Omnibus Vol. 37 No. 2 2025

By Dr John Kinniburgh, Headmaster

A Legacy of Character: Honouring 150 Years of Toowoomba Grammar School

Reaching 150 years is a rare milestone in education. In 2025, Toowoomba Grammar School proudly celebrated this achievement through events that honoured a century and a half of boys’ education and character formation.

As this remarkable year concludes, it is fitting to pause and reflect on the journey that has brought us here.

Throughout our anniversary year, we have celebrated both the richness of our history and the vitality of the School today. Above all, one thing emerged: Toowoomba Grammar School is a community of purpose. This is not a slogan; but rather, it is a truth lived every day across our classrooms, boarding houses and playing fields. It is seen in the values that guide our decisions, the connections that unite generations and the shared belief that education is a service to something greater than ourselves.

Defining Greatness

Schools are often described as “great”, but true greatness is not defined by results alone. Examination success, sporting trophies and accomplished Old Boys matter, yet they tell only part of the story. The real measure of a school lies in its impact, in how it shapes lives and serves its community.

For nearly 150 years, TGS has stood strong through adversity and triumph, in times of war and peace and through acts of generosity large and small. From Sir Harry Chauvel’s leadership of the Light Horse at Gallipoli and Beersheba to opening our doors during floods

and bushfires, the Grammar spirit has always been one of service. Greatness is not about accolades, but it is about character, compassion and the enduring relationships that bind our community together.

A Community of Purpose

A school is more than classrooms and curriculum. It is a community united by a shared purpose to educate boys and develop their character for life. At Toowoomba Grammar School, this purpose has guided every generation since 1875.

The spirit of service remains strong. Our Cadets form the Guard of Honour at the Mother’s Memorial each ANZAC Day, a gesture that connects past and present. The same compassion saw us open our doors to shelter families during natural disasters. Today, that legacy continues through initiatives such as the Interact Club, the Sony Foundation Children’s Camp and student-led projects like 2025’s Year 12 charity run for the Nerve Connection Foundation.

This sense of purpose extends well beyond School life. It is reflected in Old Boys who live out the Grammar values in their chosen fields, from Sir Buri Kidu, former Chief Justice of Papua New Guinea, and Waverley

Stanley AM, whose advocacy has transformed educational opportunities for Indigenous youth, to Dr Robert Henderson, whose research in Motor Neurone Disease brings hope to many.

Their stories remind us that a school’s influence is not confined to its grounds. It lives on through the lives of those it shapes, lives of integrity, leadership and service.

The Value of a TGS Education

In a world of rapid change, families seek education that builds both intellect and character. At Toowoomba Grammar School, our promise is simple: we understand boys. This knowledge is woven into every aspect of our culture. Strong pastoral care, genuine relationships and a deep respect for individuality ensure each boy is seen, supported and challenged to grow.

Academic progress is important, but education at TGS extends well beyond

the classroom. Sport, music, outdoor education, leadership and service are not add-ons; they are central to developing confident, well-rounded young men. These experiences build resilience, teamwork and judgement, the qualities that prepare boys for life beyond the School.

Equally powerful is the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a school with 150 years of tradition. Here, boys inherit more than a curriculum; they inherit a story, a culture and a sense of purpose that connects them to generations before them. This heritage builds pride and resilience, and it fosters a life-long responsibility to make a difference.

Ultimately, the value of a TGS education is measured not by where our graduates go but by whom they become. Young men who are confident, compassionate and ready to contribute to a complex and changing world.

The Grammar Boy

At the centre of our campus stands The Grammar Boy statue, a symbol of who we are and what we aspire to be. His open hand represents welcome, respect and integrity; timeless virtues that define the Grammar spirit.

Every boy who walks past that statue, whether on his first day or his last, encounters a reminder of what it means to be part of this community.

It tells a story of friendship, character and purpose, a story that continues to unfold with every generation. He is now one of us. Forever enrolled.

Looking Ahead

The enduring strength of Toowoomba Grammar School lies in its people. Generations of boys, staff and families united by a shared purpose. For 150 years, we have shaped boys into men of

character: leaders who serve, inspire and contribute meaningfully to society.

As we look to the future, that legacy will continue to guide us. The Grammar Boy stands as a reminder that integrity, respect and welcome are not only traditions; they are values for life.

FIDELIS IN OMNIBUS —

Faithful in All Things — will always define who we are and whom we strive to be.

Kallan Robertson competing in the pickleball competition at the House Carnival

Tony Squires hosts Rising and Leading in Sport

TGS Boarder Mothers’ Luncheon

Joseph Fernando representing Taylor House in portrait painting at the House Carnival

Patrick McDonald (Year 10) wins the Rubik’s Cube Challenge for Taylor House

2025 Sony Camp

Aspiring medical students enjoying the Rising and Leading in Medicine event with Matt Butler and Dr Robert Henderson

Candice and Elijah Girdler at the TGS Boarder Mothers’ Luncheon

James Nicholls at the Academic Honours Assembly

The U14 rugby squad visits Eden Park, Auckland

Connor Talbot hits the trails with the TGS Mountain Bike Club

Adol Adol (10A) powers through the GT defence

Senior Dayboy Prefect Hedley Donges and Junior School Captain Andrew Reeves at the Sesquicentenary Assembly

Tom Jaquet and Jed Lane with a guest at the 2025 Sony Camp

The First XV win the 76th O’Callaghan Cup

Bridging five decades of The Chronicle, Dr Seawright and Rupeni Baravilala at Foundation Day celebrations

The String Ensemble performs at the Instrumental Showcase

Avaneesh Pai stops the clock after his move

Inspiring Every Boy: Diverse Learning Across P–12

By Ms Amanda Gibson, Head of Diverse Learners

At Toowoomba Grammar School, inclusive education is not just a policy — it’s a philosophy that shapes every student’s experience.

As Head of Diverse Learners, I’m pleased to share that the School is advancing a P–12 approach that ensures every boy, regardless of background or ability, can access the curriculum, participate fully and thrive.

After many years in industry, I stepped into this newly created role in Term 4 2023 with a clear vision: every student, based on the principles of equity, should be able to access their learning and demonstrate their potential. At TGS, we are committed to fostering environments where all students feel a sense of belonging.

At TGS, inclusion means more than access, it means participation. Our School’s vision is that every student, regardless of the level of adjustment they require, can be included in the classroom and feel a sense of belonging across the School. Whether it’s using

speech-to-text software, accessing the Immersive Reader tool, or simply being supported to play sport alongside peers, the focus is on removing barriers, not changing the child.

It’s going one further than equality — it’s equity. Every child is working towards the same learning goal, but how they get there will be different. My team operates on the social model of disability, which identifies the environment — not the student — as the barrier. We’re building a team based on equity. It’s not the child that is the barrier; it’s the curriculum. Our goal is to address that so that all students can engage.

Technology plays a vital role in this journey. Digital tools have transformed accessibility, and we need to embrace technology in terms of adjustments.

The impact is tangible. One student who had previously been segregated from mainstream classes is now in the classroom participating like other students after working hard on accessibility and learning to use his adjustments. Another student, who required substantial support, is now studying at university.

“Inclusion starts

at the School.

It’s about preparing every boy to participate in the community like everybody else.”

Student voice is central to the program. Whenever we develop a personalised learning plan, student voice is first. This child-centred approach ensures that adjustments are not imposed; they’re co-designed.

Beyond the School, there have been opportunities to share learnings at national conferences, including the Australian Inclusive Schooling Conference and the ACEL Inclusion

Ms Amanda Gibson aims to give students equity at TGS

To learn more about the TGS difference, head to our website.

and Disability event. My focus is on transformational leadership, building knowledge from the ground up through collaboration.

“My aim for the future is that celebrating difference should be the norm. We shouldn’t even have to think about it.”

Relationships are at the heart of this work. By developing the relationship first, the learning comes naturally. For many boys, especially those who’ve had negative experiences in education, this connection is the bridge to success. Ultimately, I want to help inspire every boy to be his very best.

Ms Amanda Gibson presented at the Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) in Darwin

Teaching with Purpose

By Mrs Chantelle Bauer, Deputy Head of Junior School (Teaching and Learning)

At Toowoomba Grammar Junior School, the phrase “Every Boy is Known”  is more than a motto — it’s a lived reality.

Within our warm, community-focused environment, teachers and staff build meaningful relationships with each student, ensuring that every boy feels seen, supported and challenged. This personalised approach, combined with evidence-based learning programs and elite opportunities, creates a learning experience unmatched in Toowoomba.

Why We Choose to Teach in a Boys’ School

Teaching in a boys’ school is a deliberate and passionate choice for many of our educators. Boys bring a unique energy, curiosity and humour to the classroom, and our teachers are deeply committed to understanding how boys learn best. From the way lessons are structured to the language used in feedback, every decision is made with boys’ developmental needs in mind. Our staff value the camaraderie among students and the strong sense of mateship, fostering a classroom culture where boys feel safe to take risks, ask questions and grow. Teachers also appreciate the chance to be part of a team that is united in its mission to nurture boys into confident, capable young men of good character.

Academic Rigour Backed by Evidence

Academic excellence is a cornerstone of the Junior School experience. Our teachers implement structured, research-backed programs that ensure every boy is supported and extended. The PLD (Promoting Literacy Development) program, supported by SPELD, provides a systematic, synthetic phonics approach that builds strong foundational literacy skills. For students requiring additional support, Tier 2 interventions such as MiniLit and MacqLit offer targeted instruction that accelerates progress. Teachers use data to inform their practice, regularly analysing student work and assessment results to guide instruction. This commitment to academic rigour ensures that learning is never left to chance. Instead, it is intentional, responsive and deeply personalised.

Growth You Can See — Before-and-After

One of the most powerful indicators of our approach is the transformation visible in student work. In Years 1 and 2, a student’s initial writing sample may show simple sentence structures and limited vocabulary. After targeted instruction using mentor texts, explicit modelling and feedback loops, the same student produces a rich narrative filled with descriptive language, varied sentence types and clear character development.

These before-and-after samples are not just evidence of academic growth, they are a testament to the power of knowing each boy, understanding his needs and guiding him with care and expertise.

Josh Karki showing a before-and-after sample of his work

Maverick Lee and Mr Peter Nicholls

“It’s exciting to see how engaged the boys are with their writing now. We can see improvements not only in the quality of their writing, but also in quantity, vocabulary and punctuation use throughout their stories.”

Mrs

Pam Wells

Andy Bryant showing a before-and-after sample of his work

Enzo Klarich sharing his work

Beach time for Years 3 and 4 at camp

Years 3 and 4 on their way to camp

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald with Andrew Reeves and William McAllister

Noah Pugsley during club rugby

Luke Carson celebrating Grammar 150 Second place at the Primary Chess Championships

Gursaanj Randhawa enjoying the Junior School Colour Run

Year 6 at the Junior School Colour Run

Andrew Reeves and Patrick Wright celebrating Grammar 150

Book Week author visit from Katherine Battersby

Second place at the Primary Chess Championships

Prep students Magnus Simpson, Patrick Watson and Jack Roberts dressed up for Book Week Sails Assembly

x x

Junior School

From Stone to Scholar: A Family’s 150-Year Grammar Story

When I arrived at School in 2020 as a nervous Year 7 student from Withcott, I never imagined how deeply this place would shape me.

Coming from a school of fewer than 250 students, the transition was daunting, but it marked the beginning of something extraordinary. I’m forever grateful to my parents for sending me here. TGS has helped me grow into the person I am today, laying the foundation for my future.

That word, foundation, holds special meaning for me. I’m proud to be a senior during TGS’s 150th anniversary and even prouder to be a descendant of Sir Charles Lilley, who laid the School’s Foundation Stone on 5 August 1875. His son, Edwyn Lilley, was one of the first students when TGS opened in 1877. A great-grandfather of mine, Donald Alexander McLean, was also a foundation student. Other old boys include another great-grandfather, as well as several great uncles and uncles. My father, Ian McLean, graduated in 1996, and my mother, Mrs Jayne McLean, continues the tradition by serving as the Junior School’s Diverse

Learners Coordinator. TGS is a special part of my family’s legacy; my parents were even married in Old Hall in 2004.

Throughout my time here, I’ve embraced every opportunity, from rugby, volleyball, swimming and track and field to enthusiastic participation in House Carnivals, sport has been a huge part of my journey. A standout moment was a come-from-behind victory on the rugby field against BSHS; that camaraderie will stay with me forever.

But TGS has taught me that achievement isn’t just measured on the field. I’m proud to be part of the Interact Club, organising fundraisers and volunteering across Toowoomba. Through Boyce House, I’ve spent time with students at Toowoomba West Special School, an experience that has deepened my understanding of service and inclusion.

Academics have been prioritised, and with my teachers’ support, I received a

Cum Laude award for Semester 1. I plan to study Engineering in Brisbane, and I know that TGS has prepared me well.

By Charlie McLean, Year 12 student

Finding Strength Through Sport and Service

How sport, community and leadership helped me build a life of purpose and belonging.

In 2014, I relocated to Australia from South Sudan with my family, seeking safety and stability amidst civil conflict. The transition to a new country, culture and education system was challenging, but it marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey of growth and opportunity.

Toowoomba Grammar School has shaped me in ways I never imagined. Boarding was tough at first, as I’d never lived away from my family. However, integrating with the boys, getting involved in sport and finding mentors like Mr Michael Hall helped me settle in. My TGS family includes coaches,

teachers, boarding staff and the mates I’ve lived with every day.

Sport has been central to my experience, giving me purpose, discipline and connection. I’ve represented the School in basketball, football, cross country, cricket and track and field. I’ve also stepped outside my comfort zone, learning new skills in swimming and cricket, even pulling on whites for the first time and having a laugh with my mates. TGS has also seen me play sport for the love of it.

Balancing sport and study hasn’t always been easy. Recovering from an ACL injury in 2021 was a turning point.

By Emmanuel Geu, Year 12 Prefect

The encouragement I received from coaches, teachers and friends kept my spirits high and reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

In Year 12, I felt overwhelmed with my workload, but staff like Mr Kabe Cicolini and Mr Jackson Stone helped me manage the load. Their support taught me to listen to my body, prioritise wellbeing and stay focused.

As a School Prefect, I’ve embraced leadership and service, especially mentoring younger students.

My advice? Get involved, build relationships and be yourself.

TGS has given me resilience, gratitude and ambition. They are qualities I’ll carry proudly into the future.

Emmanuel Geu in his last week of Year 12

Mr Michael Hall and Emmanuel Geu

Setting a New Standard in School Care

Round-the-clock nursing support ensures every student thrives, physically and academically.

Since 1907, the nursing staff of Toowoomba Grammar School have played a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of its students, which directly impacts their academic success. But what truly distinguishes TGS is our unwavering commitment to comprehensive, 24/7 care during term time through the Dr J.M. Blaikie Health Centre, a level of support that fundamentally transforms how students experience school life.

Healthcare That Never Sleeps

Acting as the first line of healthcare within the School, our nursing staff provide immediate care for injuries and illnesses, expertly manage chronic

conditions like asthma and diabetes and ensure students receive their necessary medications safely during the school day. The Health Centre operates around the clock throughout the term, ensuring boarders receive the same exceptional level of care at 2:00am as they would at 2:00pm.

No two days are the same. Our role incorporates a remarkable diversity of care, from basic wound care to sprinting onto the rugby field to assist with a suspected broken leg. We support the boys to access GPs, coordinate allied health referrals and transport, as well as attend hospital and specialist appointments. We ensure that the boys are healthy and ready for learning.

By Mrs Stacey Smith, Health Centre Coordinator

This seamless continuity means parents can rest assured knowing their sons have immediate access to qualified nursing staff whenever health concerns arise — day or night.

Supporting Academic Success Through Health

Healthy students are better learners. By helping reduce absenteeism and proactively managing health issues, our School nurses contribute significantly to improved student attendance and concentration in class. They also support students with special needs by creating individualised healthcare plans that allow these students to participate fully in school activities without barriers.

Centre Coordinator Mrs Stacey Smith with Ms Lucy Berrigan RN

Beyond treating illnesses, our nurses educate students, staff and families about important health topics such as nutrition, hygiene and disease prevention. They conduct essential health screenings for vision, hearing and posture, catching potential problems early before they impact learning. Additionally, our nurses play a crucial role in vaccination efforts and controlling the spread of infectious diseases, protecting the entire School community.

We also facilitate our First Nations boys accessing vital annual interventional health screenings. We then coordinate and refer them to necessary health services, ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all students.

Trusted Medical Partnerships

Toowoomba Grammar School has been exceptionally fortunate to have support spanning over 40 years from two dedicated local GPs at East Toowoomba Clinic, Dr Richard Juhasz and Dr Pungu Mwilambwe. They have certainly been an integral part of the boys’ health journey, providing consistent and compassionate medical care that families can trust. This enduring partnership represents the kind of continuity and expertise that money simply cannot buy.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health is another critical area where our nurses make a profound difference. They are often the first to recognise signs of anxiety, depression or bullying and provide initial support and referrals to appropriate mental health services. Early intervention and compassionate responses ensure no student struggles alone during vulnerable moments.

Leading in Times of Crisis

In times of crisis, such as disease outbreaks or emergencies, our nurses serve as decisive leaders in managing responses and coordinating with public health authorities. They also advocate powerfully for students, ensuring they receive necessary medical accommodations and community resources. This leadership extends beyond the Health Centre walls to protect the entire TGS community.

The TGS Difference

The nurses of our School are indispensable in fostering a safe, healthy and supportive learning environment. We want to teach these young men that their health literacy is as important as their English or financial literacy,

because a life well-lived depends on understanding how to care for yourself.

The Dr J.M. Blaikie Health Centre represents far more than excellent medical care. It’s our steadfast commitment to creating an environment where every student can thrive. Our 24/7 term-time model means families can trust that their sons are receiving attentive, professional care whenever they need it — a level of support that’s genuinely rare in Australian schools and sets TGS apart as a leader in student welfare.

At TGS, we don’t just educate minds, we nurture the whole person, around the clock. We understand that true excellence requires caring for every aspect of a young man’s development.

Health Centre Coordinator Mrs Stacey Smith with Year 12 students Archie Beckwith and Ethan Ramsay

Year 10 student Walter Mairu and Ms Mikael Richardson RN

Dr Pungu Mwilambwe with Year 12 students Arch Campbell and Josh Smart

Japan: A Journey of Discovery, Culture and Connection

By Dr Brett Sawyer, Head of Operations

For 30 students and four staff from Toowoomba Grammar School, the recent Japan Cultural and Technology Tour was more than sightseeing; it was a transformative experience.

From Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to Kyoto’s tranquil temples, the journey blended tradition, innovation and personal growth.

Tokyo: First Impressions and Towering Views

The adventure began in Tokyo atop the Skytree, offering panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis. Students quickly adapted to the pace, navigating Shibuya Crossing, sampling ramen and exploring PARCO’s gaming and anime hubs.

“One thing I found surprising was the overall kindness, organisation and punctuality. Getting around was fast and easy,” said Tanatswa Shanji, Year 10.

Keio Shiki High School: Cultural Exchange

A highlight was the three-day visit to Keio Shiki High School. Students joined lessons in Kendo, Karate, Literature and Geography, as well as observing archery and tea ceremonies. Shared lunches, trading card battles and a daily photo competition fostered connection and fun.

“I found the tea ceremony especially interesting; the Keio Shiki High School students walked us through how a traditional ceremony would run,” said Darcy Thompson, Year 9.

Akihabara and teamLab: Tech Meets Art

In Akihabara, students plunged into anime stores and tech shops. Later, teamLab Tokyo offered a surreal experience of interactive digital art, light, sound and motion fused in unforgettable ways.

“The freedom we had to explore some of the most advanced tech in the world was amazing,” said Ardelan Murphy, Year 10.

The spectacular Himeji Castle was something to

Baseball and Expo Crowds

A professional baseball game delivered electric energy, with fans singing and dancing after a home run. At the Osaka World Expo, students explored innovations like robotic rescue vehicles and AI-powered suitcases.

“I found the culture around respect and efficiency everywhere surprising compared to Australia,” said Oli Von Pein, Year 11.

Culinary Adventures and Bullet Trains

Meals ranged from sushi and ramen to themed restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The Shinkansen bullet train, gliding at an average of 270 kilometres per hour, impressed all, despite a minor luggage hiccup.

“Trying all the different types of sushi and riding the bullet train at 300km/h was incredible,” said Roshan Chellappa, Year 10.

Temples, Shrines and Spirituality

In Kyoto, Osaka and Nara, students visited sacred sites including the Golden Pavilion and Kiyomizu-Dera temple, and drank from streams promising luck in academia, love and longevity. At Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine, they walked through thousands of Torii gates; in Nara, they met bowing deer.

“I loved going to Himeji Castle, seeing an untouched fortress older than anything in Australia was extraordinary,” said Eamon Smiddy, Year 10.

Mazda Museum: Engineering Inspiration

In Hiroshima, the Mazda Museum showcased automotive innovation, including a life-sized clay model of the CX-5. For aspiring engineers and designers, it was a standout moment.

“I enjoyed the different cities and activities — Universal Studios, Hiroshima Peace Park, shopping and the Mazda Museum,” said Will Sullivan, Year 10.

Reflections and Farewell

The Japan tour was a tapestry of contrasts, ancient rituals and cuttingedge tech, serene shrines and bustling cities. It broadened horizons, deepened friendships and left students with lasting memories.

“I enjoyed the bonding time with friends and the fun we had getting from place to place,” said Tanatswa Shanji, Year 10.

After such a wonderful and transformative trip, I can say with certainty:

Thank you, Japan. Until next time.

Our students got to try Karate at Keio Shiki High School

Our boys got to experience a baseball game at Meiji Jingu Stadium

The Mazda Museum and factory in Hiroshima was a tour highlight

Eamon Smiddy’s photo of the Tokyo Skytree gives some perspective of its towering presence over the city

Distance: Tyranny or Freedom for Our Boarding Families?

By Mrs Tammy Wilson, Director of Enrolments and Engagement

“The tyranny of distance” describes Australia’s geographical isolation and also how remoteness has and continues to shape the fabric of our national identity.

At Toowoomba Grammar School, our cohort of close to 300 boarders includes boys from Toowoomba’s outskirts to Karratha and Port Hedland in Western Australia, six hours southwest of Katherine in the Northern Territory, and as far south as Melbourne. We also welcome boys from north of the Papua New Guinea mainland, Torres Strait, Fiji, Hong Kong, China and many places in between.

If tyranny has an antonym, it’s freedom; for many of our families, distance isn’t a burden, it’s a privilege. It means freedom to live and work in wide open

spaces. For those of us raised in cities or regional centres, the “tyranny of distance” may be just a concept. We don’t always realise the extraordinary lengths our boarding families go to just to get their sons to school.

These stories of distance and determination go back to our very first students in 1877. One boy from north Queensland rode his horse, to reach a train, to get to a port, to board a boat down the coast, to catch another train and then a bus — just to get to the School. It took so long that he couldn’t return home for the term breaks.

Today, travel is faster, but the distances are often even greater. Year 9 boarder, Jack Lethbridge, lives on Warrawagine Station, a 4,800sq km property between Marble Bar and Broome in the Pilbara, WA. Jack and his sister travel to their family in rural Queensland, then catch two flights to WA, followed by a long drive home. Brothers Darcy Brown (Year 7) and Joe Brown (Year 10), from Escott Station near Burketown in Queensland’s Gulf Country, sometimes leave home via helicopter during the wet season, to get to a prepacked car on dry ground, then begins the long drive to the School.

These stories are a world away from my own experience. My family and I live nine minutes from the School; we only have to drive down one street. Our biggest challenge is which three songs to play on the way. All four of us were born in Toowoomba, so we love spreading our wings during the school holidays. One of our favourite ways to do that is hitting the road to explore remote parts of Queensland and visit our boarding families.

This past Term 2 break, we had a great adventure travelling through Mitchell, Longreach, Stonehenge, Windorah, Quilpie and Charleville. One of the main stops was visiting Year 10 boarder Chayce Smith and his mum, Beck, in Stonehenge, about two hours southwest of Longreach and a 13-hour drive from Toowoomba. Chayce’s trip to the School can involve any mix of helicopter, plane, car and bus.

Beck runs Evengy Station, a 130,000acre cattle property in the heart of the Channel Country. Alongside her six working dogs, and one infamous muster cat called Mango — Beck manages the property on her own. It’s tough country, all mulga and gidgee, and not for the faint-hearted. After the recent devastating floods, Beck is now rebuilding hundreds of kilometres of fence line with the help of contractors and volunteers. That’s on top of mustering, drafting, moving weaners and working with her neighbours to round up cattle that have strayed through destroyed fence lines.

Knowing that Chayce is supported by both School staff and day families helps give Beck peace of mind from afar. For our remote boarding parents, this kind of support is deeply appreciated. At my own house, it’s not unusual to have a few boarders staying for the weekend. Like many TGS families, we love being

able to care for our boarders when they can’t be with their own families. It’s the least we can do, loving these boys like our own when they’re so far from home.

It’s a great privilege to support rural and remote families as they enrol their sons in boarding school — something I take very seriously. Our staff will always go above and beyond because we understand the commitment and the sacrifices our boarding families make. If we can make their journey that little bit easier, we will.

Visiting families gives me a deeper understanding of where they come from, what they’re facing and the sacrifices they make. If I can offer a warm hug, a reassuring handshake or a cheeky smile to ease the journey, I’m happy to do so. In return, I’m lucky enough to visit incredible places, meet inspiring people and get to know our families and students in a way I never could from behind a desk.

When roads are shut during the wet season, Darcy and Joe Brown fly home via helicopter Beck Smith shows Mrs Wilson around the property with the fencing ute

Ethan Wilson (Year 6), Joshua Wilson (Year 10) and Chayce Smith (Year 10)

Cadet Program Builds Future Leaders

Building tomorrow’s leaders through hands-on challenges, military discipline and meaningful mentorship.

The Toowoomba Grammar School Army Cadet Unit (TGSACU) is more than just a uniformed extracurricular; it’s a transformative experience that shapes boys into confident, capable young men. Through a blend of military-style training and community engagement, the program instils leadership, teamwork, self-discipline and personal growth in its cadets.

The central aim of the TGSACU is clear: to foster good character through structured challenges and meaningful mentorship. Cadets participate in a wide range of activities, from cooking and shelter-building to abseiling and obstacle courses — that push them beyond their comfort zones. These experiences are designed to build not only physical strength but also emotional resilience and mental toughness.

“The unit supports your leadership journey and assists in developing your confidence and mannerisms as best as possible,” said Senior Cadet Under Officer Angus McKenzie. “The training that the unit and program provide

prepared me for everyday challenges and taught me how to respond appropriately to different situations.”

The program’s emphasis on leadership and communication equips cadets with tools that extend far beyond the parade ground. By working in teams, taking initiative and learning to lead by example, cadets develop a sense of responsibility and self-reliance that prepares them for future roles in society.

“The Toowoomba Grammar School Army Cadet Unit provided me with valuable lessons to grow my leadership skills, discipline and teamwork,” McKenzie added. “I am extremely grateful to the unit and staff members for the positive impact they had on me and my personal growth.”

Importantly, the TGSACU ensures that every cadet can thrive. Whether navigating a rope course or leading a group through a field exercise, each boy is encouraged to reach his full potential. The presence of strong role models and a supportive environment helps cadets inspire one another, creating a

ripple effect of growth and community contribution.

In shaping young men into future leaders, the TGSACU stands as a beacon of character development and civic responsibility, proving that the lessons learned in uniform can last a lifetime.

CDT Randhawa and CDT Yan practice camouflage and concealment during Exercise Greenhorn 2025

SGT Amza Fleming scales the cargo net at Kokoda Barracks during the Annual Field Exercise 2025

SCUO Angus McKenzie stands proud in front of the TGS Army Cadet Unit during the Toowoomba ANZAC

By LT (AAC) Mrs Lauren Trevisani, TGS Cadet Executive Officer

Through the Lens

Capturing creativity and connection at TGS.

At Toowoomba Grammar School, opportunity and connection come sharply into focus through the lens of the TGS Photography Club. More than just a co-curricular activity, the club is a vibrant and inclusive community where boys from Years 7 to 12 discover the joy of storytelling through images. It’s a safe, welcoming space where curiosity meets creativity, where friendships form, confidence grows and passions are brought vividly into frame.

This year’s TGS Photography Competition once again showcased the remarkable talent and imagination within our School community. For the first time, both staff and students were invited to enter, embracing the G150 theme “Then and Now” — a powerful invitation to explore ideas of growth,

change, tradition and transformation. The quality of entries was exceptional, prompting judges to expand the finalists to a top 12.

Congratulations to Mrs Trevisani, winner of the 2025 competition, for her striking and emotive photograph (featured on the cover of this edition of Omnibus); to Beau Hamilton (Year 10) in second place and Archie Beckwith (Year 12) in third. Ryan McKay (Year 12) earned the People’s Choice Award, receiving over 400 community votes for his breathtaking outback image.

Beyond the School’s gates, our photographers made headlines at the RNA Photography Competition, proudly earning TGS the title of School with the Highest Aggregate Points. With first,

By Mrs Jodi Blades, Head of Year 7 and Photography Club Coordinator

second and third place finishes, and five commendations, our boys proved that skill, imagination and teamwork can capture truly outstanding results.

From twilight workshops chasing the last light over Old Boys’ Memorial Oval to award-winning exhibitions that showcase their vision, the TGS Photography Club continues to offer boys remarkable opportunities to explore their passions, express creativity and view the world, and themselves through a new lens.

At Toowoomba Grammar School, photography becomes more than a pastime; it’s a way for boys to connect, reflect and celebrate the beauty found in learning, friendship and life — one frame at a time.

Twilight workshop chasing light over Old Boys’ Memorial Oval

Second place, Beau Hamilton

Harry Yan wins first place in the RNA Photography Competition with his entry “Harbour in Silence”

Olly Dunk earns third place in the RNA Photography Competition with his entry “Horizon”

Ryan McKay wins the People’s Choice Award with over 400 community votes

Follow Your Passion

A journey of leadership, learning and legacy through sport.

Teaching at the secondary level offers profound rewards. Many educators cite the opportunity to build relationships, effect change and engage intellectually. For me, the most gratifying aspect is cultivating passion in others, specifically, my passion for volleyball.

My journey began at Ipswich Grammar School in 1993, where I was vice-captain of the First VI team in Year 12, which placed third in 1995. Joining Toowoomba Grammar School in 2003 rekindled that passion. At the time, volleyball had limited teams and coaching. In 2004, I became Master-in-Charge and led reforms that, by 2010, doubled participation, introduced dedicated coaching and established our First VI as consistent top-three contenders.

My coaching philosophy centres on lifelong learning. In the early 2000s, I prioritised professional development, hosting National Level 1 and 2 coaching and officiating courses. I earned my National Level 3 certification in 2007 under Dan Illott, now Head Coach of the Australian men’s national volleyball team. Maintaining this certification and serving as a Volleyball Queensland educator has been deeply fulfilling. In 2022, I completed the inaugural FIVB Level 2 course after five days of rigorous instruction.

Career highlights include team success across GPS, state and national competitions. More recently, I’ve been inspired by our athletes’ representative pursuits. Old Boy Ben Hood (2011–21), who now represents Australia in beach

By Mr Eric Smith,

volleyball, motivated me to elevate my coaching. Over the past five years, I’ve coached at district, state and national levels, including leading national performance programs in Canberra and the Gold Coast. In 2025, I served as Head Coach for the Australian men’s U18 team in Thailand and led Queensland’s U15 boys through an undefeated Australian Youth Volleyball Championships campaign.

Looking ahead, I’m energised by the path to 2032 and the possibility of coaching athletes who may represent Australia on the world stage.

Assistant Head of Day House – Boyce

Eric Smith mid-explanation at Perth’s AYVC in September 2025

Head of Australian Men’s U18 Team Delegation Cameron Bettenay, Australian Men’s U18 Green Team coach Jessica Russell-Croucher, Australian Men’s U18 Team statistician Tanishq Sakhla and Australian Men’s U18 Gold Team coach Mr Eric Smith

Leading the Court

When Brenton Gaka was four years old, a small gift changed everything.

At their home in Blackwater, Central Queensland, Brenton’s dad brought home a mini basketball hoop for him and his younger brother. Night after night, the two would shoot hoops in the garage, imagining themselves playing under stadium lights.

“We used to watch NBL1 games, and that fired us up to keep practising on that little hoop,” Brenton laughs. “That’s where it all started.”

Fast forward to today, and Brenton, now a Year 7 boarder at Toowoomba Grammar School is wearing maroon, having earned selection to represent Queensland in basketball.

“Not many people get to represent their state. I just want to say I’m super grateful that happened.”

What Brenton loves most about the game is being a point guard.

“The ball’s always in your hands. You’re in charge of setting the play up, telling the team where to go. I love leading the court.”

That leadership mindset shows up in his dedication. His weekly schedule includes early-morning Emerging Player sessions, team practices, personal training and weekend court time with his boarding friends.

“My dad says the only reason why people are better than you is because they outwork you. So, I’m going to try to outwork them.”

But Brenton’s goals go far beyond basketball. A straight-A student, he’s focused on earning a place at a top US college to pursue both his sport and academics.

“Good grades can get you into any university. That’s how I’ll get to the NBA. So yeah, I work very hard.”

This year is Brenton’s first as a boarder at TGS, a big change he’s embraced wholeheartedly.

“On my first day, I got lost and walked into the wrong classroom. The teacher got one of his Year 8 students to walk me over to the Heenan Block. Now we’re good friends. People here are super kind.”

For Brenton, boarding life has unlocked new opportunities.

By Mrs Kathryn Doyle, Director of Communications and Marketing

“In Rockhampton, Mum and Dad were super busy, so it was hard for them to take us places.”

“Here, everything’s just two minutes away — the gym, the basketball courts, everything I need.”

His dreams are big: to represent Australia, play at the Olympics and build a life through basketball.

“There’s no such thing as too far away. Just smash it out, try your best at everything.”

His message to young players is simple but powerful: “Don’t settle for less.”

Brenton represented the TGS 7As

Brenton takes flight for Queensland in the U12 Basketball National Championships

Welcoming our boarders back for Term 4

Hazim Murad receiving the Mayoral School Achievement Medal Interact Club Changeover Dinner

Daniel Cowling takes out first place at the 2025 Queensland Youth Lead Boulder Titles

TGS campdraft team at the High School Campdraft Percentile Cup

War cries for the GPS Track and Field Championships

Groom House wins the Headmaster’s Shield

Harry Bland and Hayden Fellenberg at the Take Note Performing Arts Awards

TGSOBA Museum Curator Mrs Denise Miller, TGSOBA Museum Volunteer Mrs Judy Gillies and Grammar 150 Chair Mr Bronte Smith at the unveiling of The Grammar Boy statue

The Spirit Squad send off for the GPS Track and Field Championships

2025 Senior Prefects lead the tunnel for the Year 12 Awards Assembly

TGS Rugby hits the road to Longreach

Recognising a great season of chess at the 2025 Chess Presentation

Sunshine Coast Old Boys’ Reunion

Will Browett at the Inverell Joeys Mini World Cup

TGS Cadets at the March Out Parade

From French Polynesia to TGS: Laurent’s Mission to Nurture the Planet

By Mrs Kathryn Doyle, Director of Communications and Marketing

When you meet Laurent Epetahui, one of Toowoomba Grammar School’s dedicated groundsmen, it doesn’t take long to sense his deep respect for the land.

He speaks about the environment not as a distant concept but as something living, precious and personal.

“I can’t accept waste,” he says with quiet conviction. “When you grow up surrounded by the ocean, the rivers and the reef, you learn to live in balance with nature. We must look after her.”

Laurent grew up in the Marquesas Islands, a remote group of islands in French Polynesia, before moving to Tahiti for high school. In 1995, he was awarded an Australian scholarship, one of just eight students from French Polynesia selected that year, to study in Brisbane.

His journey has since taken him across the world: from building an agricultural school on the Marquesas Islands to earning a master’s in education in France, to teaching and leading sustainability initiatives at international schools in New Caledonia and Malaysia.

It was in Malaysia that Laurent created the Greenscape School Sustainable Solutions project, a hands-on initiative that turned food waste into compost,

built school gardens, introduced worm farms and inspired students and staff to think differently about how schools can operate.

“We started with just a few seedlings and a worm farm,” Laurent recalls. “It became a movement that connected the whole school community.”

Laurent’s love of the environment isn’t just professional — it’s personal. Raised in a large family of twelve, he learned early the values of community, resourcefulness and respect for the land.

“On an island, if something breaks, you fix it. You don’t waste. You help each other,” he explains.

He applies the same philosophy at home in Toowoomba, where his family separates food scraps, recycles carefully and maintains their own worm farm. “I want to do my part,” he says. “We can all do something, even in small ways.”

Since joining TGS, Laurent has quietly and quite literally begun to sow the seeds of change. Working with the

boarding community and grounds team, he has introduced worm towers, begun collecting and composting food waste, and shared his vision for a “smart and sustainable campus.”

“Our boys have incredible ideas and energy,” he says.

“They can be the inventors, the thinkers, the ones who find new ways to protect the environment. We just need to give them the opportunity.”

He sees a future where students play a leading role in driving environmental solutions.

“For me, TGS has given me an opportunity to share what I love,” Laurent reflects. “I’d love to help build a sustainable campus, one where students, staff and nature thrive together.”

A Century of Legacy

One family, one School, one tradition.

One hundred years ago, a young boy by the name of James “Jim” Hall from Newtown first donned the Blue and Gold, commencing his time at TGS in Year 8. Two years on, another young man by the name of Tom Allen would also join Jim on campus. Little did they know that their enrolments would be the catalyst for a century of future family members to arrive and commence their journey in various forms at this prestigious School.

Whilst Jim only remained in the Blue and Gold for two years, Tom went on to represent the School with honours by playing First XI cricket, then represented the region before eventually receiving first-class honours for the state. Tom is still honoured annually; the cricket match between the TGS First XI and Downlands College is fought for the Tom Allen Memorial Trophy, given to the winner of this fixture.

As Old Boys who now serve as staff members, Groom Boarding House Manager Jon Hall (1988–89) and Head of Pastoral Care Michael Hall (1989–91) often reflect on what the Blue and Gold means to them and what their legacy will be.

“It’s a real honour to have this opportunity to continue representing the School and my family at the same time,” Michael reflects. “Mum and dad are incredibly proud that we remain connected to the Blue and Gold. They

love coming in to watch the rugby and occasionally catch up with Mrs Judy Gillies and the staff from the TGS Museum.”

Below is a list of the immediate family members who have attended TGS:

» James “Jim” Hall (1924–25)

» Tom Allen (1927–29)

» Doug Allen (1933–34)

» Gordon Allen (1934–36)

» Ross Allen (1954–55)

» Bruce “Doug” Allen (1958–61)

» Peter Allen (1963–66)

» Malcolm Allen (1964–68)

» Jonathan Hall (1988–89)

» Michael Hall (1989–91)

» Ben Allen (1990–94)

» Campbell Allen (1992–96)

» Chris Allen (1990–92)

» Jarred Allen (1991–95)

» Lachie Allen (1994–98)

» Nick Allen (1993–97)

Over 100 years, 16 family members and countless memories. This legacy is more than a remarkable milestone. It’s a living testament to the values, traditions and connections that make the School more than just a place of learning, but a home across generations. This centenary honours the enduring spirit of community that makes TGS a cornerstone in the lives of so many.

Michael Hall and Rebecca Hall with daughters Mia and Emme visiting TGS families on school holidays

The Hall Family

Mrs Beverly Hall presenting 2023 TGS Cricket Captain Sam Anderson with the Tom Allen Memorial Trophy

By Mr Michael Hall, Head of Pastoral Care and Mr Jon Hall, Groom Boarding House Manager

Boyce House: Building a Service Mentality

Boyce House has a strong tradition of service to others.

We want our boys to know how fortunate they are to attend such a wonderfully resourced school, and to enjoy the privileges it offers without taking them for granted. We want our boys to understand the concept of servant leadership and kindness, and to embody this in their everyday actions.

Boyce House Blitz returned to our service roster this year. In 2014, we started to take on doing the yard work for an elderly neighbour of the School who had taken ill and was not able to look after his own garden. This year, we heard of another elderly couple who live next to the School who were in the same situation. Most weeks, a crew of eager young men give up their Wednesday afternoons to assist this couple; sweeping, raking, mulching and taking on any other odd jobs that need doing. It’s not just the sweat expended

that’s important, it’s the friendly interactions between the boys and a long-retired teacher that bring a smile to her face.

Wednesday afternoons are certainly busy for our Boyce boys, as some of our Year 11 and 12 boys visit Toowoomba West Special School (TWSS) during lunchtime and year-level assemblies. The boys assist with socialisation activities with the boys and girls at TWSS. They also gain an insight into the challenges faced by the TWSS students, and the wonderful support offered to them by patient staff members and loving parents. Many of the boys build on those friendships during our annual Sony Camp.

Last year, we ran our first Mountain Mile, an Ekiden-style distance relay, where four competitors each ran a mile. Our boys either act as marshals

By Mr Tony Wallis, Head of Day House - Boyce

Edwin Muirhead, Toby Grills, Cooper Bracken and Jim Turner visit Toowoomba West Special School (TWSS)

Winners of the 2024 Boyce House Mountain Mile

on the course or participants. Entry fees are then donated to St Vincent de Paul, who use those funds to support Toowoomba’s people in need (many of them homeless or living in poverty).

Our own Boyce Assistant Head of Boarding House, Mr Brendan Doherty, is a wonderful role model to our boys in this regard, serving as President of The St Thomas More’s Chapter of St Vincent de Paul.

Each Christmas, our boys gather goods to compile hampers for St Vincent de Paul. The Prep room in the Boyce Boarding House becomes a wonderland of toys, Christmas treats, tinsel and pantry staples, as hampers for more than 120 families and individuals are built, checked and stored in readiness for distribution. Many Boyce boys and their families assist on the last weekend before Christmas Day to deliver these hampers to people in need. Again, it’s

not just about hampers; it’s about the boys gaining an appreciation that not everybody has had the chances in life that they are fortunate enough to have. For many of our boys, it’s a valuable and important lightbulb moment.

Many of our boys embrace these ideals and make service a part of their lives. Our boys also assist at

many community events such as the Toowoomba Marathon, Million Paws Walk, Peak2Park charity fun run and the Hike for Homeless. They understand that helping others is a reward in itself, and we are gratified to hear of our boys continuing to give their time to worthy causes long after they have graduated. Public service is just another way our boys live our motto, Fidelis in Omnibus.

Hampers to support Toowoomba’s people in need

Nerida and the ‘Blitzers’

2025 Boyce House Mountain Mile

2024 Boyce House Mountain Mile

Hampers for St Vincent de Paul

Boyce House:

Prep Students Build for a Cause

Toowoomba Grammar School Prep students have recently taken part in a special servicelearning project, joining forces with the not-for-profit organisation RAW Impact to create two bookcases destined for Cambodia.

These bookcases will be shipped to RAW Impact’s Every Piece Matters Learning Centre, where they will provide a valuable resource for children and families in need.

This project gave our youngest boys the chance to explore the meaning of service and empathy in a very practical way. By contributing to something that will directly benefit other children, the Prep students began to understand the importance of generosity, compassion and supporting communities beyond their own.

In addition to the construction work, Prep families generously donated a wide selection of books to fill the shelves. This combined effort between students, staff and families ensured

the project not only delivered sturdy furniture but also enriched learning materials for Cambodian students.

Under the guidance and supervision of adults, the boys developed a range of practical skills while building the bookcases. They measured, cut, followed instructions, hammered and sanded each piece with great focus and enthusiasm. The hands-on experience was both enjoyable and rewarding, allowing the boys to learn teamwork, patience and perseverance along the way.

Later this year, the bookshelves will be transported to Cambodia by Senior School boys who will travel to assist with the construction of the Every Piece Matters Learning Centre.

Their involvement provides a powerful link between the Prep and Senior years, highlighting the School’s strong culture of service and global awareness.

Through projects like this, TGS continues to nurture young men who are thoughtful, skilled and motivated to contribute positively to the wider world.

By Mrs Amelia Grills, Prep Teacher

Liam Danesh helping secure the back panel of the bookcase

One of two finished bookcases ready to be sent to RAW Impact’s Every Piece Matters Learning Centre

Scan to watch behind-the-scenes footage of our young builders in action

Connection to Country

By Tate Dwyer, De’Aundre Yorkston and William Kris

Three Year 9 students reflect on their week at the Yalari Outback Leadership Camp in Central Australia, combining adventure, cultural learning and leadership development.

Tate Dwyer

At the Yalari camp, we spent the week exploring Central Australia, learning more about the local culture and environment. We travelled through Alice Springs, Ormiston Gorge, Kings Canyon and Uluru, spending two nights at each location. At Ormiston Gorge, we hiked and learned about the ghost gum trees’ significance in Indigenous culture, along with stories of the land. The Kings Canyon rim walk offered incredible cliff views. That evening, dingoes wandered past camp as we listened to stories around the campfire. At Uluru, we caught both sunset and sunrise before completing the 10km base walk and visited Kata Tjuta at sunset. But the best part of the trip was spending time with mates, making new friendships and listening to Uncle Jim’s campfire stories each night.

De’Aundre Yorkston

I really enjoyed learning about Indigenous culture and participating in different activities at each campsite. At our first stop, we hiked to see the ghost gum trees and learned about their significance to the local Indigenous people and their connection to the land. At the second site, we joined a group walk through the area, taking in the scenery and learning about traditional practices from the landowner and his sons, who shared their stories and culture with us. At the third site, we finally saw Uluru for the first time, an incredible sight. We walked around it and took part in a special walk that Yalari hadn’t done in years, making it even more meaningful. My favourite parts were stacking rocks with the boys at each site to mark where we’d been and seeing Uluru up close — something I’ll never forget.

William Kris

Throughout the week, we saw incredible sights like Uluru, tried new foods and learnt about Indigenous culture and the land. In Alice Springs, we cooked kangaroo tails over the fire, walked around the world’s biggest rock, and lay under the stars to see the Milky Way, something many of us had never seen so clearly. We met new people from other schools and deepened friendships with those we already knew, sharing stories about our cultural backgrounds and learning about others’ connections to Country. The camp perfectly balanced fun, learning and adventure, building stronger friendships and a deeper understanding of culture and community.

Kangaroo tail cooking

Witchetty grub

Across Continents, Beyond Classrooms: The Exchange Experience

By Mrs Arlie Felton-Taylor, Content Coordinator

This year, fourteen Toowoomba Grammar School students participated in international exchanges, embracing the challenge of living and learning abroad.

Among them was Year 10 student Beau Hamilton, who travelled to South Africa, while Thushaan Naidu from St John’s College joined the TGS community in Term 3. Their experiences offer a compelling glimpse into the transformative nature of exchange.

Beau’s time in Johannesburg was both energising and eye-opening:

“The lessons here are shorter but pack in more work, which keeps things moving at a faster pace and has been a refreshing change. Sport has been a real highlight. Although I continued playing tennis, it’s been a completely new experience in terms of who I’m playing with, the format and just how much I’ve enjoyed it. Additionally, participating in squash, hockey and water polo has allowed me to appreciate the variety and energy of school life here. Beyond the classroom, Johannesburg has been lively and full of culture. What I’ve enjoyed most is meeting new people

and settling into a community that quickly felt like home.”

Meanwhile, Thushaan found his time in Australia equally rewarding:

“From the warm welcome in Toowoomba to exploring Perth, every moment felt new and exciting. Living with my exchange partner, Beau, gave me a real glimpse into Australian culture and School life. Highlights included trying different sports, joining in class projects and experiencing boarding life. I returned home with lifelong memories, new friendships and a greater sense of independence.”

Regular exchange partners include schools in the UK, South Africa, France, Germany and Japan: Rugby School, Oakham School, Bryanston College, Kearsney College, St John’s College, Lycée Saint-Joseph (Avignon), FriedrichBährens-Gymnasium and Keio Shiki Senior High School.

Whether outbound or inbound, the exchange program continues to offer boys a chance to grow in confidence, character and cultural understanding, broadening their horizons in ways that last well beyond the term abroad.

Thushaan Naidu and Beau Hamilton in Old Hall at Toowoomba Grammar School

Samvit Kapoor in the Junior TiGAA Ensemble’s Every Novel You Ever Read in High School in 30 Minutes

Artharsh Gajaharan in Senior TiGAA’s Romeo and Juliet Thou Art a Villain

Flynn Sloss in Senior TiGAA’s Romeo and Juliet

Thou Art a Villain

Hamish Baker in the Junior TiGAA Ensemble’s Every Novel You Ever Read in High School in 30 Minutes

Ruhan Bulchandani in the Junior TiGAA Ensemble’s Every Novel You Ever Read in High School in 30 Minutes

Senior TiGAA’s Romeo and Juliet Thou Art a Villain

Senior TiGAA Ensemble

Balliwanga

From the TGSOBA President

Mr Simon Cook (1999–04)

2025 has been an extraordinary year for Toowoomba Grammar School as we celebrate 150 years of history, tradition and achievement.

It has been inspiring to see our Old Boys’ community come together in such numbers, reconnecting, sharing stories and creating new memories. The Grammar Downlands Day and Reunion Weekend were a true highlight of this period, showcasing the spirit, pride and connection that define us.

I would like to take a moment to welcome Mathew McColley (1999–2000) and Matthew Dennis (2000–06) to our committee.

Grammar Downlands Reunion Weekend — Year of the 5s

The weekend began on the evening of Friday, 15 August, with 132 Old Boys and their families gathering for the Welcome Function in the Assembly Hall. The energy in the room was unmistakable as old classmates caught up, many for the first time in years, setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

Saturday brought one of the most memorable Grammar Downlands Day fixtures in recent times. The First XV ran out in a custom heritage strip to further celebrate Grammar 150. Before the match, past First XV captains were invited back and presented with commemorative heritage jerseys by Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh. They were tunnelled down the Old Boys’ Stairs and cheered the First XV onto the field. This moment was steeped in history

and significance, linking generations of Old Boys together. The game itself was a tense contest until late in the second half, when TGS scored twice to secure a 26–5 victory, to the delight of the crowd.

On Saturday evening, over 300 Old Boys and guests celebrated across two venues, with 240 attending Fitzy’s and 60 gathering at Burke & Wills Hotel. Both dinners were filled with conversation, laughter and the warmth that comes from shared history and lifelong friendships.

The weekend concluded on Sunday morning with more than 70 attendees enjoying a relaxed morning tea and guided tours of the School, including the impressive new Design, Engineering and Technology Centre. This year’s Reunion Weekend was a powerful reminder of what makes TGSOBA special, a community built on shared experiences and enduring

Don Trenerry (1952) and Colin Harding (1953) lead out the Captains of Rugby on Grammar Downlands Day

The Class of 1975 at the Bourke and Wills Reunion Dinner

1965 Old Boys, Barry Gourley and Robert Hardy at the Bourke and Wills Reunion Dinner

Rodney Hard (1961) signs the Captains of Rugby commemorative jersey

connection. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the TGSOBA Committee, School staff and volunteers whose hard work ensured such a successful celebration.

Recent Events

The year concluded with several significant events, including the Sunshine Coast Old Boys’ Lunch, Generations Gathering Morning Tea, Grammar 150 Gala Dinner, Year 12 Graduation Ceremony and the sealing of the 2025 time capsule. Full coverage of these occasions will appear in next year’s edition of Omnibus.

Old Boys’ Deck Project

We are continuing to raise funds for the new Old Boys’ Deck overlooking Old Boys’ Memorial Oval. You can leave your mark on TGS history by purchasing an engraved brick and helping to bring this important project to life. Find out more at: twgs.qld.edu.au/paving-the-way

A Word of Thanks

In closing, I would like to sincerely thank our TGSOBA Committee, the School staff and the many volunteers whose efforts continue to make our events so successful. Your commitment keeps the spirit of the association thriving. I encourage all Old Boys to stay connected with TGSOBA and consider joining the committee next year as we build on the momentum of Grammar 150. If you have ideas or energy to contribute, I would love to hear from you, your involvement can make a real difference to the future of the association. You can also connect with the community through toowoombagrammarconnect.com, our online networking platform.

1995 Old Boys at the Friday night Welcome Drinks: Ian Hallo, Ben Hewitt, Sanjay Dhupelia and Adam Brand

1955 Old Boys at the Bourke and Wills Reunion Dinner

Some of the 1995 Old Boys enjoying Reunion drinks at Fitzy’s

2015 Old Boys toasting TGS memories at the Reunion drinks at Fitzy’s

Brian Sivertsen (2015) and Sally Nicklin at the Reunion Morning Tea

Mardi and Brian Sands (1953) at the Reunion Morning Tea

One Act of Kindness

Honouring Dr George Fielding

Every year at Toowoomba Grammar School’s annual Speech Day Awards, a handful of hard-working young men are bestowed a special honour — the Dr George Fielding Medal for Application and Diligence. This was initiated in 2017 for Year 12 students who demonstrate exceptional work ethic throughout their time in the Senior School. To qualify, a student must have earned either Pro Diligentia or Pro Summa Diligentia awards for at least 75% of their Senior School years. It celebrates sustained effort and perseverance in a student’s academic journey.

The Dr George Fielding Award is a meaningful accolade that truly

embodies the values Dr Fielding held dear, perseverance, diligence and striving for excellence. It’s a fitting tribute to his legacy, reinforcing the importance of consistent effort and character in a student’s education.

That character building started more than eight decades ago, when a young George left his home in Brisbane to begin life as a boarder at Toowoomba Grammar School in 1944. It was the height of World War II. Soldiers patrolled the coastline, and the fear of invasion hung heavy. George’s parents, Harold and his wife, wanted safety for their son, but they wanted more than that; they wanted opportunity.

By Mrs Stacey Silver, Community Engagement Officer

“They made an enormous sacrifice,” reflects George’s daughter, Lillian Duncombe. “They didn’t have a lot, but they believed education was everything. They knew TGS would give Dad the best chance at life.”

George arrived at TGS as a nine-year-old boy with a suitcase and little idea of what lay ahead. Those first years were not easy. He spoke of the challenges of boarding life, particularly Grade 8, the hardest year of his schooling. But in that challenge, George found something extraordinary: kindness.

“When things were tough, older boys stepped in to help him,” says Lillian. “He formed friendships that lasted his entire life. Those acts of mateship shaped the man he became.”

He also found a school that believed in hard work and perseverance. During his time at the School, George was Captain of the TGS athletics team in 1948. He was also Captain of the Second XV rugby team, alongside playing in the First XV. He was Captain of Mackintosh House and Senior Prefect in 1947 and 1948. His Headmaster pushed him to do better, to dig deep. George even repeated Year 12 because he wasn’t happy with his first results. That decision summed up his character, determined, resilient and quietly ambitious.

Dr Fielding’s daughters, Catherine, Rebecca and Lillian, in the P.B. Hauser Aquatic Centre

Those qualities carried him into a brilliant career as a surgeon. George became a leader in his field, training and mentoring others while raising a family he adored. Dr Fielding OAM was inducted into the TGS Old Boys’ Wall of Achievement in 2003. The School’s Headmaster at the time, Mr Peter Hauser, said that he had one of the most impressive careers of all TGS Old Boys, but more importantly, was humble in his achievements. He was admired for his skill, but more importantly, for his integrity and humility.

“Dad never forgot the School that helped shape him,” Lillian shares.

“He always said his happiest times were at TGS. It wasn’t just about academics — it was about character. TGS gave him the courage to push through, the mateship to feel supported and the confidence to believe in himself.”

Before his passing, George made a decision that reflected everything he stood for. He left a generous bequest to Toowoomba Grammar School. His wish?

To give boys from rural and remote communities, “kids from the bush,” the same opportunity he had.

“There are so many families who would love to send their sons to TGS but simply can’t afford it,” Lillian explains. “Dad wanted to change that. He believed one act of kindness could unlock a child’s potential. Education gives you a future, and he wanted other boys to have that chance.”

George’s gift will do more than fund education; it will change lives. It will allow boys to walk the same grounds he did, to experience the mateship and values that shaped him and to leave with the same sense of purpose.

“Dad believed in paying it forward,” says Lillian. “This bequest is his way of saying thank you to the School and giving back to the community.”

It’s a gift born from gratitude, but also from hope — hope for the boys who will come after him, for their families and for the future.

“Dad always believed that if you help a child grow, you help the community and ultimately the country,” Lillian says.

“That’s why this means so much to us as a family. It’s more than a bequest. It’s an act of love.”

George’s story reminds us that generosity isn’t about wealth, it’s about values. It’s about believing in potential and helping someone else achieve it. In doing so, one leaves a legacy that lasts for generations.

“Dad would want these boys to know they deserve to be here,” says Lillian. “He would tell them to work hard, be kind and take every opportunity, because that’s what he did. And it changed his life.”

1947 Prefects

A young Dr Fielding with his mum, Lillian, during school holidays

Dr Fielding and his wife, Barbara, celebrate his 80th birthday

Dr Fielding as a teenager with his parents, Harold and Lillian

Old Boys’ News

Do you have a story to share?

We are always looking for articles to publish about our Old Boys. To share a story, please email — communications@twgs.qld.edu.au

2016 Senior Prefect Daniel Cover (2012–16) married Paige Leicht, who graduated from The Glennie School, on 30 May 2025. Daniel’s four groomsmen were all Old Boys: Marshall Smith (2012–16), Alex Mulckey (2010–16), Ryan Currie (2010–14) and Joe Vary (2011–16).

Shane Stafford (1976–80) had a brush with royalty when his Irish-trained filly Cercene won the prestigious Coronation Stakes (1600m) at Royal Ascot, London. Presented with the trophy by King Charles III, Shane found the ceremony itself an honour but described the highlight as “Having a good chat with the King. I told him I was a bushy from outback Queensland, and we started talking about cattle. He told me his favourite place in Queensland is Eidsvold.” A former stock and station agent from Richmond, Queensland, Shane has recently moved to Ireland with his wife.

Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh took Bill and Alexandra Dent, son and granddaughter of 13th Headmaster William Dent, on a tour of the School on 15 July.

Sean Johnston (2014–18) will play the role of Elder Price in the Brisbane QPAC production of The Book of Mormon in July next year. Since graduating from the Queensland Conservatorium, he has held roles in Grease, Mamma Mia!, Jersey Boys and Hairspray

Benny Pike (1968–70) was officially recognised for representing Australia in Boxing at the 1980 Moscow Olympics by both the prime minister and opposition leader on 29 July. The team was never officially welcomed or celebrated upon their return home from the games. “The returning athletes were met only by cold silence or cruel comments; today, we fix that,” said the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese.

Grant Vinning (1959–64) was returning home to Brisbane from Foundation Day celebrations on 5 August and was amazed to see the Story Bridge lit up in blue and gold. Mr Vinning said, “I have chosen to interpret the colour selection as an acknowledgement by the arriviste schools in Brisbane of Toowoomba Grammar School’s rightful position in the pantheon of being Fidelis in Omnibus.” Coincidence? We think not.

David Billsborough (1970–74) has so much pride for the Blue and Gold, it’s his personalised plate!

(L–R): Marshall Smith (2012–16), Alex Mulckey (2010–16), Daniel Cover (2012–16), Ryan Currie (2010–14) and Joe Vary (2011–16)

Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh with Bill and Alexandra Dent

David Billsborough’s (1970–74) tribute to TGS

Ivan Board (1961–64) returned to the School on 10 September to kindly donate four of his updated TGS cricket history books covering 1918–99. The final volume spanning 2000 to 2025 is underway. Thank you, Ivan, for your time and extraordinary effort. This is a priceless TGS history record and will be valued by all.

The family of the late Lex Bailey (1961–64) has raised $175,000 in their father’s honour to purchase a transcranial magnetic stimulation machine for Toowoomba Base Hospital, which will aid in the early diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND).

Eli Adams (2013–19) won the Newcastle Jets A-League Men’s Members’ Player of the Year award for the 2024/25 season, alongside the A-League Men’s Golden Boot award, following his breakout first season with the club, where he scored nine goals.

Prof. Tarun Sen Gupta (1975–79) was acknowledged for his extraordinary contribution to the Rural Doctors Association of Queensland after retiring from his role on the management committee in June. He served for many years across numerous positions, including president and treasurer.

Nicho Battersby (2003–07) is making a name for himself as a playwright in the UK. He wrote and directed The Imposter, which played at the Camden Fringe Festival in August and received glowing reviews. The Imposter delves into the anxieties of the modern age, questioning identity, authenticity and selfhood in a world where technology and competition increasingly define our existence.

Assoc. Prof. Robert Henderson (1981–85) was our guest speaker at the TGS Rising and Leading in Medicine luncheon in July. Dr Henderson is regarded as one of the best neurologists in the world and a leading researcher in neuromuscular diseases.

Bronte Smith (1987–91), Alistair MacMillan (1992–96) and Andrei Clewett (1989–91) addressed 130 Year 10 students about leadership, positivity and character development in August. The workshop was organised by the Head of Pastoral Care, Mr Michael Hall (1989–91). We’d love to welcome back more Old Boys to inspire our students.

Cameron Davidson (1966–70) dropped into the TGSOBA Museum in August. Mr Davidson was the 1970 Dux and Interact Club President from 1969 to 1970. His brother, John (1964–68), was also Dux in 1968 and Interact Club President from 1968 to 1970. Cameron’s son Benjamin (1990–92) is also an Old Boy.

For 32 years, Sam Duddy (1991–95) wondered what became of the scissors he lost during Year 10 in 1993. On Foundation Day in August, former science teacher Mr Graham Sampford, who served at TGS from 1965 to 2006, returned them at last! Mr Sampford had picked them up after class and placed them in his lost property items, only to rediscover them this July. He brought them to the celebrations, hoping to reunite them with their rightful owner. Thanks, Mr Sampford — and no detentions were issued for forgetfulness!

Mrs Denise Miller, Ivan Board (1961–64), Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh and Mr Steve Fryer

Nicho Battersby (2003–07)

Two of our favourites, Mrs Judy Gillies and Mrs Denise Miller, caught up with Old Boy and Assoc. Prof. Robert Henderson (1981–85) at the Rising and Leading in Medicine event

Sam Duddy (1991–95) with Mr Graham Sampford and the notorious missing scissors

DEATHS

Callum Dingwall (1949–50) in January 2024

William “Vaughan” Hinton OAM (1948–49) in August 2024

James “Jim” Russell McWilliam AO (1942–45) in August 2024

Ross Benn (1981–82) in August 2024

Allan Douglas (1971–72) in April 2025

Gerald Lynn (1948–49) in April 2025

Lawrence “Ray” Lithgow (1950–51) in April 2025

Graham Askern (1966–67) in April 2025

Lindsay Welsh (1973–74) in June 2025

Neil McPherson OAM (1958–59) in June 2025

Dr Harry Muir (1942–46) in June 2025

Neil Tuffley (1945–46) in June 2025

Leon Schweikert (1962–63) in July 2025

Ian Rolfe (1949–50) in July 2025

Leslie Craswell (1955–56) in July 2025

Jeffrey Patterson (1950–53) in July 2025

David Harris (TGS Staff 1971–94) in August 2025

Tony Booth OAM (1943–47) in August 2025

Philip Woodhouse (1959–60) in August 2025

CMDR Rowley Alan Waddell-Wood (1946–47) in August 2025

Grahame Rogers (1946–49) in September 2025

William Whannell (1944–45) in September 2025

Ron Scheuerle (1942–43) in September 2025

William Hauritz (1965–69) in December 2025

Vernon Jannusch (1946), no date advised

Ian Luck (1947), no date advised

MARRIAGES

Daniel Cover (2012–16) to Paige Leicht in May 2025

ENGAGEMENTS

Dawson Henricks (2004–08) to Grace Fowler in November 2024

Obituaries

WILLIAM “VAUGHAN” HINTON OAM (1948–49)

Vaughan Hinton began as a cadet reporter at the Toowoomba Chronicle in 1948 before becoming one of the ABC’s most influential producers. He created Compass in 1988, one of ABC’s longest-running programs and established the ABC’s Indigenous unit, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander filmmakers and producing landmark series such as The First Australians and Blackout

His work covered major national events and in 1994 he ensured the first Sydney Mardi Gras broadcast reached 2.5 million viewers despite controversy. He championed refugee support through the Australian Council of Churches and volunteered with the Monbulk CFA in retirement. Vaughan received the OAM in 2014 for his contribution to broadcasting and the community of Monbulk. He is remembered for his innovation, compassion and service to the media and community. He leaves behind Kym, daughters Nicola and Caroline, and extended family.

CMDR ROWLEY ALAN WADDELL-WOOD (1946–47)

Rowley Alan Waddell-Wood was born in Moree and raised on the Darling Downs, attending Esk State School and TGS. Always fascinated by flying, he joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1954 and trained as a pilot, later flying Sea Furies, Venoms and helicopters. He was the leader of the Checkmates aerobatic team at the time of the infamous mid-air collision over Sydney Harbour in October 1962.

Rowley served with multiple squadrons, was instructed in the UK, and from 1968 to 1969 flew in Vietnam with No. 9 Squadron RAAF. For his leadership and courage, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. He later served as a naval attaché in Manila before retiring in 1976.

After navy life, Rowley and his wife, Elaine, farmed near Cowra before retiring to Canberra. He is survived by Elaine, his children Peter, Sue, Dianne and Gaye, and grandchildren.

JAMES “JIM” RUSSELL MCWILLIAM AO

(1942–45)

Jim McWilliam was a pioneering agricultural scientist and the first Director of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (1982–89), where he built lasting partnerships between Australian researchers and developing countries.

Born near Leyburn, Queensland, Jim studied forestry at the University of Queensland and in the US, completing a PhD at Yale. He worked with the Queensland Forestry Service, CSIRO and later as a professor of agronomy at the University of New England, publishing widely and mentoring many postgraduate students.

Jim was a Fellow of both the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and the Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering. In 1989, he was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).

He is remembered as a scientist of vision and energy who left behind a global legacy in agricultural research.

TONY BOOTH OAM

(1943–46)

Tony Booth OAM, born in Toowoomba in 1929, was a champion athlete and lifelong servant of sport. As a schoolboy, he excelled at athletics, later winning Queensland titles in the 100 and 440 yards.

From 1956 to 1989, he coached athletics, cross country, swimming and rugby at Churchie, where he was a beloved mentor. He was honoured on the TGS Old Boys’ Wall of Achievement in 2015 for his lifetime of service to athletics at school, state, national and international levels.

Tony is remembered as a champion athlete, dedicated coach and respected community figure.

Toowoomba Grammar School on tour 2026

During 2026, TGS will be on tour visiting past and present families, catching up with Old Boys and meeting new families. These events are a wonderful opportunity to meet our staff and hear more about what is happening at TGS. More details regarding events and venues will be available soon. For further information and to RSVP, please use the QR code below.

Term 3

Term 1

Inverell

Term 3

Wednesday, 24 July

Clifton

Friday, 13 February

Moree

Clifton Show

Moree

Thursday, 23 July

Boarding Schools Expo

Thursday, 25 July

Tara

Boarding Schools Expo

Friday, 6 March

Tenterfield

Tara Show

Thursday, 25 July

Toowoomba

Thursday, 26 March to Saturday, 28 March

Tamworth

Toowoomba Show

Tamworth

Friday, 24 July to Saturday, 25 July

Boarding Schools Expo

Tenterfield

Sunday, 26 July

Brisbane

On Tour 2026

Thargomindah

Friday, 26 July to Saturday, 27 July

Boarding Schools Expo

Term 1 school holidays

Brisbane

Tuesday, 4 August

Brisbane Ekka Gold Coast

Term 2

Tuesday, 6 August

Brisbane Ekka

Goondiwindi

Thursday, 30 April to Saturday, 2 May

Aspects Art Show and Goondiwindi Show

Other dates coming soon:

Coonamble

Thursday, 14 May

Roma, St George, Condamine, Dalby and Hannaford. Check the website for details.

Dubbo

Friday, 15 May to Saturday, 16 May

Boarding Schools Expo

Chinchilla

Friday, 22 May to Saturday, 23 May

Chinchilla Show

twgs.qld.edu.au

Toowoomba

Wednesday, 29 July to Thursday, 30 July

ICPA Federal Conference

Other dates coming soon: Check the website for details.

twgs.qld.edu.au

Community » Events » TGS On Tour

Community » Events » TGS On Tour

Tuesday, 2 June

FarmFest

Atherton

Wednesday, 3 June to Thursday, 4 June

ICPA Queensland State Conference

Longreach and Muttaburra

Friday, 5 June to Sunday, 7 June

Longreach and Muttaburra Stock Show