We are nearly there! With only this weekend to go, the school holidays are just about here. However, there is a final weekend of basketball and rugby to navigate, as well as the ‘Spring Social’ on Sunday afternoon, to which our boarders are playing host to St Margaret’s, Somerville House, The Glennie School and Fairholme College. I am confident it will be a fun afternoon where our boys will be able to socialise and enjoy the company of their fellow boarders from the girls schools attending. To make sure we get every little bit out of Term 3, we also have our House Formal Dinners on Wednesday night. They are a great opportunity to recognise our Year 12 boarders and their journey through the School.
I would also like to take the chance to congratulate those boarders who have been announced as School Prefects for 2026. I am looking forward to working with these young men throughout the year.
Luke Burrow - Boyce
Jackson Haynes - Groom
Henry Maunder - Stephens
William McKay - Taylor
Campbell Newell - Stephens
Christopher Piccini - Boyce
Harry Rogers - Taylor
The highlight of the past couple of weeks has been the ‘Sundowner’ drinks last Friday. It’s always wonderful for our boarding community to have the chance to get together. I have only heard positive feedback about the event and I will be making sure that we have some scheduled into our calendar for 2026. Thank you to all the families who were able to make the trip in and spend some time with the boarding staff in their house.
Given that this is the last Friday of the term, I do ask that end of Term leave requests are entered for all of our boarders by the end of the weekend. Furthermore, I also request that boarders wishing to utilise the bus transfers to Brisbane airport sign up for these on the Parent Lounge by Monday morning. As a reminder, boarders are expected to remain until the conclusion of the House Carnival at 3:00pm on Thursday afternoon. Our boarding houses do remain open until midday on Friday for those that need the extra time.
I know that Steph has communicated more about the Boarding Parents Support Group AGM next Thursday and I’ve also sent out an email that has the link to the meeting for those that can only join us online. If you do wish to nominate for a position, or you have an agenda item to raise, please remember to send an email to Steph so it can be actioned.
In looking ahead to Term 4, I will send separate communications about the Term 4 activities program and how to book for the Term 4 tutoring sessions by the end of next week. I’m looking forward to seeing as many of you as I can at the various events next week.
The term is almost done but time for just one more kindly reminder to get involved in the Boarder Parents' Support Group or BPSG.
BPSG Annual General Meeting
Thursday 18 September 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Old Hall / Online
All boarding parents are warmly invited to attend either in person or online.
At the AGM, all positions will be declared open. Nominations are welcome from all parents and should be emailed to Nick Byron (n.byron@twgs.qld.edu.au) and myself (s.smart@twgs.qld.edu.au) by COB Thursday, 11 September.
This year, as they graduate, we will be farewelling:
Sarah McInnerny – Mackintosh House
Margot Black – Boyce House
In addition, a new Corfe House Representative will also be elected. Ideally, this position is filled by a parent who has an older son with boarding experience, to help guide our new families through their first year. Our Secretary, Brenda McMillan, has also indicated her wish to step down from the role. As I mentioned in my Term 1 report, I also intend to step down as President. I hope to transition smoothly and support the incoming President before I graduate next year.
We warmly encourage mothers and fathers alike to nominate and it would be wonderful to see more dads involved.
What’s Involved in Being a BPSG Representative?
Attending one BPSG Meeting each term (in person or online)
Collecting and presenting ideas, suggestions, and concerns from parents at the BPSG Meetings
Supporting the Head of House and boarding families with welcoming, settling in and sharing information
Assisting with the organising and coordination of BPSG social events
Monitoring the House WhatsApp Group Chat:
Approving new parents into the chat
Monitoring the chat
Sharing reminders and information
Recognising the commitments (and distance) of boarding parents, we don’t expect anyone to be at every event in person.
Following the AGM, the Term 3 BPSG meeting will be held, and any agenda items should be forwarded to your House Representative, Nick Byron, or myself by COB Thursday, 11 September.
As we move through the final weeks of Term 3, I have been pleased with how the boys continue to represent Boyce House. It is easy, at this stage of the term, to become bogged down and allow fatigue and commitments to alter the mood of interactions. However, positivity remains and conversations begin to shift to excitement for the forthcoming break.
Our 'Buff of the Week' recognition continues to highlight just such examples of positivity. Week 7 saw Will M acknowledged for his ongoing photographic contributions, building on his earlier success as a prize-winning photographer at the Ekka, Will took over 300 snaps at the Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner. Week 8 brought recognition for Blake, whose efforts to support mates who are ‘doing it tough’ have been noted by his peers. On a birthday front, Tom P is now 17, Thushaan celebrated his 16th during his exchange from South Africa and Tom R turned 15.
Academic achievements continue to flow, with commendations recognising excellence across subject areas. Elijah's Geography Commendation demonstrates his analytical thinking, while both Eric and Mitch have earned Workshop Commendations, showcasing their skills and dedication to the trade programs. Blake's General Studies Commendation rounds out this collection, reflecting his engagement with learning opportunities.
On a sporting front, Lawson has provided his round-up of the term, with one round of fixtures remaining:
"As the term draws to a close, it's an excellent time to reflect on how the boys in Boyce have been getting on with sport. Whether on the rugby fields or the basketball courts, boarders from Boyce House have been working exceptionally hard in their respective sports and teams.
So far in rugby, with one game remaining, the First XV have had an excellent season, winning five of their eight games, with unfortunate losses to Churchie, Brisbane State High School and Nudgee. In these fixtures, many boarders from Boyce have started or come off the bench, including co-captain Luke, Arch, Myles, Tom H, Rhymen, Sam and James. The 16As, captained by Henry, remain unbeaten after a thrilling draw with Nudgee after Cooper C, George A and the 16Bs secured a nail-biting 3-0 win over the same opponents. In basketball, the First V have had a challenging season thus far but have learned lots. As with rugby, several Boyce boarders have excelled in this top team, including Austin, Elijah and captain, Emmanuel. Well done to Jonah and the 9Bs on their victory against Nudgee.
Last weekend was also significant for the seniors in rugby, as they were able to play on Old Boys' Memorial Oval for one last time against Nudgee in their final home game. Tom T, Cam and Will W all showing up well for the Fifth XV. It was a brilliant day, with many seniors having a once-in-a-lifetime experience in their final weeks of school."
Our second Sundowners event on Friday, 5 September proved as successful as our August gathering. The attendance was strong, conversations flowing and the sense of community connection evident throughout the afternoon. The feedback has been positive and I'm pleased to confirm that this will become a regular fixture in our social calendar. The informality of the occasion, plus sunshine and smiles appears to have landed well and I appreciate the efforts of all those who contributed to the atmosphere.
With the House Formal Dinner on Wednesday, 17 September approaching, RSVPs will have closed by the time this newsletter reaches your inbox. The evening promises to be a fitting celebration to close our Term 3 social calendar, falling the night before the House Carnival. The House Captain's raffle prize list is now complete. Whilst I hope to arrange an EFTPOS facility for ticket payments, please do bring along some cash, if you are able, to help raise funds for our chosen charity – Drought Angels. Tickets will be priced at $5 each or 5 tickets for $20. Thank you again to those who have contributed to our prizes:
Yeti Tundra 65 Litre Hard Cooler (courtesy of the Beckwith family)
Gip’s Restaurant voucher (courtesy of Danielle Brown, General Manager)
Possum and Bloom café, gifts and florist voucher (courtesy of the Donaldson family)
Lamb from Talinga, Toobeah (courtesy of the Burrow family)
Goodie bag assortment of chocolates, mug and Rebel Sports voucher (courtesy of the Moore family)
Riverina Gin (courtesy of Jake and Tessa Eaglesham, Owners)
First Team jersey/singlet signed by Boyce representatives (Courtesy of Lincoln Clapham and Drew Fenton)
Looking ahead to the holidays, I'd like to remind all families that holiday arrangements should now be submitted via Reach. By the time the break begins, my own parents will have landed in Australia as they visit Toowoomba for the first time. Meg and I are excited to show them around whilst spending some time on the Sunshine Coast also.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the House Formal Dinner and wish everyone a safe and enjoyable term break when it arrives.
John Troxler Head of House - Boyce Boarding
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
As we approach the conclusion of Term 3, I would like to take this opportunity to commend all Corfe boys on what has generally been a positive and productive term. The boys have navigated a demanding GPS sport schedule, particularly in rugby and basketball, alongside a busy academic calendar. Despite the challenges posed by illness earlier in the term and the inevitable fatigue that comes with the final weeks, the boys have shown resilience and commitment.
It is important, however, to acknowledge that over the past week, there have been several instances where some boys have made poor choices or have been unkind and disrespectful towards their peers or staff. While I am hesitant to issue a blanket message, especially as many boys continue to uphold the School’s values daily, I believe it is a timely reminder for all parents to engage in a conversation with their son. The principle of “treating others as you wish to be treated” remains a cornerstone of our community, and this was reinforced in Week 8 when Mr Michael Hall, Head of Pastoral Care, addressed all Corfe boys. When mistakes are made, our focus is on learning and growth. We want all boys to finish Term 3 well, with pride in their conduct and contributions.
TiGAA Drama Performances
It was a pleasure to see the boys supporting their Year 7 peers and enjoying the performances by Junior and Intermediate TiGAA. For many, it was their first experience at the Empire Theatre and Armitage Centre, a memorable mid-term break from nightly prep sessions and a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the talents of fellow students.
Year 7 Social
The Year 7 social was a highlight for many, with lots of smiles and excitement throughout the evening. Some boys stepped outside their comfort zones and it was heartening to see them connect, or reconnect, with girls from other local schools. These social experiences are invaluable in building confidence and interpersonal skills.
Service and Community Engagement
We were proud to see Corfe boys participating in the Groom/Stephens Walk to Defeat MND at Queens Park. Charlie Allen, Mal Bulmer and Don Algie represented the house admirably during this activity, raising funds for a meaningful cause. Service activities are highly valued at our School and we encourage all boys to engage in such opportunities throughout their Senior School years. Our thanks go to the Groom and Stephens House staff for organising our involvement and to all TGS boys who supported the event.
Year 10 Mentors – Reflections and Appreciation
A sincere thank you to our Year 10 mentors for their dedication and support of the Corfe boys over the past nine weeks. Their leadership and guidance have been instrumental and we trust they have developed skills that will serve them well in their final years of school and beyond.
Here are some reflections from our mentors after Week 8 this Term:
Ben McDonald (Groom House)
"My biggest success has been forming a connection with the Corfe boys so they have a familiar face when they move into the senior houses. Looking ahead, I want to strengthen these relationships so they feel comfortable coming to me with any concerns. I identify as a democratic leader—I value hearing multiple perspectives before making decisions. I aim to be more present and involve more boys in activities like going to the gym. If I could go back to Week 1, I’d tell myself to get involved in games of touch and help more during Prep."
Riley Gray (Stephens House)
"Encouraging inclusivity and equality has been my biggest success. My goal for the final weeks is to socialise more broadly across the group. The most rewarding part has been getting to know the boys and developing my own leadership skills. I also identify as a democratic leader and see this in how I approach decision-making. I aim to be more assertive when needed and ensure all boys feel included through bonding activities. My advice to myself in Week 1 would be to trust my leadership ability and be firmer when necessary."
Noah Grob (Mackintosh House)
"Being present and involved has been my biggest success. I want to continue striving to be the best leader I can be. I’ve learned a lot about handling different leadership scenarios. I identify with an autocratic style, which I’ve noticed when I get frustrated if people don’t listen. I aim to be a better role model and make sure all boys feel supported, not just those I naturally connect with. If I could go back, I’d start building relationships earlier."
Matthew du Plooy (Boyce House)
"Like Noah, I feel my biggest success has been simply being around and involved with the boys. My goal is to continue growing as a leader. I’ve learned a lot about managing different situations. I also identify with an autocratic style and want to improve as a role model. I try to treat all boys equally and make sure they feel included. My advice to myself would be to engage earlier and more actively."
We also acknowledge Henry Croft (Taylor House), who departed on Wednesday, 20 August for a student exchange program with Oakham School in the UK. His contributions earlier in the term were greatly appreciated.
Acknowledgements
Health Centre Staff: Thank you for your care and support, particularly during the first four weeks of Term 3 when many boys were unwell. Your advice and assistance are deeply appreciated by the entire Corfe community.
Kitchen Staff: We are grateful for the meals you prepare each day and for your willingness to take on feedback throughout the term.
Corfe Staff: Thank you for your tireless efforts and teamwork. Your commitment to the boys is valued by myself, the students and their families.
Reminders
Formal Dinners: Corfe boys and parents will join their Senior Houses for Formal Dinners on Wednesday, 17 September. Dress Code: Blazer Uniform.
End of Term 3 Leave: Families are kindly reminded to enter leave via REACH as soon as possible. The holiday period begins on Thursday, 18 September at 3:10pm and concludes on Tuesday, 7 October. The boarding house will reopen from midday on Tuesday, 7 October.
Dorm and Room Allocations: As communicated in Week 8, dorm and room allocations will remain the same for Term 4. Consistency is crucial for the boys, and after careful consideration and consultation with our experienced Corfe staff, we believe this approach will best support stability across the house.
Thank you for your continued support of Corfe House. We look forward to a strong finish to Term 3 and an exciting beginning to Term 4.
The Final Sprint: Making These Last Two Weeks Count
As we enter the final fortnight of term, students across all year levels are facing a crucial period that can significantly impact their academic outcomes. With assessment deadlines looming and final examinations approaching, maintaining focus and momentum during these last two weeks is essential for achieving the results you've been working toward all term.
Why These Two Weeks Matter Most
Research consistently shows that the final weeks of any academic period are when students either consolidate their learning gains or lose valuable ground. This phenomenon, known as the "end-of-term effect," can make the difference between achieving your target grade and falling short of your potential. The work you complete and the effort you invest now doesn't just contribute to your immediate assessment results - it reinforces the knowledge and skills you'll need for future learning.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Many students experience a natural decline in motivation as the term draws to a close. The initial enthusiasm of the semester has waned, social distractions increase and mental fatigue begins to set in. Some students adopt a "good enough" mentality, convincing themselves that coasting through the final weeks won't significantly impact their grades. This thinking is not only incorrect but can be particularly costly given how much weight final assessments often carry.
Another common mistake is cramming versus consistent effort. While it might seem efficient to leave everything until the last minute, research demonstrates that distributed practice - spreading learning over time - leads to better retention and performance than intensive last-minute sessions.
Strategies for Staying on Track
Create a realistic schedule: Map out all remaining assignments, tests and deadlines. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and assign specific time blocks to each. This prevents overwhelm and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Maintain healthy routines: Sleep, nutrition and exercise become even more critical during high-stress periods. Your brain needs adequate rest to consolidate information and perform at its peak during assessments.
Eliminate distractions: Identify what typically pulls your attention away from studying - social media, entertainment, social commitments and create boundaries around these during your dedicated study time.
Seek support when needed: If you're struggling with particular concepts or feeling overwhelmed, reach out to teachers, tutors, or study groups now rather than waiting until it's too late to make meaningful improvements.
Focus on understanding, not just completion: While it's tempting to rush through assignments to check them off your list, taking time to truly understand the material will serve you better in final exams and future courses.
The Compound Effect
Remember that academic success operates on a compound principle - small, consistent efforts accumulate into significant results over time. The dedication you show in these final two weeks doesn't just affect your immediate grades; it builds habits and resilience that will benefit you throughout your educational journey and beyond.
Your future self will thank you for the extra effort you invest now. These final two weeks represent an opportunity to finish strong, demonstrate your capabilities and set yourself up for continued success. The choice of how to use this time is entirely yours - make it count.
Running out onto Old Boys' Memorial Oval for my final game of rugby felt surreal. It’s a significant rite of passage that senior rugby players experience as the GPS Rugby Season concludes at home.
With the School’s rich history tied to that ground, getting the chance to finish my playing days there made the occasion even more special. From the moment I laced up my boots, I knew it was going to be a game I’d never forget, not just for the rugby itself, but for what the field represented. It was a privilege to play where so many before me had left their mark. To be part of that tradition, even if only once, is something I’ll always carry with me.
What made it even more memorable was having all my mates on the sidelines, cheering and backing me the whole way through. Every run, tackle and break felt bigger because I was doing it in front of the people who’ve been part of my journey. The atmosphere, the energy, the banter, the pride, it turned the game into something more than just sport. It was a surreal moment: Old Boys' Round, playing in the mighty Fifths.
It was a massive shame we went down 8–5 to Nudgee College. However, it sure didn’t feel like a loss. With everyone supporting us and dubbing it the game of the round (within the seniors), I was proud of the boys and the effort they left out there.
It was such a privilege to play with the Year 12 boys on Old Boys' Memorial Oval and maybe we should have more chances to play there. Many younger ‘A’ level teams get to play on Old Boys' throughout their seasons, but some boys who’ve been here for a long time, some over six years, have only played there once, including myself. I’m not sure what’s right.
Regardless, it was an amazing experience and one I’ve looked forward to throughout my rugby career here at Toowoomba Grammar School.
Brody McInnerny Mackintosh House Boarder and Toowoomba Grammar School Prefect
Wise Words of Advice
In our most recent Combined House Meeting with the Day Students, Mr Lachmund delivered what he described as “a blunt message, bluntly” — a powerful reflection on the reality of achieving goals and what is truly required to be successful.
Our boys were both engaged and challenged by his address. He revisited the old sentiment that “you can be and do whatever you want”, reminding them that while setting goals is important, success only comes to through sacrifice and sustained hard work over time.
Following this, Mrs Hede also spoke at Senior School Assembly, reinforcing the message with a compelling analogy about effort and preparation. She said with her address:
“You don’t train for a marathon by reading about it — you need to do the work (running).”
She continued by relating this to academic performance:
“You can’t prepare for a marathon performance the night before. You need to start well ahead of time. This is some for examination, preparing well ahead is essential”
Mr Lachmund’s full speech is included below for you to read.
The Self-Sacrifice Imperative
This is a blunt message, and so I’m going to tell it bluntly…
I’ve got some bad news for you, gentlemen: if you want to achieve your goals and objectives in this life, you must be prepared to make sacrifices. Why is this bad news? Because most people don’t want to make sacrifices. Most people think that self-indulgence (which is self-sacrifice’s direct opposite or evil fraternal twin) won’t have a negative impact on their life and moreover will not prevent goal achievement. They think that life will unfold in this sweet, lovely, salubrious way and that all the great riches will simply materialise and be taken full advantage of. It won’t. Not without sacrifice. Not without the withholding of the sort of pleasure that some think is their God-given right to bathe or luxuriate in. Not without the willingness to simply say ‘no’.
When I look at Noah Lyles, the current Olympic and World 100m champion, I don’t see his Porsche 911 Turbo, his Rolex Daytona, his house on the beach in Florida, his beautiful Jamaican girlfriend… I see searing pain, the endless tedium of the physio’ table, the mental anguish of injury recovery. I see a monk-like existence devoid of social pleasure. I see sacrifice. Lyles is a professional, one of the highest-paid track athletes on earth; but what of the amateurs, the everyday men and women who set a serious goal for no fiscal reward or podium adulation and quietly work their way towards its achievement? This is you. This is me. This is almost everyone. Is this what it means to live well? Yes, I think it is.
Here we have my 23-year-old son, Julian, former Mackintosh House Captain, who, in this photo, has just completed the most recent Gold Coast marathon, last month. At the start of this year, Julian set a goal to run a sub-three-hour marathon, which meant running at 4.12km/h pace for 42.2 kilometres. Most of the population, fuelled by beer and KFC, supported by beanbag and couch, could not run one kilometre this fast. Try forty-two of them and see how you go. One would hope you had private medical insurance.
Anyway, one of the first things Julian realised upon the setting up of this goal was that he was going to have to make some changes to his lifestyle – he was going to have to make sacrifices. Here are some examples: no alcohol, no processed food, no fast food, no nights that finished after midnight, no skipping of training sessions, no loose interpretations of the training schedule set down for him by his mentors in the running group he is a member of: Watts Athletics. Also: no thinking that he could achieve this goal all by himself, without the wise counsel of those who have run multiple marathons and learned from their mistakes. Julian was told that sleep and nutrition are the two most overlooked components of fast marathon running. As I said, he made sacrifices in both these areas. The one-hundred-kilometre weeks, the tempo running, the speedwork – these were just a given. I’ve also told you Julian is twenty-three, a life stage where drinking too much, staying out late, and consuming junk food is as natural as breathing. If you’re not doing these things, you’d be some sort of weirdo; but for six months, Julian was that weirdo.
He achieved his goal – by 56 seconds. I’ll say that again: by 56 seconds. His time was 2.59.04 – the sub-three-hour marathon he announced he was going to try to run at year’s beginning. Julian is not a particularly talented runner – but he understands that without sacrifice, there is no achievement. When he was done, there was no fanfare, no cash prize, no promise of some yellow brick road he’d get to wander down for the rest of his life. There was just the genuine admiration of his family and the Watts Athletics crew, this photo and the warm inner glow of an achievement unavailable to most.
Sacrifice was key. Without it, Julian would’ve just run a marathon.
Thanks.
Clayton Lachmund Assistant Head of Boarding House - Mackintosh
Awards and Successes
TGS Photo Competition
Ryan Mckay was highly commended for his photograph from his home 'Macwood', near St George in the recent TGS Photo Competition.
Ryan's beautiful photo
Commendations
During this last week we have had two boys awarded House Mother Commendation from Mrs Kim Stewart:
Jett Brennan has been commended for his effort to improve his prep time. His focus and commitment and his willingness to ask for help has noticeably increased this term. This improvement, along with his behavior is reflecting a positive attitude towards his studies.
Tibby Evans is to be commended for his positive attitude, willingness to lend a hand and increased confidence in and around the house. It’s been lovely to see you contribute so positively to your dorm and our boarding house.
Boader of the Week
Artie McMillan - Artie is always honest, mature and helpful in the Boarding House. He treats all boys and staff with respect at all times. His is a calm and consistent dorm leader, polite and courteous with the boys in his dorm.
Success on the Field
Noah Grob - Scoring the final try in the 16As Rugby draw with Nudgee College 17-17.
Archie Smart - Kicked a late penalty goal to secure a win for the TGS 16Bs v Nudgee College 3-0.
Craig Thaggard - Return from injury and starting for the TGS First XV for the first time.
As we finish the assessment block the boys will turn their attention to packing, cleaning and preparing for the final days and the House Carnival Day.
Wednesday, 17 September 2025
Mackintosh House Formal Dinner - 6:00pm Centenary Dining Hall
Thursday, 18 September 2025
Senior School House Carnival - all boys must attend; concludes at 3:10pm.
End of Term 3
Please look to organise your end-of-term departure in advance.
Ensure your Holiday Leave is in REACH and includes all transport details, such as who will be picking up from school and when.
Flights: if your son is flying home, include flight details, ticket information and your mobile number in the leave request.
The sign-up for the Brisbane Airport bus services for the end of term and the start of term are now available on the Parent Lounge.
For any concerns about airport transfers, please contact Student Services or myself.
Start of Term 4
Tuesday, 6 October - Kings Birthday Public Holiday
Wednesday, 7 October - Boarders Return
Thursday, 8 October - Classes Commence
I hope everyone has a great weekend, finishes the term well and enjoys a restful school holiday.
Brad Allen Head of House - Mackintosh Boarding
Stephens House
Stephens Sentinel
The Term 3 Final Edition
Sundowner Drinks v2.0
As we come to the final stretch of what has been a long and busy term, I have been encouraging the boys to finish strongly. It is in these last days – when tiredness begins to creep in, when assessments loom and when the lure of the September holidays edges ever closer – that the challenge is often greatest. Our aim is to keep the boys steady, purposeful and connected, while still ensuring that they enjoy the moments that make Stephens House boarding life rich and memorable.
One such highlight in our calendar is fast approaching: the Stephens House Formal Dinner, to be held on Wednesday, 17 September at Middle Ridge Golf Club. This evening is always a fitting way to bring the term to a close – an opportunity for parents, staff and boys to come together in celebration of our House culture. On the night we will also introduce our House Captain and Vice-Captain for 2026, as well as acknowledge with pride the two Stephens House boarders (Henry M and Campbell N) who have been appointed as School Prefects for 2026. It is a significant moment of transition, legacy and recognition and I look forward to sharing it with many of you. We will also welcome a guest speaker/Old Boy (2015-17), Jack Hannah, who will tell us his post-Stephens story and how he has become a livestock agent and is building his career within the agriculture sector and offer advice for boys looking to do similar.
In the meantime, life in Stephens carries on at its usual fast pace. One initiative we have been trialling in recent weeks is less tech, more play after prep in the evenings. Instead of boys drifting towards their phones or screens, we are nudging them towards table tennis, pool, or simply sitting together and talking. It may sound simple – and it is – but there is something powerful about teenagers swapping scrolling for conversation, or gaming for a quick-fire ping-pong rally. Traditional play, in all its forms, helps build relationships in a way that screen time rarely does. It offers laughter, a chance to compete in good spirit and the sort of connections that serve the boys far better than a late-night dive into TikTok. As lights out approaches, this shift in energy helps create calmer, healthier routines and, hopefully, better sleep, which all of us know is in short supply for teenagers.
Mr Wilson has been overseeing this initiative in the House, along with a lot of other ideas and his efforts this term have been incredible. He has very kindly offered a bit of an overview about the less tech, more playinitiative:
"In an effort to encourage more face-to-face connection and a break from screens, we’ve introduced Tech-Free Thursdays in Stephens House. Each Thursday evening after prep, phones are returned to the boys in staggered groups — Years 8 and 9 receive theirs at 8:30pm, while Years 10 to 12 get theirs at 9:00pm. The result has been terrific. The common room has come alive with the sounds of laughter, cheering over table tennis and pool games, and lively discussions during Thursday night footy. It's been heartening to see the boys reconnect, unwind and genuinely enjoy each other’s company — without a device in hand."
A quick thank you to those parents who we saw last week at Sundowners, it was great to see you enjoying the TGS hospitality!
As ever, I remain deeply grateful for your ongoing support of both the House and the boys within it. The term has been full, often frantic, but also incredibly rewarding. I wish you and your families a restful and enjoyable September holiday period and I hope that, like me, you can look forward with both pride and optimism at all that is unfolding in Stephens.
Phil Kefford Head of House - Stephens Boarding
Wings Wednesday
This Wednesday, Mr Wilson took a number of boys from the House up to Eastville for the ‘Wings Wednesday’ experience – our first of the year. The boys selected to attend were those that we had identified as setting and maintaining, high standards around the house – this could be attitude in prep, supporting their mates, helping staff or maintaining strong academic/behaviour scores in class. Rewarding our boys that go above and beyond is part of our House culture and it is thriving.
The collegial aspects of House living are, for most of the boys in Stephens, one of the highlights. The good-natured chat, across different years, the supportive environment and the general ‘vibe’ that we have in the house is just wonderful. It will continue because our community cherishes it, develops it and nurtures it - to the point that this vibe is just our everyday normal. I have said this on occasions before - we do not buy into the 'home away from home'. Instead, I have tried to develop and build a boarding house community which sees value in friendliness, approachability and a calm atmosphere. Yet, at the same time, we go about our business in a way that is professional, welcoming and respectful. We do not attempt to replicate 'home' because we can't. What we can provide all of the boys with is an enjoyable place to live, to hang out with their mates and enjoy the many benefits of a sociable, healthy and active residential education that will give them an understanding of lifelong learning, growth and resilience.
Wings Action
From Mr Wilson:
"A select group of Stephens boarders were recently treated to an outing on Wicked Wings Wednesday - a chance to enjoy some good food and even better company. The boys had a great time chatting, sharing stories and, of course, tackling a variety of chicken wings. Special mention must go to Campbell, who bravely took on the second-hottest wings on the menu - easily the toughest of the lot on the night! This will become a termly tradition, offered to boys who consistently demonstrate the character, attitude and spirit we value in Stephens House. It’s a small way to recognise those going above and beyond and to build camaraderie in a fun, relaxed setting."
Taylor House
Taylor Tribune
Term 3 Highlights
As Term 3 draws to a close, it is worth pausing to celebrate the many achievements and efforts of our Taylor House boys. On the sporting field, while victories were not always guaranteed, the enjoyment and spirit displayed by our boys has been commendable. They have learned valuable lessons from both success and challenge and their resilience continues to shine through. In the classroom, the focus during prep time has been pleasing and we look forward with confidence to exam and assessment results that reflect their dedication and effort.
Commendations
We are delighted to acknowledge several boys who have received commendations this term. Congratulations to Lewis A, Mason M, James P and Fletch W for their outstanding contributions and consistent application. These achievements highlight the high standards we aim for in Taylor House and we are proud of the example these boys set for their peers.
The Year 12 Journey
Our Year 12s are moving through a poignant stage of their final year at TGS. With Term 3 marking their last full term, we are reminded of the importance of cherishing these moments rather than simply ticking them off. Last weekend’s game on Old Boys’ Memorial Oval was their final home match, and while these “lasts” accumulate, the real value lies in the memories being made. These are stories that will be retold for years to come, and we encourage our seniors to savour every moment of this journey.
Taylor House Formal Dinner
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Taylor House Formal Dinner, will be held on Wednesday, 17 September. This evening is an opportunity to celebrate our graduating Year 12s, honour their contribution and welcome the next generation of leaders as we introduce our 2026 House Leadership Team. We will also formally welcome our young Corfe men as they transition into their senior house. Families are reminded to secure tickets for what promises to be a memorable evening.
Sundowners Success
The second instalment of our Taylor House “Sundowners” was an overwhelming success, blessed with sunshine, great conversation and a wonderful sense of community. These events have quickly become a treasured addition to our House calendar and we look forward to hosting more of them in Term 4. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the relaxed, positive atmosphere.
End of Term Reminders
With the holidays fast approaching, families are reminded to submit all leave through REACH in a timely manner. Boys will be permitted to keep items in their cupboards over the break; however, we strongly encourage major items to be taken home for laundering, repair, naming, or replacement where necessary. For those travelling long distances, rest assured that larger or more valuable belongings can remain securely stored at school. It is essential that each boy completes a thorough stocktake to ensure a smooth start to Term 4.
