Welcome back to boarding! It was a fantastic start to the year with our boarders beaming with smiles, warmly greeting their mates and boarding staff alike. In my role, nothing is more satisfying than seeing the boarders enjoy each other’s company, knowing that they have staffing supporting them.
From my perspective the term is progressing well and the boys have quickly fallen into the routines. The refurbishment of the Dining Hall has given this area a great feel and it is a lovely communal space for all. The pleasing feedback from boarders has been that the meals have been of good quality and very plentiful, as growing boys require. As we have a four-week-rotation of the menu, there will be a survey for boys to complete next week, giving their own feedback.
The Dining Hall served as a venue for the first Boarding Parent Support Group Meeting of the year. The meeting was a positive one and with some good points raised, especially about the Across All Boarders lunch. I encourage all parents to become involved with this group if they can and there was a great turn out for this meeting. Our end of Term 1 meeting will be held online on Sunday, 23 March at 7:00pm.
The past three weeks have been incredibly busy with a multitude of events already held. Ranging from Year 7 activity days, House Swimming Carnivals to boarding events such as the Year 8 and Year 12 Formal Dinners. These formal dinners form part of our ‘life-skills’ program and the etiquette of what to do at formal dinners is explicitly discussed. They also serve as an opportunity to speak with these year groups about topics relevant to them. For the Year 8s it was about learning to be successful and contribute in a positive way to their senior boarding house. Our Year 12s focused upon house culture and leadership in their final year of boarding.
In looking ahead, there are some innovations I am working on for the boarding program. The ‘life-skills’ program has had the popular boat and jet ski licence course operating since Term 4 of 2023. There are ambitions to add some more opportunities for boarders to gain qualifications that are relevant to their lives outside of school. Equally, there is a desire to improve the academic support provided to our boarders. Not only in providing opportunities for boarders to receive help from teaching staff, but to also assist our parents in accessing private tutoring for their sons. I will send information about these initiatives once I have been able to finalise the arrangements.
Next weekend I am looking forward to celebrating 150 years of boarding at Toowoomba Grammar School. We are sending staff far and wide for the Across All Boarders Lunch and this day promises to be a special one.
I hope that all members of our boarding community have enjoyed a successful start to the year and I’m looking forward to catching up with you all when I can.
At the time of writing, we are marching into Week 3 with routines established and friendships either rekindled or created. The beginning of the 2025 academic year has been overwhelmingly positive for Boyce House and I have been impressed with the boys’ willingness to re-engage and give Term 1 their best shot. To help them along the way, we will be meeting with each boy individually this week to help him formulate goals and targets for the classroom, house and co-curricular areas of school life. A quick nod to Hugh, who turned 17 – marking our first birthday of the year and to Lachie D who turns 16 shortly after the publication date for this edition of the Boyce Bugle.
Already, our new students appear to be conquering any feelings of homesickness and nervousness. The welcome and support provided by the ‘old hands’ has been warm and genuine and has extended well beyond the formal buddies assigned to each new boy. I anticipate reminders being required very soon for boys to contact home. Please do remember this is a good thing. If your son(s) begin to call less than they did, it is probably because they are enjoying themselves!
I am sure that the energy many boys returned with is at least partly due to the hard work and productivity they experienced contributing at home over the Summer break. Whilst a return to School may present an opportunity to rest for some, the lessons of the value of hard work and humility certainly seem to have been re-embedded and I have enormously enjoyed learning about all the challenges they approached and overcame during the holidays.
There is a neat alignment between the above and the Boyce Triple H code of Hard Work, Humility and House First – something which our 2025 Seniors are keen to use as their touchpoint to keep boys pulling in the same direction. Our first ‘test’ of this alignment will be this week’s Interhouse Swimming Carnival, where the message has been for all Boyce boys to give their best. With Josh recently named as this year’s Captain of Swimming and Emmanuel’s efforts to learn to swim to allow him to participate in the carnival, we are not short of inspiration to have a real go at this competition.
Before going any further, it is worth reflecting on the successes of the end of 2024. Firstly, the Boyce House Christmas Hamper appeal was a service-based triumph. As a House, we contributed Christmas gifts and supplies to over 100 families in need. Thank you to all who supported this wonderful initiative. I know that the recipients of your generosity and the volunteers of St. Vincent de Paul are incredibly grateful. Secondly, Myles gained selection for the Australian Under 18s rugby sevens squad, travelling to New Zealand during the Summer Break to represent his country. We look forward to hearing from Myles about his experiences during this week’s House Meeting.
As you may remember from my communication prior to the commencement of the academic year, we have been fortunate to be joined by several ‘new faces’ as part of the Boyce team. Each of these members of staff have been kind enough to provide a few words of introduction below:
Isaac Manthey
It's a pleasure to already be part of our community as both a football and cricket coach, and now as a Boarding Supervisor. My educational journey began here at TGS, where I attended school before pursuing a career in television at the SAE Melbourne campus. Along the way, I've been fortunate enough to volunteer on and lead projects that I am very proud of. Currently, I am expanding my creative horizons by studying Animation at SAE Brisbane.
Outside of my professional life, I have a wide range of interests and hobbies that keep me energised and inspired. You'll often find me lifting weights, practicing yoga, or spending quality time with my dogs. I have a deep passion for film and television, music and of course, various sports including football, cricket and rugby league. I'm also an avid gamer, hiker, biker and explorer. My love for fashion, culture and food keeps me constantly curious and excited about discovering new trends and tastes. Additionally, I'm an avid reader and enjoy diving into comic books.
I look forward to getting to know you all and contributing to the Boyce community.
Jack Robotham
I grew up in Lismore in northern New South Wales and played First XIII rugby league and First XI cricket while attending school which has led me to a career in sport coaching and development. After completing a bachelor’s degree in sport development, I’ve worked in strength and conditioning for over 10 years, helping athletes develop across multiple sports.
I’ve been lucky enough to work with the Gold Coast Titans, North Queensland Cowboys and Burleigh Bears, where I’ve worked with everything from junior pathways to NRL athletes. At the Cowboys, I was lucky enough to travel all over North Queensland, visiting places like Mt Isa, Cooktown, The Western Cape and Thursday Island.
Outside of sport, I have recently completed my Masters of Secondary Education, as an HPE and Business teacher. When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me out on the golf course, watching NRL, or playing PlayStation. I’m looking forward to being part of the boarding community and getting to know you all.
Lincoln Clapham
I’m thrilled to be joining the Boyce House team. Through my role as Head of Rugby at TGS, I’ve already had the chance to connect with many of the boys and their families, but I’m excited to become more involved in boarding and support you all beyond the rugby field.
Before coming to TGS, I was fortunate to work in high-performance rugby for 6 years, which reinforced my understanding of teamwork, discipline and the importance of building a strong community. Boarding life is unique, and I’m eager to be part of your journey, whether that means helping with School commitments, having a chat, or simply being someone you can count on.
Away from rugby, I love getting away camping, four-wheel driving and enjoying the outdoors with mates whenever I can. I know Boyce has a proud culture and I look forward to getting to know each of you, hearing your stories and contributing in any way I can. Please don’t hesitate to say hello or reach out.
Jenny Bazley
My name is Jenny Bazley and I am now in my 19th
year at TGS. My first role at the School was as Administration Assistant for the Music Department, a role I loved for 13 years. When Year 7 transitioned to the Senior School during 2014, an opportunity arose for the position of House Mother in Corfe House. With little experience in boarding and the challenge of Corfe House increasing from a residency of 15 to 46, I embarked on what was to be the most memorable and rewarding six years. In 2021 I stepped away from the full-time boarding role into part-time administration and eventually back into boarding in a part-time capacity in 2022.
My husband, Buzz and I own a grain and cotton farm at Dalby and I enjoy sharing farm updates with the boys. I love hearing about what is happening on their properties and they are always interested to know what is going on at ours.
I am looking forward to this year in Boyce House, this is a new experience for me to be working in a Senior House. It is great to be back with many of the boys that I cared for in Corfe House. I am privileged to be entrusted with the care of your sons, so to you, their parents … thank you!
Upcoming events
Turning to events, I wanted to flag the following which relate to Boyce House this year:
Saturday, 22 March – 6:30pm - Boyce Family Evening at the Jacaranda Room (Pavilion) – informal and non-compulsory.
Sunday, 18 May – 7:00am – Mountain Mile – fundraiser for St Vincent’s de Paul – sporting and service event – compulsory for boys.
Friday, 22 August – 6:00pm – Year 12 Mother Son Dinner – formal but non-compulsory (but a special night for Year 12 boys and their mums).
Tuesday, 7 October – Time TBC – Boyce House Boarders Formal Dinner – formal and compulsory for boys. Parents and families welcome and encouraged to attend.
Saturday, 20 December – 7:30am – delivery day for St Vincent’s de Paul Christmas Hampers – informal and non-compulsory.
Please note the change of date for the Boyce House Family Evening, which now takes place this term and on a Saturday. This is to avoid a calendar clash with a Junior School event on Friday, 21 March, whilst reducing the crowding of events during Term 3. Hopefully, holding this event on a Saturday will also give boarding families increased time either side to travel.
As the events to celebrate G150 begin to come into view, Meg and I will be attending the Across All Boarders Luncheon
in Goondiwindi on Saturday, 22 February. Boyce House will be strongly represented with Todd also coming along. For those families in the area, this would be a great opportunity to catch up if you are able to attend. I will also be joining TGS on Tour from Wednesday, 30 April to Saturday, 3 May with the plan currently involving staying in Emerald. I will be sure to pass on further details when I have them.
In closing, thank you for all of your support in getting the year up and running. As ever, please do not hesitate to reach out with any concerns you may have.
A word from Boyce House Boarder Captain
Boyce House Boarder Captain Archie Beckwith
Plans for 2025
Within Boyce Boarding House, our leadership plan is centred on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, where every student feels a strong sense of belonging. We will implement a variety of activities that celebrate and embrace diversity, ensuring all students feel respected, valued and connected. To elevate the overall standards, we will establish clear expectations around personal responsibility, cleanliness and effective communication, encouraging all students to take pride in their personal spaces and community.
Our structured routines will balance academic support with recreational activities, promoting a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, leadership opportunities will be actively promoted, with senior students given the chance to guide, mentor and inspire their younger peers. This peer-to-peer support will foster a smooth transition for new boys whilst setting a positive example of responsibility and teamwork. By focusing on these values, we aim to cultivate a safe, high-achieving and inclusive boarding community where everyone thrives.
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
A few words from Henry White, Head of House
Having had the privilege of guiding your sons for two weeks, I am delighted to write this piece, the inaugural ‘Corfe Courier’ for 2025. Your boys have experienced a great deal in this short period and have much to write and call home about, I’m sure. There is plenty to report on – new faces and friends, new rosters and rules, outings and excursions, sport and let’s not forget schoolwork! Our crop of Corfies have certainly kept busy and I’m excited to share their transition and experiences so far.
I wish to start by acknowledging each of you, as parents and by thanking you for your confidence in our team, your trust in our program and your ongoing cooperation. Delivering your son to a house full of strangers is not an easy thing to do, particularly at this young and impressionable age. We understand it requires immense trust.
I’ve enjoyed getting to know each of you so far; some directly, others indirectly through stories and anecdotes from proud sons keen to share about their home and family. I look forward to what the year holds and to working closely with you in supporting your son and enabling him to thrive as a boarder in Corfe House.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank and introduce our staff. We have a wonderful team here in Corfe, each with a diverse set of skills and experiences. Although you met a handful of us at the Orientation afternoon, I would like to formally acknowledge and welcome each of the following staff to our team for 2025:
Kabe Cicolini: Corfe Assistant Head of House
Janelle Fletcher: Corfe Housemother and full-time Corfe resident
Erin Wakefield: Corfe House Academic Resident and Boarding Supervisor
Jenny Bazley: Boarding Supervisor
Cayley Voss: Boarding Supervisor
Finlay Wright: Boarding Supervisor
Nathan Herbert: Boarding Supervisor
My next Corfe Courier in Week 5 will outline staff profiles, allowing you the opportunity to get to know the people caring for your sons.
A note on homesickness
Please know your boys are doing well. Boarding is a journey and boys will take this at their own pace. Some will inevitably take a rockier road and others will take longer to find their way. This is natural. For some, the transition to life in Corfe has, so far, been a smooth one.
For others, the novelty of this new experience has begun to settle and the realities of homesickness have set in. Do not be concerned by this; we see this every year and our team is doing everything we can to provide support. Please know we are a phone call away.
Play hard and play fair
I’m thrilled to announce that 100% of Corfe’s boarding residents in 2025 have committed to one of the various co-curricular offerings for Term 1. Having now played a home and away fixture, the boys have hit their stride and are well into routines. Unfortunately, due to an away fixture in Week 1 and my own absence in Week 2, I haven’t had the opportunity to scour the grounds on a Saturday morning to watch the lads play yet – something I look forward to in weeks to come.
I’m proud that so many have chosen to enrich their time in Corfe with these commitments, regardless of their experience or expertise. Whether they realise it now or not, this will be of significant benefit to their transition into boarding life.
We will continue to promote a consistent message of positivity around all co-curricular involvement – "Get out there and have a go! You won’t know you love it if you don’t have a crack!"
Getting stuck into academics and school life
Fundamentally, it is my belief that a flourishing boarding house, while a separate entity, should be considered an extension of the classroom. It is my goal this year to provide a prep program for Corfe that enables boys to thrive academically.
So far, your boys are on track. They have responded well to the demands of the academic day and their approach to prep and homework in Corfe, while not yet perfect, is certainly moving in the right direction.
Corfe communication moving forward
As you are now familiar, a formal communication, ‘Corfe Courier’, will be published fortnightly via the Toowoomba Grammar School Boarders’ Telegraph. In this piece, I will provide a recap of all preceding events and activities, updates on life in Corfe, important reminders for upcoming events, and, of course, plenty of snaps of smiling boys!
Tune in for the next Corfe Courier, set to hit inboxes in Week 5, for an important overview of Corfe House’s Boarding Curriculum for 2025. This will provide important details that parents will want to know about – like staff profiles, big picture planning for this year including Corfe House’s thematic framework and in-house leadership opportunities. I’ll also have some updates and photos from the Swimming Carnival and Corfe’s big trip to Wet n Wild!
A few words from Janelle Fletcher, Housemother
The boys have made a commendable start to the year, particularly given for many it is their first foray into boarding. We, as a house, have spent the first few weeks getting to know one another, learning the inner workings of the School and establishing a routine which the boys have responded to brilliantly. Boys’ rooms, for the most part, are neat and tidy and washing is being sent to the laundry regularly and collected diligently.
Afternoons are spent at training or in-house playing pool, chatting, reading, catching up on prep, or games of cricket in the courtyard. Often boys take the opportunity to explore the expansive grounds of TGS, free-ranging and having fun. I treasure these afternoons, seeing the boys relaxed, happy and excited, full of vim and vigour – essentially being boys! It’s perfect and as it should be. During these afternoons, we have time to enjoy the warmth of the summer sun and chat about all manner of things. From farming to football, family to favourite pastimes, we share stories and experiences, building connection, trust and a sense of community.
At times, boys have been downhearted, missing home and family, which is completely natural, but the moments of melancholy are brief. I’m truly astounded at how well the boys have managed homesickness; they have done so incredibly philosophically and maturely. They are a credit to you.
In these first few weeks, I have noted impeccable manners, kind hearts, thoughtful gestures, respectful and considerate behaviour and the beginnings of lifelong friendships. I feel certain these fellows will keep us in constant amazement!
As I sit at my desk to write this article, the sounds of cricket balls on willow are coming in through my office window from the nets on Mills Oval. The cries and “Howzat” have quickly become the background noise of my weekends. The busyness of life at Toowoomba Grammar School has become the new normal for Marianne and I in the short time that we have been in residence at Groom House. It does not seem like a month has passed since my family and I first started moving in. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for the warm welcome the extended Groom family has offered me and my family in the two weeks since the boys had been back in residence. It has been wonderful to meet many of you as you have dropped your sons back to TGS and I look forward to meeting more in the coming months.
The school year always seems to begin in a rush and this is no more true than here at TGS. Boys in blazer dress, academic assemblies, war cry practice, sporting trials and of course, teaching and learning were all crammed into the first three days of school. The GPS cricket and volleyball season began on the first weekend with BBC travelling up the range to try their luck in Toowoomba. The young men of Groom took to the cricket ovals and the volleyball courts with much excitement last Saturday. A special mention must go to Fraser J and Jackson H on their selection in the First XI for 2025, an outstanding achievement. As well as these achievements on the sporting field, we must also congratulate Charlie C, who successfully passed his Sargent’s exam. It was wonderful to see Charlie marching last Sunday sporting his new rank in the TGS Cadet Unit.
Whilst the sport of Term 1 gives lots to smile about, we also must recognise the efforts of Jimmy B on being awarded a Maxima Cum Laude at the academic assembly for his efforts in the classroom in 2024. Whilst on the academic life of the boys in Groom, I would like to inform you of a change to the prep routine for our Years 8 and 9 men. In Term 1 we are trialling having Prep completed In Groom House. The boys will not be moving up to a classroom for centralised Prep. I will at the end of term, review the boys GPA’s as a way of judging the efficacy of this change. After our first two weeks, I must congratulate the boys on the way that they have attended to their studies. They seem focused and hardworking and it has been pleasing to see how well they have adapted to this change.
On the social note, please make sure you have amended your calendars to reflect the change of date for the Groom Family Evening. This event has been moved to Friday, 28 February. This change will allow many of you to attend both, the Across All Borders lunch and the Groom Family Evening. It is with much excitement that Jon Hall and I will be travelling to Roma to attend the Across All Borders lunch. I have been assured by Susan Cameron that both John and I will be in safe hands with she and Brad as our hosts. I hope as many of our Groom families from Roma and surrounds can get to the lunch. It will be an afternoon of fun and festivities in celebration of the Grammar 150 event. Jon and I look forward to seeing you all there.
This term, not only have we welcomed Hamish B, Will B, Ruhan B, Eddie C, Ollie H, Douglas L and Brodie T into their senior house as Year 8 boarders, we have also had the opportunity to welcome 6 new boys into boarding for the first time. Will H, Danny S, Jimmy B, Tristan C, Ollie M and Harry Y had added to the richness and diversity of the House. I would like to give a big thank you to the boys and staff on the way in which they have welcomed our new boarders. For some of our new boys, Toowoomba is a long way from home. Flights interstate or internationally present an extra challenge. My admiration goes to Harry Y, who joins us from Shanghai and the way in which he has begun his boarding journey.
I finish with a request regarding leave, would you please remind your sons to have leave requests submitted by Thursday evening. This includes leave requests for GPS sport that is not on TGS grounds. I have set aside time on a Friday to go through the approval process. As you would appreciate, if not completed by this time, I seem to field phone calls throughout the weekend from boys in a rush asking for leave to be approved. Finally, when speaking to your sons, please congratulate them on the manner in which they have begun the year, Groom has been a settled house in the first two weeks of 2025.
It has been an exciting start to 2025, there is increased enthusiasm for many given it is the Grammar 150 year. Headmaster's Welcome Drinks and the Grammar 150 launch on Old Boy’s Memorial Oval was a great way to start this year. There's naturally increased optimism and anticipation as we all develop as Mackintosh House and a broader boarding and school community together in Pallamallawa.
I am looking forward to connecting with parents at the Across All Boarders event that will bring together family and friends of TGS at the “Pally Pub” Pallamallawa on Saturday, 22 February 2025. This event is an opportunity for the community across Northern NSW from Moree, Warialda, Bingara, Inverell and others to enjoy a time building community and connections in Pallamallawa.
Shortly after this Mackintosh House will have its Family Evening and our major service activity in March, the 'Be Awesome for Autism' Fun Run at TGS. The term will quickly come to an end before we know it with House Cross Country before Outdoor Pursuits and Activities week in Week 10. It's hard to believe Week 3 is already over!
Our Year 8 Boys have had a great start to the year as they continue, and in some cases begin, their boarding experience in Mackintosh House.
'BE AWESOME FOR AUTISM' AEIOU Fun Run and Mackintosh House Event
On Sunday, 23 March 2025 the AEIOU Foundation and Mackintosh House will hold its major fundraiser "Be Awesome for Autism” to be held at Toowoomba Grammar School starting at 8.00am. The event is a fun-run with various distances including a 5km walk / run and a 10km run. Mackintosh House and TGS have an excellent history of raising much needed funds for the AEIOU Foundation.
The AEIOU foundation raises vital funds for the implementation of early intervention programs provided to children with autism aged two to six years in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs region. Based in Friend Street, Harristown, the therapy and care change the lives of local children and the lives of their families.
We encourage parents and families to register, run and contribute to the day. All the details are in this link.
From Mrs Kym Stewart - House Mother
I would like to thank you all for the warm welcome I’ve received. Its been great to connect with some parents on drop off day and I’m looking forward to meeting those I haven’t at School and house events during the year. I feel very lucky to have “landed” in Mackintosh House community with such an exceptional group of young men. It's been heartwarming to see the solid friendships already made and the care and inclusion of the boys starting their time in Mackintosh. I am honoured to be part of your son's journey here at boarding school.
As a mother to two great adult children and two absolutely delightful grandchildren, I understand the importance of family and aim to foster that sense of family, community and personal support here at Mackintosh House. Just as I did for my children, I aim to help your sons develop the skills they need to thrive independently while still having reliable support while here in boarding.
My previous role as Senior Supervisor at St Saviours College has given me a keen understanding of the challenges of young people living away from home. I am here to offer any support your sons may need whether it be practical support, such as help with daily routines or emotional support, offering an ear to simply listen when needed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Communication is key to ensuring the best Mackintosh experience for your sons. Together we can help him make the most of his time here.
Mackintosh House Upcoming Events
Saturday, 22 March 2025 - Mackintosh House Family Evening
Sunday, 23 March 2025 - AEIOU 'Be Awesome For Autism' Fun Run & Mackintosh Service Event
Wednesday, 26 March 2025 - Interhouse Cross Country Championships
Week 10 - Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week
Thursday, 3 April 2025 - Term 1 concludes at 3:10pm
Friday, 4 April 2025 - Boarders Final Travel Day
Stephens House
Stephens Sentinel
Welcome to Term 1, 2025
Mr Wilson escorted our newest residents to their Year 8 Formal dinner
We are well into the swing of things now and this week sees a flurry of activity in the House. The new boys attended a breakfast BBQ at my place on Tuesday, the Swimming Carnival was held on Wednesday, the Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner at Gips Restaurant took place on Thursday evening and the Stephens House (Day and Boarding) Family Evening will be taking place on the day that you receive this, my first Boarders Telegraph of the new school year.
You may be aware that 2025 is our G150. There has been a bit of publicity around this and I am looking forward to attending the G150 lunch in Taroom next week, along with my wife Kate and House Manager and veteran of Stephens House, Dave Tranberg.
As we have heard many times this year – like a great ship, we are guided by the rudder of tradition and not anchored by the weight of it. Every year is as special and as significant as the previous.
For those of you new to my Boarders Telegraph – it is an attempt to give you an authentic flavour of everyday life in the House and a bit of an insight into the lived reality of your boys. I think we have a happy house, a caring house and I regularly remind the boys that our values GRIT (Gratitude, Respect, Integrity, Trust) align with the School Creed and are a pretty good yardstick for how we all encourage the boys to live each day.
Finally, it is an enormous pleasure to have our Senior Prefect, Gilbert Tighe, as a senior in Stephens House. This follows fast on the heels of the wonderful work of Stuart Officer last year. Stuart was the Senior Boarder Prefect and did a quite splendid job. Gilbert, I am sure, will be every bit as good as Stuart and he has made a strong start already!
And a further, even more finally....it is lovely to welcome a good friend (and neighbour to me) as the new Head of House in Groom. A staircase that may once have divided us, now unites us. Luke Paffey takes over from Mr Stearn and he is a welcome addition to the house aptly described by Lachy Rippon as an 'oldie but a goodie'.
Changes in the House
Mrs Kefford helped ensure all boys received gifts upon their return to the house
Stability is critical in this position, in my view, and the high standards of care that I pride myself on for all boys in Stephens do not happen by chance. The ‘Stephens team’ has largely remained the same this year, as last and from myself, through to weekend Boarding Supervisors, I am delighted that we have a high quality team.
As you well know, we have lost Coco, who, at 14 years and 3 months, finally gave up the ghost and breathed his last breath (a stinky one!) in the long holiday. That withstanding, everyone else is on fine form and I look forward to Mr Peter Wilson (Acting Head of House - Boarding) and David Tranberg (House Manager) continuing to do great things for, and with, your boys over the course of the year. Mr Jed Garratt is living in the House Resident’s apartment at the end of the corridor and completing regular week and weekend supervisions. Mr Matt Hull will also be a Boarding Supervisor between Friday and Sunday as he enters his third year in the house. I am delighted that Mr Eugene Seddon has signed up once again and enjoys his weekend shift roster. He is always good for a bit of footy tipping and can be relied upon to talk a good game, to anyone prepared to listen.
New this year, we have added Ms Cayley Voss and Ms Isabella Garratt. Cayley is presently studying teaching at USQ and is the elder sister of Nathan Voss who graduated last year. At this point it is worth noting that Nathan was ‘Dux of Boarding’ with an ATAR score of 98.75. I have spoken to Mr Byron and asked that, going forwards, the academic achievement of the top boarder be recognised at the School Prizegiving. What an achievement. Cayley is joined by Ms Isabella Garratt. Bella is the sister of Jed and has recently moved back to Toowoomba after spending some time working in London and travelling in Europe. She begins her degree in Psychology at UniSQ and will be keen to offer academic tutoring and support across her supervisory shifts.
Guiding us through the first weeks, before Cayley and Isabella start in the House, has been Mrs Jenny Bazley. Her knowledge, patience and ability to read situations before they happen has been fantastic in the rush of a start to the term. I thank Jenny for her work and her upcoming guidance. Isabella and Cayley are learning from the oracle.
Changes to Routine
The big change this year is that boarder’s central prep is no more. All prep is going to be completed in House. Prep is a critical time and each evening (Sunday to Thursday) we ask the boys to complete 90 minutes of focused work and study. Good habits produce good results and we have decided, after extensive discussions, that the most productive location for our boys to work is in their cubes. Whilst this is, for the most part, an individualised learning environment, I am actively encouraging all of the boys to work with each other, across year groups and in some cases, alongside Groom boys. Group study that is focused and collegiate has been proven time and again to be successful and learning outcomes continue to be my focus. I was a Head of Faculty for over twenty years before falling into this, the dream job, however I am first and foremost, a teacher and will always encourage students to give of their best and challenge themselves academically – through engagement, questioning and curiosity. Every evening there will be two staff members on duty, in the house, to support boys in prep and maintain a focused learning environment.
New Boys in the House
The new boarders to Stephens/TGS joined Kate and I this week for a breakfast barbeque at my place. This is something of a tradition and marks a nice way to check in on how they are settling in. I pride the house on everyone being approachable and friendly. It is a community, and as a part of the community, Kate and I live on site. She regularly drops into the House and enjoys a chat with any of the boys. Now our two ‘young’ ones are overseas and doing their thing in far off places, the House is our chance to engage with your kids.
Our new boys have settled well. I never underestimate how challenging it can be however as we begin Week 3 of Term 1, I can say, hand on heart, that this is the most settled group of ‘newbies’ yet.
Logan McGrath (Year 11) has joined us from Grafton for his final two years of schooling, his senior elective subjects have a humanities/social science slant (we like that here!). Thus far, he has been really impressed with Philosophy and Reason, loving lessons with Mr Michael, and Literature, a new subject this year and being taught by Mrs Purves.
In Year 10, Jacob Fox (Year 10) is a bit of sportsman and hails from Warwick – he is keeping for the 10A team and he also enjoys his football, playing for the SWQ Thunder in town. Whilst he is a West Ham supporter, I am trying not to hold that against him. In class, Jacob has taken well to HPE and his favourite lesson/teacher combo thus far is English with Mr Lachmund.
Luke Griffiths (Year 10) has found the Stephens boarding community to be inclusive, friendly and welcoming as he has transitioned from a school in Dalby. The academics in lessons are good and he feels that he is being pushed harder – this is never a bad thing!
Lachy Rippon (Year 9) has joined us from Casino and has made a great impression. As with the other boys, friendly and approachable. He has described the House as an ‘oldie but a goodie’ (unless he was talking about me!) and he describes the fact that the other boys in the house do not judge as being a stand out. The lessons are harder but ‘I can do it’ and it appears he wants to push himself.
These boys are joined by Josh Pye. Josh has joined us from Wondai, and on first hearing, I have discovered, is not to be confused, regrettably for this 'pom in oz,' for Bondai. Josh enjoys Engineering classes with Mr Wilson and finds lunchtime too long, however, he values the quiet and calm atmosphere in the house.
We welcome all of the boys and in the next BT, I will present the new Year 8 boys – fresh in from Corfe and living their best Stephens House lives.
Year 12 Formal Dinner
Oli Weier at the Year 12 Formal Dinner
On Tuesday, in the Jacaranda Room, all Year 12 boys from the five senior houses gathered for a formal dining-in to their final year. Resplendent in blazer dress and utilising both knives and forks, there was even talk that they would be drinking from glasses. Alas, this was not be and plastic cups prevailed. The boys listened to Mr Byron outline their senior year and it would be fair to say that G150 was mentioned. Further, Mr Troxler – Head of Boyce House – spoke to ‘TGS Culture’ with a specific focus upon responsibility and accountability around leadership. Chartwells supplied a lovely dinner and, in my opinion, these kinds of formal occasions are an excellent night for all. Thank you to all involved.
Swim Carnival and Mother and Son Dinner
The Year 12 boys have written and practiced their speeches ahead of the Mother and Son Dinner
As mentioned earlier, these two events take place this week and will not, sadly, make the cut-off for inclusion. Both will be featured next time however I am hoping to sneak in a few photographs here as a bit of a taster of what is to follow.
From Gilbert Tighe, House Captain and Senior Prefect
Gilbert has made speeches than we have enjoyed hot dinners in recent weeks...or so it must seem!
Dear Stephens House Community,
Firstly, I would like to welcome everyone back to another year and hope that you all enjoyed a well earnt Christmas and New Year’s break. For those of you who don’t know me My name is Gilbert Tighe and I'm this year’s House Captain as well as Senior Prefect. I have a brother George who is in Year 10 and we come from Pallamallawa a small town near Moree, NSW. We live on a cereal cropping farm, and I thoroughly enjoy working during the holidays and helping out wherever I can.
The start of this year has got off to a flier with an action packed first couple of weeks, but the boys have enjoyed getting back in and catching up with each other as well as being welcomed back with new carpet and appliances, so we are set to go for a big year. The new boys and Year 8s are settling in well to new routines and getting to know all of the older grades, and everyone throughout the house has been helping out where necessary. This year along with the duty group the Year 12s are helping leading duties along with helping with wake ups, bedtimes and roll calls. This gives all the seniors a sense of leadership within the house and allowing us to leave a legacy behind in Stephens in our last year of school. This year being Grammar 150 as a house we will be looking to get involved in as many activities as possible and enjoying what is going to be an exciting year in this respect. In the short term with cross country coming up we will be looking to bring back the morning house runs doing a lap or two around the School to try and gain a bit of fitness before the end of the term and start the day on a positive.
Finally good luck to everyone for the remainder of the term. We have had a good start so let’s continue on and finish off strongly.
We are delighted to welcome you and your sons to an exciting new school year in Taylor House. The 2025 school year has kicked off on a high note, with our boys settling into boarding life with great enthusiasm and positivity. The return to classes has been met with an air of excitement and diligence, setting a fantastic tone for the year ahead.
Evening prep sessions have become a hive of activity where our boys are focused and working diligently to achieve their best. The camaraderie and support among the boys is palpable, creating a vibrant and productive environment for everyone.
This year is particularly special as we celebrate the Grammar 150 anniversary. The festivities continue next week with the 'Across All Boarders Lunch,' marking the start of a year filled with memorable events that will allow us to reflect on our rich history and celebrate our community's spirit and achievements. These celebrations will offer numerous opportunities for remembrance, joy and celebration.
Our Year 12 seniors have embraced their roles with vigour, working to develop their leadership portfolios. They are committed to providing guidance, engagement, and direction throughout the house. We are confident that their efforts will enhance the experiences of all our boys.
Following a fantastic performance at last year's Interhouse Swimming Carnival, where our house finished second overall—thanks in no small part to the spirited cheering—our current leaders are motivated to go one step further. The carnival provided not just competition but also a platform for our boys to inspire each other, lifting spirits and performances alike. This year, we aim to build on that success and achieve even greater heights.
We look forward to a year filled with both challenges and triumphs, and we are excited to see what our boys will accomplish.
Welcome to new Staff
As the new academic year gains momentum, Taylor House is thrilled to announce the addition of two new boarding supervisors, Mr Todd Walters and Mr Thomas Lund. Both gentlemen have joined our community with a refreshing and warm energy, making an immediate positive impact on our boarding environment.
Mr Walters and Mr Lund have embarked on their journey in Taylor House with great enthusiasm and are dedicated to getting to know each student personally. Their approachable and caring natures have already made a positive impact on our boys, fostering a supportive and welcoming atmosphere.
The boys of Taylor House have been commendable in their efforts to assist our new staff members, stepping up to offer support and help acquaint them with the unique traditions and routines of our community. This collaboration highlights the strong sense of brotherhood and mutual respect that defines our house culture.
New boys, starting strong
Taylor House is excited to welcome our new students this year, who have already made a significant impact on our community. Joining us this year are Jack Birch (Year 8), George Gladman (Year 9), Paddy Short (Year 10), Marcus Franklin (Year 10), Kin Denman (Year 10) and Petelo Maka (Year 11), along with our Year 8 boys making the journey up from Corfe House, Will Pitkin, Sid Moloney, Heath Scholfield, Angus Fay and Hunter Ryrie. These young men have quickly endeared themselves to their housemates and have embraced the unique challenges and opportunities of boarding and school life at TGS.
The transition to a new school and a boarding environment can often be daunting, but these boys have managed this transition admirably, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Although their introduction to TGS could be described as a baptism of fire, their ability to quickly find their feet and get into the swing of things has been impressive.
Their fellow Taylor boys have played a crucial role in this smooth transition, welcoming the new students with open arms and going out of their way to assist and guide them as they begin their journey at Taylor House and TGS. This spirit of brotherhood and support is a testament to the values we hold dear at Taylor House, emphasising mutual respect, support and community.
Change, is the only constant
We are pleased to report several positive changes in our boarding routines, reflecting our ongoing commitment to support the academic and personal development of our young men. One significant adjustment this academic year has been the relocation of centralised prep sessions back to the boarding house, allowing a more tailored approach to our students' academic needs.
Starting this year, Sunday nights are now dedicated to boys working independently in their rooms, preparing for the week ahead. This change allows them to manage their homework, organisation and responsibilities in a personal space, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. This welcomed change to the routine has proven to be a success, with many boys appreciating the quiet and focused environment to kickstart their week.
Another adjustment that has resonated well with our community came from a trial initiated in Term 4 of last year. Recognising the importance of adequate rest, we revised our morning schedule to allow for extra sleep time. The boys now have breakfast at 8:00am and proceed directly to their school day without returning to the house. This shift has been hugely beneficial, with the additional sleep time being much appreciated by all.
Furthermore, the introduction of composite dorms combining Years 8, 9 and 10 has had a significant impact. This arrangement has not only promoted leadership skills among the Year 10 boys, who take on the responsibility of guiding the younger students, but it also provides role models for the Year 9 and 8 students, setting a clear example to aspire to. This structure has enhanced the sense of community within the house, fostering a culture of mentorship and support that contributes to a more connected and cohesive environment.
These adjustments, though seemingly small, have made a substantial positive impact on our boarding community. The feedback from both students and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the effectiveness of these changes in enhancing our boys' boarding experience.
We are excited to continue observing the benefits of these adjustments and are committed to refining our approaches to ensure the best possible outcomes for our boys.
Key Dates
As the year progresses, we have some special events that bring together the Taylor House community. Please ensure these key dates are marked in your diaries:
Thursday, 24 July: Taylor House Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner An evening dedicated to celebrating the bond between our Year 12 students and their mothers. This event is a cherished tradition that highlights the journey our boys have made through their school years and an opportunity to celebrate the special Mum's who supported their journey.
Friday, 25 July: Taylor House Family Evening A wonderful opportunity for all Taylor House families to gather, interact and enjoy an evening of friendship and fun. This event strengthens the community spirit and allows families to connect with staff, parents and boys.
Tuesday, 7 October: Taylor House Boarder's Formal Dinner Our annual formal dinner for boarders, an elegant event that marks one of the highlights of the boarding experience. It's a night for our boys to celebrate their achievements and socialise in a formal setting.
These dates are important occasions for our community, providing unique opportunities for celebration, reflection and connection. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at these events, sharing in the special moments that make Taylor House a remarkable place for our boys to grow and thrive.
