TGS BOARDERS' TELEGRAPH - Friday, 28 March 2025 - Toowoomba Grammar School

As Term 1 rushes towards its conclusion, the Boyce Bugle calls once more to provide a round-up of the events, happenings and goings-on of the boys in maroon. Whilst the final part of the term may have started to drag for some, there has still been plenty to celebrate and leave us approaching the holiday with smiles on faces. In terms of achievements, we congratulate Myles, not only due to his role within the Academic Imports – this year’s ‘Read my Lips’ winners, but on the part he played within the Reds Under 18s side who secured their first ever win in Sydney against their Waratahs counterparts last weekend.

Our cricketers have also been making history with 11A (John H, Tom H, Tom P) and 10A (Matt) victories against Nudgee marking the first time these teams have triumphed in this fixture within recent memory. As an individual highlight, Will W’s game-winning catch for the Second XI has been the talk of Toowoomba since the weekend. A nod too to Rory, who has been awarded half-colours for his efforts within swimming and to Christopher for his role in the Senior A debating team's victory over Nudgee.

Away from sport, George M did a splendid job representing the Cattle Show team at Warwick and Will M brought home the Years 7 to 9 TGS Art Show Prize with his piece titled ‘Cotton Cloud.’ In the classroom, we congratulate Cooper C, who secured two recent commendations for his efforts in Agricultural Science and Workshop. Additionally, we welcome another teenager into Boyce with Will H recently turning 13.

Turning to events, the Boyce Family Evening fell on a mild Saturday night, which allowed us to circulate and enjoy each other’s company on the lawns outside the Pavilion. It was wonderful to spend time with many Boyce families and I do hope that those in attendance were able to make lasting connections and leave with new friends. The informality of this event lends itself to easy conversation and laughter and as such I would strongly encourage as many as possible to come along to next year’s edition.

Sticking with events, but looking to Term 2, Boyce House’s service activity, the Mountain Mile, returns on Sunday, 18 May. This year’s race looks to build on the success of 2024’s inaugural run, with more runners expected to be involved and greater prize vouchers available. This event is compulsory for all Boyce boys, and families are encouraged to take part too!

The Mountain Mile experience should stand our Year 12s in good stead as they prepare for the G150 Gift Run on Wednesday, 28 May. Our boarders will be running together as a house team to cover 100 kilometres in a similar spirit to those who ran to Dalby and back in 1968 to raise funds for the current TGS gateway on the corner of Herries and Mary Street. Funds from the 2025 effort will be used to refurbish the gateway and will be the Year 12 student's gift to the School.

Meet the New Buffs (Part 2)

Now that the varnish has worn off our ‘new’ Year 8 and 9 students they have been beavering away to provide their reflections on their first term in Boyce:

Year 9

Fin S

My name is Finn S, and I am from a small village, Lennox Head, on the northern coast of New South Wales. I love to play footy and cricket and I like to do a bit of surfing and fishing in my time off. When I first came to Boyce, I felt nervous. This is because starting a new school and not knowing anyone made it really tricky to start my schooling adventure. My favourite sporting moment of Term 1 was making the A's cricket team and then getting to know a few dayboys. My favourite School event so far was when we did the huddle for the swim team walking to go to the GPS swim championships. The music was going and the war cries were pretty much all in sync and it was just so much fun.

Mac

Hi, my name is Mac and I am from Tenterfield, northern NSW. I was born in Nambour, Queensland. I lived in St George, western Queensland. The farm I lived on was about 2000 acres and it was mainly a cotton farm. We also ran some sunflower as well. The property was called Bloomfield. I moved from St George to Gympie, Queensland when I was three. We bought a 500-acre macadamia farm. We only ran macadamias for a long time until we ran a little bit of hay. We sold the macadamia farm in 2023, and moved to Launceston, Tasmania. I was in Tasmania for only 1 year before we moved to Tenterfield at the very end of 2024 and settled just before Christmas. My first term at Toowoomba Grammar School has been great. The people and staff are very friendly to me.

Year 8

Finn G

My name is Finn. I am from a cattle property an hour east of St George, Queensland. My hobbies are riding my motorbike around the place, pigging, roo shooting and helping Dad. When I first came to Boyce, I felt a little bit nervous and excited at the same time. This was because of learning the new routine and getting to know the older boys. My favourite part of Term 1 has been cricket and UniSQ rugby sport and getting to walk to "Grandy" on the weekend.

Keynan

My name is Keynan. Originally, I am from a small town out west called Roma. I like to play rugby, swim, run and play soccer. When I first moved to Toowoomba Grammar, I was intimidated by how big the School was and settling into the different learning environment. However, I became good friends with William H and started to get comfortable introducing myself to others. He helped me when I was not sure about routines or how to find my way around TGS. I have been in Boyce House for one term and feel as though I am still learning the ropes; however, I am settling in very quickly. I have enjoyed all the challenges of being new because of the support of my mates and good habit routines. Sometimes, I still miss home but the Boyce staff, especially Mr Troxler, are great at reminding me to call home regularly and not to forget to keep my family updated with all the fun I am having.

Will H

I come from a small town called Dulacca halfway between Chinchilla and Roma, three hours west of Toowoomba on a combined property of Heatherlea and Dulacca Downs, which is around 14,000 acres. I went to a small school called Dulacca State School before I came here. I like rugby, cricket, clay shooting and being with mates and family. What I found tough coming to boarding was being away from home and different school pressures than I had experienced before. My favourite part of Term 1 was the barbecues, late wake ups, touch and being with friends.

Hunter

Hi, my name is Hunter. I come from a place 80km south of Hughenden, and my hobbies are pigging, fishing, footy and mustering. When I first came to Boyce, I felt like I would be able to make more mates in the older houses because there are more people. My favourite thing this term was meeting new mates and playing touch out on the oval after prep.

Sam

Hi, my name is Sam. I live in Eidsvold, three hours west of Bundaberg. Some of my hobbies are playing cricket, rugby and riding my mountain bike. When I first came into Boyce, I felt excited but a little bit nervous because it was new and this time I would be with all the other older boys in Boyce. My favourite part of Term 1 has been getting to talk to other boys in my house and doing things with the house such as touch. This has been good because you can get to know the people you are living with and engage in activities with them.

Eric

My name is Eric. Originally, I am from a big city in China called Shanghai. I like swimming, playing guitar and I'm interested in mathematics. When I first came to Australia, I was nervous coming into a new environment. My native language is not English. It is difficult for me to communicate with classmates and teachers. It was hard for me to make friends in the first month of arriving at School and it was difficult for me to adapt to the local Australian culture. I gradually got to know Tom and Hunter and we became friends. They helped me when I was not sure about routines or how to find my way around TGS. Now that I have been in Boyce House for two months, I still feel it's a little bit hard to join in sometimes, but I am finding things a lot easier. I still miss home sometimes, but I can use the phone to contact my family, and this makes things easier.

Will M

Who would have thought it would have been so hard stepping into Boyce House less than one year after your big brother left, or has it been easy? My name is Will M, and I have had that just happen to me as I started Year 8 in 2025. I boarded in Corfe in 2024 but was never able to hang in the big house with Hamish in my first year, something I envy the other boys for having their brothers in boarding with them. However, where I am from, a property 75 km west of Moree, they breed them tough. Previously, I had to take the bus for three hours a day just to get to and from school. Something I am so glad I no longer have to do whilst I am at TGS. The facilities are all so convenient and I just need to make the most of my time. I have slid right into Boyce and I have been participating heavily in debating, cricket and tennis for TGS in Term 1 already. The boys in my group are great to be around and they are all so friendly towards me, something you definitely need as a boarder away from home. They do say boarding builds character and I believe I am well on the way to being well prepared for life after school. Thanks to Mum and Dad, Mr Troxler and the Boyce Staff.

George

Hello, my name is George. I am from Inverway Station in the Northern Territory, 716 km from Katherine. My hobbies are rodeos, mustering, working in the yards, riding my motorbike and riding my horse. When I came to Boyce, I was excited to be here because I could see a new house. Another reason was I could get to know some of the older boys in Boyce. My favourite part about Term 1 has been getting out with the older boys and playing touch and how these boys will always help you with homework or assignments.

Blake

My name is Blake. I am from Bingara, NSW. My hobbies are fishing, pig chasing and footy. When I first came to Boyce, I was nervous and didn't know what to expect. This was because I had never been there before. My favourite part of Term 1 was probably playing touch with the older boys. This is because I got to know a few more fellas.

Farewell, John!

It is a mark of how quickly the term has progressed that we are already saying goodbye to our Rugby School exchange student, John H. John has added a wonderful energy to Boyce House and his daily interactions with staff and students have helped to make him a pleasure to have around. I know that John has enjoyed his time with us equally as much, and he has provided the following words of appreciation:

"My first and last term at Toowoomba Grammar School has been amazing. As an exchange student from Rugby School, in the United Kingdom I have truly appreciated the warm and welcoming environment within Boyce House and among the School. My ten weeks has flown by, even though I have had so many incredible experiences.

Many of my fondest memories come from playing cricket, whether that be training with Mr Cook or playing with the 11A team. As well as this, I have massively enjoyed visiting friend’s houses, whether they be in Toowoomba or outside of the area on properties. It has been amazing to see how your ways of farming and countryside differs from back home. Coming from a farm in Herefordshire, UK, I was excited to experience this, and the vast amount of space still amazes me.

I have enjoyed being in the boarding house with other likeminded boys with backgrounds similar and different to mine. A highlight of my time in Boyce has been the BBQ breakfasts on a Thursday morning, a great way to start the day and something that we wouldn’t do back home.

I am very grateful for this opportunity, and I will leave with many fond memories from Grammar. Thank you very much to everyone who has made the exchange a special experience."

Signing Off

So, there we have it – camps week and then the holidays!

I am looking forward to spending much of the first week of the holiday on rugby camp in the Gold Coast, before Meg and I travel to Melbourne to visit my brother, a relatively recent arrival in Australia. Any recommendations of what to eat, see or do during our trip are gladly received. In the meantime, I hope you all manage some downtime during the break and that the extra pairs of hands at home prove useful!

John Troxler
Head of Boarding House - Boyce

A note from Henry White, Head of House

Dear Corfe Boarding Families of 2025,

Thank you, once again, 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.

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. Moreover, the end of the boys’ first formal academic period, coupled a week of rain and limited opportunities to blow off steam outside, is the perfect recipe for a tired and emotional boy. Please be mindful of this during any phone calls home this week.

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, 2025.

G’day Gundi!

It was wonderful to step out and rub shoulders with families from the Goondiwindi region and to support the Goondiwindi Emus Junior Rugby Club for their Golf Day as part of the School’s TGS on Tour program. Thank you especially to the Anderson, Burrow, Dayas, Kelly and Gordon families – all either past or present Corfe families – for joining us for a meal or a round of golf. It was great to catch up.

Our boarding staff value the opportunity to step out into the communities our boarders hale from. If you're ever interested in a visit, never hesitate to reach out any of our boarding staff - we'd love to take the opportunity to venture out and see how the boys live.

Looking forward, this will be a brilliant opportunity for the incoming Head of Corfe to meet with families and build connections upon their arrival at the start of Term 3. Something for you to keep in mind.

Thank you, Headmaster!

A heartfelt thank you goes to the Headmaster and his family for graciously hosting the Corfe Boarders for two recent BBQs. Your hospitality was greatly appreciated, and it provided a wonderful opportunity for the boys to get to know you, and your dogs!

Thank you and happy holidays!

In closing, I’d like to extend warm wishes to you and your family. Whether you're traveling afar 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 and I look forward to working closely with you in Term 2.

Henry White
Head of Corfe Boarding

Easter Reflections

The Groom House Journey

As we approach the final week of Term 1, it seems hard to believe how quickly the days have passed. From welcoming new boarders to weathering Cyclone Alfred, from celebrating our swimming triumph to preparing for the upcoming cross country, the young men of Groom House have demonstrated remarkable resilience, spirit and commitment.

A Warm Welcome to New Boarders

This term began with the exciting addition of several new faces to our Groom family. The Year 8 Groom boys, as well as Will H, Danny S, Jimmy B, Tristan C, Ollie M, and Harry Y joined us, bringing with them diverse backgrounds and experiences. Special mention must go to Harry Y, who travelled all the way from Shanghai to become part of our boarding community. The existing boarders have been exceptional in making these new boys feel at home, embodying the true spirit of Groom House.

Sporting Achievements and the GPS Calendar

The 2025 GPS sports calendar kicked off with tremendous energy. Our swimming carnival was a highlight, with Groom House securing a fantastic victory. The participation and house spirit were outstanding, with boys supporting each other across all grades. This win has positioned us strongly in the Headmaster's Shield, setting the stage for our upcoming cross country challenge.

Community and Celebration

The Across All Boarders lunch celebrating G150 was a memorable event. Hearing stories from TGS Old Boy Howard Jensen, who shared a remarkable tale of celebration at the end of World War II, was a poignant reminder of our School's rich history. The sense of community and warm welcome experienced by our staff was truly heartening.

Our Groom Family Evening was another testament to the strength of our community. Families came together, sharing laughter, stories and reinforcing the bonds that make Groom more than just a house—it's a family

Weathering the Storm - Cyclone Alfred

Cyclone Alfred presented an unexpected challenge, forcing a four-day School shutdown. While most boarders returned home, eight remained in the house. This period became a remarkable demonstration of resilience, teamwork and adaptability. The boys managed their own meals, organised activities and supported each other, truly embodying the Groom spirit.

Academic Focus and Preparation

As we enter the final stretch of the term, our focus turns to academic preparation. Assignments are wrapping up, exam timetables have been released and it is crucial that the boys maintain their commitment to studies. The diligence shown during prep sessions gives us confidence that they will finish the term strongly.

Camps and Activities Week

Week 10 presents an exciting conclusion to our term with Camps and Activities Week. This provides an enjoyable and educational way to wrap up our academic journey. Please ensure your son is fully prepared for their respective camps, as these experiences offer unique opportunities for personal growth, resilience and camaraderie.

Looking Ahead

Before we conclude, I'd like to highlight the upcoming TGS Art Show this weekend—another opportunity for our boys to showcase their creativity and talents.

To the young men of Groom House: continue to stay in the grind, support each other and approach every challenge with the same spirit and determination you've shown this term.

Kindest regards,

Luke Paffey
Head of Boarding House - Groom

Groom Birthdays

James F - Happy 18th Birthday

Douglas L - Happy 13th Birthday

Ben Mc - Happy 15th Birthday

Harry Y - Happy 16th Birthday

Mackintosh House Weekend: A Celebration of Community and Service

Last weekend was a bustling and heartwarming time for Mackintosh House, filled with community spirit and service. The events kicked off Saturday, 22 March, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, as Mackintosh House families, both day and boarding, gathered on the lawn outside Old Hall.

During the evening, we were graced with excellent weather, setting the perfect backdrop for the gathering. The Mackintosh Captain delivered an inspiring speech, setting the tone for the weekend.

The following day, the AEIOU ‘Be Awesome for Autism’ Fun Run took place, blessed with equally beautiful weather. It was a day of joy and activity for Mackintosh boys and their families, featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatables with a vertical bungee and a kids' jumping castle.

The fun run was not just about enjoyment but also about service. Boys ran either 5km or 10km, contributing to a great cause. The TGS Interact Club added to the fun by making snow cones for the runners, while the Lions Club cooked a recovery BBQ.

The event saw a wonderful mix of Mackintosh House boys, TGS boys, families and the wider community. A trackless train ride was a highlight, proving very popular among attendees.

By the end of the event, Team Mackintosh had raised over $15,000, a significant contribution towards autism awareness. As April is Autism Awareness Month, there is still an opportunity to add sponsorship or make donations until the end of April. We will keep you updated when the final figures are released.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the boys who helped in the lead-up to the event, during the event and with the pack-up. Congratulations to everyone involved for making the weekend a resounding success!

AEIOU - Outstanding Efforts on the Day

We want to acknowledge the great, unwavering efforts of the boys who raised over $250 each:

Dougall S - $673
Cody H - $506
Ryan M - $375
Mitch M - $355
Zach H - $315
Jack P - $285
Stafford C - $268
Seth C - $250

It is also important to commend those boys who went above and beyond with their service and help during the day. Tate D, Clancy K, Kingsley L, Craig T, Stafford C, Al F, Tibby E, Louis C, Fraser B and Mitch M were the boys who stayed helping the AEIOU staff until the day's very end. These boys were rewarded with a KFC feast for Sunday lunch.

Thank you to everyone for your dedication, offering your time on the day, showing kindness and a hard-working spirit!

Recent Mackintosh House Boarders Achievements

Jock K has won the "Terrence J. Bourke Sculpture Award" 2025 - Jock Kirkby (Yr10, - for his sculpture of an archer)

Archie S and Lathan N completed their Boat Licence Course on the recent TGS boarding outing.

Year 10 Boys have completed Constructions White Cards this week.

Archie S – Half House Colours

Boarders of the week – End of Term 1

Week 5 - Seth C
Week 6 - Louis C
Week 7 – Xander J
Week 8 – Craig T and Fraser B

Fraser B has trialled and been selected for the Darling Downs Opens Rugby League Team.

Congratulations Mackintosh boys!

Final Message

Thank you, boys, for a great term and start to 2025, the Grammar 150 year. It has been a busy second half of the term with TC Alfred, Mackintosh Family Night, Be Awesome for Autism, NAPLAN, Term 1 assessment period, Toowoomba Show Public Holiday, the P&F Art Show and to conclude the upcoming Camps and Activities week. Even after the end of the academic term, some boys will be busy with TGS Basketball and Rugby camps.

I want to wish everyone, all boarders and extended families a happy and safe Easter break. As each of our Mackintosh House boys has been departing, we are giving them a small Easter package to enjoy.

Have a great holiday break, I look forward to Term 2.

Brad Allen
Head of Boarding House - Mackintosh

Happy Holidays

Lachie Stuart with Pana, Lachlan, Hamish and Gilbert

As you read this, I will likely be preparing for Camp Week (Week 10) following the final round of GPS sports fixtures on Saturday and the Friday public holiday for the Toowoomba Show. It is all happening in Toowoomba!

So, between trying to identify and plug all the holes in my inflatable mattress, determine where I left my sleeping bag following my the last camp and working out if I really need to take the axe – kids can be very stressful – I have elected to put pen to paper, resist the ever-growing urge to employ Chat GPT to replace real intelligence and pen my final BT of the term.

It has been a good term. Maybe even a great one. I think that your boys have been marvellous and whilst others may tell me that they think their houses may have the best culture on the campus, I know. The boys are a pleasure to be around and even when some may be doing it tough – being away from home for a long time, under the pump in the classroom and dealing with a plethora of daily challenges, they front up in House Meetings, at roll call, in prep, in the dining room and hopefully, at the Cross Country circuit, in good spirits, friendly and engaging.

To all of the boys, when you eventually get them back home, thank them from me. To the newbies, it can take time, you have done well and I look forward to the next steps in Term 2. I am ready to dust off the tennis racquet. To the ‘veterans,’ not a day goes by that I take your good nature, kindness and thoughtfulness for granted.

It was great to see Stephens boys giving back, recently. Campbell N and Tom C were supporting the Darling Heights Homework Support Club and Flynn P fulfilled a long-standing ambition to dress up in full mascot regalia. He has his eyes fixed on the Stephens Shark for the next issue. On the grill, we saw Luke G and Matthew S recently, cooking up a brekkie for Stephens and Groom.

Have a great break. Kate and I are off to Tassie for a one week driving touring holiday before spending some long overdue time with my aunt up at Mooloolaba over the long Easter holiday weekend.

With the achievements of Lachlan Stuart being front and centre, I am going to post a link into his Mental Awareness Foundation - if you feel inspired by the story, or moved by his efforts, throw a few dollars his way via the 58-2-58 Project website.

Have a great school holiday, stay safe and be good! See you in April - batteries recharged and refreshed.

As ever,

Phil Kefford
Head of Boarding House - Stephens

Year 10 Formal Dinner

The Formal Dinner series for each year group has been a feature of Term 1 and the focus, for each group of boys, has been different. Boarding schools must seek to develop, within their students, a set of values that should stand them apart and the idea that a sense of occasion can be recognised and appropriate behaviours exhibited.

In Week 7, just ahead of the last Boarders Telegraph, Mr Wilson accompanied the Year 10 boys to their dinner and the theme was Leadership. Very kindly, Mr Wilson has written up a report of the evening. I have added this below. Lastly here, I am delighted that the messaging regarding leadership opportunities for Year 10 boys through the Corfe Program has been well received in the house and applications and endorsements have been passed to Mr White and Mr Byron for shortlisting and consideration.

"Stephens Year 10 boarders gathered for their formal sit-down dinner in the Pavilion, an evening dedicated to leadership and personal growth. The event provided an opportunity for the students to reflect on their roles as emerging leaders within the boarding community.

Head of House, Mr Henry White, spoke about the Year 10 Corfe program, where a select group of students mentor Year 7 boys in Corfe for a term. This initiative allows the older students to develop leadership skills while guiding younger peers through the transition into boarding life.

Mr Michael Hall also addressed the group, focusing on leadership attitudes and the qualities that define a strong leader. His insights encouraged the students to think about how they can positively influence those around them.

The evening was not only insightful but also enjoyable, with great food adding to the occasion. By the end of the night, the Stephens boys left eager to put their leadership ambitions into action, inspired by the messages shared during the dinner."

Peter Wilson
Assistant Head of Boarding House - Stephens

Letter Writing

You may be aware that TGS is celebrating its G150 in 2025 and there have been a number of events held that remind of this. The Across All Boarders Lunch earlier this term, and The Gift Run next term – to name but two. In a recent Assembly, the Headmaster read out a number of letters written between early boarders and their parents back home on stations across the state. I love history and these primary sources throw a light on the incredible sacrifices and feats of human endurance that came with simply getting to school. The letters also offer an incredible insight into life on properties or stations one hundred and fifty years ago as mums or dads explain, to their sons, what has been going on. Further, the Headmaster read out some replies from the boys as they returned their correspondence with news of what had been going on in school

Here comes the homework bit. Sorry.

I would like to create a display for one of the walls in the boarding a house, across Term 2, that features ‘Letters from/to Home’ and it is going to kick off with the parents. I would like you to write a letter to your son(s) – sorry Toni/Duncan, Susie/Andrew and Jill/John – three letters and two letters respectively. Upon receiving your letter, I will secure some TGS writing paper and ask that the boys reply and return. First up, making a copy for the purpose of display. If you could send a photo from the property, this would also be great and feature in the display. Letter writing is simply something we tend not to do any longer, and I think it is, or can be, a valuable exercise. As an English teacher, when not being a History teacher, I have always enjoyed developing my writing – different audiences/topics/genres and I would like to see the boys develop their skill in this area.

So – could I ask you to write a letter to your son(s) by the end of Week 2 in Term 2 – plenty of notice for this homework.

Lachie Stuart Trip

Lachie's mum, Elizabeth, with our boys at Howard Smith Wharves

Last Wednesday, Pana, Hamish, Lachie and Gilbert travelled with me to Brisbane to see the arrival of Lachie Stuart, as he finished his 58^th marathon in 58 days. If you are not across this incredible achievement. Raising money for, and championing, The Mental Awareness Foundation, Lachie has pounded the pavements in all US states and all Australian states and territories, without missing a single day. I am still not quite aware of how he did this with time zones and the international date line coming into effect, however, he did.

The boys and I headed into Brisbane where Lachie completed his final marathon at Howard Smith Wharves and his first act upon crossing the line was to come across and meet the boys from his old school. Lachie was a member of Stephens (Day) House before graduating 18 years ago. He mentioned that he just saw the boys in their blazers and it meant so much. I can honestly say that it was both an honour and a privilege to be there. I would have loved it if more boys had been able to make the journey to Brisbane, however, transport options were limited and I was just delighted I got to share the evening with four boys who appreciated the accomplishment.

Later in the year, Lachie plans to visit TGS and speak at a School assembly about the event and what he hopes to achieve through his charity work, and, most interestingly for me, what he intends to do next! Lachie’s resilience was matched only by his humility. It is great for the boys to celebrate these values and the world needs more TGS graduates like Lachie Stuart.

That's a wrap!

Term 1 in Taylor House has been an exceptional journey marked by a spirit of positivity, achievement and reflection. Guided by our mantra, "be the best at doing things that take zero talent," the term set a profound tone for the year ahead. This guiding philosophy has proven transformative, reminding us daily that simplicity, discipline and diligence can yield extraordinary results.

Throughout the term, Taylor House has celebrated numerous collective milestones and significant individual successes, highlighting the commitment of our boys to consistently put their best foot forward. These achievements, big and small, are testament to the ethos that excellence often emerges from the simplest tasks—those requiring attitude, effort, punctuality and respect.

We began Term 1 channelling our collective energy into building a robust foundation for success. Our boys have exemplified the values of kindness, respect and resilience, making deliberate choices to demonstrate behaviours that, while requiring zero talent, have positive impact. Punctuality, manners, positive attitude and work ethic became commonplace, creating an environment of camaraderie and support.

Academically, our students have faced rigorous challenges with determination, understanding that preparing and planning are essential keys to success. This proactive approach was evident in classrooms and study sessions across Taylor House, where students engaged actively, sought help proactively and prepared diligently for assessments. Such effort has undoubtedly laid a firm foundation for ongoing academic excellence as we move into Term 2.

As assessments loom early in Term 2, our boys have the opportunity to convert their practice by actively preparing, questioning and seeking assistance. This approach provides a clear model for younger students, reinforcing the importance of preparation and sustained effort.

Outside the classroom, Taylor House has flourished with vibrant extracurricular participation. Activities Week is now upon us, and excitement is palpable as boys prepare for camp, work experience and leadership camps. These experiences are invaluable, offering opportunities for personal growth, teamwork and leadership. Boys are encouraged to fully embrace these opportunities.

One of the highlights this term was the Year 10 Formal Dinner, a significant event dedicated to exploring leadership pathways and personal growth. This evening allowed our boys to look to their futures, envision their potential as leaders and reflect deeply on the qualities required to lead effectively. Traits such as humility, resilience and the capacity to positively influence others were central to discussions, leaving an impact on all. Impressively, ten of our Year 10 boys have enthusiastically stepped forward, eager to participate in the Corfe Leadership Residency Program commencing in Term 2. Their eagerness to contribute to their School and community is admirable, reflecting the deep-seated values of service and leadership fostered within Taylor House.

As we near the conclusion of Term 1, planning ahead remains critical. Students are reminded to regularly check their calendars and prepare for upcoming events in Term 2. Notably, ANZAC Day falls on Friday, 25 April, a solemn occasion for reflection and respect. Parent/Teacher Interviews are scheduled for Monday, 28 April, providing a valuable opportunity for constructive dialogue and ongoing academic support. Additionally, students and families should mark their calendars for Labour Day on Monday, 5 May, the much-anticipated Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner on Thursday, 24 July and the cherished Taylor House Family Evening set for Friday, 25 July.

In preparation for the term break, boys are advised to maintain connection with their studies. Planning, preparation and engagement will ensure a return to Term 2 to be refreshed yet academically sharp. Remember to submit your leave requests into REACH and communicate any special travel arrangements to our dedicated Student Services team.

Finally, we extend warm wishes for a restful and joyful Easter break. Let us continue embracing the simple yet powerful principle of excelling at things requiring zero talent. Thank you all once again for your invaluable support—have a safe and happy break.

Donate Grain, Grow Education

Quote this number and you'll be able to donate to TGS

As part of the vibrant Grammar 150 celebrations, the Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys' Association (TGSOBA) is reaching out to farming families—both past and present—to help us build tomorrow, together.

We are excited to introduce a unique opportunity to contribute - the TGSOBA NGR Card. This initiative is a chance for our farming community to donate grain or cotton and help fund student enrichment activities and facility enhancements at the School, ensuring future generations continue to thrive in the heart of our community.

Your donation will help enhance the educational experience of students into the future

The idea for this innovative fundraising concept was born from the passion and commitment of our Old Boys. Trent Raymond (TGS 1989-93) raised the idea to Andrew Jurgs (TGS 2000-01), who helped bring the plan to life on behalf of the TGSOBA committee. Thanks to their initiative, the NGR Card now provides an exciting way for our farming families to donate grain or other produce, directly benefiting future generations of TGS boys.

For those unfamiliar with it, the National Grower Register (NGR) was established in 2002 to help farmers market their grain and cotton. The NGR centralises a farmer’s business information on the Register, with each farmer provided a unique NGR number. This allows merchants to securely access a farmer’s information, streamlining the sales process for all involved.

There are a range of agricultural crops that can be donated

The concept of using the NGR for charitable purposes began two decades ago, with farmers donating proceeds from their grain sales to local churches, schools and community groups. Some organisations have raised as much as $100 000 through this initiative, demonstrating the power of collective support within our rural communities.

So, if you're a farmer – anywhere in Australia and want to make a difference for Toowoomba Grammar School, donating is easy! Simply drop off your load at any weighbridge and give the operator the Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys NGR number: 15154432. This links your contribution directly to the TGSOBA, ensuring the proceeds fund new infrastructure and enhance the educational experience for our students.

Grain can be donated at any weighbridge to help build tomorrow together

We hope that this new initiative will become a long-term tradition for both current and past families of Toowoomba Grammar School. Just as generations of Old Boys have supported the School in the past, we invite our farming community to continue that legacy by donating through the NGR card.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact, and we are incredibly grateful for the support of the farming families who make these contributions possible. Together, we can ensure that TGS continues to be a place of excellence for future students.

Buy a Brick - Paving the Way

For 150 years, the history of TGS has been shaped by the boys who have walked its paths. Each one leaving behind their story, their memories and a piece of their heart. From the Foundation Stone laid in School House in 1877, to the bricks that have carried the names of our Old Boys through the years, the bricks of TGS stand as powerful reminders of the proud legacy that continues today.

Now, for a limited time, you have the opportunity to Buy a Brick and ensure your connection to the Blue and Gold lives on for generations to come. Your personalised, engraved brick will be set into the new Old Boys’ Deck – a landmark overlooking the iconic Old Boys’ Memorial Oval, creating a space for the entire School community to enjoy.

Details on How to Get Involved:

Bricks are available for $1,000 each.
You are welcome to purchase multiple bricks, each one engraved with first names and surnames, with the option to include years for both Old Boys and current students.
This donation is tax-deductible.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to leave your mark on the history of Toowoomba Grammar School.

Secure your brick to the Old Boys’ Deck today.

We invite all Old Boys, current and past families, staff, and supporters of TGS to join us in building this significant piece of history. The stories of the boys who walked these paths before you are captured in every brick. Now, it’s your turn to be part of something greater.

Thank you for your continued support of TGS. We look forward to seeing your name engraved alongside the many who have shaped our proud tradition.

First look at the TGS Bricks

The bricks, showing sample text of what they'll look like

We’re thrilled to share a first look at the engraved bricks for our Buy a Brick campaign and they look fantastic. These personalised bricks will be a part of the Old Boys’ Deck, honouring the legacy of our TGS community.

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported this campaign so far, we can't wait to see your names permanently etched into TGS history once all funds are raised to complete this project.

TGS BOARDERS' TELEGRAPH - Friday, 28 March 2025