The start of the 2026 school year has been a very pleasing one and I have been impressed by the way our boarders have settled back into boarding life at TGS. There has been a strong sense of positivity across the boarding houses and it has been encouraging to see the relationships between boarders and staff continue to develop so early in the year. Most importantly, the boys are presenting as happy, settled and well supported, which remains our priority.
Boarding life is hitting the ovals in the afternoon
I have also been pleased with how well the social media ban on smartphones has been followed. The boys have adapted well to this change and, from my observations, it has had a positive impact on their engagement with each other and with boarding staff. We appreciate the support of parents in reinforcing these expectations and helping to ensure consistency between home and school.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind families about expectations surrounding local leave. Boarders are reminded that they must return on time and respond promptly to calls from the Master on Duty. Recently, we have had a number of boys returning late from local leave and not answering their phones, which creates unnecessary concern and risk. I would appreciate parents reinforcing these responsibilities with their sons, as our shared goal is to ensure all boarders remain safe and accountable while off campus.
We have updated the boarding calendar and it is available in this newsletter for ease of access. We encourage families to refer to this regularly to stay informed about upcoming boarding events and commitments.
Timetabled tutoring will once again be offered this term, continuing our commitment to supporting the academic progress of our boarders. In addition, there are some new whole‑school initiatives being developed that will complement existing support structures. These arrangements are still being finalised and further information will be shared shortly. To assist with the organisation of tutoring sessions, I ask that families complete the expression of interest form linked in this newsletter.
I am also pleased to advise that a Making and Fixing Club will run out of the Design Engineering Technology Centre on Friday afternoons. This will provide another valuable opportunity for boys to develop practical skills and interests outside the classroom. Details are still being finalised and sign‑up information will be shared once confirmed.
D.E.T Centre has been operational from the start of Term 1
Finally, I would like to remind families that boarding activities often have limited numbers and require early sign‑up. Unfortunately, some boarders this term have missed out by leaving their registration too late. Please encourage your sons to plan ahead and commit early to activities they are interested in, to avoid disappointment.
Thank you for your continued support of the boarding program. It has been a strong start to the year and I look forward to building on this momentum as the term progresses.
An Update on Boarding Social Media
As part of our ongoing work to streamline how we communicate with families, the TGS Boarders Facebook page will be closing shortly.
Boarding news, updates and stories will continue to be shared through our main School channels and newsletters, ensuring families have one clear, reliable place to stay connected and up-to-date.
Nick Byron Director of Boarding
Boarding Calendar Dates and Tutoring Expression of Interest
A link to a PDF of the Boarding Event Calendar can be accessed HERE.
Our friendly Health Centre staff are always ready to help
Welcome to a new year
We’re delighted to welcome you back to 2026. Our team is committed to supporting your son's health and wellbeing with professional, compassionate and personalised services.
We offer a range of services designed to meet your needs. Our experienced healthcare professionals are here to listen, guide and work with you every step of the way.
If you have any questions, need to book or change an appointment for your son, or would like more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help.
We look forward to supporting your son on their health journey.
School Immunisation Program
For all of our Year 7 and Year 10 parents, you will shortly receive some correspondence regarding the School Immunisation Program that is offered to students. This will take place on the following dates:
Year 10 will have their vaccinations on 10 March and 12 October.
Year 7 will have their vaccinations on the 27 July.
For our boarder families, if you would like for your son to have a screening and vaccination for Q fever, this is something that the nursing staff can help facilitate. This link outlines some information about this: Q fever | The Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Please get in touch if you would like to organise this.
Our phone contact details are: (07) 4687 2504 or 0407 648 802 and our email address is f_health@twgs.qld.edu.au
We look forward to the year ahead.
Nursing Staff The Health Centre
Boyce House
Boyce Bugle
Boyce House hound, Ronnie
The first note on the Boyce Bugle for 2026 rings with positivity and excitement for the year ahead. The boys have settled back into routines, set their goals and now begin working towards their successes for the next few weeks and terms to come.
I have been struck by how ‘settled’ things have felt. Perhaps it is the seamless transition of our Year 8s, the calming presence of our only ‘new boy’, Gus or the steady hand of Mrs Bazley but very quickly the boys have dropped into their friendship groups, formed new connections and engaged with their chosen pursuits. We are yet to celebrate any student birthdays. However, Mr Brendan Doherty has managed another lap around the sun and we wish him well in this regard!
Our first ‘boarding-in’ weekend was hugely successful with the food and activities on offer accessed by all at different points. I particularly enjoyed the Friday night dinner of BBQ tacos cooked by Tom H and Tom P. Whilst the food was excellent, the opportunity to share the conclusion of the first week in a relaxed way has provided us with plenty to chew on moving forward. Ricky Baker’s wise words during Saturday evening's outdoor movie night were the perfect complement to some flame-roasted marshmallows and the power of a small fire to get boys talking, laughing and sharing stories was a further highlight. This followed enthusiastic support of our cricketers. Charlie P’s opening spell for the 8As drew plenty of applause with Lawson and Finn S also demonstrating their skills for the 10As with their house mates watching.
When House Captain, Luke spoke to the boys during our first House Meeting of the year, he referenced participation and work ethic as the two areas where he wants the boys to focus their energies as part of their ongoing commitment to the Triple H Code – Hard Work, Humility and House First. Pleasingly, our first Carnival of the year – House Swimming saw plenty of house spirit on show. We achieved a gallant third place with 1877.5 points and the energy and enthusiasm have set the tone for the house competitions still to come this year.
I hope you are all as excited as we are for the year to come and enjoyed a relaxing Christmas holiday. Under the guidance of our incredible staff in Boyce House, we are sure that we can help everyone achieve their goals in 2026, whether it be in the classroom, on the stage, or on the sporting fields and courts. Our goal for the House this year is to foster an environment that boys want to spend time in and be surrounded in, where every boy feels a sense of safety, comfort, and enjoyment around the House. We plan to do this through strong conversation and connection with the boys and ensuring the inclusion of all boys of all ages.
Another important goal for the boys is to secure victory in the Headmaster’s Shield. Following our performance last year, we have plenty of areas that require improvement. The only thing we ask of the boys to work towards this goal is that they participate in as many activities as they can, including turning up to swimming in Week 3 and House Cross Country in Week 9, with their utmost effort. We are fortunate enough to have many talented boys in-House this year. However, without the effort and participation of the rest of the House, the talent gets us nowhere. Whilst a Headmaster’s Shield victory would top off our time at Grammar, we look to take the journey one carnival at a time, focusing on effort and participation, while still fostering a culture where carnivals are enjoyable for all boys.
As we look ahead to the year, we feel incredibly fortunate to be working with such a positive and enthusiastic group of young men. Boyce House has always been at its best when boys feel connected, supported and proud to be part of something larger than themselves and we are committed to strengthening that culture in 2026. With the combined efforts of staff, families and the boys themselves, we’re confident that this will be a year filled with growth, achievement and plenty of memorable moments.
Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement. We look forward to a rewarding and enjoyable year for every member of Boyce House.
Luke Burrow, Boyce Boarding House Captain and Christopher Piccini, Boyce Boarding House Vice Captain
Introducing our newest Boyce House Boarder
We have been delighted to welcome Angus into our Year 11 cohort and he has been kind enough to share these words of introduction:
Angus Kearney - Year 11
Hello everyone
My name is Angus Kearney. I come from the small town of Delungra, NSW. This year I have made a very big decision and I have started my Year 11 at Toowoomba Grammar. This has been a huge change for me but also a very exciting one. I was nervous about leaving home and moving away, meeting new people, playing new sports but I have really enjoyed it so far. All the boarders have helped me settle into Boyce House during the first few weeks. Boarding comes with some massive responsibility like getting to training on time; to class on time and making sure you are not behind on schoolwork. Overall, in this short amount of time boarding has already made me more independent and has prepared me for the long journey ahead of me. I am very excited to face what the next two years of Toowoomba Grammar will throw at me.
Before moving further into 2026, I would like to recognise the achievements of some of our boys who hit milestones over the Summer Break. Firstly, well done to Nate T on gaining his green and gold rugby jersey for the Australia Under 16s and to Austin and Corben – who have both been named within the Queensland Under 18 basketball squad.
Overseas, Hugo continues to flourish on exchange at Rugby School and has spent time connecting with previous Boyce exchange resident, John H.
Lastly, Henry and Ed travelled to Cambodia with the RAW Impact program and, by all accounts, did an excellent job whilst making the most of this opportunity. Henry has already presented to the School during Assembly on the group’s experiences, with Ed providing a summary of their time overseas below:
Going to Cambodia with Henry through Raw Impact ended up being one of the most grounding experiences of our lives. Before we left, we knew we were going over to help build houses but we didn’t realise just how much the trip would open our eyes.
Raw Impact guided us through everything, from taking us into the communities to showing us exactly how our work would make a difference. Having their team with us made the whole experience feel safe, organised and incredibly meaningful. When we first arrived, everything felt different: the heat, the pace of life, the way people lived so simply. But what really hit us were the families we met.
Even though many of them had so little, they showed up every day with huge smiles, ready to help and ready to welcome us like we’d known them forever. Working alongside them made us realise how strong and resilient people can be, even in situations that would overwhelm most of us.
We saw things that were very confronting, homes barely standing, kids playing in dusty streets with almost nothing and whole communities doing their best with whatever they had. Those moments were eye‑opening in a way that stays with you. But instead of feeling helpless, we felt incredibly grateful. Grateful for what we have, grateful for the chance to help and grateful for the way Raw Impact made sure every bit of effort went somewhere real.
By the time we finished building the houses, we weren’t just proud of the work, we felt we had contributed to real change. Seeing the families walk into their new homes, knowing we’d played a part in giving them something safer and more stable, was honestly one of the most rewarding feelings we’ve ever had.
Looking back, the trip wasn’t just good. It was humbling, emotional and life‑changing. Cambodia didn’t just give us memories; it gave us perspective and we would encourage all those interested to give it a go.
Ed
The stage is set, therefore, for a great year ahead. As ever, please do not hesitate to reach out with any concerns you may have and I look forward to another year of progress for the young men of Boyce House.
John Troxler Head of House - Boyce Boarding
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
Corfe boarders getting help from Mr Damien Wrench, Head of Department - Mathematics
It has been a wonderful start to the year in Corfe House and I would like to begin by sincerely thanking all our families for the ongoing support you provide your son each day, even from afar.
Welcome to Our Year 10 Mentors
A warm welcome to our new Year 10 mentors: Charlie Beckwith (Boyce), Luke Shepherd (Groom), Clancy Kane (Mackintosh), Edmund Barton (Stephens) and Jack Campbell (Taylor). These young men have joined us as part of the Year 10 Service and Leadership Residency Program. They have made a positive impact, supporting Corfe boys with routines, homework and simply being approachable, steady role models.
The boys have settled into their routines extremely well, balancing academic expectations alongside a busy GPS sporting season. Both morning and evening prep sessions have been productive, with many boys showing strong focus and an improved work ethic.
Corfe staff and our Year 10 mentors are always on hand to assist boys who are finding certain concepts challenging. The boys sit in small groups during evening prep, where peer support and tutoring is encouraged.
Our Study Skills program, delivered by Ascend Learning, has begun with positive feedback. Throughout the term, the boys will also explore:
getting organised
planning and time management
independent learning habits
working smarter rather than harder
memory and retention techniques
assessment and exam preparation
reflection and goal setting
For many of our students, particularly those transitioning from School of the Air or small remote primary schools, this structured support is invaluable as they adapt to the academic expectations of Senior School.
Thanks to Mr Damian Wrench, our Head of Mathematics, we now have access to a Corfe Class on Mathspace. This enables us to track progress and ensure boys are working on skills directly aligned with the curriculum.
Mathspace tasks are fully differentiated, allowing each boy to focus on what he personally needs most. Boys will be strongly encouraged to work on these skills during prep, particularly when homework in other areas has been completed.
Celebrating Kindness – "Shout Outs"
A key part of our daily House roll calls are our Shout Outs, where we take a moment to publicly recognise genuine acts of kindness, helpfulness and support. Whether it's assisting a mate, helping staff, or quietly doing the right thing, we celebrate these moments. Boys are encouraged to nominate each other, reinforcing a culture of encouragement and gratitude.
Student Voice and Wellbeing
As part of our commitment to wellbeing, all Corfe boys completed an End of Week One Boarding Check-In. The survey provided insights into how our boys are settling into boarding, forming connections and navigating their first days of Senior School.
The boys were invited to indicate any concerns or questions and to identify trusted adults they feel comfortable approaching. This feedback helps us ensure every boy feels connected, supported and ready to thrive.
The Corfe Closed Weekend was the perfect way to finish Week 1, packed with fun, laughter and time to bond.
Highlights included:
their first taste of GPS sport
a movie night in the new DET lecture theatre (Ice Age was a hit!)
trampolining at Kloud9ine
a relaxed visit to Grand Central
slip ’n’ slide fun and a refreshing swim in the TGS pool
It was a fantastic opportunity for the boys to deepen friendships and feel part of the Corfe community.
Friday House BBQs
Each Friday morning the boys enjoy a sleep-in followed by a House BBQ in the courtyard. This year, we are inviting a different academic department to join us each week.
In Week 1, we welcomed members of the School Executive. In Week 2, the Humanities Department joined us, followed by the English Department in Week 3. Staff enjoy the opportunity to meet the boys informally and gain insight into life away from home for our youngest boarders.
Dr and Mrs Kinniburgh hosted a wonderful Sunday BBQ at the end of Week 2 for our Stephens, Taylor and Mackintosh boys. It was a relaxed chance to chat, enjoy great food, meet the Kinniburgh family and of course, their friendly Border Collies, Cookie and Bonnie. Boyce and Groom boys will enjoy their Headmaster's BBQ in Week 4.
Microsoft Teams Trial – Strengthening Communication
We are trialling Microsoft Teams as a communication tool for boys without mobile phones or for those with basic flip phones. The trial has been very positive so far.
Families of boys without phones were invited to join the expanded trial during Weeks 2 and 3, with access during Tuesday and Sunday evening check-ins. Feedback from parents and students will inform next steps, with the possibility of a nightly Teams meeting from Week 4.
Housekeeping Reminders
Leave arrangements must be submitted by 8:00pm on Thursday evening please. This greatly assists with organisation. For parents submitting Leave on REACH, please click the “approve” tab.
Please ensure all clothing is clearly labelled as some boys are returning from leave with unlabelled items.
Stay in Touch
The partnership between home and boarding is essential. If something doesn’t feel quite right, whether it relates to homework, wellbeing, friendships, or general concerns, please contact us. Often a quick conversation and a little reassurance can make a big difference for a boy who may be finding something challenging.
A heartfelt thank you to all our dedicated Corfe House staff for their ongoing care, commitment and guidance. Their efforts underpin the nurturing, positive environment we strive to create each day.
Wishing all our boys and their families a rewarding and fulfilling Term 1. Corfe staff will continue to support the boys as they grow, learn and embrace all aspects of boarding life.
Nathan Stains Head of Boarding House - Corfe
Groom House
Groom Gazette
Welcome to 2026
Winners are grinners
As we open the doors to a new school year, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all Groom House families, both our returning community, who bring strength and continuity to the House and those who join us for the first time in 2026. The beginning of each year is always a moment filled with anticipation, hope and the promise of growth and I am confident that the months ahead will offer countless opportunities for our boys to flourish academically, socially and personally.
This year, we are delighted to introduce five new boarders to the Groom community: Quincey S (Year 8), Flynn A (Year 9), Charlie B (Year 11), Kian V (Year 11), and JP S (Year 11). These young men bring with them unique backgrounds, interests, perspectives and talents and I know they will contribute richly to the culture and spirit that make Groom House such a special environment. Please join me in offering them and their families a wholehearted welcome as they settle into life at Toowoomba Grammar School.
At the recent Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games, Giovanni Malagò delivered a message that resonated deeply with me and, I believe, encapsulates the essence of boarding life. He said:
“Dear athletes, you are drawn from different traditions, different cultures, different countries. And yet you are united by sport - a universal language. You are the Olympic family.”
In many ways, this sentiment mirrors what we strive to build here in Groom House. Our boarders come from across Queensland, interstate and even overseas. Each student arrives with his own story - shaped by family, community, culture and personal experiences and yet, once they step into our House, they become part of something shared. Like the athletes united by sport, our boys are united by the experience of boarding: a common rhythm of routines, challenges, triumphs and friendships that bind them together in meaningful and lasting ways.
Boarding, at its best, becomes a universal language. It teaches empathy, resilience, cooperation and mutual respect. It allows young men to form connections across backgrounds they may never have encountered elsewhere. Our returning students play an essential role in this process; they model our values, support newcomers and help create a sense of belonging that is both immediate and enduring. Groom House has long been known for its warmth and camaraderie and I have no doubt that 2026 will continue this proud legacy.
This year, our focus remains steadfast: fostering a nurturing environment where every boy feels supported, challenged and inspired. Academic routines are already underway, weekend programs are being finalised and our pastoral team is committed to ensuring each student has the tools and encouragement needed to thrive. Parents and families remain vital partners in this journey and I look forward to maintaining open, positive communication throughout the year.
As we embark on the term ahead, let us celebrate the diversity within our walls, the unity we cultivate through shared experience and the energy and optimism that new beginnings bring. Groom House is more than a place to live - it is a community, a family, and, like the Olympic spirit, a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together with purpose and companionship.
Welcome to 2026. I look forward to a memorable and successful year with each of your sons.
As we step into a new school year at Groom House, the familiar sound of trunks being rolled down hallways, new friendships forming and returning students reconnecting reminds us why boarding remains such a powerful and transformative experience. For me, stepping back into the role of Assistant Head of House is both a privilege and a responsibility; one centred on relationships, routines and above all, the wellbeing and growth of the boys who call Groom their home away from home.
At its heart, boarding is pastoral care. My role is to help shape an environment where every boy feels safe, supported and seen. This means being present; at meal times, during evening Prep, on the sidelines and in those quiet moments when someone needs reassurance, guidance, or simply a listening ear.
Working alongside our Head of House, I help coordinate the daily rhythm of Groom: ensuring expectations are clear, routines are settled and communication with families is strong. Whether it’s helping boys navigate the early days of homesickness, celebrating their wins both big and small, or guiding them through challenges, the pastoral heartbeat of the house is what drives everything we do.
The role also involves mentoring our senior students, helping them develop their leadership skills so they can positively influence the culture of the house. Groom’s strength has always been its sense of community and empowering our older boys to lead with integrity, kindness and accountability is essential to sustaining that legacy.
Hopes for the Year Ahead
Every new year in boarding presents fresh opportunities. This year, my hopes revolve around three key areas:
1. Strengthening Relationships and House Culture
I hope to further cultivate a house where every boy feels known - where younger students feel supported by older boys and where respect and empathy sit at the centre of our interactions. Groom has always been a place of strong camaraderie; this year, I want to help nurture even deeper connections that positively shape the boys’ character and confidence.
2. Supporting Academic and Personal Growth
Boarding life provides structure, but it also teaches independence. I aim to support the boys in building solid study habits, healthy routines and resilience when challenges arise. My goal is for each student to finish the year not only proud of what they have achieved academically, but also proud of the person they have become in the process.
3. Steering Groom Toward Another Headmaster’s Shield Victory
Of course, no Groom House article would be complete without acknowledging the competitive spirit that runs through our veins. Last year’s success in securing the Headmaster’s Shield was a testament to teamwork, grit and unwavering house pride.
This year, the mission continues.
From the pool to the athletics track, from academic competitions to service activities, every boy has a role to play. My hope is to help channel that collective energy, ensuring our teams feel supported, our participation stays strong and our spirit remains unmistakably “Groom.” Winning is never guaranteed, but pursuing excellence together is something we can commit to every single day.
Looking Forward
As we settle back in, I am excited for the year ahead. Boarding is about more than just living at school; it is about belonging to a family. Groom boys look out for one another, push one another to improve and celebrate one another’s achievements.
My hope is that each boy walking through the doors of Groom House this year feels that sense of belonging deeply, and leaves at year's end knowing he has contributed to something special.
With a strong team of staff, dedicated student leaders and a house full of potential, I have no doubt that 2026 will be a year of growth, connection and, hopefully, another run at the Shield.
Peter Nicholls Assistant Head of House - Groom Boarding
Mackintosh House
Mackintosh Mail
Year 9 Formal Dinner
Mackintosh House 2026, an “All In” to Start to the Year
We are looking forward to a great year ahead in Mackintosh Boarding House, I am filled with genuine optimism and purpose. This confidence is built on a strong conclusion to 2025, highlighted by our House Touch Competition victory at the end of Term 4, which sees Mackintosh begin the year currently in a tie for first position in the race for the Headmaster Shield. This positive momentum has continued into 2026 and we were pleased with our second placing at Monday's TGS Interhouse Swimming Championships.
This year, Mackintosh House is focused on one clear expectation in day and boarding, being “all in.” We are encouraging our boys to commit fully to all aspects of school and boarding life. This includes maintaining high standards in participation, effort and engagement in house events and competitions, while also being “all in” with their academic focus and personal growth and responsibility throughout the year. Consistency of effort and character, being kind, honest and hardworking are all in line with the TGS remains central to our house culture.
Welcoming New Boarders to Mackintosh
We feel privileged to welcome several new boarders into the Mackintosh House community:
Tom P in Year 11 from Inverell, Northern NSW
Thomas B in Year 10 from Emerald, Central Queensland
Sem C in Year 9 from Winton, Western Queensland / Seventeen Seventy, Gladstone Region
Melton M in Year 8 from Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Sam B in Year 8 from Emerald, Central Queensland
Mackintosh is a close, supportive and connected house with links spanning Queensland, Australia and beyond, from Gravesend in NSW, Robina on the GC to the Gulf, across to Port Hedland and internationally to Port Moresby and Shanghai, China. This diversity enriches our house culture and strengthens the sense of belonging that defines Mackintosh House. I am excited about the opportunities ahead for families and community to build relationships and connections as move through the year.
Interhouse Swimming Championships
The TGS Interhouse Swimming Championships provided an excellent example of Mackintosh spirit and commitment. The overall effort from our boys was outstanding, with several of our Year 12 boarding leaders playing a key role through their participation and organisation of the house throughout the day. In particular, Artie M, Cody H, Bailey H, Tex C and Archie S demonstrated exemplary leadership and engagement.
A highlight of the carnival came late in the day when Harry Y anchored the Mackintosh 15 Years Relay Team to a memorable victory. With our second placing confirmed after the final results were revealed at this week's Assembly, we are extremely proud of the effort, teamwork and resilience shown by all Mackintosh boys across the carnival.
TGS Boarding Formal Dinners
During the first three weeks of term, Mackintosh boarders have participated in a series of Boarding Formal Dinners designed specifically for different year groups. These evenings are an important feature of boarding life, intentionally structured to develop a sense of occasion, reinforce personal presentation and dining etiquette and provide boys with clear guidance regarding their position, responsibilities and role within the boarding community.
Through these formal settings, boys are encouraged to reflect on how their actions and attitudes contribute to the character, standards and culture of Mackintosh House. The dinners also provide a valuable opportunity for boys to hear directly from boarding leaders and staff about expectations, leadership and positive contribution.
Monday, 2 February – Year 12: Leadership in the Final Year – Culture and Influence
Tuesday, 3 February – Year 8: Rites of Passage into Senior Houses and Learning from Senior Boys
Tuesday, 10 February – Year 9: Culture and Expectations – What Your Leaders Expect from You
The boys were formally served by Chartwells staff, with the evenings supported by members of the Toowoomba Grammar School Executive, including Mr Anderson, Mr Oliphant and Mr Byron. These occasions play a significant role in reinforcing respect, tradition and shared responsibility within boarding.
A Positive Start to the Year
The overall start to the year has been extremely pleasing. Our Year 8 boys have settled seamlessly into senior boarding life and are thoroughly enjoying the Mackintosh House culture. Their first Sunday evening House Mothers’ Supper with Mr Stewart was well received and the boys have demonstrated excellent organisation and composure throughout their transition. New boarder Sam B (Emerald) has quickly become a valued and positive member of the Year 8 cohort. All of our Year 8 boarders have made James A, Sam B, Darcy B, Walter B, Brenton G, Archer H, Jeremiah R, Charlie S and Jack S.
Across the house, we have been very pleased with the commitment shown by our boys upon their return to school. The vast majority are engaged in co-curricular activities, including debating, cadets, GPS cricket and volleyball and Friday night club rugby. This breadth of involvement reflects the consistent effort and positive mindset we are striving to embed across Mackintosh.
Building the Mackintosh Community
As we move further into the year, our focus remains firmly on effort, consistency and connection. Mackintosh House thrives when boys, staff and families work together to support one another and uphold high standards.
We warmly welcome new parents to Mackintosh Boarding in 2026 and we look forward to building strong partnerships with you as we continue to develop a proud, supportive and connected Mackintosh community throughout the year.
Mackintosh House Boys on Cambodia Service Trip with TGS and Raw Impact
As everyone else departed from the summer school holidays, a group of Grammar students spent another day at school before departing for Cambodia. This was a great opportunity to travel to Cambodia alongside students from other Toowoomba boarding schools. During their time overseas, the students embraced Cambodia’s rich culture and complex history while also engaging in meaningful service by helping to build a home for a local Cambodian family. This experience allowed the students to step outside their comfort zones, gain a deeper appreciation of life beyond Australia, and serve others in a practical and impactful way. The following recounts reflect their personal experiences, insights and gratitude for an opportunity that combined cultural immersion with service to others.
Jock Kirkby – Gravesend, NSW
For my first time travelling overseas and my first visit to Asia, Cambodia was one of the best countries I could have gone to for such an eye‑opening experience. Not only did I gain incredible experiences, but I was also able to help other people while learning about their culture, beliefs and history. This really helped me realise what I have and how grateful I should be.
Being able to complete the trip with my mates made it even better, as we were able to openly share how we were feeling and what we thought about everything we experienced, including the food - which was great. If you are considering going on this trip, don’t second‑guess yourself. Just do it. You will love it and return home far more grateful for what you have and the country you were born in.
Noah Grob – Inverell, NSW
Whilst I have been to Asia before, Cambodia had a completely different culture to anywhere I had previously visited and it was an incredibly eye‑opening experience. The biggest shock for me was seeing the living conditions - from people buying meat that had been sitting in the sun all day, covered in flies, to others drinking yellow, cloudy water that looked as if it had been scooped straight from the Mekong.
Despite this, my favourite part of the trip was spending time with my mates while exploring this wild country and taking in its culture. This is a trip I would highly recommend doing with friends and one that I am extremely grateful to have been a part of.
Joe Brown – Burketown, QLD
This was my first time travelling overseas and stepping off the plane felt like entering a completely different world. The main thing that stood out to me was realising how lucky we are to live in such a great country. While I was initially overwhelmed by the culture shock of unfamiliar languages and customs, I soon found excitement in the chaos.
Experiencing such a unique culture firsthand pushed me well outside my comfort zone and taught me how to be more independent. It was an experience I will never forget.
Herbert Roger – Dalby, QLD
The cultural and social aspects of Cambodia were incredibly interesting. The roads were chaotic and it often seemed as though the road rules were more like suggestions. The history behind Cambodia as we know it today is both fascinating and confronting.
One museum we visited displayed photographs of prisoners who were labelled “enemies of the government” and murdered by guards in horrific ways. Cambodia was definitely an eye‑opening experience and highlighted how privileged we are, not only as TGS students, but as Australians in general.
As we begin the new school year, it is a pleasure to welcome each of our boys and their families back to Taylor House after what we hope was a refreshing and enjoyable Christmas break.
The boys have returned to school with a renewed sense of calm and a real “into it” approach to the year ahead. It has been wonderful to hear the stories shared from the holidays and to sense a genuine excitement about being back at school. One boy even summed it up perfectly when he said, “It’s good to be home.” Moments like this speak volumes about the culture and sense of belonging within our House. This positive energy fills me with great anticipation for the year ahead. Under the leadership of our House Captains, Harry R and Will M, I am confident their guidance and proactive approach will help set a strong tone for the year.
Late last year, our senior boys met to reflect and plan for the year ahead, discussing their vision of what it means to be a true Grammar Man. At the heart of these conversations were the values that shape “a good bloke” – a young man of strong character, whose daily actions reflect honesty, trust and giving his best in every endeavour. This message has now been shared with our boys and it is one I am confident they have embraced as part of our Taylor House culture.
We warmly welcome our new boys, Tyler B and Neilo M, who have already spent a few weeks immersed in TGS and Taylor Boarding life and have settled in beautifully. It has been fantastic to see friendships forming and positive experiences taking shape so early in their journey. We also extend a warm welcome to our UK visitors, Max B and Alfie A-I. Their introduction to boarding life has been filled with excitement and they have already been wonderful contributors to life at TGS and within our House.
This week, the Inter-House Swimming Carnival provided a great opportunity for our Taylor boys to compete with pride. Our senior boys’ relay team delivered a standout performance, breaking a long-standing school record in the process. With this strong showing,
Taylor House NEW House Swimming Record
Open 6 x 50m Freestyle Relay 2:49.71 (old record 2:49.82)
Taylor is now in a three-way tie for third in the Headmaster’s Shield. We look forward to building on this momentum as the remaining events unfold throughout the year, including Cross Country, House Track & Field and the House Carnival.
Sunday evenings have also taken on a new sense of excitement with the introduction of intra-house activities. Over the past two weeks, boys have enjoyed a BBQ dinner followed by games of touch football, creating a relaxed and social way to finish the weekend. As the term progresses, we will introduce a variety of activities including basketball, dodgeball, trivia and European handball. The boys have embraced these opportunities, and it has been terrific to see the positive interaction and house spirit growing.
Formal dinners remain an important part of life at TGS, providing not only the opportunity to share a meal but also to engage in meaningful learning moments. Our Year 12 boys had the privilege of hearing from Mr Troxler, who spoke about leadership and what it means for our senior boys as they navigate their final year and look beyond school. Our Year 8 and 9 boys also enjoyed their formal dinner and on reflection, many appreciated both the experience itself and the messages shared on the night.
At the beginning of the holidays, James A, Kin D and Will Mc embarked on a meaningful cultural and service experience with RAW Impact. While the initial focus of the project appeared to be building homes for those in need, our boys quickly realised that the impact extended far beyond the physical work. The connections formed with the local community and the perspective gained from the experience left a lasting impression on each of them. It is an experience they will carry with them for life.
As we move into the term ahead, we continue to build on last year’s focus of “doing the simple things right.” This remains a cornerstone of our daily routines and expectations. This year, however, we are also extending this mindset towards service of others and thinking beyond self, with the aim of further strengthening our House culture. It has been encouraging to see boys beginning to ask, “How do I make sure my mates are okay?” a small but powerful first step in developing empathy, responsibility and genuine care for one another.
We look forward to a positive and purposeful year ahead in Taylor House.
We have started the term with a full and productive schedule and the boys are already engaging well in their academic and co‑curricular commitments. The beginning of the school year also brings a number of formalities, and this has been no exception at TGS. Our House Prefects, Campbell Newell and Henry Maunder, attended a Prefects’ Day on the Monday before the boys returned, using the time to discuss their goals and priorities for the year ahead before concluding with refreshments outside Old Hall. Once the term commenced, the boys moved quickly through a welcome assembly, a scholars’ assembly, sports trials and introductions to their new teachers, making the first weekend a welcome chance to catch their breath.
The opening nights in Stephens House also saw students reconnecting after the holiday break and sharing stories from their time away. Light‑hearted tales of impressive fishing feats, long bull rides and sizeable surf breaks added to the lively atmosphere in the common room.
During the break, the Brisbane Broncos returned to TGS for their training camp, with Stephens House once again hosting the players and staff. The boys enjoyed discovering which players had stayed in their rooms - particularly the excitement around the extra‑large bed required for Payne Haas.
My family and I also transitioned from Taylor House to Stephens over the holidays. I am sincerely grateful for the warm reception extended to us. While some of the Taylor boys jokingly referred to me as a “traitor,” I’ve jovially replied that I’ve upgraded and the first couple of weeks have confirmed that feeling. My son, Hugo, enjoyed greeting the boys at roll call, while my daughter, Isla, was her usual inquisitive self. My wife, Taylor, who teaches PE and Science part‑time at Centenary Heights SHS, has settled comfortably into the School environment. As a family, we look forward to becoming part of the boys’ daily routines.
Mr Phil Kefford has also made a positive return, recently completing a Sunday duty where the boys were pleased to see a familiar face. He remains active with his daily walks alongside his wife, Kate and we are fortunate to have him continuing as part of the Stephens House team this term.
The Year 8 boys have made an excellent start to the year, settling into the house with maturity and composure. They have conducted themselves politely and are already showing the potential to develop into a strong and cohesive cohort.
Many have quickly involved themselves in sport and co‑curricular activities, with Marcus D and Jack CF performing well in cricket, James C enjoying the Cooby Creek fishing trip and Cruze C balancing pre‑season rugby league commitments. Despite a few health challenges, Mal B is contributing strongly to GPS swimming while maintaining his academic progress.
Even those not currently involved in extra‑curricular programs, such as Reuben D and Hugh R, continue to bring a positive presence to the house, whether it be through a game of pool or a friendly chat in the common room.
Staff have been highly impressed with the boys’ attitude and the positive way they have integrated into the Stephens' community.
The cohort also enjoyed their Year 8 Formal Dinner in the Jacaranda Room at the Pavilion, where they heard from members of the school’s leadership team. While their strong start is encouraging, we recognise that transitioning into boarding or a new house can still present challenges.
To support them, we are introducing the Year 8/11 Buddy System for Term 1. Each Year 8 student will be paired with two Year 11 boys, helping to build meaningful connections and ensuring younger students have reliable support as they settle in. This initiative encourages leadership, responsibility and collaboration across year levels and we wish all our Year 8 boys every success in the term ahead.
Three in, One out
We also welcome several new faces to the house this term. In Year 11, we are pleased to have Jack B and Toby G join us from TAS. Both boys have settled quickly into school life and, despite arriving as close friends from St George, have already begun forming new connections within their dorms. They have expressed that, while boarding comes with “a lot more rules,” they are thoroughly enjoying the myriad of opportunities available to them at TGS. Their positive attitude and willingness to get involved make them valuable additions to Stephens House.
We also welcome back Lachie D (10) from Upper Warrego, who returns to Stephens House after spending time learning from home via Distance Education. A familiar face to many, Lachie is already reconnecting with friends and will undoubtedly benefit from the structure and routine of boarding once again.
At the same time, we temporarily farewell Edmund Barton (10) as he undertakes his Corfe Residency for Term 1. Edmund has embraced the role with maturity and enthusiasm, serving as a mentor to the Year 7 boys. His efforts have already been recognised with a commendation for “demonstrating exceptional leadership in Corfe House, serving as a thoughtful and supportive role model as the younger boys navigate the early challenges of senior school and living away from home.”
This term, we are pleased to welcome Mr Brett Reisinger to the Stephens House team as a boarding supervisor. Brett brings a decade of experience as a Youth Worker, supporting young people across a range of settings. He is married to Melissa Reisinger, Head of Department – Commerce and together they have three daughters. A proud TGS Old Boy with a strong background in rugby league, Brett is well‑placed to contribute positively to our community. We wish him every success as he settles into the role and supports the boys throughout the year.
Stephens House is fortunate to have a strong and committed Year 12 leadership group this year, who have demonstrated initiative and enthusiasm well beyond their years. The boys had the opportunity to reflect on the importance of the year ahead and the legacy they hope to leave attending the Year 12 Boarding House Captain's Senior Plan Formal Dinner in the Jacaranda Room in Week 2. This evening provided a valuable forum for discussion and the development of a shared leadership vision for the year.
Following the formal dinner, the boys were invited to my home for a casual pizza night. It was an enjoyable and relaxed opportunity to connect with the group in a different setting, while also including some fun for my own children, who eagerly joined in activities with the boys. Flynn P proved particularly popular on the evening, enthusiastically joining a game of tag and even attempting to ride one of the children’s tricycles - despite being somewhat oversized for the task. Similar opportunities will be organised for other year groups as the term progresses.
Chris Dodd Acting Head of House - Stephens Boarding
