building a legacy CGS IMPACT REPORT 2024
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY
Canberra Grammar School acknowledges the local Ngunnawal people who have walked this land for centuries. We acknowledge their living culture and pay tribute to the unique role they play in the life of this region as traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we meet.
We would also like to pay respect to the elders, past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to other First Nations people.
from the Chair & Head of School
FOREWORD
It is with deep gratitude that we thank all who have generously given to Canberra Grammar School in years past, in support of our current and future students. In an ever-evolving world with mounting priorities and growing demands, it is important to pause and reflect on the quiet power of giving and the profound change it can bring. This report is an opportunity to thank our dedicated supporters and generous benefactors. It is a celebration of you— our community— and the extraordinary ripple effect your support sets in motion.
Philanthropy has the power to transform. It may take the form of a major bequest or a modest recurring gift. But every act of generosity contributes to something greater—each gift a vital part of a larger whole. It creates opportunity. It changes lives. And, in many cases, as you will see in this report, it comes full circle. The stories from our students are a testament to how much can be achieved when potential is nurtured and belief is placed in the power of education.
The CGS Foundation continues to work tirelessly on its objectives to increase access to world-class educational opportunities at Canberra Grammar School through talent & merit scholarships, Indigenous scholarships and bursaries. It remains committed to delivering innovative and state-of-the-art facilities where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
We pay special tribute to the late Terry Snow—an extraordinary alumnus whose vision and generosity helped transform our campus and community. His legacy stands as a shining example of what it means to give back with heart, purpose and impact.
We are also proud and honoured to have received a transformational bequest allowing us to set up the Daryl and Hermina Blaxland Scholarship, which will provide life-changing educational opportunities for students from rural and regional Australia. These scholarships offer more than educational access—they enrich our School with diverse voices, cultures and experiences.
The stories shared in this year’s Impact Report echo a poignant and powerful common thread: the call to give, the desire to be part of something bigger and the change it can set in motion. We encourage you all to take the opportunity to inspire and to share with others, each in your own way, within your means, and in line with what truly resonates with you.
To all who give, thank you. You are part of something enduring, something that echoes across generations. Never underestimate the power of your contribution—it is helping build a legacy.
Sincerely,
Mr James Willson Chair of the Foundation Board
Dr Justin Garrick Head of School
the Canberra Grammar School Foundation
This Impact Report celebrates the transformative power of giving and the dedicated work of the CGS Foundation in bringing that generosity to life.
Through the Foundation’s efforts, donations are translated into real opportunities—scholarships that change lives, experiences that inspire, and world-class facilities that empower our students to thrive. It is a reflection of a community committed to shaping a future where every student can realise their potential.
giving at a glance
INSIGHTS INTO OUR ANNUAL DONATIONS
1 JANUARY 2024 – 31 DECEMBER 2024
TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED $10,015,357
NUMBER OF DONATIONS RECEIVED 274 NUMBER OF DONORS 85 $
ANNUAL GIVING CAMPAIGN 2024
$181,300 76% 24% TOTAL DONATIONS EXISTING DONORS & FIRST TIME DONORS
— DESIGNATION —
INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS 13%
AREA OF GREATEST NEED (INCLUDES EQUITY BURSARIES) 68%
GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS (MERIT & TALENT SCHOLARSHIPS) 19%
exponential returns
AN ALUMNI’S HOMECOMING
David Tonuri’s professional journey was one with early beginnings, as early as his days at Canberra Grammar School. A finance broker and pre-service teacher today, David has over three decades of experience in the financial sector and owns a successful brokerage business, while balancing his family life with six children. He began his career as an actuary after completing his degree in Science and Economics at university. Yet, much of his journey and path seemed to have been clearly defined even prior to this.
David fondly recalls attending math classes in the East Quad building, where lessons were taught on chalkboards. Throughout his education and professional career, his love for mathematics remained a constant theme, growing from his days in the classroom to shaping the next stages of his career.
“What I learned at CGS was discipline. It reminds me of the old saying: ‘The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.’ That ethos of applying yourself and seeing results was a fundamental part of my education here.”
David attended CGS from 1981 to 1986 and remembers the School as a deeply collegiate environment. His closest friendship circle, formed over 40 years ago, still remains strong and connected today.
David’s bond with CGS extends well beyond his time as a student. He returns as an Alumnus, a past board member, a donor, and now, an aspiring teacher. As he walks the halls of CGS once more, he is reminded of his own mentors—some of whom still have their portraits displayed in the staff room.
He recently had the opportunity to reconnect with two of his former math teachers, gaining insights from their wealth of experience as educators. He also has a newfound appreciation for how the curriculum has evolved through the years, particularly the introduction of the IB Diploma, which provides students with more than one pathway to completing their studies.
Reflecting on his transition from student to teacher, David muses: “Mathematics hasn’t changed since the era of Pythagoras, but the way it’s taught has evolved dramatically.”
Choosing CGS for his teaching placement was a natural decision. David always knew that teaching was a path he wanted to pursue, but patiently waited for the right moment to act on it. Now, as he navigates this career change, he is grateful to be back at his School, surrounded by some familiar faces, receiving the same support that once guided him as a young student. The entire Mathematics and Economics departments have welcomed him with open arms, making his transition all the more seamless.
“The gratitude I feel has always made my relationship with CGS an ongoing one. The community here is truly outstanding.”
When asked what inspires him to give back to CGS in so many ways, he reflects:
I see the great way the School is led by Dr Garrick and others, and it inspires me to give back in my own way. The enthusiasm I see from others is infectious! Moreover, the incredible experiences I had here make me want to contribute, in whatever way I can, to repay my gratitude. I want to be for students what my teachers were to me. – David Tonuri
playing it forward
THE CGS ORGAN SCHOLARSHIP
For decades, Garth Mansfield has been a cornerstone and advocate in preserving and celebrating organ music in Australia. As a gifted musician, generous mentor, and passionate promoter for the arts, Garth’s influence spans Canberra and beyond. His early work in identifying and mentoring young musicians, including those from Canberra Grammar School, was central in helping transform the landscape of Canberra’s organ music scene for future generations.
Garth’s connection with CGS began when he first initiated a programme to identify and train promising students to be the next generation of organists. He was largely driven by his church community wanting to have a steady supply of organists to perform at church services, weddings and events. With dwindling numbers of trained organ players nationally, Garth saw an opportunity to keep the tradition alive by investing in young emerging talent.
One such young talent was Marko Sever, a student of Canberra Grammar School, who graduated in 2011. Garth recognised quite early in their interactions that Marko had an undeniable and natural affinity for the instrument. Under Garth’s careful mentorship whilst in the role of director of music at Wesley Uniting Church, Marko not only learned to master the complexities of the organ, but by Year 10, he had already earned recognition amongst the church community as a sought-after performer. His talent would eventually take him to perform in some of the most iconic venues in the world, including Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and a number of cathedrals in London.
Following the success of the programme, Garth set up the CGS Organ scholarship in 2003. The School has since welcomed and trained a number of young aspiring organists.
Marko later returned to Canberra, stepping back into the CGS music community where he began teaching the next generation of CGS organ scholars, passing on the same inspiration, discipline, and love for the instrument that was instilled in him.
“The organ scholarship at Canberra Grammar School was a formative stepping stone in my musical journey, providing invaluable training, mentorship, and performance experience at a crucial stage. Continued support for this programme ensures that future students can access the same rare opportunities to develop their craft and pursue careers in music.”
– Marko
He now tutors Ryan Xing and Jack McLaren both in Year 8, under the scholarship. Both excel in their classes and are well on their way to being the next set of young prodigies to emerge from the programme.
“I felt so happy receiving the organ scholarship because I get to meet new teachers and expand my musical skills, as well as learn more music. I enjoy how unique it is playing organ, as no other instrument has pedals which also acts as a keyboard. It also is fun using all the different manuals to make multiple layers of sound in a baroque piece.” – Ryan
“Learning the organ has given me a wide range of opportunities. I have played organ at the church in Wesley, played organ during chapel services and learned a lot more about music theory. Playing the organ at the recession at chapel each week has allowed me to gain more confidence while performing music and will also benefit my piano skills.” – Jack
When reflecting on his journey, Garth speaks not of accolades, but of hope: that beautiful instruments will remain accessible, that gifted teachers will keep sharing their knowledge, and that more young people will walk through the doors with curiosity and a passion for music.
sounds of resonance
THE KERRY ALLEN VOCAL SCHOLARSHIP
For nearly three decades, Kerry Allen, OAM, was a beloved and deeply respected member of the Canberra Grammar School community. As the Director of Southside Infants, and a passionate educator and musician, Kerry dedicated her life to nurturing a love of learning and a deep appreciation of music in young people. She believed wholeheartedly in the transformative power of music education—its ability to connect, to uplift, and to enrich every other facet of a child’s schooling journey.
Kerry’s influence extended well beyond the classroom. She served as President of the Kodály ACT Branch, co-founded the Orff Music Institute, and generously mentored educators across the region, igniting in others the same spark she carried for teaching through music. Her approach was joyful, imaginative, and rigorous, empowering generations of students to find their voice—literally and figuratively—through song.
Following her passing in 2021, Kerry’s husband, Des, made the touching and generous decision to honour her memory by establishing a vocal scholarship at Canberra Grammar School. The Kerry Allen OAM Vocal Scholarship supports young vocalists in their musical and personal development.
“It is a tribute not only to Kerry and her memory, but to her spirit, beautiful voice, her deep love of music, and commitment to the school and its students. It was her dear wish to initiate an opportunity such as this, and it was a joy to be able to fulfil it. I do it in her memory, and I see it as her achievement.” – Des Allen
The very first recipient of the Kerry Allen Vocal Scholarship is Oluwatoni Balogun, a talented and vibrant young vocalist whose musical journey has already begun to reflect the kind of passion Kerry championed. Since receiving the scholarship, Oluwatoni has gone from strength to strength, regularly performing at major school recitals and Christmas choirs at Parliament House. Her voice, like her presence, is full of promise. Alongside her musical talents, Oluwatoni is also a dedicated athlete, with impressive achievements in both track and basketball—embodying the very best of a well-rounded CGS education.
“When I saw the opportunity for a vocal scholarship, I immediately told my parents I wanted to apply because of my love for music. Since being on the programme, I am so proud to see how my vocal range has developed. I really enjoy exercising my alto and soprano ranges”
“One day, I hope to become a doctor—but I also dream of teaching music and sharing my love for it with others. Maybe I’ll even come back to this School to teach. I love singing and want to keep learning and growing” – Oluwatoni
The scholarship has recently been awarded to Hakeem Khan (Year 5), its second annual recipient—another talented young vocalist joining the programme. He loves contemporary music and how it allows him to express himself. “I was surprised and excited to receive the scholarship. I enjoy singing and I now look forward to more opportunities to grow my skills and further develop my voice and share it with more people.” – Hakeem
Kerry often said that music had the power to bind a school community. Through this scholarship, her legacy continues to do just that—bringing people together through harmony, hope, and a shared belief in the extraordinary potential of young people.
One day, I hope to become a doctor—but I also dream of teaching music and sharing my love for it with others. Maybe I’ll even come back to this school to teach. I love singing and want to keep learning and growing.
– Oluwatoni
I was surprised and excited to receive the scholarship. I enjoy singing and I now look forward to more opportunities to grow my skills and further develop my voice and share it with more people.
– Hakeem
echoes of a legacy
TERRY SNOW’S ENDURING IMPACT
To speak of Terry Snow is to speak of legacy—not just in bricks and mortar, or in the grandeur of buildings that now define our campus, but in the quiet, resonant ways he inspired people, lifted expectations, and made possible what once seemed unimaginable.
A proud Alum of Canberra Grammar School, Terry’s connection to CGS spanned generations. He attended from 1953 to 1961, followed by his brothers, then his children, and later, his grandchildren. His was a deep and enduring relationship with the School— as a student, a parent, a benefactor, a Board member, and ultimately as a visionary whose generosity reshaped the life of the School for generations to come.
Terry’s philanthropic leadership began with his instrumental role in establishing the original CGS Foundation back in 1979. However, it was the creation of the Snow Centre for Education in the Asian Century in 2014 that marked a turning point in our School’s capacity to lead in global education. That exceptional gift, followed by the transformative Snow Concert Hall in 2019, became two of the most significant personal endowments to any Australian school— and they speak not only of Terry’s generosity but of his faith in our potential.
These gifts were not born of obligation or recognition. Terry’s support was never transactional. He gave because he believed—in ideas, in people, in ambition. He saw what the School could be, and simply made it so.
“You don’t build for now. You build for what could be—what should be.” – Terry Snow
More than just a donor, Terry was a patron of possibility. His funding of the Snow Concert Hall International Series brought world-class performances to Canberra, enriching not only our students but the cultural life of the nation’s capital. “Music lifts people. It’s not about a building. It’s about what happens inside—the spark, the connection, the joy.”
His support for the Indigenous Scholarship Programme reflected his belief in equality of opportunity, and his example inspired others to give in turn.
What set Terry apart was his deep generosity of spirit. His vision extended far beyond our gates: to research and medicine, to Indigenous health and education, to entrepreneurship, to the arts, to equestrian pursuits and aviation. At the heart of all of it was a desire to empower others—to lift them, to give them the tools to be extraordinary.
You always remember the people who expected more of you — not out of pressure, but because they saw something in you. I think that stayed with me
– Terry Snow
With all he gave, Terry was never one to seek and indulge in the spotlight. His warmth, wit, and famously forthright encouragement left a mark on all who worked with him. He was known to offer backhanded compliments that somehow motivated people to rise higher. Behind the gruff facade, his true persona was kind, imaginative, and loyal.
Those who knew Terry knew his love for excellence—whether in a piece of architecture, a piece of music, or a moment of education. He once said that what he learned at CGS—the aspiration to the highest standard — shaped his life. In return, he raised the standard for all of us.
“I didn’t want a school that just muddled through. I wanted it to reach higher—to show what’s possible when someone believes in it.” – Terry Snow
Even in the final months of his life, his joy in seeing the Snow Concert Hall come to life—alive with young musicians, creative voices, and community—was evident.
“I remember sitting in the back during a student performance, and just thinking—this is what it’s all for.” – Terry Snow
Terry Snow’s legacy will forever echo in the hallways of our School, in the confidence of our students, and in the quiet determination of all who dare to dream bigger because of him.
leading from the front
LILLIAN HEALY ROBERT POATE SCHOLARSHIP FOR LEADERSHIP
When Lillian Healy first read about the Robert Poate Scholarship in Year 10, she saw more than just an opportunity—she saw a pathway to becoming the kind of leader she aspired to be.
“I was really drawn to the mentoring aspect, that the scholarship offered” she reflects. “The idea of being guided by professionals and connecting with the Alumni community really stood out to me. As someone who aspires to become a lawyer, being able to speak to accomplished mentors in the field has been incredibly rewarding. I didn’t realise just how much it would help me until I experienced it firsthand.”
Inspired by the story of Robert Poate and the values the scholarship represents, Lillian threw herself into every opportunity for growth. She is now the House Captain of Burgess, Captain of the Sustainability Club, and a dedicated performer in the School’s senior theatre productions—one of her self-confessed passions.
But one of her biggest passions? Rugby.
“Starting off was intimidating. I remember being the only girl in Year 5 playing in an all-boys team—I was terrified,” she says. “But that experience taught me that if I wanted something, I had to go out and get it.”
Now, co-captain of the CGS Rugby team, Lillian has seen the sport for young women at CGS flourish. She’s represented the School on exchange in Scotland, led her team’s tour of New Zealand, and is thrilled to now advocate for not just one, but two all-girls teams.
“With that growth comes responsibility,” she says. “As captain, I feel a duty to strengthen the programme, build team culture, and ensure the club spirit continues to thrive.”
Looking ahead, Lillian’s ambitions are firmly rooted in service and giving back.
After graduating, I’d love to return to coach and support the rugby programme.
I’d also love to go back to volunteering at the Primary School if I can. And one day, I hope to be in a position to create a scholarship or make a donation myself— to give other students the same kind of opportunities I’ve been lucky to have.
– Lillian Healy
strength in belonging
MACK BOTTRELL
INDIGENOUS
SCHOLARSHIP
When Year 7 student Mack Bottrell applied to be a part of the Indigenous Scholarship Programme at Canberra Grammar School, he was looking for more than just a place to study. He was looking for a place to grow.
“My family and I were really impressed by the size of CGS and the opportunities it offered,” Mack shares. Coming from a much smaller local school, transitioning into the vast and vibrant CGS community was a big step—but one Mack embraced wholeheartedly.
“In the past, I’ve faced challenges because of my Indigenous background,” he reflects.
“But here at CGS, I’ve never felt like I didn’t belong. There’s so much support—from my boarding community, in the pastoral care system and the scholarship team. I’ve always felt seen and valued.” Eager to develop his independence, Mack was enthusiastic about the full boarding experience. “I now have to manage my own schedule, and I’ve learned to be so much more responsible. It’s made me a lot more confident as a person.”
Academically, Mack has found CGS both challenging and rewarding—particularly in Mathematics, one of his favourite subjects. But it’s not just in the classroom where he’s thriving. Keen to immerse himself in all aspects of school life, Mack set a personal goal to try one land and one water sport. He has his eyes on rugby and hopes to take up rowing as well.
He was also recently asked to participate in the Indigenous Education Forum hosted at the School to share his insight and student voice as part of the discussion. “I’m so grateful to be part of a community that allows me to be who I truly am and share my culture openly,” he says. “Being part of the Indigenous Education Forum has been especially meaningful. My voice is heard. My experiences and opinions matter.”
STUDENT VOICES
I’ve been at CGS since Year 7, and over the years I’ve come to truly appreciate everything the School has to offer. The scholarship I received made a real difference—it lifted a financial weight off my family’s shoulders at a time when we were seriously considering moving schools. It’s because of this support that I’ve been able to continue growing here, both academically and personally. I’ve come to see just how many incredible opportunities we’re given, and how deeply our teachers care about our success.
– Flora Dong (Year 12) Paul McKeown Scholarship for Academic Excellence
My scholarship has been a pathway to new opportunities—it’s opened doors that I otherwise wouldn’t have had access to. Through the mentorship programme, I’ve connected with CGS Alumni who bring a wealth of experience and insight.
– Aarush Mahajan (Year 12)
Old Boys’ Association Scholarship for Distinctive Potential
I worked incredibly hard to earn my scholarship, so it was an exciting and proud moment to receive it in Year 7. Being part of the Music Scholarship Programme has been rewarding in so many ways. I especially value having access to the Snow Concert Hall and the privilege of attending the International Music Series—experiencing world-class performances right here at school is truly inspiring.
– Leo Gao (Year 11)
CGS Foundation Scholarship for Musical Excellence
sowing seeds of opportunity
THE BLAXLAND BEQUEST
For families across rural and regional Australia, access to the kind of education that shapes futures and enriches potential can often feel out of reach. Vast distances and limited opportunities coupled with the unrelenting demands of life on the land may make these opportunities seem even further away. Yet it is experiences such as these that build determination, resilience and strength, characteristics that are valued and proudly welcomed into the life of the School and boarding programme.
An extraordinary bequest totalling $9.8 million recieved from the late Mr Daryl and Mrs Hermina Blaxland was transformative in expanding scholarship opportunities for students of limited means from regional and rural Australia. This legacy bequest, one of the most significant ever bestowed upon an Australian school, funded the creation of two dedicated scholarship pathways: the Daryl and Hermina Blaxland Rural Boarding Scholarship and the Daryl and Hermina Blaxland Indigenous Boarding Scholarship.
With no children or close familial connection to the School, Daryl and Hermina Blaxland had no formal ties to Canberra Grammar School. Their deep and long-time friendship with the School was the product of their interactions with staff, students, and neighbours who were incidentally part of the CGS community. They were captivated by the School’s vitality, the lush grounds and gardens, sculpture festivals and concerts and, above all, the promise they saw in the students.
Hermina, a survivor of war-torn Yugoslavia, and Daryl, a child of the ambitious and pioneering Blaxland family, appreciated the value of stability, opportunity, and a robust education.
Through the CGS Foundation, the funds received from the Blaxland estate have been invested and preserved in perpetuity, with the returns dedicated to means-tested scholarships that empower gifted students from rural and Indigenous backgrounds— those who may not otherwise have the opportunity—to access a Canberra Grammar School education. Over time, the School aims to support up to 12 students concurrently, ultimately comprising around 10% of the CGS boarding community.
Beyond the scholarships themselves, the Blaxlands’ gift will provide vital long-term financial security for the redevelopment of the School’s aging 1960s-era boarding houses—ensuring the continued provision of high-quality boarding accommodation in Canberra for future generations.
Their legacy joins that of other visionary benefactors, including Mr Terry Snow, as part of a growing tradition of philanthropy that continues to shape the future of CGS. From stateof-the-art learning facilities and cultural centres to scholarships, it is this spirit of giving that sustains and inspires the generations to come.
As we honour the lives and extraordinary generosity of Mr and Mrs Blaxland, we are reminded of the profound impact that one thoughtful act of giving can make. Their story is a call to all of us—to consider how too we might contribute, in ways big or small, to shaping futures long beyond our own.
In the years ahead, we look forward to celebrating the successes of the Blaxland Scholars as they go on to lead in their fields, serve their communities, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Over time, this scholarship aims to support up to 12 students concurrently, ultimately comprising around 10% of the CGS boarding community.
Leaving a bequest or legacy gift to the CGS Foundation is a powerful way to make a lasting impact. It’s a gesture that transcends a lifetime, supporting scholarships, enriching learning experiences, and helping to build world-class facilities for generations to come. Through your bequest, you help ensure that future students continue to thrive, guided by the same values and opportunities that shaped your own connection to the School.
CGS EDWARDS SOCIETY
As a bequestor, you become a valued member of the CGS Edwards Society, established in honour of the School’s first Headmaster, Dr W J Edwards, who had the faith and vision to proceed with the establishment of an Anglican Boys’ School in the national capital. The CGS Edwards Society is made up of an inner circle of donors who have made provisions for CGS in their will. Through your membership, and with your permission, your bequest will be acknowledged via the CGS website and Annual Report. Should you wish to remain anonymous, we will acknowledge your gift privately.
We are enormously grateful to those who have bequeathed any portion of their estate to CGS and thank all of our CGS Edwards Society members for their support and their generous commitment to the success of CGS.
TYPES OF BEQUESTS
A bequest is a simple and powerful way for you to make a difference, in a way that may not be possible during your lifetime. There are several ways you can choose to leave a gift to CGS in your will.
RESIDUAL
A gift of the remainder of your estate after provision has been made for family & other beneficiaries.
SPECIFIC
A nominated amount or specific gift such as real estate, shares, artwork or other assets.
PERCENTAGE
A nominated percentage of your total estate.
It is important that your intended gift is directed where it matters to you most. You can choose to support a specific purpose or for the CGS Foundation and Head of School to decide where your gift will meet the greatest need.
If you have any questions, please contact our Alumni & Philanthropy Manager who can provide you with advice on the direction and impact of your future gift. We strongly encourage you to seek professional legal advice for your estate planning and to ensure your will is validly executed and up to date.
CANBERRA GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOUNDATION BOARD
MR JAMES WILLSON CHAIR
James Willson founded CRE8IVE, a strategy-led communications and creative company, back in 2001 and enjoys his position as Managing Director. Today the business employs about 30 people and has clients across most of Australia, mainly in the ACT and NSW.
James has a passion for business and clearly understands the Canberra and Sydney business marketplace. In addition, he has a solid comprehension of the private sector, NGO’s, and local and Commonwealth governments.
James sits on numerous boards, including the National Capital Authority, CIT Solutions, RSPCA ACT and Crewcible Studios.
MRS CLAIRE DAWSON
Claire Dawson joined the CGS Foundation Board in August 2021. She is currently Executive Manager of Community Investment at the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) with responsibility for the bank’s ‘Next Chapter’ programme focused on addressing domestic and financial abuse.
Prior to joining CBA, Claire spent over 20 years working in federal government, consulting and campaigning including 4 years working for Prime Minister Howard and more recently, as Director of Government Affairs for the marriage equality campaign.
Claire holds a BA (majors in international relations, government and art history) from the University of Sydney and is a graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course. In addition to being Non-Executive Director on the CGS Foundation Board, Claire is Chair of the Policy and Advocacy Advisory Committee for the National Women’s Safety Alliance and a member of the FIAP (Financial Inclusion Action Plan) Advisory Group.
MR DIMITRI NIKIAS
Dimitri is an experienced company director with a background in commercial property marketing, valuing and feasibility property analysis. The son of Greek migrants he has been part of the Nikias family property business since 1997. Prior to this he completed a Bachelor of Business (Valuation) and worked with Jones Lang LaSalle honing his skills in the commercial property sector. Having been proud contributors to the ACT property development industry since the 1960s, the family business manages a portfolio of directly-owned assets for clients as well as developing new projects. Dimitri is also a director of Nikias Diamond – a construction company he formed with George Diamond over two decades ago and where he has expanded his expertise and knowledge of the construction management side of the property industry. He is also a Director the Bronte Group, being a Development Management Company.
Dimitri is an alumnus of Canberra Grammar School (1981), and he and wife Rebecca have three children, including a son and a daughter who have both graduated from CGS and a younger son in the Class of 2026. Dimitri is a keen supporter of CGS sports and can often be found on the side of the rugby field or in the canteen cooking sausages.
Led by his parents’ example, Dimitri is a passionate advocate for family and community and believes in the power of giving to help uplift people’s lives.
DR JUSTIN GARRICK HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dr Justin Garrick became Head of Canberra Grammar School in 2011. Educated at Sydney Grammar School and Sydney University, he also has a Master’s degree in Education from the University of New England. He undertook his PHD as a Cambridge Scholar at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, and he has an MBA from the University of London.
He has taught at Sydney Grammar School, St Paul’s School in London, Oundle School and Wellington College UK, where he was Head of English and the Deputy (Academic) prior to joining Canberra Grammar School. He is a Board member of the AISACT and AISNSW.
At CGS he has led the School’s transition to full co-education as well as the introduction of the International Baccalaureate at Primary and Senior levels, bringing an explicitly global perspective to the School’s curriculum and co-curricular experience.
CGS FOUNDATION MEMBERSHIP
We are delighted to recognise the ongoing generosity of our donors.
THANK YOU!
PATRONS
Terry Snow (CGS 1961)
& Ginette Snow
Daryl & Hermina Blaxland
CGS Old Boy’s Association
Jenelle Kenner
BENEFACTORS
Fuad Ahmad (CGS 1993)
Chellappah Family
David & Georgina Gazard
Kenyon Foundation
Peter Hazlehurst (CGS 1990)
Podmore Foundation
MEMBERS
Des Allen & Kerry Allen OAM
Ben Ashman
Bernadette Brown
Alan Carey (CGS 1977) & Family
Louise Clegg & Angus Taylor
Justin Dundas-Smith
Steven & Kate Fitzgerald
Mark & Marilyn Francis
Julie Gilfillan
Jillian & Stephen Goggs
Rusul & Ali Hameed
Tim Harrison (CGS 1968)
Romil Jain & Deepa Singhal
James Kilmartin (CGS 1989)
Graham Matthews
Helen & Simon McCredie
William (Bill) Maude
David Maywald & Jennifer Reilly
Dennis Milin
Dimitri Nikias (CGS 1981)
Kent and Liesl Peters
Janny & Hugh Poate
FELLOWS
Stephen Byron (CGS 1987)
Charles Warman Foundation
Ken Cooper (CGS 1961)
Tim & Mary Efkarpidis
Justin Garrick & Dharini Ganesan Raju
Derek Jory
Wendy & Vivian King
Garth Mansfield
David (CGS 1965) & Suzanne Prowse
Irwin Prowse (CGS 1933)
Justine & Andrew Redwin
Stephen & Stacey Robson
Melissa & John Russell
Lynne & Tony Tonks
Judy Turbayne
Dino & Debra Vido
James Willson & Nicola Powell
Heather & Samuel Whittle
Vamshi Yatham
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
Simonetta Astolfi & Lars Ford
Paul Burt
Canberra Embassy of the State of Qatar
Belinda Clark
John & Alison de la Torre
Jane & Andrew Dimoff
David Evans & Rosemary Landy
2024 DONORS
Fuad Ahmad
Taylan Akay
Des Allen
Ben Ashman
Simonetta Astolfi
Linda & Luke Bibby
Duncan & Danielle Blake
Brett Boyes
Ian & Kirsty Brook
James Burton
Paul Burt
Paul Byrne
Steven & Bobbi Campbell
Belinda Clark
Bridget Collier
Jianing Cui
Julie Davies
Hao Deng
Antonio Di Dio
Tim & Mary Efkarpidis
David Evans & Rosemary Landy
Steven & Kate Fitzgerald
Tammy Foley
Mathew & Cassandra Fox
Mark & Marilyn Francis
John & Jenelle Frewen
John & Jenelle Frewen
Carolyn Hawkins & Desmond Yip
Robert Mark
Geoffrey Mauldon (CGS 1943)
Malcolm Lamb
Kerrie-Anne Pandy
James & Marianne Peterswald
Ravi Ravishanker
Kerri Rock
James Sainty
Jane Seaborn
David Smart
David & Dale Tridgell
Justin Garrick & Dharini Ganesan Raju
William & Kirsten Garwood
James Gaynor & Karen Sloan
Sandy Goddard
Stephen & Jillian Goggs
Matthew Gollings & Cynthia Dimond
Angela Greenhill
Rachel Gurney
Mabel Hall
Erum Hamza
Mark Harrison
Romil Jain & Deepa Singhal
Derek Jory
Robyn Kemp
The Kenyon Foundation
Mark & Petrina Keogh
Karyn Lim
Garth Mansfield
Paul Martin
William (Bill) Maude
Felicity & John Maxwell
David Maywald & Jennifer Reilly
David & Lauren Messina
Kerrie-Anne Pandy
Manina Pathak
Kent and Liesl Peters
Caroline Pfahl
James Pushack
Ravi Ravishanker
Stewart Rogers
Jane Seaborn
David & Fiona Smart
Robert & Fiona Snow
Alexander Swan
Fred Taylor
The Recruitment Hive
Vikki & David Templeman
Terence & Jiyeon Ting
David Tonuri
Judy Turbayne
Susan Vickers
Dino Vido
Wai Voon & Soomi Kim
Victoria & Matthew Wansink
Corazon & Rodney Webb
Peter Webb
Alicia & Sean Welsh
Worner Family
James Willson Anonymous
