Another two weeks of Term 3 have passed and it’s been great to see the manner in which our boarders have managed themselves. In what is arguably the most demanding term of the year, our boys have made the most of the opportunities available to them. Many have been fighting off illness and our nurses have been working tirelessly to support them.
The last edition of the Boarders' Telegraph was published as we were concluding our Boarding Mothers Lunch for 2025. What a day it was! I am forever grateful to our team of BPSG Representatives for their support of our community. The event was a very enjoyable occasion and I’ve certainly heard that many of our mothers enjoyed the ‘after-party’ at the Tonic Bar. The exact details have been censored from this publication but it warms my heart to hear of the friendships that exist in our boarding community. Not only do the boys become best mates in the dorms but the mums and dads become great friends too.
The friendships in boarding are often consolidated with those shared experiences of boarding activities and socials. This weekend will feature our last trip down to Suncorp for the year when nearly 50 boarders will watch the Dolphins play against the Titans. There should be plenty of points scored and it will be an enjoyable game.
Friendships in boarding also come from socials with other schools. This year we will welcome five girls boarding schools for an afternoon of activities and games on the final weekend of term on Sunday, 14 September. In addition to our usual association with The Glennie School and Fairholme College, there are three Brisbane girls schools making the trip up to Toowoomba. Somerville House, Stuartholme School and St Margaret’s will all be visiting. I do ask that our parents are mindful of the Spring Fair Social and return boys to boarding by midday on the Sunday if that is at all possible.
This week, our Year 9s attended their Formal Dinner. The guest speaker was our Head of Health and Physical Education, Mrs Abbey Varley, who spoke to the boys about the importance of sleep. Mrs Varley will be speaking on this topic at the International Boys School Coalition Conference (IBSC) next year. Sleep is essential for our wellbeing and our Year 9 boarders are privileged to have the opportunity to hear from Mrs Varley on this important topic. There's a selection of the photos from the event below.
Our staff are also always looking to learn and improve their practice. Last week some of our house managers attended the Boarding Schools regional symposium run by the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA). With over 50 staff from boarding schools across South East Queensland it was an informative day with presenters focusing upon topics such as AI and making boarding houses inclusive for all.
In closing, I wish to remind all families to finalise their plans for the House Annual Dinners and end of term arrangements. The dinners are on Wednesday, 17 September before the final day of the term on the Thursday. The Thursday is not only the House Carnival Day but the AGM of the Boarding Parents Supporters' Group will also be held in Old Hall. I encourage as many parents to attend as possible.
Well, we are on the downhill run now with Term 3 almost complete.
It has certainly been an eventful term with many opportunities for our TGS community to come together and celebrate.
One of the highlights on the annual calendar is always the Boarder Mothers’ Lunch, hosted by the BPSG Representatives on the Friday of Grammar Downlands weekend. This year was especially well attended, made even more special by the G150 celebrations held that same weekend. For those who couldn’t join us, I thought I would share my speech below so you can feel included and share in the message I wanted to convey.
I am sure our boarding families are also looking forward to the Boarding House Family Dinners on the final evening of this term Wednesday, 17 September. These evenings are such a special occasion where our individual boarding house families connect over an intimate dinner hosted by the boys. We also farewell our departing Year 12s and mark the official handover of leadership positions. It has always been a fabulous night, and this year will be no exception.
BPSG Annual General Meeting
Thursday 18 September 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Old Hall / Online
All boarding parents are warmly invited to attend either in person or online.
At the AGM, all positions will be declared open. Nominations are welcome from all parents and should be emailed to Nick Byron (n.byron@twgs.qld.edu.au) and myself (s.smart@twgs.qld.edu.au) by COB Thursday,11 September.
This year, as they graduate, we will be farewelling:
Sarah McInnerny – Mackintosh House
Margot Black – Boyce House
In addition, a new Corfe House Representative will also be elected. Ideally, this position is filled by a parent who has an older son with boarding experience, to help guide our new families through their first year.
Our Secretary, Brenda McMillan, has also indicated her wish to step down from the role.
As I mentioned in my Term 1 report, I also intend to step down as President.I hope to transition smoothly and support the incoming President before I graduate next year.
We warmly encourage mothers and fathers alike to nominate and it would be wonderful to see more dads involved.
What’s Involved in Being a BPSG Representative?
Attending one BPSG Meeting each term (in person or online)
Collecting and presenting ideas, suggestions, and concerns from parents at the BPSG Meetings
Supporting the Head of House and boarding families with welcoming, settling in and sharing information
Assisting with the organising and coordination of BPSG social events
Monitoring the House WhatsApp Group Chat:
Approving new parents into the chat
Monitoring the chat
Sharing reminders and information
Recognising the commitments (and distance) of boarding parents, we don’t expect anyone to be at every event in person.
Following the AGM, the Term 3 BPSG meeting will be held, and any agenda items should be forwarded to your House Representative, Nick Byron, or myself by COB Thursday, 11 September.
I look forward to seeing you there!
Legacy of a TGS Boarding Mother - Speech from the Boarder Mothers' Lunch 2025
Thank you all for joining us today - it's such a joy to see this room filled with so many familiar faces. Some of you I’ve been lucky enough to know well over the years, and we have become close friends; others I’ve only met in passing, and many I look forward to getting to know. What we all have in common is the unique role we play as mothers and caregivers of TGS boarders.
If you were with us at last year’s lunch, you might remember I spoke about the different stages of a boarder mother’s journey. For those new to this experience, I thought I’d briefly revisit those stages, as you'll likely find yourself nodding along, no matter where you are on this journey.
First, we have the “newbies.” You’re just setting out - perhaps still adjusting to homesickness, laundry that’s no longer yours to wash, and the feeling of a quiet house. You may not know many people here yet, and this whole experience might still feel a little overwhelming. We’ve added a star to your name tag to help others find you. To all our seasoned mothers, please seek out a newbie today and offer some encouragement or advice. Trust me, even a small conversation can go a long way.
Then there are the “middies.” You’re deep in the thick of it - perhaps juggling numerous boys at TGS, girls at other schools, younger kids still at home, sports, assignments, work, events and everything in between. You’re not new anymore, but the end is still too far to see. It’s a full, busy and often an exhausting chapter - but you’ve found your rhythm (most days).
Some of you may be in your final stretch - the “Graduates.” This might be your last Boarder Mothers’ Lunch, and perhaps you’re feeling reflective. The most common phrase I hear from this group is, “I can’t believe how fast it’s gone.” You’ve done the hard yards, survived the rollercoaster and now you’re wondering what comes next. To our newbies - these are the women to quietly stalk later on. They’ve made it through, mostly sane, and with wisdom worth borrowing.
And then there are the empty nesters, whether it be part-time or permanent, a club I now find myself in. I can confirm: it’s a strange and surreal time. The silence is confronting. You’ll eventually rediscover how to make non-operational conversation with your husband at the dinner table, and yes, you may start treating the family dog like it is now a newborn baby.
Regardless of where you are, today is a celebration of connection. There’s a unique bond between boarder mothers - a deep understanding of the special relationship we have with our sons in boarding and the sacrifices that are made.
These relationships can often be challenging, especially during the teenage years. Not only is there physical distance between you and your son, but sometimes emotional distance as well. You might feel like you’re no longer their highest priority, and at times, you may even struggle to like your son very much. But that’s all part of the mothering journey.
Everyone’s experience is different and comes with its own challenges. It’s about learning to hold on and hold space through those difficult times, trusting that eventually, you will come out the other side and your son will realise they will always need you and that you will always be one of the most significant people in their lives.
And you are not alone. You have a whole support network of boarding mothers who understand and who will be your biggest allies when you’re in the trenches.
Now, I promise not to repeat last year’s speech entirely - but with this being such a landmark 150 years at TGS, I thought it fitting to reflect on something else: legacy. Specifically, the legacy we create as mothers, not just in what we do for our children, but in the way we show up for one another and how we shape the culture of TGS.
Now, I want to share with you two deeply personal and challenging life experiences I have faced. I share them not to cast a shadow over this joyous occasion, but to show that even in times of loss, there can be relevance, meaning and unexpected beauty - and how they connect to the message I hope to convey today.
Three years ago, we tragically lost one of our pilots, Thomas Grey. Tommy was more than a pilot to us - he was part of our family. A proud TGS boarder, he graduated in 2008. Tommy was an extraordinary person, loved by many, and in his short 32 years, he lived more fully than most do in a lifetime. His funeral service was held here at TGS, in the Assembly Hall, where my son Josh had the honour of ringing the school bell as Tom departed - a long-standing tradition at TGS to honour our Old Boys who have left us.
The funeral was enormous; Tom, in his short life, had touched many from all walks of life. The crowd overflowed outside into the courtyard.
As we left the hall, I was struck by the most beautiful sight: as far as the eye could see, there was a guard of Blue and Gold - current TGS boarders who gave up their weekend activities to don their blazers and pay their respects to an old boy they did not know, but who was one of them.
In that moment, I knew in my heart this was why I sent my boys to TGS - because it is a place of belonging, an identity they will carry with them always, and a mateship that crosses generations. They truly are boarders without borders.
Some of you may also know that I lost my brother suddenly and unexpectedly last month at 37 years young, leaving behind a beautiful wife and three young children. Mick and Tom were very similar in the impact they had on the world, and his celebration of life was also immense.
It astounded me how far people travelled - especially his boarding school mates, some of whom he hadn’t seen since graduating 21 years ago. It wasn’t just his mates; it was their parents and former school staff who also attended.
This reminded me that the support we give each other reaches far beyond the school gate. The friendships formed during these years can last a lifetime.
Boarder Mothers play a significant role in the TGS Boarding Culture. We pay the highest fees, both financially and emotionally. In most families, it is our Mothers who are the key decision-makers when it comes to schooling, the primary point of contact with staff, and the strongest advocates - or critics - of the School within their broader networks.
We only get out of this experience what we put into it. My eldest child, Josh, who is now an adult, is graduating this year - and to all the newbies, trust me when I say it goes fast, literally in the blink of an eye.
So please, don’t put off getting involved. Make the most of the many social events on our school calendar, step out of your comfort zone, meet new people and look out for those who may be struggling to find their place - include them. And encourage your boys to embrace every opportunity available to them while they’re here.
We need to be partners with TGS on this schooling and boarding journey, and our ultimate goal is to ensure our sons have the best possible experience.
If we want to create and sustain legacy and tradition, it begins with the human relationships formed in the boarding houses and classrooms - between the staff, the boys and us as parents.
There are many ways you can get involved and contribute positively to this community. Consider joining the Boarder Parents Supporters' Group (meetings are open to everyone), or one of the many other supporters’ groups and volunteer opportunities available.
And do not sit on the sidelines hoping for change if you’re not happy - step up and make an impact. Your feedback and contribution to the School are incredibly valuable.
Before long, your nest will be permanently empty, and you’ll need to reinvent and rediscover yourself. You won’t want to look back on this time wishing you had taken more opportunities to enjoy, contribute, get involved and make a difference.
So please, soak in today. Laugh, connect and enjoy this rare time together. I hope you leave with a few new friendships, ones that last a lifetime, and perhaps even a little reassurance that wherever you are on this journey, you're not walking it alone and everyone has a legacy worth leaving.
As we pass deeper into the second half of Term 3, we reflect on what has been an action-packed couple of weeks. Winter ailments seem to have finally loosened their grip, and the boys have largely channelled their energies into positive pursuits. For instance, a Commendation for Luke, reacting at short notice to give an entertaining talk at Assembly and a Head of House Commendation for Edwin in recognition of his continued positivity and involvement in all things service-related are just two of our recent success stories. Will M returned from the Ekka as a prize-winning photographer, and we wish him well with the soon-to-be announced results of the TGS photography competition. On a rugby front, congratulations also to Nate, James and Tom H on their selection for the U16 Southeast Queensland side. Will D joins this group at U14 level; competing against Blake, who has been selected to represent Queensland Country.
Arguably long overdue, our 'Buff of the Week' for Week 5 goes to Todd, whose consistent dedication to the boys and support of their studies saw a raft of student nominations for our House Manager. Todd (21), Eli (15), Arch (18) are all now a year wiser and we enjoyed sharing our congratulations with them this week. We also wish Thushaan a safe return journey to South Africa and thank him for his efforts to make the most of his time at TGS, and in Boyce House. Thushaan goes home a proud Buff, and a welcome addition to the TiGAA cast.
Our Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner continues to be one of the highlights of the year. The boys spoke warmly and well. Anecdotes of shared TV shows, sports trips and ants’ nests all featured within ‘letters to mum.’ The combination of heartfelt gratitude, gentle humour and genuine reflection made for some moving moments. It was particularly pleasing to see how the boys embraced the opportunity to publicly acknowledge the sacrifices and support of their mothers. Thank you to all the families who joined us - your presence made the evening all the more special.
The week before this event saw the boarding mothers bring the sunshine to TGS for the afternoon of the Boarders' Mothers Lunch. I was delighted to see how strongly Boyce House was represented, with the strength of our community once again on show. One particular highlight was the warmth of welcome extended to those who joined us this year. I know this gathering also provided the platform for some to go on to events in town. The ‘bouncebackability’ of those on the terraces the next day deserves further praise.
These terraces were jam-packed for the O’Callaghan Cup match, and I know the boys enormously appreciated the support of so many across the round of Grammar Downlands fixtures. Whilst Week 6 may have been something of a lull in the aftermath of such a big event, the onset of assignment deadlines and the approach of examination blocks has provided a welcome focus point for the boys, and we continue to home in on the remaining academic commitments of the term.
In the background, student leadership processes have continued, and we wish all those involved in either house leadership or school leadership applications the very best of luck. Thus far, all boys have acquitted themselves commendably. We are fortunate to have such a strong cohort with which to follow the 2025 leaders.
Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for our next Sundowners function on Friday, 6 September (Nudgee weekend). Following the success of our inaugural gathering on 1 August, we're excited to once again open the doors of Boyce House for an afternoon of informal conversation, drinks and nibbles from 4pm. All are welcome.
Boyce House Boarding Formal Dinner
Wednesday, 17 September
Next, a gentle reminder about our Boyce House Formal Dinner on Wednesday, 17 September. This promises to be a great night to close the Term 3 social calendar, falling perfectly the night before the House Carnival. As previously mentioned, the evening will feature a House Captain’s raffle. The prize list is nearly set, and I look forward to revealing further details during the next edition of the Bugle.
For those families planning to bring additional siblings, tickets are available at $45 each. There is no charge for those already enrolled at TGS. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you encounter any issues with the payment process. I have attached the invite to this newsletter for your convenience.
Finally, when I next write to you, the end of term will be in sight. As ever, early submissions of holiday travel arrangements are welcomed. I would encourage a ‘deep sort’ of belongings to assess what is still needed for Term 4. The more bags, boots, balls and other items which are taken home in September will only serve to ease the moving out process at the end of the year.
John Troxler Head of Boyce Boarding
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
The Power of Teamwork and Mateship
One of the great joys of life in the boarding house is witnessing the power of teamwork and mateship in action. Teamwork is at the heart of life in the boarding house. Whether it is helping each other with schoolwork or sharing responsibilities in the dorms, the boys are learning that working together makes challenges easier and successes more rewarding. Our Year 7 boarders are discovering that teamwork not only builds strong friendships but also creates a supportive community where everyone feels they belong.
A perfect example unfolded recently at the 13B rugby match against Downlands College where the joy and celebration on display went well beyond the field. It wasn’t just the boys in the 13B team (which included 18 boarders out of the squad of 22) sharing in the moment, there were cheers and smiles from their mates in the 13A team who had played hours earlier, the 13C boys who unfortunately missed out on a game that week, Under 12 boys playing in the later timeslot and even the basketball players who had a weekend bye. On that Saturday, anyone in Corfe House could feel and share in the pride and excitement.
The match itself was a showcase of teamwork. Early in the game, a special moment set the tone for what was to follow. Raven Rewald collected the ball deep in his own half and, with blistering pace, scooted down the far touchline to score an incredible try. It was not just the 13B team on their feet, the entire crowd erupted, with all Corfe boys jumping, cheering and laughing in unison together. For those 30 seconds, it felt like every single boy was part of something bigger than just rugby. I only wish I had video footage of that moment to share with you all.
Raven Rewald
From that moment, the 13B boys continued to dominate, with Raven Rewald leading the way. He crossed for four tries of his own but, in a true act of selflessness, handed off another try to one of his boarding house mates, Jack Cornes-Falk. It was mateship in action - celebrating together, sharing success and putting others first.
Often we focus on what happens within the walls of the boarding house or in the classroom, but moments like this remind us that the support, bonding and teamwork shown outside those spaces are just as important in shaping our boys. It is through these shared experiences, whether on the field, in the classroom or in the house, that we continue to grow young men of good character.
A busy time
As we move deeper into the term, it’s natural to see a few “wobbles” among the boys. The demands of academic rigour and assessments, combined with general fatigue, lingering illness and the toll of a very full sporting program, are certainly being felt. At times, there may be some tears on the phone home as the boys juggle their many commitments while also learning to live alongside 45 other Year 7 boarders. Please be reassured that these moments are very normal at this stage of the year and our staff are always here to support and guide them through the challenges. The boys continue to show resilience, developing independence and learning important skills that will serve them well beyond the boarding house. Despite the ups and downs, they are doing exceptionally well and should be proud of how far they’ve come this year, living away from home for the first time. It’s not easy and they all truly deserve the well-earned break that is just around the corner.
Book Week
Junior School Book Week in Week 6 was a wonderful celebration of the importance of reading and storytelling. Our only Year 6 boarder, Mason Morris, thoroughly enjoyed being part of Book Week 2025, from creative doorway decorations and author visits to the fun-filled parade where he proudly dressed as the Hulk. One of the highlights in House is hearing Mason read aloud before bed, with his Year 7 dorm mates offering encouragement and support, showing just how powerful reading can be in building confidence and connection.
End of Term Leave
Thank you to those parents who are super organised and have already sent through end of term leave/travel arrangements. Can all families enter leave via REACH for their son as soon as possible please, as this helps with our planning and staffing considerations? The holiday period is Thursday, 18 September (3:10pm) - Tuesday, 7 October. The boarding house will be open from midday on Tuesday, 7 October.
Nathan Stains Head of Boarding House - Corfe
A word from Mrs Fletcher
Dear Parents, Guardians and Boys
Week 7 has brought a renewed sense of energy and connection among the boys at Corfe. It’s been a pleasure to witness their growth, both individually and as a community.
Growing Independence and Organisation
The boys are becoming more confident in managing their daily routines. There’s been a noticeable improvement in how the boys are organising their belongings and managing their time. Their growing independence is reflected in tidier rooms and better preparation for school and activities.
Friendships and Camaraderie
It’s wonderful to see strong friendships forming. The boys are supporting each other, showing kindness and building a genuine sense of camaraderie that makes Corfe feel like home.
Health and Wellbeing
We seem to be through the worst of recent illnesses and the boys are bouncing back with great spirit. Homesickness has also eased, with most boys now settled and thriving in the boarding environment.
Enjoying Good Food
Mealtimes have been a highlight, with the boy’s enjoying hearty, nutritious meals and the chance to relax and connect with friends around the table.
Personal Hygiene
We continue to encourage good hygiene habits - regular showers, brushing teeth and wearing clean clothes. These routines are essential for wellbeing and self-confidence.
Laundry Reminder
A friendly reminder to all students: Please remember to put your washing out regularly. Staying on top of laundry helps keep rooms fresh and builds important life skills.
Thank you for your ongoing support. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to share feedback.
Janelle Fletcher Boarding House Parent – Corfe
Groom House
Groom Gazette
Celebrating Connection: The Year 12 Mother–Son Dinner
In the final term of their boarding journey, our Year 12 boys gathered with their mothers for an evening that was as heartfelt as it was memorable. The Mother–Son Dinner is a cherished tradition in Groom, offering a rare moment of pause amidst the busyness of exams, sporting commitments and leadership responsibilities.
Held in the beautifully decorated Gips Restaurant, the evening was filled with laughter, shared stories and quiet reflection. For many boys, it was the first time they truly expressed gratitude for the unwavering support their mothers have provided throughout their boarding years.
Speeches from the Year 12 boys highlighted the emotional growth and gratitude that that they have developed. The boys spoke with sincerity and warmth, acknowledging the sacrifices made and the strength drawn from their mothers’ encouragement.
It was a night of connection - between families, between peers and between past and future. As the Year 12s prepare to step into the world beyond Grammar, this dinner served as a powerful reminder of the relationships that have shaped them.
I thank all the mothers who attended and helped make the evening so special. Your presence was a gift and your influence continues to echo through the halls of Groom.
Boarder Mothers’ Lunch: A Tribute to Quiet Strength
In the heart of Term 3, we paused to honour a group whose impact is often felt but rarely spotlighted - our boarder mothers. The Boarder Mothers’ Lunch was a warm and elegant affair, recognising the quiet strength, resilience and love that these women bring to our boarding community.
Held in The Pavilion, the lunch was a celebration of the unique role mothers play in supporting their sons from afar. Whether through weekly phone calls, care packages, or simply being a steady voice of encouragement, their influence is profound.
Staff and students shared reflections on the emotional scaffolding mothers provide - especially during moments of homesickness, academic stress or social challenges. The boys may be growing in independence, but the foundation of that growth is built on maternal support.
The event was filled with heartfelt conversations, laughter and a few tears. It was a chance for mothers to connect with one another, share experiences and feel the strength of the community they help sustain.
To all our boarder mothers: thank you. Your love travels across kilometres and through the walls of Groom, shaping young men into thoughtful, resilient individuals. This lunch was a small gesture to honour a truly immeasurable contribution.
O’Callaghan Cup Victory: Groom Boys Rise to the Occasion
The O’Callaghan Cup has long stood as a symbol of rivalry, pride and sporting excellence and this year, Grammar’s triumph was nothing short of spectacular. In a match that demanded grit, strategy and heart, our Groom boarders played a pivotal role in securing the win.
From the opening whistle, the intensity was palpable. The boys demonstrated not only athletic prowess but also the kind of teamwork and resilience that boarding life instils. Their commitment to early morning training, tactical preparation, and mutual support was evident in every phase of play.
The crowd roared as Grammar surged ahead, with key moments driven by Groom boys who refused to back down. Their performance was a testament to the discipline and camaraderie that defines our boarding house.
Beyond the scoreboard, the victory was about character. The boys played with humility, respected their opponents and celebrated as a united front. It was a proud moment for Groom, showcasing the strength of our boarding culture and the leadership emerging from within.
Congratulations to all involved. The O’Callaghan Cup win will be remembered not just for the result, but for the spirit in which it was earned. Isiah W - you did us proud.
Luke Paffey Head of Groom House - Boarding
Groom House Formal Dinner
Celebrated this year in the final week of Term 3, the Groom House Formal Dinner will be a wonderful opportunity to gather as a community and celebrate all things Groom.
If you have not already done so and are able to join us, please book your ticket to join us.
Birthdays
Happy Birthday - Mr P. Nicholls - age unknown!
From The House Captain: Groom Term in Review
Term 3 in Groom House has been a busy, but successful one. On top of their school workload, many boys have been heavily involved in a number of co-curricular activities including basketball, rugby, chess, TIGAA, cadets and much more. The boarding house has been notably quiet on Saturdays, especially for home games which is a testament to how involved all boys has been, whether it’s playing sport or supporting mates.
There have been some great individual performances as well as team results from the groom boarders, but a special mention goes out to Isiah W, Keegan C and Tristan C who have all played for the First XV rugby side this season and Ollie M who recently debuted for the First V basketball team. Izzy’s early try in Grammar Downlands was one to remember. Ollie M’s dedicated training has also paid off in the track and field arena where he took out the U15 100m and the U15 hurdles at the Darling Downs track and field championship.
Charlie C and Charles R recently went to a marksmanship competition at the Toowoomba Small Bore Rifle Club with the cadets. Hamish B has also acted in the junior and intermediate TIGAA play, Every Book You’ve Ever Written in High School ...in 30 minutes.
From the academic side of things, it was great to see several boys collect awards for their endeavours so far this year at the beginning of the term and I’m sure they continue to work diligently in preparation for end of term exams.
We’ve also welcomed Rupert C from Brisbane and Joe P on an exchange from Oakham School in England. Whilst Joe has recently returned home it was great having him in the house.
As the term is nearing a close it is great to see that the boys have embraced all opportunities, whether this be in the classroom, the sporting field or elsewhere and I look forward to seeing everyone continue this in the final weeks of Term and into Term 4.
Edward Webster Groom House Captain
Mackintosh House
Mackintosh Mail
Happy Father's Day - Sunday, 7 September 2025
Good Men in a Changing World
Change is everywhere. In our current environment, communities, schools and families are no longer the same as they once were. The pace of life is relentless and what once felt stable now feels uncertain and overwhelming for many. Within this constant and rapid change, one thing remains the same: to raise and develop young men of character, we need great role models, great men with values, standards and expectations.
It is too easy for our boys to find other role models and influencers, the sensational and loud ones. Those with titles, exposure, or platforms are not always the best. We need the quiet ones also, a range of role models that include and promote the men who show up, work hard, lead with integrity and care deeply, even when they don't always know how to say it or show it.
As Father's Day approaches, it's a chance to pause and reflect, not just on the idea of fatherhood, but on the men behind it. I am sure that as we think about the fathers and men we know, we think many things. When I reflect, I think of my father, who was also the host to others when at home, the servant to those he helped in community sports and the kindness and generosity he showed to others who had less or needed something. I am sure many of you will think about those men who get up early, stay up late and carry the invisible load of responsibility. The ones who solve problems selflessly, worry silently and sacrifice their own comfort for the sake of their families. These men may not always be the first ones thanked, but they are the backbone of our homes and communities.
We need to make sure our boys are seeing these qualities and learning them now. In today's world, boys are bombarded with images of fame, perfection, wealth and bravado. Social media offers a constant stream of influencers and entertainers, many of whom model behaviour that's shallow, aggressive or self-serving. But what our boys truly need are real role models, men who show them what it means to be strong and kind, who teach that character matters more than popularity and who live with purpose, humility and compassion.
Boys need to know the men and dads who mean what they say and say what they mean, with integrity and honesty. Even when they resist, even when they'd rather be online or out with mates, they benefit deeply from time spent with a father figure. Someone who listens, challenges and walks beside them.
In Mackintosh House, we've seen how powerful these connections can be. In our own small way, we want to help maintain and foster this connection. We do this with our Year 12 Father and Son Bowls event, which is a simple yet meaningful way to foster them and create time for men and boys to spend together. It's not about winning or performing; there is no ego, it's not about who has less or more, it's just about being together. No phones, no pressure, just conversation and connection.
These moments remind our boys that the real heroes aren't on screens, they're in the communities that surround them and the village that raises them. And for boys who don't have a father in their life, these connections are even more vital. Every boy needs someone, a mentor, a mate, a guide, who supports them, holds them accountable and helps them grow. At Toowoomba Grammar School, we're proud to offer boys opportunities to find these mentors through our diverse staff and the many avenues for connection and meaning.
Being a role model isn't about being perfect; it's about being present. It's about showing up, even when you're tired. Listening, even when you don't have all the answers. Caring and understanding when we don't agree. We need to acknowledge that the men in our community do this. Too often, the hardworking, humble man is overlooked. His sacrifices are assumed. His efforts are expected and he is not always seen as the role model or the example to follow.
This Father's Day is a reminder: let's not forget him. Let's support him. Let's thank him. Let's remind him that what he does matters, not just on Father's Day, but every day. Whether he's a father, a stepdad, a mentor, or a mate, his presence makes a difference. His example shapes lives. His love, even when silent, is powerful.
If you're one of these men, thank you. You may not always hear it, but you are seen. You are valued. You are needed.
Keep showing up. Keep leading with heart. Keep being the kind of man our boys can look up to.
If you're part of a school or community, keep creating space for these connections, wherever it may be in the Darling Downs, in the Gulf or on an island like Badu. Events like Father and Son Bowls aren't just activities, they are an event for meaningful connection that builds trust, fosters belonging, builds character and reminds us all of what really matters.
And if you're a young man, look around. Find the people who care about you. Lean into those relationships. Learn from the men who've walked the path before you and one day, be that man for someone else.
Because in a world of rapid change, character still counts and character is shaped by example.
Let's make sure our boys have and know who their right role models are and let's make sure the good men among us know just how much they matter. Let's be those good men who embrace the privilege and responsibility of being in the critical position of ultimate influence over our boys, our young men and the next generation of good men of character.
Farewell Rafe and Chrissy - UK Bound
Rafe Howett, our visiting Mackintosh House exchange student, returned home to Oakham School in Oakham, East Midlands, United Kingdom. Rafe was a pleasure to have in Mackintosh House and was hosted by Christian Moore and his family. This meant a visit to Bonshaw and the family home, as well as some weekends in Brisbane and time on the rugby pitch. As Rafe departed on Wednesday, 20 August, he took Christian Moore to the UK for his return exchange period. Christian has arrived in the East Midlands and has already many very British experiences and has coincidentally bumped into the World Cup Wallaroos in York.
We farewelled Rafe and Christian with a Year 10 BBQ in his final week and we wish them both safe travels and hope they have a great time. We look forward to hearing Christian's stories on his return.
Rafe at a special morning tea for exchange students at TGS
Full GPS Fixtures for all boys, Chess, Basketball and Rugby v Nudgee College at TGS.
Sunday, 7 September 2025 - Father's Day
Year 12 Mackintosh Father and Son Barefoot Bowls Toowoomba City Bowls (Lindsay St, East Toowoomba) from 10:00am – 1:00pm $20 per Father and Son couple - to be paid inside the club on the day BBQ lunch that will hopefully include some local produce and you can purchase drinks at the bar
Senior School House Carnival - all boys must attend; concludes at 3:10pm.
End of Term 3
Please look to organise your end-of-term departure in advance.
Ensure your Holiday Leave is in REACH and includes all transport details, such as who will be picking up from school and when.
Flights: If your son is flying home, include flight details, ticket information and your mobile number in the leave request.
The sign-up for the Brisbane Airport bus services for the end of term and the start of term are now available on the Parent Lounge.
For any concerns about airport transfers, please contact Student Services or myself.
Brad Allen Head of House - Mackintosh Boarding
Stephens House
Stephens Sentinel
Our Year 11 leadership applicants manning the barbeque.
I offer many apologies today – this is a shortened Stephens Sentinel and reflects the amount of time that I have been out of the House, as much as the amount of time that I have been in the House. I thank you for your understanding.
It is still possible to keep my finger on the pulse of what is going on and it is always good to hear the clatter of footy boots on the pavers at the front of the House and the banging doors closer to 5:00am than 6:00am on some mornings. This reflects a House operating normally and boys cracking on with doing what they do and most importantly, what they enjoy doing more than anything else. The rugby term is in full swing and this week’s head-knock award recipient, Edward B, can collect his prize in 21 days, following the conclusion of his concussion protocol.
I am tending to do more reflecting and philosophising on life of late. Circumstances, I assume. However, these reflections are overwhelmingly positive and, for the most part, I tend not to end up in a soggy mess on the floor of the residence. I am still heading into the House on most days and the cheery welcomes are a highlight and it is during these times that I am able to realise and appreciate, just how grateful I have been to spend the last few years in Stephens and, with a dollop of good fortune and faith, I hope there will be a few more years upcoming. The cheery greetings as you enter the House from Dorm 1 are a great kick off. We have been incredibly fortunate this year with the Year 8 cohort and the hearty sincerity of Matt S, Jack T, Brad S, Saint, Alex K and Curtis G is a reminder that the House is in good hands going forwards. The election campaign for next year’s leadership group has been interesting as these younger boys have enjoyed the connectedness that the older students have fostered – whether this is through House touch in the afternoon, or by a casual check in to ask how they are going. Legacy, leadership and strength is built from the ground upwards and the foundations in Stephens House are incredibly strong. Whilst I am proud of this and the work of all the staff who contribute so much, I am in greatest debt to the boys themselves because they are the culture-creators who have bought into the principles of gratitude, respect, integrity and trust that underpin our community and, most importantly, use these principles to guide their actions and govern their relationships in both the House and the School.
We have farewelled both of our overseas exchange students this weekend just gone. Bern Sampson has returned to Oakham School in the UK and he has taken Ed T along for the ride. I have added a beach photo of Ed and Ben - they are currently enjoying the Norfolk (careful how you pronounce that!) Riviera prior to the big September return to school that the UK enjoys. As I have said on many occasions before and with exchange veterans Gilbert T, George T and Campbell N still in the House, exchanges such as this broaden our understanding of others and afford us incredible opportunities to sample something else. Long may they continue. In addition to Ed T, Tom C will be headed to Japan towards the end of the school year as he rejoins with Koichiro for a few weeks in Japan. In a lot of respects, this exchange promises to be the most exciting given the cultural difference
s between Australia and Japan. The UK and South African partner schools offer something that can be seen as the same but different whereas I tend to imagine that Tom C is stepping into something altogether more unknown. Anyway, we can be assured that Tom will be keen to furnish a future copy of this very publication with full details of his time in Japan.
Congratulations this week to Campbell N, Xavier de C and Henry M who have all now completed their application and interview process for School Leadership positions for 2026. I was involved in the interview process, alongside Mr Oliphant and Mr Byron. In his role as Senior Prefect, Gilbert T was also involved in the interview process. I cannot offer any insight into the results as each boy then proceeded to a one-on-one meeting with Mr Anderson, prior to final selections being confirmed. That said, each of the three boys interviewed incredibly well and the boys should all be incredibly proud of their progress thus far.
Tom C and Koichiro J in Stephens House
House Pastoral Assembly
Lachy R
This week saw a full School Assembly take place and the focus was on pastoral care. The day and boarding heads of House were asked to identify a student from across their houses who they considered worthy of a Headmaster-Head of House Commendation. The criteria was wider than pastoral care matters and Mr Sullivan and I looked at a cross section of boys from across the House who had demonstrated a consistency of excellence across their relations in the House, with staff, with coaches and in classrooms. I nominated Lachy R (Year 9) as a new boarder this year and someone who has settled in quickly, demonstrated leadership, resilience in the face of adversity and maintained a majority of 'E's' (Exceeding) on his report card whilst maintaining a B-grade in his GPA. Further, he was selected to represent the Darling Downs in the Under 15s rugby state championships.
Conclusion
In conclusion and as I write, I am of the understanding that another Sundowner Drinks evening will be taking place on the Friday afternoon preceding the game against Nudgee that is coming up at the end of next week. (Week 8). Whilst Mrs Kefford will be absent as she flies to the UK for the funeral of her mother, another Mrs Kefford will be in town as my stepmum and my father will be in Australia for a visit. I am sure that they will be out and about, fretting and worrying that I am doing too much! It will be nice to see you and, fingers crossed (but no promises) we may even attempt to serve wine from plastic glasses and not from paper cups!
Further, we have the House Formal Dinner coming up in the final week of the term. Middle Ridge Golf Club will be hosting us this year and I look forward to updates on the post-event, late night revelry antics that continue well into the night (after I have departed of course).
Phil Kefford Head of House - Stephens Boarding
Taylor House
Taylor Tribune
As we head into the back end of Term 3, we finally see the wicked winter lurgy releasing its grip. The warmer weather and sunny days are doing their part to kill off the germs, bringing welcome relief to both the boys and our wonderful Health Centre staff. Spirits are lifting, energy is rising and it’s clear the House has a brighter feel about it.
There has been much to celebrate in recent weeks. The O’Callaghan Cup remains safely in its home at TGS once again this year and it is wonderful to see it gathering just a hint of dust on our shelves. But it was last weekend’s nail-biter against Gregory Terrace that left a lasting impression. The final minutes of the First XV match were a masterclass in patience. As our boys charged the try line, inch by inch and phase by phase, they displayed a remarkable level of maturity and composure. After 26 phases, they finally crossed the line to secure the win.
For me, it wasn’t so much the victory that resonated, but the lesson behind it – patience, persistence and the willingness to grind toward your goal. This was the message I shared with the boys at Monday morning roll call: "work hard, be patient, stay focused and you will get there – just never give up". This lesson rings true as we approach the final stretch of the term, with academic assessments and exam preparation front and centre. Keep striving, boys – your hard work will pay off.
Upcoming Events
There are plenty of exciting occasions ahead:
Friday, 5 September – Taylor House Sundowners from 3:30–5:30pm. Please join us for a relaxed afternoon of connection and conversation.
Wednesday, 17 September – House Formal Dinner at Burke and Wills. Please RSVP via Parent Lounge. This promises to be a special night of reflection and celebration, as we farewell our 2025 leaders and welcome the 2026 House Leadership Team.
Thursday, 18 September – House Carnival. Every boy will be involved and parents are warmly encouraged to come along to support. With strong performances, we can push for the Headmaster’s Shield – especially on the back of our mighty Rubik’s Cube victory!
Patrick McDonald takes out the Rubik's Cube Competition with a time of 27.40 seconds
Looking Ahead
As we plan for the end of term, could I please ask parents with intricate travel arrangements to notify us early so we can assist in making these transitions smooth.
Taylor House continues to charge ahead with great momentum. Thank you for your ongoing support and here’s to finishing Term 3 with the same energy, patience and determination shown by our First XV.
