It has been a great start to Term 2 and I thank all of our boarders for the way in which they have begun this period of the school year. The holidays saw the majority of our boarding families on the Darling Downs and in Central Queensland receive some good rainfall which is a good thing for those communities. This correlates to our boarders coming back with a calm and positive mindset which helps with their wellbeing as they are not worried about what is happening at home. As it is a nine-week term with three public holidays, the term will go quickly and we will be in our assessment period before we know it. As such, I’ve asked the Heads of House to really focus on ensuring there is a positive academic environment in our boarding houses.
As this is the first Boarders Telegraph for the term, I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Mr Chris Dodd and his family to the TGS Boarding Community. I thank the Taylor parents who were able to attend the welcome BBQ on the travel day. I would also like to welcome the five new boarders, and their families, who started at the beginning of Term 2. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the boys and I’ve been pleased to witness how they’ve been included in their houses.
With this edition of the Boarders Telegraph going out at the end of Week 3, it seems an age ago that our boarders were travelling off to Camp Week at the end of Term 1. The rain that fell throughout the week certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of our boarders. I was proud of the character that our boys showed when faced with the adversity of a truly sodden environment, where tents, clothes and cooking areas were constantly wet. In the Year 9 group that I was apart of, our hike across to the stand-up paddle boarding turned into a 12km out-and-back trek along the beach and the road - rather than the usual 5 km return through the wetlands reserve that had become a lake. Regardless, all the boys showed grit and resilience, making the most of the journey. In particular, I’d like to acknowledge the efforts of Will and Oli who carried a plastic pallet the majority of the length of beach so it could be disposed of properly.
Looking to the term ahead, there are a couple of busy weeks ahead. Firstly, TGS on Tour is off to Beef Week in Rockhampton. For those families that are attending, I look forward to catching up with you at the event. Deputy Headmaster, John Anderson will be there for the Mort & Co. function at the beginning of the week, discussing the the School's exciting plans around design, engineering, technology, agriculture and innovation. In the following week, we will be celebrating National Boarding Week. There are lots of activities planned this year, with a Boarders Festival for all boarders in the Toowoomba Region being held on Sunday, 19 May from 2pm to 4pm. I will write to all boarding families requesting to ensure that their son is not out on weekend leave as we are hosting the event at TGS.
Welcome back for Term 2! I hope you had a wonderful break over Easter and had the chance to enjoy some quality time with your boys during the holidays. The rain was indeed a pleasant surprise, for those needing it.
Term 2 typically sees a calming down period as students settle into their routines and become more accustomed to boarding life. However, the occurrence of three consecutive public holidays can disrupt this settling process and may require some time to regain momentum. Additionally, as winter sets in, students hailing from warmer regions may experience a period of adjustment to the colder climate.
It was a delightful experience to welcome both prospective and current families to the Family Sleepover event where they could get a firsthand glimpse of TGS boarding life for their sons starting in 2025. The event offered a variety of activities to keep both the boys and parents engaged while providing valuable insight into the boarding experience at our School. Creating these connections is crucial for both the boys and their parents, helping to alleviate any apprehensions and making the boarding experience feel less intimidating.
For those parents attending Beef Australia in Rockhampton, there is an opportunity to attend Sundowners with TGS old boy Charlie Mort on Monday, 6 May. It is sure to be an interesting discussion.
BPSG House Representatives Contact Details
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.
The BPSG meeting was held online via Teams on the last Sunday of Term 1. It was very well attended with the minutes posted on the Parent Lounge under the Boarding section.
I encourage parents to actively engage and stay informed about the topics discussed in the meetings and to provide feedback on the matters under review. It's essential for parents to be involved and have their voices heard in these discussions so that we can continue enhancing the boarding experience at TGS.
Next Meeting
Sunday, 13 June at 1:00pm. On site at TGS (venue TBC); online via Teams (link will be sent out closer to event).
All parents are welcome to attend.
If you have a matter that you would like raised at the meeting, please email your BPSG House Representative, BPSG President or Mr Nick Byron.
BPSG Action Items Update
Thank you to all of the parents who were able to join the BPSG Meeting at the end of Term 1. The reports from President Steph Smart and myself are available on the Parent Lounge. The action items from the meeting are below.
SUMMARY OF ALL ACTION ITEMS FROM MEETING
Agreed Action
Person Responsible
Completion Date
Agenda 1 – Catering for away sport/quantity issues
Nick Byron
Sunday, 19 April 2024.
In consultation with Steve Fryer, the actions and comments are:
Education to new boarders, and reminders to all boarders, that there are lunches available.
Lunches are on the bus as the Sports Department monitors them every week and knows if any coach has not collected a lunch Esky. If a lunch is not collected, the Sports Department make plans for those students. (E.g. at BGS this year lunches were transferred onto another bus so boarders could be fed as one bus missed them. Those boarders that missed out had food purchased for them via the canteen.)
With the Term 1 lunches on the bus, the Sports Department have noticed that the boys either choose to not take them because they do not like what’s in them or they forget to collect them. If they forget to collect from the bus, the lunches are still at that venue and they can still find them easily.
In Term 2 and Term 3, boarders receive canteen vouchers which makes it much easier as they get a burger, chips and a drink. Exactly what they want to eat compared to Chartwells lunches.
Agenda 2 – Update on Grammar 150 celebrations
Tammy Wilson
Ongoing.
Agenda 3 – Boarder parent Regional Co-ordinator
Nick Byron
Ongoing.
Agenda 4 – Boarders weekend leave with Day families
Nick Byron
Sunday, 12 May 2024.
A graphic organiser is being developed to help all TGS Families, boarding and day, understand how to arrange this.
Agenda 5 – Sport fixtures scheduled on bye weekend
Director of Co-Curricular Activities (Steve Fryer) through Nick Byron
GPS Headmasters have taken the stance that they will make all of their teams available to play the bye round. This is to provide more students opportunity in a small season. Ultimately, it is a GPS rule and not all GPS schools have boarders.
New Business – Qfever vaccination clinics
Nick Byron
Sunday, 28 April 2024 – Review Friday, 17 May 2024.
Stacey Smith, our Health Centre Manager, is investigating the possibility of organising a clinic and details will be published to families once it is confirmed.
1975 Study Dorm - Mark Oliver, David Stephenson, Michael Pearce and Geoff Beatty
Boyce House
Boyce Bugle
From the Acting Head of Boyce House
As a teacher, it is a given that you are in the job because you enjoy working with students. My career in boarding grew from my interest and satisfaction in helping boys to achieve ‘outside’ of the classroom. These first few weeks as Acting Head of Boyce House have reaffirmed that seeing boys grow, mature and develop their character is the best thing about the job. It has been great to join the young men of Boyce House and share their boarding journey.
My highlights of being in Boyce House for the past few weeks have been the ANZAC Day morning and the Year 11 and Year 12 Leadership Meeting in Week 1. On ANZAC Day, I was impressed with how the boys conducted themselves at the Dawn Service. Following on from this, it was great to see a group of boys across different year groups volunteer to cook the breakfast BBQ to provide for their peers. Having spoken to all of Boyce House at our start of term meeting about the need to emphasise the Boyce House values of 'Hard Work, Humility, House,' it was clear to see that ‘House’ underpins the life of a Boyce boarder. This was seen on ANZAC Day, as once breakfast was ready and all of the houses were downstairs munching away on a bacon and egg burger, the camaraderie that comes with being a boarder was clear for all to see.
The other highlight of the past few weeks has been the Year 11 and Year 12 Leadership Meeting that was held in Week 1. All key Boyce staff attended to provide input, including Mr Brendan Doherty, Mr Todd Harris and Day Head of Boyce House Mr Tony Wallis. In the meeting, we conducted a SWOT analysis of Boyce Boarding so that our incoming Head of House would have a deep understanding of where things were at. I was impressed with the maturity of the boys and their passion for Boyce. The strengths of the group are their sense of belonging and connection to Boyce House. It was also good to see that the boys recognised that, as seniors, they are role models for the younger boys, with their adherence to the rules. This was seen through arriving to roll calls on time and handing phones in for prep.
In closing, I want to thank all the parents who have taken the time to come into Boyce House at pick-up and have a chat. If I’m not around one of the corridors, please check the Head of House office if the light is on and the door is open as I’m likely there and would welcome the chance to have a yarn about your son.
Yours Sincerely,
Nick Byron Acting Head of Boyce House
From the House Captain
After Term 1, Boyce House is adjusting to its new rhythm with the Hall family officially
leaving after kindly supporting the house and boys for an extra term. We
welcome Mr Byron as our interim Head of House for Term 2 alongside Mr McGovern as House Manager and Day Housemaster and Mr Wallis on deck in the
middle of the week to bring a bit of old with the new. Although the house is
not new to them, they now have a bigger role in Boyce and we
welcome them to a new term and look forward to their guidance and ongoing
support.
We look forward to building upon the
legacy of the Halls and honouring what the family represented.
We will continue building upon what it means to belong to Boyce
House as we move into a new chapter with new team members. As this new chapter starts, the seniors and I will help the house adapt to any changes and challenges that
lie ahead. While our Year 12 cohort still has two and a half terms remaining,
the Year 11 crew will start helping with senior duties as they start
their leadership journey in Boyce.
Term 2 saw the arrival of three
new boys in Year 9: Oliver Hatcher, Tanatswa Shanji and Walter Mairu. All of
the boys are settling into the routine and demands of boarding here at
TGS.
Throughout the term the House
will still aim to maintain the highest standard in all aspects of the School: from Service to sport to academic pursuits. Emmanuel Geu is our stand-out
mention as he looks to represent the Blue and Gold at the highest level in the
First XI Football. He has already played two games and scored two goals for
TGS. The boys and I look forward to watching him continue to challenge himself
and drive the football team to a successful season. After a great win in Cross
Country last term, we will also look to improve our Headmaster’s Shield
standings again this term in the inter-house track and field competition at the end
of term.
Kind regards,
Connor
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
A few words from Henry White, Head of House
As I sit to compose the first Corfe Courier article for Term 2, I can’t help but think how strange it feels that we've already arrived at Week 3. What’s more, by the time this article reaches your inboxes on Friday, we'll be entering the fourth week of a nine-week term. It's true when they say "long days make for short weeks," and here in Corfe, the weeks seem to be flying by.
There's quite a bit to report on so far this term, including updates on new initiatives, introductions to our new Corfe Year 10 residents and, of course, plenty of photos to accompany this good news.
Enjoy the read,
Henry
Family, Grit and Blue and Gold! - A Thematic Approach to Life in Corfe
During my first Head of House assembly for Term 2, I outlined three House themes that I believe best underpin the communal values and goals that we strive toward here in Corfe.
Family 'Family' encourages boys to see the importance of community, belonging and support within the boarding house. Boys acknowledge their fellow residents and staff as an extended family, thereby fostering bonds of camaraderie to help boys feel supported and connected. ‘Family’ creates a nurturing environment based upon mutual affability and respect. Boys will learn that, while you “can’t choose your family,” embracing one’s family regardless of differences or disagreements is an integral part of a positive boarding experience.
Grit 'Grit' encourages boys to demonstrate resilience, determination and perseverance. Boys learn that hard work leads to significant benefits, regardless of failure or limited short-term success. Boys are encouraged to tackle challenges with a positive attitude, particularly in the face of adversity, giving their best effort in all aspects of their boarding experience, whether academic, extracurricular or personal.
Blue and Gold (Pride) By adopting the recently coined TGS motto, boys are encouraged to have pride in Corfe House, Toowoomba Grammar School and themselves. Through ‘Blue and Gold’, boys foster their own positive culture within the boarding house, promoting school spirit and encouraging and reinforcing a sense of identity and belonging.
Leading by Analogy
At the Week 3 Head of House Assembly on Sunday, 28 April, I presented to the boys the following example that I believe most effectively encapsulates the three values while presenting a useful analogy for the boys to lean on.
Take the story of Spanish athlete Iván Fernández Anaya, competing in a 2012 cross-country race in Burlada, Spain. In the image captured below, you will see Anaya running second, behind race leader Kenyan runner Abel Mutai.
In the final moments, the race leader Abel Mutai was just a few feet from the finish line but became confused with the signage, written only in Spanish, and stopped. He thought he’d finished the race.
The Spaniard, Iván Fernández, was approaching quickly in second place with an opportunity to overtake and claim victory for himself and for his country on home soil. What the Spaniard did, however, was truly astounding.
Realising what was happening, he started shouting at the Kenyan for him to continue running; but Mutai didn’t understand his Spanish. Fernandez caught up to Mutai and instead of passing him, pushed him to victory.
A reporter asked Ivan, “why did you do this?”. Ivan replied “my dream is that someday we can have a kind of community life where we push and help each other to win.” The reporter asked again, “but you could have won! Why did you let the Kenyan win?”.
Ivan replied, “I didn’t deserve to win. I did what I had to do. He was the rightful winner. He created a gap I could not have closed. What would be the merit of this medal? What would my mother think of it?”
In our discussion, I asked the boys to consider this moment within the context of our boarding house and themes. Some of their responses were inspiring, for example:
“We need to look out for each other like a family would.”
“When I help the other boys I feel proud of myself, and when my mates do well I feel proud of them.”
“Sometimes making hard decisions for yourself can benefit others, making them the right decision."
Perhaps in your next discussion with your son, you might ask them to recall this story and reiterate the same messages. There are endless opportunities in boarding for boys to look out for others, support them and feel a sense of accomplishment from doing so.
Bloke(s) of the Week
I’m thrilled to recommence the ‘Bloke of the Week’ initiative as a way to help boys identify and acknowledge fellow peers who go above and beyond to embody our House values. Congratulations to the following Corfe Boarders awarded Bloke of the Week for Week 1 and Week 2, for being all-around great blokes.
Week 1 – Hunter Ryrie
The Bloke of the Week in Week 1 embodied our House theme 'Family' by looking out for a mate and raising the alarm that this friend was homesick.
Week 2 – Blake Thompson
The Bloke of the Week in Week 2 embodied our House theme 'Blue and Gold' by approaching all aspects of boarding life with an earnest outlook, giving everything a go and everyone a chance. Moreover, he is quick to praise others when praise is due often giving ‘shout outs’ to those around him honouring their achievements.
Pro Diligentia Awards
I’m thrilled to announce that the following Corfe Boarders have been awarded Pro-Diligentia awards based upon their work ethic as recorded on their Term 1 interim reports. Pro-Diligentia awards are given to those:
Students who receive a minimum ‘Exceeding Teacher Expectation’ as a rating across all but one subject, and not less than ‘Meeting Teacher Expectation’ in the remaining subject, are awarded a Pro Summa Diligentia.
Students who receive ‘Exceeding Teacher Expectation’ in 50% or more of his subjects, and not less than ‘Meeting Teacher Expectation’ in the remaining subjects, receive a Pro Diligentia.
Congratulations to Hamish Baker, William Marshall and Matthew Salter for their achievements. I hope the boys enjoyed their morning tea with the Headmaster - and their tuck shop vouchers!
Toowoomba Show Holiday
Many Corfe Boarders had a great time at the House outing to the Toowoomba Show on Friday, 19 April. Everyone behaved well and it appeared that many made a sincere effort to indulge in as much junk food as possible. No food groups were discriminated with popular choices including fizzy drink, fairy floss and, of course, the ever-nutritious Dagwood Dog. It's safe to say that my freezer is now stocked with a variety of Zooper-Doopers, KaBlueys and Ghost-Drops thanks to the boys 'safekeeping.'
A special mention goes to Jerome and Struan for their amazing artworks on display in the Junior Art Show and to Brodie Todd who nailed a bulls-eye and some phenomenal grouping at one of the rifle stalls.
Well done, Jerome!
Well done, Struan!
Well done, Brodie!
Corfe Boys in Cattle Club
Well done to all Corfe Boarders who represented TGS in Cattle Club events at both the Toowoomba Show and Goondiwindi Show.
From all reports, our lads did the School proud and had a brilliant time while they were at it. We’ve even bagged a few ribbons to show for it!
Well done Corfe Cattle Club!
Thank you to Mrs Wilson and Mrs Koina for taking the boys.
A very proud contingent of Corfe Boarders marched on Mothers’ Memorial on Thursday, 25 April to commemorate ANZAC Day.
The Official Dawn Service, the preceding TGS Ceremony on Wednesday, 24 April and the phenomenal flower display constructed by the TGS Junior School were important opportunities for the boys to reflect and show respect for such a significant moment in Australia’s History.
Year 10 Service and Leadership Residents
Our Year 10 Service and Leadership residents have been a welcome addition to Corfe’s community and such a valuable source of knowledge and wisdom for our Year 6 and Year 7 boarders.
It’s been brilliant to see the Year 10s interacting positively with Corfe boys, sharing stories and guiding them through their daily duties. Their positive involvement in our routines and ability to lead and model by example demonstrates to our boys just what it means to wear the Blue and Gold as a Toowoomba Grammar School Boarder.
Each of our four Term 2 residents has taken a moment to provide a summary of their experience in Corfe over the first two weeks.
Harry Allen - Stephens
"Through my short time back in Corfe house, I’ve relived some of my greatest and fondest memories here at Toowoomba Grammar – from the numerous games of touch every afternoon to making friendships that will last forever. Even in this short time the boys have been incredibly friendly and always keen for a chat. I’ve been impressed by their can-do attitude, always keen to have a go. I’m excited to mentor the Corfe boys to show the true values of school: grit, family and the Blue and Gold."
Jackson Haynes - Groom
"Throughout the first two weeks of the Corfe residency, it has given me plenty of flashbacks from my time in Corfe. Playing ping pong or pool with my mates or watching the Friday night football are some of the memories that really stand out. Some of the biggest highlights from my first two weeks is being able to connect with the Year 7 members of the boarding community through Corfe house touch and how easy they have been to get on with. Overall, the start of the program has been great, and I hope this will continue."
Harry Rogers - Taylor
"The first two weeks of the Corfe residency have been very
enjoyable. I've loved getting to know the boys and playing plenty of touch in the
afternoons. The Residency has brought back plenty of memories of when Jackson,
Harry, Archie and I were all boarding in Corfe together. This opportunity
has allowed me to view the world from a different perspective, learning more about
myself and how I can interact more effectively with the people around me. With
the boy’s priceless sense of humour and enthusiasm I am eager to see what the
next few weeks present."
Archie Smart - Mackintosh
"Throughout my first two weeks of the Year 10 Corfe House Residency, it has certainly brought back lots of memories of my time in Corfe and it has been a great experience. Some of the highlights so far have been interacting with the young TGS boarders and helping them get back into the school routine, keeping them active in the afternoons and playing touch footy. As I have only one term in this role, I would love to build stronger relationships with each boy and be the best role model I can be."
Signing Off
As always, thank you for your time reading this article and for your support and cooperation when reiterating these messages to your sons.
Enjoy the Labour Day long weekend and I hope that each of you taking your son on leave cherish the precious moments together.
Should you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Groom House
The Groom Gazette
At the end of last term, Groom House was knocked off the top of the Headmaster Shield ladder after coming fifth place in Cross Country. It was a very tight race with only one point separating us and the two houses above. For Groom to be in such a position is unheard of in recent years, so we are still in the hunt!
Following Cross Country, the boys headed off to their respective swamps for a week (sorry, I mean camps!). Despite the challenging conditions, it was a joy to hear the boys' tales as they returned to their House with their soggy possessions - and we're glad that Tua finally found a plane to fly home on! Thankfully the boys left very little behind to go mouldy and the Groom Laundry Fairy (aka Jon Hall) helped to ensure that the House was in good order for everyone's return this term.
This term seems to have begun at pace with the Toowoomba Show Holiday, ANZAC Day and Labour Day this coming Monday, resulting in three shortened weeks out of the first four. Impressively, the boys have worked with this challenge and generally remained focused throughout. Many of the senior boys are already in the midst of numerous assignments which has given this recent week a slightly more focused feel.
ANZAC Day Parades
It's impressive to see Groom House with two representatives, Charlie Chen and Will Watson, in the TGS Honour Guard this year. While 4am was quite the early mark for all, their impressive efforts at representing the School so admirably on such an important occasion is to be commended.
Groom House Staffing Updates
Term 2 has also seen some minor adjustments to House staffing. Nat McGovern is on a temporary secondment to Boyce House assisting with their transition to a new Head of House in Term 3. I know that his expertise will be invaluable and we look forward to his return to Groom. This means that we are seeing far more of Mr Epetahui who is making a great impact. Not only is he wonderful at caring for the boys, but he has also introduced some French language to the boys. Nathan Herbert, who has already been working with the TGS Football program, has joined the team and is already forging some great relationships with the boys during his weekend shifts. He is using his prior football coaching experience to share some important messages with the boys about diet. Finally, we have a few shifts covered by Joe Whyte who has transferred from Boyce House until he jets off to Europe for an extended break.
Stay tuned for interviews of these important figures in future editions of Boarders' Telegraph of this Term.
We also must mention Jackson Haynes, who is one of the inaugural members of the Corfe Leadership Initiative where four to five Year 10 boys temporarily move to Corfe House for a term. This has numerous benefits including leadership opportunities and lessons for Jackson, the Corfe boys have a cool big kid to help guide them through the challenges of Year 7 and it also starts to break down any anxieties the juniors may have about their senior Houses. Mr White reports that Jackson and the rest of the team are doing a wonderful job - and gaining first-hand experience in the art of shepherding children!
Groom Boarding House Dinner
On Wednesday evening, we saw a break from tradition and held the annual House Dinner at the Burke and Wills Hotel. The boys had a great evening, enjoying the opportunity to dine in a wonderful location and chat to their friends. Thank you to all those who spoke at this event and thank you to Burke and Wills for being such wonderful hosts.
Future events are planned for a House barbecue later in the year when the weather warms up as well as a social event at the start of Term 4 for Year 12 families who will be leaving us at the end of the year.
I am delighted to share my experiences and insights from my tenure as the Assistant Head of Groom House. This role has been both challenging and rewarding, providing numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
As the Assistant Head of House, my responsibilities were diverse and dynamic. They ranged from overseeing the daily routines of the boys to ensuring their wellbeing to coordinating with other staff members for the smooth functioning of the House.
The journey was filled with unique experiences and challenges and each day brought new learning opportunities. The most rewarding aspect was witnessing the growth and development of the boys under my care. Their achievements, both big and small, were a source of immense pride.
The boys’ progress in academics, sports and personal development has been remarkable. Their successes are a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment we strive to create in Groom.
I have also made my way to Goondiwindi to meet some of the boy's parents. This has allowed me to get to know them and vice-versa. After all, they have trusted us in helping to guide and shape their boys along this journey toward adulthood.
This role has been incredibly rewarding and provided me with invaluable experiences and insights and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the boys’ growth and development. I look forward to continuing to serve in this role and making a positive impact on the lives of the boys in our care.
Mr Nicholls
Mackintosh House
The Mackintosh Mail
AEIOU - Be Awesome for Autism Fun Run
On Sunday, 21 April 2024 Mackintosh House ran its Annual Service Activity at Toowoomba Grammar School on the Old Boys' Memorial Oval. This community event supports the AEIOU Foundation for Children with Autism, the local centre in Toowoomba, as a part of Be Awesome for Autism Month which ended at the end of April 2024. It was a rainy morning, which kept some runners away, but it didn't dampen the spirits of the AEIOU Community and the Mackintosh House boys.
The event included a 5km and 10km run that our boys participated in on a damp morning at Toowoomba Grammar School. There were some notable performances and efforts from boys, particularly those who completed the 10km event. I must commend Noah Grob, Christian Moore, James Pikes and Hershel Naris who all worked hard on the day to complete the 10km event. There was a great spirit of service, with boys also enjoying the sausage sizzle, face painting and other activities during the morning.
All of the Mackintosh boarders were a credit to themselves, their families and the School as they volunteered their time to set up on Saturday afternoon, then arrived early for set-up and stayed up late for the pack-up.
Mackintosh House raised $15,000 from their team effort and page. However, the event will have raised much more for the AEIOU Foundation. The funds that were raised on the day will go to the local AEIOU Centre in Toowoomba and some to support the AEIOU Centre in Townsville, which was recently destroyed by fire and needs rebuilding.
The staff and visitors from the AEIOU were both grateful and impressed with the boys from Mackintosh House, complementing them on their manners, willingness to help and effort in all areas.
Mackintosh Head of House Confirmation Certificates
Harry McMillan and Fraser Coleborn are to be commended for their support of the staff and boys on camp. They showed great character through their enthusiasm, resilience, patience, reliability and willingness to always contribute to Year 7 Camp.
General Mackintosh House Confirmation Certificates
Sydney Muenster – A positive start to Term 2 in English, he is completing work diligently, exceeding teacher expectations.
Jack Pike – Jack is to be commended for always showing respect to teachers and peers while putting in the hardest effort in English and PCG.
Stafford Cleeve – Stafford was cooperative and helpful without resistance and displayed good character when asked to help clean up after others.
Tobias Adams – Tobias was cooperative and helpful without resistance and displayed good character when asked to help clean up after others.
Nash Rogers – Nash was cooperative and helpful without resistance and displayed good character when asked to help clean up after others.
Dustin Allen – Dustin is commended for his composure, attitude and resilience at Year 9 camp. The Canoe group had a harder time than most and was tested in their Character.
Rupert Lawrie – Rupert is commended for his service to others and being proactive in cooking the ANZAC Day BBQ Breakfast for the entire house.
Hayden Ferriday – Hayden is commended for his service to others and being proactive in cooking the ANZAC Day BBQ Breakfast for the entire house.
Cale Maurice – For volunteering his time and service as a referee and mentor to the Junior School Rugby Program.
Pro Diligentia Award Recipients Term 1, 2024
Pro Diligentia awards are based on Work Ethic as recorded on Interim Reports.
Year 12 - Harry McMillan, Lachlan Hawkins and Campbell Winter.
Year 11 - Azariah Toki-Mautairi, Kainen Beezley and Joshua Smart.
Year 10 - Bodhi Boehme and Rhys Johnston.
Year 9 - Dustin Allen and Christian Moore.
Cricket Awards 2024
8D – Best Batsman: Dougal Skene.
11C – Best Bowler: Flynn Kirkby.
2nd XI – MVP: Lachlan Hawkins.
Team of the Year - Keeper: Rhys Johnston.
It is great to see that boy's efforts are being recognised in all areas of school life.
ANZAC Day and ANZAC Services
The Mackintosh House boys are always excellent when there is a special occasion. ANZAC Day and the services around this time are always supported and attended with enthusiasm by our boys.
This year we have two of our boarding in the TGS Cadet Unit, CDT Herschel Naris and CDT Dustin Allen, both Cadets had important roles in the Toowoomba Grammar School Service on Wednesday, 24 April 2024 where CDT Dustin Allen was responsible for the lowering and raising the Australian Flag. Hershel and Dustin attend the Anzac Day Dawn Service as well as a number of other daytime services with the TGS Cadet Unit.
All boarders including Mackintosh House attended the 5.30am ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Mothers' Memorial before returning to Mackintosh House for a BBQ breakfast. After some rest, the boys broke off into year groups around the School for table tennis competitions.
From the House Captain
My name is Harry McMillan and I am a boarder from Teelba. It's a small school next to a gun club, and that's about it. Being Mackintosh House Captain has been a unique experience and I've learned a lot already.
Being a Prefect and a House Captain is something that I have had to learn to balance: keeping up with my academics, sports and service activities. It's caused me a bit of stress, but it's also taught me how to manage my time well.
This year, I'm once again doing the Kokoda pinnacle challenge, which is a series of three walks. The first walk is 30km, which I completed on 20 April, and the next two walks are 48km and 96km. They are no doubt a challenge, but I know I'm capable of it, and I know the money raised is going to a worthy cause.
As House Captain, I like to be able to get around to the boys, talk to them, and see how their day was and what they got up to. I find it's a good way to relate to them and get to know them all a bit better. I want the boys to be comfortable around each other and for them to know that the House is a place where they can be comfortable with their mates.
I don't think I could fault the boys in the House. They're all good mates, and on the rare occasions that people disagree with each other, they're probably brothers. I have two brothers in the boarding house, and I know what this is like; being a role model for them and helping them when they need me. A big part of this is knowing when you can be messing around with your brother and having a bit of fun, but also knowing when you need to help them with school and issues that may come across.
All the boys just enjoy being around each other and doing all the little things together, like playing touch in the afternoon or cooking breakfast in the mornings with each other. These little things all work towards the boys becoming more connected and getting to know them a bit better.
At home, my brothers and I mostly ride motorbikes and help Dad with a bit of work. If we're not doing that, we're out riding around at our neighbour's place and helping them with a bit of work. We have a cattle farm mostly, but lately, we've been doing a fair bit with goats and sheep for a bit of a change. So far, this year has had its challenges, and everyone has had their own ups and downs, but I know all the boys have been able to work through them and make the most of this year so far.
Looking ahead for Mackintosh Families
Dates to consider for your calendar:
Monday, 6 May - Labour Day Public Holiday.
Friday, 24 May – Mackintosh House Mother and Son Dinner (Year 12).
Thursday, 13 June – House Track and Field Carnival.
Thursday, 13 June – School holidays commence.
Friday, 14 June – GPS Football and Tennis Round - all players must be available.
Monday, 8 July - boarders return for Term 3.
Friday, 2 August - Mackintosh Boarding Parents Social - TBC
Sunday, 4 August - Year 12 Dads and Lads - Barefoot Bowls.
Wednesday, 11 September - Mackintosh House Formal Dinner for boarders and families.
Stephens House
The Stephens Sentinel
Welcome to Term 2
I hope the term has started well. It feels like we are well into the swing of things again now and we have resumed the rhythm of ‘business as usual’ in the House. The boys have settled in well and it feels like we are a happy and stable community once more.
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome, formally, our newest arrival in Stephens Boarding which is Abdullah al-Itmam who has joined us from one of the Queensland Academies. He was previously studying at the QA for Health Sciences on the Gold Coast, at Southport, however his parents are relocating to Toowoomba for work in the coming months and they decided to settle Abdullah into TGS ahead of their move. He has settled in really well and is transitioning into The Queensland Senior Studies ATAR Program having begun his Year 11 on an International Baccalaureate pathway. Those boys who have helped Abdullah settle in will have discovered the IB pathway is quite different. It is one of the most challenging and well-respected academic pathways globally. Originating in Switzerland, the IB has always sought to offer students a well-balanced pathway to university and to this end, the humanities, a foreign language, a science, as well as Maths and English, all must be studied to some higher degree. It is always good to hear about the experiences of others and Abdullah brings his own story, and faith, to Stephens House and he has already added value to the community.
The term, as you well know, has already been littered with public holidays and with one more to come, the boys will have been blessed with three extra days of absence from school. I would like to publicly thank both Dave and Peter at this point. It is at times like this I realise how blessed I am, and so are the boys, with staff that are reliable and ready to give up their public holiday for the boys. Peter and Dave cover public holidays with incredible good grace, missing family time, and I want to thank them for the time that they invest in the boys. Having their support makes my job both easier and more enjoyable.
The Master and his apprentices - Lachie directs Campbell and Henry
On the subject of staffing, I am delighted to reveal that the ‘Fergus Hilder Suite’ (those with a connection to the House that goes back a few years will know what I am talking about) is about to be re-occupied by one of our valued Boarding Supervisors. Jed Garratt, who has been with us for over a year now and he plays a fantastic role in the House, will be moving into this vacant and much-prized piece of TGS real estate in the next week or so. His immediate neighbours, Frank Reardon, Brodie Neal and Nathan Voss amongst others, will be welcoming their new wall-sharing neighbour!
Jed has secured a full-time HPE teaching role at Lockyer Valley State High School commencing shortly and he will continue with his Boarding Supervisor role across some evenings and weekends. It will be great having an extra member of staff in the house who is someone the boys know well and hold in high regard.
ANZAC Day Dawn Service 2024
Last week the boys attended the ANZAC Day Dawn Service. As always, it was a moving and poignant service and the keynote speaker, a Colonel in the Defence Force, gave an excellent address about Service and the challenges faced by those brave Australian and New Zealand soldiers 109 years ago. He likened the challenges of 1915 to those faced by many growing up in our own society, and accepted that whilst they were different, they both required strength, courage and resilience to overcome them.
Oli, Darcy, Angus and Will
By recognising we live in a much-changed world, he identified the environment and mental health as being issues that we must grapple with just as seriously as global security and conflict resolution.
The boys enjoyed their post-Dawn Service ANZAC Day breakfast and a chill-out day in the House. Coming fast on the heels of the Toowoomba Show Day, I think Week 3 will have been brutal with five straight days of learning in the classroom. This is, according to some, against the Geneva Convention on Human Rights.
Rewarding Effort
We are celebrating the achievements of several boys in the House with recipients of Pro Summa and Pro Diligentia awards announced this week. These awards are commending boys for the effort shown in class - not to be confused with achievements and results. Being old, and old-fashioned, I tend to think that an assessment-focused culture can miss great opportunities around real learning. Assessment results have become the 'be all and end all' for many young people and their families, to the detriment of real learning. These awards are for boys who show old-fashioned commitment to their learning, at any level. A good work ethic and a commitment to learning in class bring about good academic results as a natural flow-on.
Trying hard is what we are all about and I commend the following boys of Stephens House for their efforts: Riley Gray, Adrian Gray, Ed Thomas, Xavier de Ceuster, Stuart Officer and Nathan Voss. These boys will be receiving either a Wings Wednesday dinner or a dining voucher.
Nathan, Alen, Riley, Blake, Adrian and Xavier (absent winners, Stuart and Ed)
The recent HRC Meeting flagged the need to publicly recognise those boys whose efforts are being recognised in classrooms across the School. I want to thank the boys on the HRC, and Stuart for sending through notes, and I am committed to doing better. Meeting the needs of the boys and trying to grant their wishes in areas of the house where change is possible is important and a part of my job I resolve to do better.
Awards were also flowing at the House Meeting where Alen, Nathan, Riley, Adrian and Blake picked up Cricket Term 1 Performance Awards.
House Culture
I want to spend a little bit of time emphasising the importance of maximising prep time and using learning times in the evenings to the best effect. Whether our boys are aiming for top ATAR scores or following a pathway that is seen as more vocational, the importance of application and hard work needs to be reinforced so that every boy in Stephens House can approach every piece of assessment with the correct headspace and mentality - to do the very best he can do.
Last term ended with too many boys picking up detentions from their subject teachers. Whether this was a consequence of poor behaviour, talking back, failing to complete homework or anything else, I am setting the boys a challenge this term. I would like to see the entire House, collectively, have less than ten detentions across the term. Adopting the values demonstrated by the majority of our senior boys, this is distinctly attainable and I feel it is a realistic target. It does however require a whole-House approach and all of the boys will be reminded of the importance of our core values and tenets: Gratitude, Respect, Integrity and Trust.
You can't lose what you never had ....
These values were evident last Friday when Stephens House led a Social Tennis Evening which was attended by the Corfe boys and several students from other Houses. We had a good set of games and Lachlan Muggleton will be happy to talk about how he went in a one set challenge against his hobbling old housemaster.
Following the end of a busy Term 1, the boys earned a much-needed rest. It was great to have Mr Kefford and Mr Byron drop in to visit the farm, with a personal chauffer in the bush basher. After returning from the short break, it was right back into the usual routine with meetings, school, and sports, as well as other commitments.
Despite a disjointed start due to the public holidays, it was great to see so many boys at the dawn service on Thursday. Now that the term is in full swing, the seniors are working to implement and solidify three initiatives within the boarding house:
House Representative Council (HRC): The return of the HRC meeting aims to generate new ideas and implement those proposed in Term 1.
Academic Support: Following the senior leadership dinner, the seniors will launch the academic support program to help younger members with their studies.
Stephens Sunday Sesh: With Term 2 starting, the return of the much-loved Sunday Sesh could see Nameron return to the mic.
Outside of the House, the review and continuation of several prefect initiatives are underway, with hopes of improving and refining ideas for the coming term. Major projects have started within the Boarding House Captains' team in preparation for the upcoming National Boarding Week, during which several media items and new ideas will be revealed in Week 5.
As Term 2 progresses, I hope the boys have had a good start and are keen to finish the semester strong.
Stuart Officer
Taylor House
Taylor Tribune
In the groove...
Dear Taylor Families,
As we step into the third week of our nine-week term, we have an array of uplifting updates to share. The dedication and commitment of your sons to Taylor House, their community and their personal growth have not only fortified our communal spirit but have also lifted Taylor House to the top of the Headmaster's Shield - a feat not achieved in recent memory. Their participation and enthusiasm have significantly enhanced our House events, pushing us to a commendable current standing. Yet, the journey is far from over with the upcoming House Track and Field Carnival promising to be a spirited competition. Let’s keep pushing forward!
We celebrate the achievements of several boys who have earned their House half and full colours. A special congratulations to Harry Barwick, Nick Denny and Will Slack-Smith, who were among the first to receive these honours. We owe our gratitude to Mrs Kate Wormwell for her guidance in this achievement. The chase for colours continues for many, encouraging them to meet their potential.
Award Announcements
Pro Summa Diligentia: Alistair McKay.
Pro Diligentia: James Elms, Mitchel Neilsen, Rupeni Baravilala, James Petersen, Fletcher Worland, William McKay, Harry Rogers, Max Barwick and Henry Croft.
Additional kudos to Hewie Graham, Carter Isaac, Ryan Allan, Darcy Harth, Henry Gladman, Kingston Menzies, Patrick Hoare, Sam Petersen, Ethan Allan, and Jack Campbell, for setting high standards during evening prep time — they are a testament to the character we cultivate at Taylor House.
Culinary Corner
Food is always a topic of enthusiastic discussion among the boys. This term, during their House Duty Week, each House will take a turn at crafting the menu for Wednesday dinner. The Taylor boys have opted for a steak dinner complete with potato bake, French peas (savoury peas and bacon) and creamy peppercorn sauce, followed by an ice cream bar featuring M&M's, gummy bears, chocolate sauce and even fairy floss. It's a menu sure to inspire and delight!
Reminders
As we look forward throughout the term just a few reminders:
Those boys who still have their cricket kit are asked to take them home as the storage room will be repurposed for the Winter terms.
Any unclaimed items in storage are to be removed with items not claimed will be disposed of by the end of Week 4.
Please ensure all travel plans at the end of the term accommodate the GPS sports commitments - GPS round 9 is on Friday 14 June.
All boys who have committed to a GPS team are to honour their commitment and ensure they represent their team.
Any request for exemption from GPS sport or other School cocurricular activity, must be approved by their coach and TIC of that sport.
Upcoming Events, Term 2
Friday, 3 May – Taylor House Family Evening, Jacaranda Room, 5:00pm - 7:00pm.
Monday, 6 May – Labour Day Long Weekend.
Wednesday, 8 May – Year 10 Career Profiling.
Wednesday, 8 May – ROSIES visit.
Week 5 – Year 11 Assessment Period.
Saturday, 18 May – Dayboy Sleepover.
Sunday, 19 May – Rotary 'Run the Range.'
Wednesday, 5 June – ROSIES visit.
Wednesday, 5 June – State of Origin Game 1.
Week 8 – Assessment Period Begins.
Thursday, 13 June – House Track and Field Carnival (all boys must attend).
Thursday, 13 June – Holidays commence.
Friday, 14 June – GPS Football and Tennis Round (all boys must attend).
Thank you for your ongoing support of Taylor House and your dedication to the success of your sons.
Warm regards,
Eugene Head of House – Taylor Boarding
Fidelus... Recipes from the Heart
Food and the culinary delights of regional areas is always a topic of discussion for this Head of House. It plays a central role in my family. From Northern Italy, with its Germanic and Slavic influences where my mother was born, through to Central Italy, in particular Rome, where my dad’s family hails, to the South into Calabria, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands where my uncles grew up. Meat, seafood and pasta always play a big part in our family gatherings - and watch out if Zia’s pasta or porchetta didn’t get finished. There would always be an extra serving for you if you were within arm's reach… even if you’d just finished your third helping.
Things can get heated in the kitchen, each region believing its specialties are the taste of the nation. But what I recall is the zest and verve for each dish, mum’s Cozze Ripiene (stuffed mussels), Zia Gusse’s Porchetta (stuffed and rolled pork loin) or Zia Anna Maria’s delicious Torta di mele (apple pie). Recreating these childhood and family favourites only pays homage to their memory. Getting in the kitchen is a wonderful way to recalibrate, escape and create. For me, it is about sharing those memories with friends, old and new, alongside a good argument about how much or how little I add to my own variation of anything mum cooks. Knowing I’ve made life difficult for any man my daughter eventually marries - she asks for dad’s French-tipped lamb cutlets in a butter and white wine reduction… Remember she is six years old! But above all, the delight that comes in the first bite, watching the faces of everyone at my table enjoying a simple meal. Just heaven.
I'm sure you have similar stories from your dinner tables and Christmas feasts. I'm inviting you all to contribute to the Taylor House Cookbook, which is a culinary story from the heart. I would love to gather your favourite dishes into one place to share their stories, ingredients and the magic required to bring them to life. Please share these with me along with a photo if you can.
