It has been a wonderful couple of weeks for the TGS Boarding Community. Whilst the boarders are certainly eager to get away to camp and then get home for the holidays, I’ve been impressed with the way in which they have engaged with the boarding program throughout this term.
The assessment block for Term 1 has just concluded. Whilst not as intense as the end of Semester assessment schedule, our boarders have handled the academic demands admirably and I am pleased to hear that our boys are asking for help and engaging in enrichment sessions. As mentioned previously, an Old Boy from last year, Jimmy White, has recently been recruited as an academic tutor which has been well received by our junior and senior boarders alike. Having studied Maths Methods, Chemistry and Physics, I’m confident Jimmy will be spending lots of time helping out the Year 11 and 12 boarders studying these subjects throughout the remainder of the year.
Our activities program had yet another outing attended by over 100 boarders. The NRL match at Suncorp Stadium didn’t go the way of the Dolphins fans, but I am more than pleased to know that our boarders are taking up the opportunities presented to them on weekends. This Sunday, we will have a group going to Marist College Ashgrove for a touch football competition as well as a group going to Manly Harbour in Brisbane to complete a practical assessment for their boat and jet-ski license. I am working on finalising the Term 2 Activities program and I am pleased to reveal that it will feature a trip to Movie World. I will publish this as soon as I am able.
I’ve also been able to get out to meet families with our TGS on Tour program, featuring a few trips these past few weeks. For me personally, I’ve spent a few nights away in Dubbo at the NSW ICPA Conference and another couple of nights in Charleville and Augathella. Our boarding community is not exclusively farming, with parents working in the schools and hospitals of regional towns as well as being the builders, plumbers and painters that service the communities in these towns. It has been very interesting to learn about these businesses and how government policies impact upon them and the liveability of these towns.
It is also listed as a separate section in this edition of the Telegraph, but I wanted to remind all parents that the End of Term 1 BPSG Meeting will be held at 7:00pm this Sunday, 24 March. The link for the meeting is here. There will hopefully be time in this meeting to share some plans for Term 2 and update you all on the TGS Boarding Program.
In closing, I would like to acknowledge Mr Michael Hall for continuing his tenure in Boyce House for a final term whilst the recruitment process continues. I am looking forward to Michael’s continued support of the boarding program as he steps across into his role of the Head of Pastoral Care in Term 2.
As we near the conclusion of the first term, it's not only the boys eagerly anticipating the Easter break, parents too are undoubtedly looking forward to reuniting with their sons, and the Boarding, teaching and support staff eagerly await a well-deserved rest. This term has been filled with events, marking a positive start to the year. On behalf of the BPSG, I extend warm wishes to everyone for a happy and safe Easter holiday.
In light of the varied activities occurring last week of term such as camp, work experience and the Fairholme formal, we have opted for an online Teams BPSG meeting on Sunday, 24 March at 7:00pm. This is to provide an opportunity for more parents to attend. Please keep an eye out for an email from Nick Byron with the link to the Teams meeting. If you have a matter you would like raised at the meeting, please email your BPSG House Rep, BPSG President or Nick Byron by Wednesday, 20 March 2024.
Parent WhatsApp House Chat Groups
Each Boarding House has a Parent WhatsApp group to keep up to date with things relevant to your individual House. These chat groups are for parents only and will be monitored by the House Representative. The group chats are for positive information sharing, support and an avenue for parents to connect and organise some informal social interaction - such as “Anyone in TWB today in the House keen to catch up for a coffee or drink”.
Anyone approved in the group is welcome to post, it is about building community and connection and getting to know the other parents within your Houses (just be mindful you are following the TGS social media policy guidelines).
Please be advised there is a bit involved in approving people into the groups, for privacy and security the House reps are required to confirm your identity via private message if it is not visible (some people only show as a phone number). It would be helpful if parents could please check their WhatsApp profile setting to ensure that your first and surname is listed so it displays. Would be great too if you could upload a photo so we can put names to faces.
There are still some little quirks we are learning about WhatsApp such as you will not see any prior history in the chat when you first join (quite annoying). If you get stuck and need help, check out the WhatsApp help section first and then reach out to your house rep or myself and we hopefully be able to help you get connected.
Please be advised it is NOT the forum to raise concerns, please direct these to your Head of House/Nick Byron and you are welcome to contact your House Rep or me if you need a sounding board or extra support.
If you wish to join your house WhatsApp Chat Group see the links below:
Please do not hesitate to reach out and connect with me and/or your House Representative if you need help, we are all here to support you on your TGS boarding journey.
We warmly invite all TGS parents, past and present, to help us make the 2024 Grammar Art Show an outstanding success.
The highly regarded Grammar Art Show is almost upon us and we are seeking a pool of willing and energetic volunteers to assist with various tasks during the week leading up to Opening Night, at different events over the weekend and during the week after the main event to assist with pack down.
There are a wide range of activities and time slots available that cater to all needs, from those of us who like to be at front of house, to those of us who prefer to work behind the scenes. Various tasks include unpacking and hanging art, general set up, food prep and serving at our various events such as Opening Night, our Café, Art Amongst Friends and High Tea, assisting with the sale of art and raffle tickets, baking for our Café, sales entry and treasury, pack down of unsold art and packaging up art to courier back to artists. You need not have any prior experience and we love to welcome new faces into our friendly fold of hard working, fun, vibrant and inclusive committee members, and find that becoming involved is a hugely satisfying and enjoyable experience.
This event is a major fundraiser for the whole School community and all funds raised benefit TGS boys in both the Junior and Senior School. Please seriously consider signing up to a volunteer a task or two, choose something that suits you and bring a friend or two along. Many hands make light work and it's a brilliant way to get involved with a great committee and meet other like-minded, fun, hardworking TGS parents.
Without the assistance of our generous volunteers, the Art Show would not be the sellout event and success it is.
As our time caring for your boys at Boyce House draws to a close, my family and I want to express our deepest gratitude. The journey we’ve shared with your sons has been nothing short of remarkable - a tapestry woven with laughter, growth and cherished memories. I would like to thank the staff that have shared this journey with us and shown unwavering and tireless support for the boys in the House. I wish Mr Byron all the best for next Term as he manages two roles. This is a massive task and I know that he is forsaking precious family time to devote to the House. Please support him whilst he does so.
From the moment we stepped through the doors of Boyce House, we were embraced by warmth and kindness. Families have opened their hearts and homes to us, allowing us to become part of this close-knit community. We’ve shared meals, late-night and early morning conversations, and celebrated victories and managed challenges together. Your boys have become an extension of our own family, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
Caring for your sons has been an honour and a privilege. We’ve witnessed their resilience, their camaraderie and their unwavering spirit. Whether it was helping with homework, cheering them on at sporting events, or simply lending a listening ear, every moment spent with these remarkable young men has left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Boyce House isn’t just a building or place to rest, it’s a haven where friendships blossom, dreams take flight, and character is forged for both staff and students. We’ve laughed together during movie nights, shared stories around the fireplace, and stood by each other during challenging times. Your boys have taught us as much as we’ve taught them, and for that, we are profoundly grateful. As we bid farewell, we carry with us a treasure trove of memories, the late-night chats, the impromptu touch footy matches, and the quiet moments of reflection. Our hearts are full, knowing that Boyce House will forever hold a special place in our lives.
To the families who entrusted their sons to our care, thank you for allowing us to be part of their journey. To the students who brightened our days with their enthusiasm and resilience, thank you for being the heartbeat of Boyce House. It is my hope that the bonds we’ve forged endure, and may your boys continue to thrive, both within these walls and beyond. We look forward to watching them from a not-too-distant position as Head of Pastoral Care and witness their future adventures and successes.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Michael and Rebecca Hall
Sports and Activities
Congratulations to all Boyce House boys for their commitment to representing the School and the House across a wide variety of sports this term. It is important to note that, while we reflect upon this term, that we also think ahead and remember that the final round of sports for Term 2 happens on the 'Friday' after school finishes this term. Opportunities to remain in boarding for the night are possible and details regarding this will be forwarded in the future.
This week we embarked on a mission to wrestle back the House Cross Country title from Mackintosh. I thank all Boyce House boarders for their efforts on the day.
Academic
Thank you to the boys who have worked hard this term and over the assessment block to set themselves up for success this Semester.
Holiday Leave - IMPORTANT
Please ensure that your son's leave has been entered into Reach and approved by you. Important dates:
Thursday, 28 March - final day of Term 1 - 3:00pm
Monday, 15 April - return date for Term 2 - 2:00pm
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
A few words from Henry White, Head of House
Thank you for tuning into the final edition of Corfe Courier for Term 1. It certainly feels surreal as I’m writing this – where did the time go? As I pen the final edition of Corfe Courier for Term 1, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey our boys have undertaken since leaving the comfort of their home in late January.
As you read this piece, our boys will have completed their Term 1 academic studies and will be in the midst of House pack-ups and preparation for camps week. Our three Year 6s also eagerly await a week of quiet downtime with Ms Fletcher and staff while their big brothers cruise off to Alexandra Headland to cap off Term 1.
There is a peculiar feeling in Corfe at this stage; while the boys are excited for the weeks ahead and relieved to have tied a knot on their first School term, fatigue has also set in, and with it, occasional homesickness and irritability.
Please be mindful of this during any phone calls home this week. Our team is incredibly proud of how far the boys have come along their journey so far. The learning curve in Term 1 is not an easy one; it is a mixing pot filled with the shock of arrival, anxieties about settling and making friends, pressures of new routines and expectations, homesickness, burdens of homework and assessment, and the odd moment of realisation when the glossy shine of this '10-week sleepover' that mum and dad promised wears off.
When you put it like that, it makes sense that we’ve had a few tears and the need for a firm word at times. It also becomes very clear that these boys, above all else, need a good rest!
As always, I’d like to thank you for your support and confidence throughout the term and, as I did at the start of the year, acknowledge each of you as parents for your trust in us to support, guide and care for your most precious asset. Boarding can be a rough trot for the families, as well as the boys, and I acknowledge your reciprocal efforts in this journey.
Please read on and enjoy the final Corfe Courier for Term 1, 2023.
Championing Culture and the Arts in Corfe
A huge congratulations to all boys of Corfe Boarding House for championing all aspects of TGS life – academic, athletic, artistic and cultural. Special commendations are in order for Jack Tighe, for his award-winning piece in the 2024 TGS Art Show (see below), as well as Hamish Baker and George Milne for their exceptional performances and well-deserved prizes in the 2024 Read My Lips concert.
The Corfe team are immensely proud of your efforts. Well done, lads!
Words from the Team
Meet Cayley and Finn, our two newest members of staff.
Ms Cayley Voss Working as a boarding house supervisor in Corfe House has been rewarding and is filled with daily discoveries and heart-warming interactions. Each day brings the opportunity to meet and learn about the experiences of the boys under my care. From hearing tales of life on sprawling properties to stories of island living in the Torres Strait, it’s an honour to be able to watch people from such diverse backgrounds form and embrace this community.
One particularly memorable experience was getting to know Pana and delving into the culture of his island, Dauna. Pana shared his heritage with me, offering virtual tours of his homeland via Google Maps and explained the significance of Torres Strait Islander artworks. His pride in his culture was evident as he recounted stories behind traditional symbols like the dog, leaf and crocodile, which are the totems given to him by his parents and grandmother.
Through these exchanges, I’ve been able to deepen my connection with the boys, with each interaction being a reminder of the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, where every individual feels valued and understood.
As a Boarding House supervisor, I cherish the opportunity to not only guide and support, but to create meaningful connections and allow everyone to embrace Corfe as a home away from home. Every day brings new insights and lessons, making my experience in Corfe House a truly fulfilling journey.
Mr Finn Wright Since joining Corfe House at the beginning of the year, I have had only positive experiences with the boys. From what I’ve seen this group of young men are supportive, empathetic and kind. I have seen many acts of kindness during my time in Corfe, with all the boys displaying good behaviours in and out of the House. I have found working with the Corfe boys incredibly comfortable, they all have genuine and unique personalities that create such a welcoming environment in the House. The boys are well-mannered and quick to lend a hand, they also all possess a great sense of humour which has made it even easier to get to know them. Getting use to a boarding routine can be difficult; however, the boys of Corfe have made it look easy. They continuously raise the bar which has offered countless positive experiences with them all. Getting to know the young men has been a pleasure and I’m excited to continue working alongside them.
Thank you, Headmaster!
A heartfelt thank you goes to the Headmaster and his family for graciously hosting half of Corfe House for a BBQ on Sunday, 17 March. Your hospitality was greatly appreciated, and it provided a wonderful opportunity for the boys to get to know you, and your dogs!
The remaining half of Corfe House eagerly anticipates accepting the invitation early in Term 2.
Signing off for Easter
Thank you
Thank you for taking the time to read the final Corfe Courier for Term 1.
In closing, I’d like to to extend warm wishes to you and your family. Whether you're traveling or staying close to home, I wish you a safe and happy holiday.
Thank you for being an integral part of our boarding family, and I look forward to welcoming you back refreshed and renewed for the start of the new term.
Have a wonderful Easter!
Henry
Groom House
Groom Gazette
Term 1 comes to an end...
I am yet again extremely proud of the progress made by the boys in Groom House. New boys have been assimilated into the culture of the House and it feels like they have been with us for much longer than just nine weeks. There have been successes and failures, a few tears, a little homesickness and lots of laughter. Whatever is put before these boys, they show the resilience to get up and try again with the knowledge that there will be Groom boys supporting them in all their endeavours.
Alex Reddacliff and Joshua Maher seem to have collected medals cumulatively weighing more than their own body weights from the swimming carnivals of south eastern Queensland, our Cadets boys (Charles Rowen, Charlie Chen and Will Watson) have been extremely active, almost every boy has been involved with GPS cricket or volleyball, with varying degrees of success, and Jimmy Baker and Ed Beattie have been out with the TGS Mountain Biking club. On top of this, boys have begun playing club rugby (union and league), the 1st XV and New Zealand rugby tour squad have been training with impressive regularity and Groom House boys must have been some of the most consistent attendees at the gym before school.
There have also been numerous boarder's trips; Wet 'n' Wild was a big hit, but some of the more niche activities have been growing in popularity. Just last week, Josh Maher and Ed Beattie returned from the fishing trip recounting their successes. I am certain that I will have missed activities and I am sorry for this - it is difficult to keep track of everything, especially when you add to this list the number of Year 12 boys who have taken their driving tests, how many hours of Fortnite have been played, communally in the House, and somewhere in here boys have also been successful academically.
Groom staff are always extremely proud when we have visitors during prep who comment positively about the environment created by the boys; it would be wonderful to have our own separate prep room, but having the juniors in the Common Room, and many more senior boys in the foyer or new work room, seems to create an extremely effective work space in which boys work quietly out of respect for each other, but also have the ability to work communally where necessary. I have even caught a number of junior boys reading a book (for pleasure!) when they have finished all of their prep for the evening.
Term 1, as always, ends with House Cross Country. Groom entered this event at the top of the ladder for the Headmasters' Shield, having won the Touch Rugby tournament and the Swimming Carnival. Mrs Manassero and I are hugely impressed by the number of boys who participated and there were some great individual results. Unfortunately, Groom only finished 5th - but I believe this means we are still at the top of the Headmaster's Shield ladder.
The boys should be commended on a successful term and a much needed rest over the Easter break.
Camps Week
Although this newsletter will only arrive a couple of days before all of the boys leave for Camps Week, please do not hesitate to make contact if there is anything that boys need help to obtain on their kit lists.
Lost Property
As always, our store of lost property has grown this term. This seems to multiply every week as boys put unnamed clothing through the laundry system. As you come to collect the boys at the end of the term there will be tables of this in the entrance hall. Please take what is yours and put a name in it.
Alarm Clocks
The number of boys owning an alarm clock this term is improving but there is still a little reliance on the same few boys to wake up others. Please could you make sure that the boys invest in this cheap but essential item.
End of Term
Boys will be ready for collection on Thursday, 28 March, when they return from their camp. Please can you ensure, if it hasn't been done already, that you have 'Holiday' leave in the system. The return to School date for Term 2 is Monday, 15 April. The House will be open around midday for student drop off, in time for Parent Teacher meetings in the afternoon.
Fitzy Finds Out, Part 2: The New Year 8 Boys
James Fitzgerald has again been honing his interview skills again this week for us. James has interviewed four of the new Year 8 boys who have migrated from Corfe. Thank you James for this, and welcome to all of these not-so-new-anymore boys! There will be more to come in the first edition of the Groom Gazette next term.
Jimmy
Baker
Jimmy Baker
Where is your
hometown outside of Groom? Gayndah QLD (near
Bundy).
Describe you
home / hometown / local region. Lot of citrus in
the area and some cattle.
What are you
favourite past times at home? Riding the dirt
bike and working at the farm.
Describe your
transition from Corfe to Groom It was a fairly
easy transition. It is a lot more laid back here in Groom.
What were your
first impressions of Groom in the early weeks? The routine was a
bit different from Corfe and we have more free time.
What’s been the
most surprising aspect of senior boarding so far? Probably that
everyone is pretty good at ping pong.
Have you
noticed any differences in the rules or expectations between the two houses? It’s a bit
stricter in Corfe. More phone time now.
Is there any
specific home cooked meal you miss the most? A good hardy
lasagne.
What’s one
thing you’re most looking forward to doing when you go home soon? Riding the
motorbike.
What sports and
activities are you involved with in Term 1? Cricket (8A) and
tennis next term.
Are there any
subjects you are enjoying or struggling with? English is alright.
Is TGS much different to your old primary/junior school (student numbers, size)? My old school was
only 60 something kids so a big change.
If you could
make any changes or improvements to the House, what would they be? A later bedtime on
weekends.
If you could
bring one thing from home to make Groom more ‘homely’, what would it be? My dirt bike.
Who is the
untidiest boy in Groom? Dan McDonald or Ed
Beattie.
Who is the
loudest boy in Groom? Lorenzo Whitnall.
Who is the
funniest boy in Groom? Fitzy [ed: there
was apparently no money changing hands for this answer].
Luke
Shepherd
Luke Shepherd
Where is your
hometown outside of Groom? Westmar, QLD.
Describe you
home / hometown / local region. Mostly cropping
and cattle.
What are you
favourite past times at home? Motorbike riding,
driving the ute, and working.
Describe your
transition from Corfe to Groom (Was it easy, hard?) Easy transition, there
is a lot more freedom here.
What were your
first impressions of Groom in the early weeks? Groom was more
laid back than Corfe and had more privileges.
What’s been the
most surprising aspect of senior boarding so far? You can always
play ping pong or pool with no ‘queue’.
Have you
noticed any differences in the rules or expectations between the two Houses? Later bedtimes and
longer phone time.
Is there any
specific home cooked meal you miss the most? Spaghetti
bolognese or chicken curry.
What’s one
thing you’re most looking forward to doing when you go home soon? Riding the
motorbike and just having a break from school.
What sports and
activities are you involved with in term 1? Volleyball and
club footy now, next term soccer and club footy.
Are there any
subjects you’re particularly enjoying or struggling with? Liking workshop and history’s a battle.
Is TGS much different to
your old primary/junior school (Student numbers, size)? My old school had
approx. 25 kids.
If you could
make any changes or improvements to the House, what would they be? Later bedtimes and
having noodles brought back from the dining hall on Sunday lunch, like last
term.
If you could
bring one thing from home to make Groom more ‘homely’, what would it be? My motorbike.
Who is the
untidiest boy in Groom? Charles Rowen.
Who is the
loudest boy in Groom? Dan McDonald.
Who is the
funniest boy in Groom? Fitzy [ed:
Fitzy still claims no input on this answer].
Callum
Lees
Callum Lees (on the left)
Where is your
hometown outside of Groom? Lighting Ridge
Describe you
home / hometown / local region. Opal mining
country, rocky and black soil country
What are you
favourite past times at home? Driving machinery
on the property.
Describe your
transition from Corfe to Groom (was it easy, hard?) The transition was
easy once you got familiar with routine.
What were your
first impressions of Groom in the early weeks? Groom was way more
laid back and students can be more self-paced.
What’s been the
most surprising aspect of senior boarding so far? A lot of people
play Fortnite on weekends.
Have you
noticed any differences in the rules or expectations between the two houses? Phone time is a
lot longer than Corfe.
Is there any
specific home cooked meal you miss the most? Medium rare steak,
with mash potato, veggies and gravy.
What’s one
thing you’re most looking forward to doing when you go home soon? Riding the
motorbike around and working.
What sports and
activities are you involved with in term 1? Volleyball now and
soccer next term.
Are there any
subjects you’re particularly enjoying or struggling with? Enjoying workshop
and a few others are challenging.
Is TGS much different to
your old primary/junior school (Student numbers, size)? My old school had
just 8 kids.
If you could
make any changes or improvements to the House, what would they be? Later bedtimes on
the weekends.
If you could
bring one thing from home to make Groom more ‘homely’, what would it be? My motorbike.
Who is the
untidiest boy in Groom? Charles Rowen.
Who is the
loudest boy in Groom? Dan McDonald and myself.
Who is the
funniest boy in Groom? Probably Oli Lethbridge.
Dan
McDonald
Dan McDonald
Where is your
hometown outside of Groom? Flinton, QLD
Describe you
home / hometown / local region. Mostly cattle and
a few grain farms.
What are you
favourite past times at home? Riding the
motorbike and muck around with the brothers.
Describe your
transition from Corfe to Groom (was it easy, hard?) Extremely easy
transition just moved in and settled in easy.
What were your
first impressions of Groom in the early weeks? Very good and relaxed
here.
What’s been the
most surprising aspect of senior boarding so far? The freedom we
have but still tightly managed in the junior end.
Have you
noticed any differences in the rules or expectations between the two Houses? The expectations
are higher here, but the rules are more laid back.
Is there any
specific home cooked meal you miss the most? Some decent
scrambled eggs with real, well-cooked bacon.
What’s one
thing you’re most looking forward to doing when you go home soon? Riding the
motorbike and just getting away from it.
What sports and
activities are you involved with in Term 1? Club rugby,
volleyball, club volleyball, and hopefully downs rugby (waiting to hear the
teams).
Are there any
subjects you’re particularly enjoying or struggling with? Enjoying PE,
especially prac, and not liking history.
Is TGS much to
your old primary/junior school (Student numbers, size)? Very different, old
school had only 30 kids.
If you could
make any changes or improvements to the house, what would they be? Having optional
prep time with a shorter minimum.
If you could
bring one thing from home to make Groom more ‘homely’, what would it be? Having some dogs
here.
Who is the
untidiest boy in Groom? Charles Rowen.
Who is the
loudest boy in Groom? Charles Rowan and
Hugh Gordan.
Who is the
funniest boy in Groom? Charlie Webster
Bonus question:
Who is the best McDonald brother? Easy question. Me.
Mackintosh House
The Mackintosh Mail
End Of Term 1 - 2024
Camp and activities week always make the end to Term 1 more interesting and sometime complicated. We have already had boys depart to the NT, south to Orange and to PNG for Year 10 Work Experience.
I have been speaking with parents and boys about end of term flights and travel arrangements. You should have received communication from Student Services and Mrs Wormwell regarding booking School-provided buses and transfers to the airport.
Boarders return day for Term 2 is Monday, 15 April and classes commence Tuesday, 16 April 2024.
Inter House Cross Country Championship - 2024 Mackintosh Gallery
I had the privilege of attending the NSW ICPA State Conference in Dubbo NSW on Wednesday, 6 and Thursday, 7 March 2024. This was a great opportunity to spend time with, and support, members of our regional and remote community. Our TGS Boarding community crosses state and international borders, west to Port Headland in WA, North to Darwin and PNG, and east to New Zealand.
It was a great to catch up with current TGS parents, Phillipa and Robin Beckwith, Vice-President of NSW ICPA, from Walgett, along with other members of the broader boarding community including staff from the Australian Boarding School Association and other schools. At this conference I was fortunate to be able re-connect with former boarding parents, boarders and community members that I have worked with in past roles. The boarding school community in Australia is very connected and a great support to each other. It is always great to meet people and build an understanding of how families live and how they access their education for the children.
In Mackintosh House
BBQ Breakfast is Back
Our Year 11 boys are the chefs on a Thursday morning as they cook the BBQ breakfast for Mackintosh House. They have completed the Toowoomba Regional Council online food safety course, get up early and get cooking for their mates. It is a great break in the morning routine for the boys, and they love it.
Academics, Prep and Assessment
During this most recent assessment and exam period, our boys have been diligent with their time and effort. A number of boys have been making good use of the staff, help sessions and tutoring available to them.
Table Tennis Competitions and Sunday Cricket
On a Friday and Saturday night, the boys enjoy the in-house table tennis competition. Last week this was won by Dougal Skene in Year 8. He defeated several senior boys in his way to taking the title.
It was refreshing to see our younger boys getting out and about last weekend, organising their own Sunday Big Bash for an hour or so. It was a beautiful day and they made a great choice in getting out to play.
VR Games
At times it looks like blindfolded boys stumbling around. The boys are enjoying our common room spaces and downtime with their Virtual Reality Headsets on the weekends.
A couple of weeks ago, a new member joined the Mackintosh House family. Boris, our new puppy, has been visiting the boys in the House. It is always interesting to see how people respond to a puppy and also how the dog responds to the person. The boys, and few parents, have loved meeting and catching up with Boris over the past week or so. If you need some puppy therapy, please come and visit. His brother is available from the breeder, and we are not getting another dog, but you might want one if you are missing your son.
Upcoming Important Dates for Mackintosh House Families
Sunday, April 21 – AEIOU Take a Hike Fun Run
Friday, May 24 – Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner
Wednesday, September 11 – Mackintosh House Formal Dinner
Stephens House
Stephens Sentinel
No slowing down for this old man who was hoping, in the last edition, to be cruising into the final weeks of term. Alas, ‘twas not to be (a bit of Shakespeare for free) as this week has seen me squeeze in a TGS on Tour trip to Charleville and Augathella.
It was great to spend a morning with Stephens House stalwarts, the Forrest family. Adrian and Megan are kept incredibly busy on their properties and it was interesting to hear that they, like us, are faced with incredible staffing pressures and challenges at this time. With Will Forrest – the subject of ‘Where are they now?’ this week – away up north gaining cattle property experience, they are looking forward to putting ‘Mad Dog’ Jake and Charlie to work in the upcoming holidays.
Hello!
Later in the day, whilst propping up the bar at the Ellengowan Hotel, it was tremendous to catch up with Guy and Nat Newell, Bec Delforce and Kira Reddan. Stephens House royalty, out in force. I am very excited to have Campbell back in a few weeks, looking forward to young Hugh getting stuck into Grammar life and celebrating Lachie Delforce after a good first term in the House. It was also nice to catch up with Cam Delforce – a Year 12 graduate from my first year in the House.
We bid ‘goodbye’ to the Dyer boys as the term winds up. Alex (Year 11) and Luke (Year 8) are becoming day boys now that their family has relocated from Agnes Water to East Toowoomba with young Jessica having started at Fairholme in Year 6. Whilst the boys will be missed from the House - where Alex has started to play a mean game of ping pong – they are going to live with their family, locally, and they will always be welcome back to stay over whenever they fancy it. (I am not sure that I can officially say this; however I did, and they are!)
Let me take this opportunity to wish you the very best for the forthcoming holiday. Kate and I are undecided on our travel plans and will be delighted to be joined again in Toowoomba by our eldest son. George has been in Europe studying for his Masters and then working in the Middle East, in places that just make us nervous. I am sure he will catch up with the boys in the term ahead.
The Return of the Brekky BBQ
“Finally…” ”About bloody time, sir” ”I had given up” ”Sir, is it safe…?” ”OMG, am I seeing things?” and “What’s that smell…?”
All of the comments above were heard last Friday morning when the new 'Beefmaster Double Burner Triple Level Fuel Injected Turbo Charged’ barbecue was christened by the boys in Stephens House.
In fairness, the Groom boys had used it the day before and their clean up was meticulous. It felt like the dawn of a new day. In fact, it was.
We uncovered the BBQ just after 6:00am and fired her up. Back in the day, a 6:00am fire up would have resulted in 7:00am cooking; however, the new turbo charged fuel injection model has us cooking in seven minutes. With BBQ veteran and House Vice-Captain, Lachie Finlay, at 3rd
XI cricket training followed by a high-performance ice bath, it was Gabe Downes and Archie Cameron who grabbed the tongs and took the initiative. Gabe was merely a stand-in and as his loan to TGS from Rugby School comes to an end, and with TGS not having an option to make the deal permanent, this one-day only big show left quite the impression on the watching audience – well Tranberg was impressed - promptly naming Gabe Downes as ‘Griller of the Year.’ A second accolade of the week for Gabe, who was announced as Head Boy of Rugby School for 2024/5.
Stand aside Jake, Archie is on the tools
Unsurprisingly, the event was a massive success and the weekly fixture that allows the boys to have a sleep in, a close-to-home feed and a gentle start to the day is back up and running for the two terms that we enjoy it most. The colder mornings will be back before we know it and I am delighted that the boys have this treat one day a week. I am sure that Lachie Finlay will be back on the tools next week, alongside Frank and Vossy as their months of wielding the willow.
This week it's Dorm B – second door on the right and home to a mix of Year 8 and Year 9 boys.
Ed Thomas hails from the small Western Downs town of Meandarra where his parents have a small family farm; however, their main business is the earth moving business and dad is all across the big machinery world. Ed came up from Corfe and enjoys the atmosphere in the House as a Year 9 boy, supporting the younger year groups as they adjust to their Senior House. He also admitted to enjoying chats with the House staff – highlighting that the friendliness of the staff, who take the trouble to chat about all sorts of things, is a big reason why he feels that Stephens life is for him. He was too polite to say that he probably took great pleasure in sending me running all over the tennis court last week! Ed, in the true traditions of Miss World, sees a future where he will be helping others and putting the needs of less fortunate people before his own. The House has a saint!
Riley Gray is another of the boys doing their second year in the House and as a Year 9 boy, coming from Condamine, and rooming with his twin brother Adrian, he is living Stephens life to the full. Riley and Adrian live on a mixed farm – cattle, wheat and sorgum and the property has been in their family for over 100 years. With farming taking up their time on leave and holidays, both boys enjoy spending time with their dogs, horses and motorbikes. They live across the river from their dorm mate, Mac. Riley, in particular, enjoys watching every NRL game played before settling down for the re-runs and talk-show analysis – a one man Kayo subscription. He is also good for the banter whenever the cricket is on. Adrian, meanwhile, is more of a sports player than a watcher and when he is not injuring himself on motorbikes or cricket fields, he can be found sharing his bed with a fluorescent yellow football (soccer ball) – there is a story here, however, I can not quite remember it! Adrian sees a future in the long term in engineering whilst Riley sees himself back on the family property.
Mac Sanderson lives across the Condamine River from the Gray family and the Sanderson’s split their time between the Condamine farm and their property in Warwick. Mac loves a chat in the House office, much like the Gray boys and is often found sharing stories of mum, Peta trying to shoot the crows with an air rifle at their stunning Airbnb cottage just outside of Warwick. I have not asked, however, I did assume that there were no guests on the property at the time Peta was shooting! Mac joined us from Scots PGC in Warwick where he had previously been a dayboy. He had enjoyed his tour of the House and School and it was great to find – after a little prodding – that he had been allocated a place in Stephens. Mr Tranberg and I joke that we saved him from a fate worse than…! The Sanderson’s run some cattle and also grow hay and wheat at their 3,000-acre farm. Mac is presently doing a lot of physio rehab following an accident and subsequent operation last year.
Riley Taylor is from central(ish) Queensland and calls the town of Clermont home. Living on a 10,000-acre property with around 200 head of cattle, he lives with mum and dad, two sisters and a brother. A pet dog completes the family. Like a number of the other boys in Dorm B, Riley is a product of Corfe and he enjoys cricket and football – playing for the B team in both sports. Like many of the boys in the House, afternoon games of touch are important, and Riley sees this as a great way of bringing the boys from across the different year groups together.
Luke Dyer has had quite the journey in his time at TGS. Starting out in the Northern Territory at VRD and then in Katherine, he has since moved down to Agnes Waters where the family were based. And then, another move! This term marks the end of Luke’s Stephens House boarding journey as he moves into East Toowoomba and continues through TGS in a dayboy capacity. Having enjoyed House touch, he is more than welcome to wander back in the afternoon from Arthur Street and join in with the boys! Looking ahead to the future, Luke appears to have set his sights on engineering. This is the ideal time to wish him well as he, and Year 11 brother Alex, transition to later wake ups and mum’s breakfast. The chances of laundry disappearing will diminish significantly and the days of searching for his laptop in a cabinet of 24 are well and truly over!
Gordon Higgins - we are still awaiting his pen portrait, however, as brother of House Legend, Will - a graduate of 2023 and 2024 Leader Wannabe, Jimmy - it is fair to say that Gordon is following in some large footsteps.
Dorm B
Where are they now?
William Thomas Forrest graduated last year and has headed north to Barkly Downs station near to Camooweal. Literally straddling the Qld/NT border, Will is loving life on a cattle property and is living the dream working with horses every day.
Always a ‘character’ in the House – I love the word ‘character’ – it could be said that Will was ready to leave TGS, and the rules and regulations of School, by the end of Year 8! However, and fair play to him, he stuck at it and made the best of the opportunities and I always enjoyed having him around.
Mad Dog and Charlie are now following in his footsteps and I am sure that many of the Stephens boys, post-graduation and Year 12, will follow Will on a similar pathway to adventure. It was great to hear from him and he wished all the fellas in the House the very best.
It was great to see Will's famed 'Volley's' outside his House last week. The memory's came flooding back and Mr Rawle had to dry an emotional tear from his eye, one of the C XV stalwarts, Luke assured me that Will had plenty of 'mongrel' in him on the field, I agreed that this was likely.
Will Forrest up at Barkly Downs on the Qld/NT border
The End of Gabe and the Return of Campbell
Campbell - looking a little bit guilty of something
The exchange term draws to an end and Gabe has been crowned as the ‘King of Rugby School 2024/5’ (Head Boy) and whilst his return leaves the BBQ tongs to be picked up by Lachie Finlay, it is Campbell Newell who will be hopping into his bed, metaphorically speaking. The program has run for the last two years and Stephens House boys, fortunately, have benefitted on both occasions. Obviously, Gilbert has returned from the 2023 experience considerably wiser and with a new sense of perspective on life. This feeds through to the boys in the House in the same way that spending time with Gabe has challenged their thinking in different ways. Who knows what the future holds; however, I love the idea that Stephens House could make this a hat trick in 2025, so if any of our present Year 9 boys are interested, please come and express your interest to me early. A conversation is a great place to start the journey and experience of a lifetime, if that is what you fancy. We are all super-excited to hear about Campbell’s time in the UK and I know from email exchanges with his Head of House at Rugby that he has been incredibly popular and sociable. I have every confidence that Campbell, who could tell a bit of a ripper of a story before he left, will come back as the returning larrikin, eager to have a yarn about kebabs, the English Premier League and chavs. Gabe has added much to the vibe of the House, to the Year 11A cricket team and he has even encouraged Lachy Muggleton to think about a Gap Year in the UK – how good would that be? It is fair to say that the House has not felt the same without Newelly. He has been missed!
Gabe Downes working hard at the Newell property in Augathella
Taylor House
From the Head of Taylor House
The end of term is here! Term 1 has been very positive, and the boys have got into a great rhythm in the opening stanza of the School year. Lots of new faces and happy to report that all are settling into boarding life very well. Great efforts have been made on the academic front and it is wonderful to see our boys working diligently each evening especially in the lead up and throughout the assessment period. I encourage our boys to give their all in their academic endeavours and seek the opportunity for growth through challenge.
BBQ breakfasts have returned to Taylor House and these are a hit with all boys as they not only look forward to a bacon and egg roll... who doesn't love one? But it is also a wonderful opportunity for our boys to gather and develop friendships in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. In Term 2 we will be welcoming Taylor House mentors to our BBQ breakfasts and the boys have encouraged and welcomed this and are looking forward to getting to know their mentors better.
Last Friday night, 'Read My Lips' was another fantastic evening with some wonderful performances from our Taylor boys. Special mention must go to our in-house team, The Academic Imports who delighted the audience with their rendition of the Backstreet Boys, MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice. For a moment I thought I was back in Mansions in Sydney (in the 90s). I'm very happy to report the 'Golden Budda' remains in Taylor House for a second year running as our Taylor Team took out the House Challenge to win the Budda. Great effort lads and certainly places us in the top two of the Headmaster's Shield.
As the Term wraps up boys have been reminded of a few logistical items:
All holiday leave to be entered and approved prior to departure.
All rooms to be cleaned and personal items to be either placed in storage or taken home (some items can remain in cupboards only).
All cricket bags to be taken home.
Any fans not in 'good working order' are to be disposed of or repaired or replaced.
Over the break, it has been recommended that each boy spends a little time to reflect on their Term; to take a moment to write down their successes, challenges and what they are aiming to achieve throughout Term 2 and beyond. Goals are great and a vital part of their success at School, but without a plan or 'road map' their goals remain as ideas. I ask that you work with your son and guide him along the path.
Thank you for a great Term and I look forward to seeing you all in April.
Regards
Eugene
Farewell Ms Holzheimer...
This farewell comes with a heavy heart and a mixture of emotions, as it was never a part of the plan; at least, it was never a part of my plan. Ms Holzheimer, your time as Assistant Head of Taylor House has been nothing short of remarkable. Your warm, calm nature has been a beacon of light for us all, effortlessly making the complexities and challenges we face seem minor. Your incredible support has not only lifted our spirits but has been pivotal in shaping the environment we cherish.
Your guidance has been instrumental for our boys, steering them through their academic journeys with such grace and assurance. You've instilled in them a sense of confidence, encouraging them to meet every challenge with hope and optimism. The incidental conversations, the moments shared, have fostered lasting memories and have undeniably made the men of Taylor House richer in character and spirit. Your care, your compassion, and your unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on us all.
As you transition into the next chapter of your journey, know that you leave behind a legacy that will forever resonate within the walls of Taylor House. You have elevated our community, and for that, we are eternally grateful. We bid you farewell, not as a goodbye, but with the hope of seeing you again, especially on those Monday and Wednesday nights should you ever wish to drop by and cover a shift.
We will miss you tremendously, Tiff. Yet, it brings us comfort to know you're just down the road in the Junior School. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for everything.
