anthony Micallef remarked on the evening: “Volunteerism has long been a key strength of this School It has helped model for our students the core truth that to lead is also to serve ”
This year’s five winners were recognised for their unique skillsets and contribution to different school programs, but the common theme was their ability to make people feel heard and their willingness to roll up their sleeves to get the job done
“Volunteerism has long been a key strength of this School. It has helped model for our students the core truth that to lead is also to serve.”
When Karuna Hoole’s eldest son Alistair joined the Gymnastics program in 2017, it marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter of service.
Karuna worked as the President of MAGS (Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Support Group) from 2018 to 2022
Karuna is described as a meticulous planner and a quiet leader who has a special ability at keeping gymnasts, coaches and families connected She planned season launches, upgraded uniforms, improved canteen operations, managed large fundraising events and much more
In Director of Sport John Clancy’s speech, he spoke warmly about Karuna being small in size but mighty in heart
Her sons Old Boys Alistair Hoole ‘22, Nicholas Hoole ‘24 have gone on to compete as gymnasts either at state, national and international level, with current Year 10 student Oliver carrying on the Hoole tradition of excellence.
Through the playing careers of their sons Old Boys Elliott James ‘20 and Adam James ‘24 (Tennis Captain), Jill and Michael contributed countless hours to create an environment in which players, coaches and families felt welcomed and supported
Jill wore many hats for the Wimbledon Club, including Treasurer, Secretary, and Canteen Coordinator, as well as warm welcomer of new parents
As President of the Tennis Support Group, Michael was known for his calm leadership, strategic insight, and deep appreciation for the game
Whether courtside or at committ ti a in
OId Boy John Emery ‘83 and his wife Rachel Emery are the proud parents of three sons, Old Boys Harrison Emery ‘19, Will Emery ‘21 and Mitch Emery ‘24
For many years, Rachel served as a member of the P&F Auxiliary and was a Year-Level representative of the highest calibre She also took on the role of Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator of the Rowing Support Group, proving instrumental in organising the Regatta and many fundraising events
John was a long-serving member of the Old Boys’ Association, holding the position of Secretary for many years His commitment to promoting connection and tradition among our alumni has been unwavering
On the night, Senior Deputy Headmaster David Carroll spoke about the pair’s ability to make people feel valued and welcome.
“While their tireless service over many years deserves recognition, it is the way they volunteered that truly captured my admiration
“Their presence enriched our community not just through what they did, but through how they made people feel, and for this I want to thank them ”
“Their
presence enriched our community not just through what they did, but through how they made people feel, and for this
I want to thank them.”
The Garden Party is a vibrant new community event, bringing together current parents, Old Boys, staff and friends
Set against the iconic backdrop of Number 1 Oval, this elegant picnic-style lunch will flow into the afternoon, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere filled with live entertainment, shared connection and community spirit.
Funds will go towards the upgrades at Pepperina Hill.
The school community is invited to an intimate, premium outdoor experience celebrating the 50-year legacy of the School’s Outdoor Education Centre, at Lake Moogerah
Guests will enjoy a paddock-to-plate long lunch on the lawn, curated by Terra Firma Dining, before chatting around a campfire and enjoying an evening of stargazing
Proceeds will support the Pepperina Hill upgrades
Saturday 25 July will mark the return of GPS Rugby to our historic grounds for the first time in three decades and headline the annual Back to BGS Weekend
Combined with school tours, food stalls, the First XV warm-up on the Boarders’ Lawn, the Back to BGS Weekend is a special chance for Old Boys and current families to come together to celebrate the BGS community.
Spectators can also soak up some fierce basketball competition in the Indoor Sports Centre, before supporting the First and Second XV Rugby teams on Number 1 Oval – the legendary Snakepit
Old Boys celebrating Milestone Reunions can celebrate with their cohort by taking part in curated events
Brisbane Grammar School will host an exciting new event called Rhythm and Blues, which will bring together current and future parents, Old Boys and other members of our community.
Attendees will connect over a long lunch, while enjoying musical and dramatical performances by our students BGS athletes, both past and present, will also share their inspiring stories as Brisbane looks ahead to the 2032 Olympic Games
More details about the August event will be made available soon
Milestone Reunions are an opportunity for Old Boys to come together to reconnect and reminisce, bonded by their shared BGS experience.
In 2026, we are excited to support milestone
Whether these celebrations take place at the Back to BGS Weekend or through campus tours, off-site or aligned to a school sporting fixture, the Advancement and Events team is here to help make your reunion memorable and seamless
