It has been a very positive start to Term 2. The campus is looking outstanding at this time of year, and there is a real sense of calm and purpose across our boarding houses. I have been pleased with how quickly the boys have settled back into routine following the holidays, which is always an important factor in setting up a successful term. There has been a strong focus on getting the basics right and this has been evident in both the academic and co-curricular spaces.
The early sequence of long weekends has been well received by our boarders. For some, this has provided a valuable opportunity to head home and reconnect with family. For those who have remained on campus, it has been pleasing to see the boys make the most of their time here; enjoying the simple pleasures of boarding life such as kicking a football, spending time with mates and making use of the school grounds. These moments are an important part of the boarding experience and contribute greatly to the sense of community we are proud of at TGS.
At the end of last week, information was shared with families regarding a number of new academic support initiatives. These include Homework Club, Homework Club Plus and an expanded 1:1 tutoring program involving Old Boys and university students. These initiatives are designed to provide flexible and targeted support for boys at all stages of their learning, whether they require additional assistance or are seeking to extend themselves. The programs offer structured environments, access to teacher support and opportunities for individualised learning. I encourage parents to consider these opportunities and remind families that boarders can be registered for 1:1 tutoring, with both face-to-face and online options available on a weekly basis, the sign-up link was reshared on Wednesday.
Looking ahead, next week is National Boarding Week, which is always a highlight of the year. A number of events have been planned to celebrate boarding and recognise the contribution our boarders make to the School. These include a Boarders’ Formal Dinner, a Boarding Assembly and the Boarders Festival. The Festival will take place on Sunday afternoon (17 May) from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and will include a range of activities, including a colour run. This is a key community event and all boarders are expected to return from weekend leave to attend. We look forward to sharing this occasion with boarding schools from across the region.
Finally, a reminder to all families that the flu vaccination clinic will take place next week. If you have not yet returned your consent forms, I ask that these are completed and submitted as soon as possible to assist with planning and ensure your son can be included.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support of the boarding community. I look forward to a busy and rewarding term ahead.
Nick Byron
Director of Boarding
From the Health Centre
Dear Patients and Families
As the cooler months arrive, we are seeing an increase in seasonal illnesses, including influenza (flu), colds and other respiratory infections. Winter is an important time to take extra care of your health and the wellbeing of those around you.
Our friend Health Centre staff are always on hand to help our boarders
Winter Flu Season – Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Influenza is more than just a common cold. It can cause serious illness, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
The best protection against the flu is an annual flu vaccination.
Why get vaccinated?
Helps reduce your risk of catching the flu
Lowers the severity of illness if you do become unwell
Protects vulnerable family members and the wider community
Helps reduce hospitalisations during peak winter season
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older and are especially important for:
Adults aged 65 years and over
Pregnant women
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Children under 5 years
People with chronic medical conditions
Healthcare and aged care workers
In conjunction with East Toowoomba Clinic and our school GP’s we are running a flu vaccination clinic on Friday, 15 May 2026. Please refer to the previous correspondence that was sent via email. We require the returned consent forms by Monday, 11 May 2026, so we can ensure we have enough vaccinations ordered.
Celebrating Mother’s Day
This Mother’s Day, we would like to acknowledge and celebrate all mothers, grandmothers, carers and mother figures in our community. Thank you for the care, strength and support you provide every day.
We hope you enjoy a wonderful and relaxing Mother’s Day surrounded by loved ones.
Honouring International Nurses Day
International Nurses Day, held on Tuesday, 12 May, is an opportunity to recognise the dedication, compassion and professionalism of nurses everywhere.
I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to all the health nurses for the incredible work they do in caring for the boys every day. Your commitment makes a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.
Stay safe, stay warm and take care this winter.
Stacey Smith and the Nursing team Health Centre Coordinator
As the Term 2 juggernaut tries to find its momentum in amongst shortened weeks and public holidays, the Boyce Buffs have re-started their routines and slotted back into productive rhythms. Although we have only celebrated Hugo’s (16) birthday, there has been much else to shout about and celebrate. Arguably, top of the billing is our nine Diligence Awards recipients for Term 1. Well done to Henry, Eli (plus a Commendation in General Studies), Finn G, Eric, Charlie G and Charlie P on their Pro Diligentiae. Extra applause for Christopher, Sam P and Will M who scooped Pro Summa Diligentiae for their efforts. Meg and I very much enjoyed the ‘Work Ethic Wings’ evening with many of these boys and we look forward to making this a regular occasion to recognise our termly award winners.
Christopher also received his Full Colours after another successful season with the Senior Debating Team and he joins Sam P, a Commendation recipient for his contribution to the Goondiwindi Rugby Fun Day and Will M as our most recent Buffs of the Week. Credit to Cooper C, Buff of the Week for Week 1 after following a strong finish to Term 1 with an exceptional start to Term 2. Furthermore, Cooper demonstrated the Triple H values in abundance as a tourist on the Fiji Rugby Tour. Matthew has kindly offered the following words to reflect on the Fiji experience more widely:
Fiji Diary
The rugby tour to Fiji was an unforgettable experience filled with excitement, challenge and strong team bonding leading into Term 2 of rugby pre-season. On Day 1, we departed from Grammar full of anticipation and energy. After a long journey, we arrived in a very humid Fiji, where we were warmly welcomed with traditional music and shell necklaces. The vibrant atmosphere immediately set the tone for what would be an incredible trip.
Day 2 began with an eager rugby squad preparing for our first match of the tour. Before the game, we enjoyed an exhilarating jet boat ride to a traditional Fijian village. There, we immersed ourselves in local culture by joining the energetic dancing and experiencing our first taste of kava. After returning from the village, we headed straight into our first match against Cuvu College. With a lively crowd cheering from the sideline, we delivered a strong performance and secured a decisive win. However, not without a few players requiring hospital visits. Despite this, the post-game exchange of gifts with the opposition was a great moment between both teams.
Our boys taking in the Fijian sights
Day 3 was filled with fun and adventure as we spent the morning at the beach, wrestling in the water and enjoying the sunshine. Later, we visited the Sand Dunes National Park, where we admired the breathtaking views of Fiji from the top. Soon enough, friendly competition began as we started to race locals down the dunes, highlights being Cooper C fully covered in sand after tripping over in a race. That evening, we enthusiastically joined local fire dancers, proudly showing off our moves on stage.
On Day 4, we travelled to our next accommodation, where we quickly took advantage of the beach volleyball courts, swimming pool and other resort activities. Day 5 brought an unexpected challenge when a cyclone forced the cancellation of our second game against Lomary Grammar. Nevertheless, we made the most of the situation by participating in team bonding activities and enjoying the resort facilities. We also attended another fire dancing performance, where the whole group came down to show off our dancing skills to the enjoyment of many guests.
With the cyclone still lingering on Day 6, the third game was postponed, allowing us to relax by playing golf, visiting local markets, and making the most of the resort environment. Finally, on Day 7, we faced Suva Grammar in our last match. Despite a very hard-fought game, we narrowly missed out on the win against a fast paced, physical Suva Grammar. However, the friendships formed with the Fijian players during the post-match bonding session were a true highlight of the tour.
Day 8 began early, having us wake at 4:00am to begin the journey home, bringing an incredible tour filled with great team bonding and some tough rugby to a close.
Matthew DP Boyce House, Year 11
Henry and Cooper enjoy a Fijian recovery session.
More sport
Sticking with sport, we have been strongly represented within the end-of-season cricket awards. Joe secured recognition for his five-wicket haul against BBC and was named 8B Best Bowler. Finn S received the N.J. McPhee Trophy as the 10As Best Batsman and was joined by Lawson, recipient of the E.G. White Trophy for Bowling within the same side. Matt was named in the Team of the Year following his 12 dismissals from Wicket Keeper for the 11As, and Will H’s contribution to the 9Cs despite injury received worthy recognition with a Spirit Award. Whilst GPS pre-season has begun for many, our club rugby players have also been in receipt of accolades. Will D and Hunter were named as USQ U15s Best Back and received the Coaches' Award, respectively and Finn S and Walter have been selected to represent their age group at Darling Downs level. This, after Walter's contributions saw him earn the award for USQ U16s Best Back too.
Boyce Boys from afar
Excitingly, we are joined by not one, but two exchange students from St. John’s, Johannesburg this term. Jonah T-S has settled extremely well and has provided the below introduction for the Boyce Community. James joins us this week after the conclusion of his commitments with the South Africa Under 16 Water Polo squad. We look forward to hearing from James in the next edition of the Bugle.
My name is Jonah and I’m currently boarding here at TGS in Boyce House, but I come from St. John’s College in Johannesburg, South Africa. Life here in Australia is extremely different to what I’m used to back home. For example, the roads here aren’t riddled with potholes, you can walk around town very safely and houses are not lined with tall walls and electric fences. Toowoomba is a gently moving and open town, people freely walk around and spontaneity is an option when thinking of what to do, much the opposite of where I live. But all these quirks are what make my country and city so special and important to me. I come from a country where the government faces lots of challenges and almost 40 percent of people live below the poverty line. However, I love the country because of the resilient nature of its people and the fact that all South Africans are bound simply by the fact that they are of the same nationality regardless of race, creed or background. I love being able to bond with people simply over being a South African. Parts of life at TGS aren’t very far from St. John’s, and it feels somewhat familiar to me. The food at St. John’s, however, is much worse! So far, my experience here has been great and I look forward to the rest of my exchange.
Jonah T-S Boyce House, Year 10
Jonah T-S, Year 10 Exchange Student
Finally...
To close with some routine reminders, as we enter the cooler months and additional uniform and clothing are required, please ensure all these items are clearly named. Mrs Bazley continues to do a wonderful job of encouraging boys to make use of both the daily and the weekly wash. As a rule, clothing is far less likely to be misplaced if it is named. Stitched labels are preferred and can be arranged through Student Services. However, we do have plenty of laundry markers for boys to use if required. Next, although we manage to process all leave in time for boys to make a prompt departure early submissions of weekend arrangements, in particular, are always appreciated. For our Year 12 Mothers, the booking link for the rearranged Mother and Son Dinner is live and can be found here. RSVPs are gratefully received by Friday, 15 May.
John Troxler Head of House - Boyce Boarding
Corfe House
Corfe Courier
As we move towards Week 4 of the term, it has been pleasing to see the Corfe boys continuing to settle confidently back into their routines after the holidays.
The house has been a hive of activity, with a strong focus on academics during morning and evening prep, as well as plenty of energy being directed into co‑curricular commitments across the week.
Service and Leadership Opportunities
A number of boys have nominated to be involved in a service initiative in the Junior School, generously giving their time to support after‑school enrichment activities. It has been wonderful to see our Corfe boys modelling leadership, responsibility and kindness as they give back to younger students, while also strengthening their connection with the wider TGS community.
Welcome to Our Year 10 Mentors
This term, we are delighted to welcome a new group of Year 10 mentors into Corfe House. These boys play a vital role in supporting our Year 7s as they navigate boarding life, modelling positive behaviour, leadership and care within the house.
Our Term 2 mentors are:
Lawson Forbes (Boyce)
Thomas Acton (Taylor)
Kinsley Lai (Mackintosh)
Jimmy Speed (Stephens)
Jimmy Baker (Groom)
We are very grateful for the time and energy these boys bring to Corfe and we look forward to the positive impact they will continue to have throughout the term.
Term 1 Work Ethic Awards - Pro Diligentia
Congratulations to the following boys who received Term 1 Academic Awards. A Pro Diligentia is awarded to students who achieved an Exceeding Teacher Expectation in 50% or more of their subjects, while meeting teacher expectations in all remaining subjects. This recognition reflects a consistently strong work ethic and commendable commitment to learning.
Year 7
Toby Bryant
Hunter Campbell
Mason Morris
Edward Nixon
Dougie Saal
Rhett Werner
Year 10
Jimmy Baker
Jimmy Speed
Luke Shepherd (Term 1 Corfe Mentor)
Sporting Commitments and Effort
On the sporting front, the boys have once again approached their commitments with enthusiasm and determination. Whether at training or in competition, they continue to demonstrate resilience and teamwork, qualities that are strongly encouraged within boarding life.
House Cross Country
Well done to all Corfe boys for their efforts at the House Cross Country at the end of Term 1. This challenging event pushed many boys well outside their comfort zones and they should be extremely proud of the determination and resilience they showed in completing the course. In addition to demonstrating grit and perseverance, the boys’ efforts earned valuable points towards the House Shield.
Congratulations to the following boys who proudly represented TGS at the 12 Years Range Zone Cross Country Championships: Henry Cassidy (2nd), Chett Smith (6th) and Tom Twidale (8th). These are wonderful achievements against some of the best long-distance runners from across the Toowoomba region.
Term 1 GPS Sporting Awards
Swimming
Dougie Saal - Sprint Award (U13)
Volleyball
Bentley Gaka – Coaches Award (7D)
Hugo McCormick – MVP (7D)
Thalla Harrison – Most Improved (7B)
Leon Riddiford – Coaches Award (7E)
Cricket
Artie Gordon – Best Batsman (7E)
Chett Smith – Best Bowler (7E)
Tom Twidale – Player of the Season (7E)
Hunter Campbell – Best Batsman (7C)
Dougie Saal – Best Bowler (7B)
Congratulations to all boys on their efforts representing the school in Term 1 GPS sport. It was extremely pleasing to note that 100% of Corfe boys represented TGS each Saturday.
National Boarding Week (10 - 17 May)
As part of our National Boarding Week celebrations (10 – 17 May), Corfe House is hoping to take part in the ABSA "Echoes from Home" collage competition.
The "Echoes from Home" initiative invites boarding houses to come together to create a collaborative piece of art, shaped as a home, that represents what “home” means within their boarding community.
Each boy is encouraged to contribute a small, personal element to the collage. Individually, each piece tells a personal story, but when brought together, the collage becomes a powerful collective expression of connection, diversity and shared experience within the boarding house.
To support this project, we are hopeful that families may be able to share one or two photos from home (as soon as possible) that your son feels best represent what “home” means to him. These images will be combined with student-created elements within Corfe House to form our final collage.
Your support is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Holiday Photos
Thank you to the parents who shared some fantastic photos of the boys enjoying fun and relaxing activities over the holiday break.
As requested, I have included a selection of photos from camp below, which I hope you enjoy. All Corfe staff extend their very best wishes to our boys and their families for a wonderful term ahead.
The beginning of a new term always brings with it a sense of renewal and opportunity. After a well-earned break, it has been excellent to welcome the boys back into Groom House, refreshed and ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. A new term is not simply a continuation of the last - it is a chance to reset goals, re-commit to expectations and strive for personal growth. I encourage all boys to take full advantage of this fresh start and approach Term 2 with enthusiasm, purpose and a willingness to improve.
We are also delighted to welcome three new students into the Groom House community this term. Alex E and Jack R have joined us in Year 9, while Jimmy S has commenced in Year 10. Transitioning into a new boarding environment can be both exciting and challenging and I have been pleased with the way each of these boys has embraced the opportunity. I encourage all members of Groom House to continue extending their support and friendship to ensure our newest boarders feel a strong sense of belonging from the outset. At its best, boarding is about community and it is the collective effort of all boys that creates a positive and inclusive environment.
One of the most pleasing aspects of the opening weeks has been the level of engagement in co-curricular activities. A large number of boys from Groom House are currently involved in tennis, football and pre-season rugby and it has been fantastic to see such widespread participation. These commitments not only support the development of physical fitness and skill, but also build resilience, teamwork and time management - qualities that are essential both in and beyond the classroom. The energy and camaraderie displayed by the boys in these activities contribute significantly to the positive culture we continue to foster within the house.
Pro Summa Diligentia
Equally important is the recognition of academic diligence and sustained effort. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate a number of boys who were recognised at the end of Term 1 with either a Pro Diligentia or Pro Summa Diligentia award. These awards reflect a consistent commitment to academic endeavour, organisation and a positive approach to learning. Congratulations to Charlie C, Cody G, Jackson H, Shayden M, Pierce B, Kian VD, Harry Y, Jimmy B, Jason H and Luke S on their outstanding efforts. These young men should be proud of what they have achieved and they set a strong example for their peers.
Acknowledging success is important, but it is equally important to recognise that not every student will receive an award each term. For those boys who may feel disappointed, I encourage you to view Term 2 as a valuable opportunity to improve. Effort, consistency and organisation are within every student’s control and small changes made now can lead to meaningful progress over the course of the term. Setting clear goals, seeking support when needed and maintaining a disciplined approach to study can make a significant difference.
Within Groom House, we continue to emphasise a balanced approach to life - where academic commitment, co-curricular involvement and respectful relationships all play a role in shaping well-rounded young men. The early signs this term have been very positive and I am confident that, with continued focus and support, the boys will build on this momentum.
As always, thank you for your ongoing support. The partnership between home and boarding is critical in fostering the success and wellbeing of each student. I look forward to seeing the boys continue to grow, challenge themselves and make the most of the opportunities that Term 2 provides.
Birthdays
Charlie C - Happy 17th Birthday!
Charlie W - Happy 16th Birthday!
Jason H - Happy 16th Birthday!
John J - Happy 16th Birthday!
Dan Mc - Happy 15th Birthday!
Archie N - Happy 14th Birthday!
Luke Paffey Head of Boarding House (Groom)
A Celebration of Diligence
In celebration of their strong Term 1 work‑ethic results, a group of Groom House boarders ventured down to Burrito Bar for the much‑anticipated Wings Wednesday. Spirits were high and confidence in our spice tolerance was perhaps a little misplaced. Several boys, including myself, opted for what we believed to be the “safe” option: the third‑mildest wings on the menu. This conservative choice was made with full awareness that many of us consider tomato sauce to be edging on the spicy side. However, our trust in the menu’s heat scale was quickly betrayed. One bite in, and it became clear that these wings were far more fiery than advertised. Water glasses emptied rapidly and the table fell into a chorus of sniffles.
Yet even our suffering paled in comparison to the efforts of Harry Yan and Charlie Chen. With quiet confidence, they had ordered the spiciest wings available, unaware of the ordeal awaiting them. Within minutes, sweat was streaming down their faces, their eyes glistening with equal parts determination and pain. Observers could only watch in sympathetic amusement as the pair battled through each mouthful, perhaps reconsidering whether striving for another work‑ethic award next term was truly worth it.
Our boys and your sons were outstanding during the ANZAC Day services on Friday at TGS, as well as at the Toowoomba Dawn Service held at Mother’s Memorial. Their behaviour, attendance and respectful engagement throughout both services were exemplary.
It was also encouraging to see Mackintosh boarders contributing through their service in the TGS Cadet Unit. Sem Cant, in particular, has been consistently engaged with the Cadet Unit throughout the year and represented his family, House and the School with great honour during these ANZAC Day commemorations.
The Dawn Service itself was a special occasion, and it was wonderful to have Hol Achiek, Mackintosh Boarding Supervisor, join us early that morning before returning to the House later in the day to share lunch with the boys. Hol has served with the Australian Defence Force, and his presence and service were greatly valued by the boys on such a significant day of remembrance.
During the opening weeks of the term, despite short weeks and special events, the boys have continued to enjoy the comfort, familiarity and routines of Mackintosh House. There have been movie nights, gym sessions, cooking activities and House Mother suppers. It was also great fun to have the Year 12 boys into my place for darts during Week 2, providing a relaxed and enjoyable space to unwind together.
Term 2 Theme: Organising and Doing
There are no guarantees with careers or future pathways. What does matter, and increasingly so is character, habits and work ethic. These are the skills and competencies that contribute to long-term success in a rapidly changing world.
This term, our focus is on being organised, communicating clearly and then doing things. These habits begin here at school and are built through consistent daily actions.
This means:
Checking emails and planners daily.
Staying on top of assignments and asking for help early.
Organising rooms and preparing for the next day before bed.
Being organised for the things you want to do and the things you don’t want to do and then doing them.
Taking action: doing small things, trying new things and engaging fully in experiences.
Each day, boys should be doing something active and positive. There is no wellbeing benefit in repeatedly lying in a cube on a phone or device for extended periods. If nothing is scheduled, find something to do with mates, play games, use hobbies, exercise, read, volunteer, or simply get outside and see what’s happening.
We can help and we want you to help each other by supporting one another.
At Mackintosh House, we encourage our boarders to give their best as they develop their character and contribute positively to the learning environment in their classes.
We are exceedingly proud of the boys listed below who have received Pro Diligentia Awards (awarded for ‘Exceeding Teacher Expectation’ in 50% or more of their subjects, and not less than ‘Meeting Teacher Expectation’ in the remaining subjects):
Year 9 – Sem Cant and Mitch McMahon
Year 8 – Brenton Gakka and Charlie Sullivan
First Teams Selections – Term 2
First XI Football – Thomas Putter
In the first two games of the GPS season at home, Thomas has been a force on the pitch, making a significant impact in both attack and defence.
First IV Tennis – Kinsley Lai
Boarders of the Week – Term 2
Jhett Brennan, Year 9 – Has shown increased effort and commitment to living the Blue and Gold values in boarding and in class.
Dougall Skene, Year 10 – Has created activities and led others in organising house touch games.
Darcy Brown, Year 8 – Works closely with the House Mother, Mrs Stewart; always helpful, creating a great environment for others.
GPS 2026 Cricket Awards
Cricket Team Awards
Year 8B – Player of the Season: Charlie Sullivan
Year 10B – Best Batter: Tate Dwyer
Year 10B – Player of the Season: Dougall Skene
Year 11C – Player of the Season: Jock Kirkby
2026 Cricket Outstanding Performances
Charlie Sullivan v IGS, Round 8 – 4 overs, 5 wickets for 3 runs
Tate Dwyer v ACGS, Round 9 – 152 runs from 100 balls, also selected in the TGS Merit Team of the Year 2026
Looking Ahead
TGS On Tour
From Thursday, 14 to Sunday, 17 May, I will be away representing Boarding and Toowoomba Grammar School with TGS On Tour. Alongside Mrs Marian Rathie, I will be travelling to Coonamble and Dubbo to attend The Boarding School Expo, before making our way home via Wee Waa and Moree on Sunday, 17 May.
This promises to be an exciting and rewarding journey, providing valuable opportunities to connect with current families, meet prospective new families and reconnect with old boys. TGS On Tour is an important part of strengthening our community ties and sharing the TGS boarding experience with families across the region.
Mackintosh House - Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner
We are looking forward to our annual Year 12 Mother and Son Dinner at GIPS Restaurant on Friday, 22 May 2026. This is always an emotional and memorable night for everyone involved.
To close out Term 1, we held the Interhouse Cross Country - an excellent chance for the boys to show the progress they’ve made through our 6:00am morning house runs in the weeks beforehand. It was a terrific turnout, with plenty of blue shirts right at the pointy end of the field. A special mention to Marcus D, who finished in the top five and to Campbell N, who also produced a top-five result.
Term 1 also concluded with Activities Week, giving the boys a chance to learn and connect through experiences beyond the classroom. Our Years 8 and 9 boys headed to Noosa North Shore and threw themselves into a wide range of activities. With a newly crowned “Year 8 Stephens” surfer in Alex Kelly-Slater, we may even have a pro in the making. Our Year 10 boys took part in Work Experience Week, the Year 11s attended a leadership camp at Alexandra Headland and our Year 12 boys engaged in a range of certificates and courses to set them up well for life beyond school.
Term 2 Beginnings
Although there have been fewer weekday public holidays than in previous years, Term 2 has still begun at a rapid pace. Our TGS ANZAC Ceremony on Friday of Week 1, followed by a 4:30am wake-up for the Dawn Service at the Mothers’ Memorial, was a powerful start to the term and a reminder of the pride and gratitude we share as a community.
Over the past couple of weeks, the boys have enjoyed a range of activities both in-house and across the wider school. One highlight was the TGS-built smoker rolling out to the front of the house (with at least five boys providing the muscle to get it there!). Just under 100 sausages made their way through the smoker and the boys certainly enjoyed the results - especially those with the palate for sauerkraut and mustard. These in-house dinners are a great way to break routine and connect and our Year 11 boys rounded out the evening with a game of ‘What’s the Time, Mr Wolf?’, with the Dodd kids out the front of the house.
With Round 2 of the GPS fixtures now completed in tennis and football, it has been terrific to see such a huge number of our boys involved. It’s always encouraging to see so many committing to weekend sport, with the social benefits just as valuable as the physical ones. Rugby pre-season training has also commenced at 6:00am, and while the temperature is still mild, I suspect we’ll see a few more layers appear as the term rolls on. A special mention to Henry M, who has continued his strong involvement in school sport and was awarded Tennis Captain for 2026 at assembly. With a win against Nudgee in Round 1 and a draw in Round 2 (called off due to rain), he has made an excellent start to the season. While Henry may be our only Stephens boy competing at that level, participation across the house remains strong and it’s clear the tennis influence of recent years has had a real impact. Tennis is proving a popular Term 2 sport, and nothing beats watching the likes of Archie C and Mac S hitting some aces on a bright and sunny Toowoomba morning.
We now hear from Xavier De Cuester who will give us a quick update on the House:
Stephens has started the term strongly. The boys have been rewarded for their efforts, with chicken wings last Wednesday night recognising positive work ethic and behaviour. House Touch has kicked off as we prepare for the House of Origin clash against Groom and there’s a clear drive for improvement across sport, academics and overall effort. Our in‑house afternoon teas have been a real highlight, giving the boys more time to relax and talk with each other, even with the heavy load of sporting commitments. Between pre‑season rugby and in‑season football, participation has been high and the boys’ energy and commitment has been impressive.
Work Ethic
A strong work ethic continues to be a real feature of daily life in Stephens House. This term, 18 Pro Summa awards were presented to the boys listed below in recognition of their consistent effort and application to their studies in Term 1. To acknowledge their hard work, the boys were treated to Wednesday Wings at the Burrito Bar - a definite hit, especially the spicy ones!
Pro Summa Diligentia (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):
Xavier D, Campbell N, Archer F, Adrian G and Mal B
Pro Diligentia(receive ‘Exceeding Teacher Expectation’ in 50% or more of his subjects, and not less than ‘Meeting Teacher Expectation’ in the remaining subjects):
Henry M, Logan M, Hamish F, Riley G, Luke G, Max M, Ed T, Joshua P, Riley T, Jimmy S, Curtis G, Bradley S and Reuben D
Meet the Year 8s
With Term 1 now under their belt and friendships strengthened through camp, our new Year 8 boys have returned refreshed and ready for Term 2 at Stephens House. They continue to look out for one another, settle confidently into routines and embrace all aspects of boarding, from getting involved in house activities to enjoying a well-earned moment of downtime. In doing so, they’re helping to build a genuine sense of community and belonging. Below, you’ll hear from the boys in their own words. This week, we meet Jack Cornes-Falk.
Where did you grow up, and what’s something people might not know about your hometown?
Augathella but my family were originally from Wellington, NZ. My Grandfather was John Reginald Cornes and earned a cap with the Wallabies when he moved across the ditch. Augathella is home to the Big Meat Ant.
What do you like doing when you’re not at school?
Anything and being around my mates – camping out in the mountains.
What’s one goal you’d love to tick off this year?
Achieve a Cum Laude for the year.
What’s been your favourite part of boarding so far?
The more freedom and ability to do things.
If you could only eat one meal every day, what would it be?
Spagbol – delicious.
If you had a walk-out song, what would you choose?
Ironman by Black Sabbath.
In three words, how would you describe boarding life so far?
Fun, character-building.
What’s a ‘back home’ favourite
Knowing everybody and saying g’day.
What do you miss most about home?
The freedom to roam around.
House Notices
TGS vs BSHS (away) – Football and Tennis
Change to Tech-Free Thursday – due to high demand and a few issues with organisation of weekend leave, Tech-Free Thursday will move to Tech-Free Tuesday.
Winter clothes – as warmer layers start to come out, please take a moment over the next few weeks to label your son’s clothing if you get the chance.
Chris Dodd Head of House - Stephens Boarding
Taylor House
Taylor Tribune
Term 2 - Opening Update
The opening to Term 2 has, as always, been frenetic. However, it has been wonderful to see our boys settle quickly and return to the rhythm of house life. They are coping very well with the demands of school, sport, study and boarding, and it has been pleasing to see the positive spirit within Taylor House.
ANZAC Day brought with it a renewed sense of gratitude and reflection. The Dawn Service provided a powerful reminder of the values that sit at the heart of what we do in Taylor House: service to others, commitment to our mates, pride in our School and a responsibility to be the best version of ourselves. These values continue to guide us forward.
Next week, from 11–17 May, we celebrate National Boarding Week. This is an important opportunity to recognise the unique role boarding plays in the life and heritage of TGS. Boarding is more than simply a place to live; it is about belonging, connection and shared experience. Taylor House is a diverse and vibrant community, and each boy contributes his own stitch to the rich tapestry that is Taylor House and TGS boarding.
As part of the celebrations, we ask that all boys join us on Sunday, 17 May at 2:00pm on Old Boys’ Memorial Oval. We will be celebrating with our friends from Fairholme College, The Glennie School and Downlands College, and it promises to be a wonderful afternoon of community and connection.
Recognising and celebrating our boys is a vital part of life in Taylor House. It is especially pleasing when we can acknowledge those who are achieving at a high level, as their efforts encourage others to strive for the same. Special congratulations go to Henry G, Sid M and Will Mc, who were awarded Pro Summa Diligentia for excellence in academics.
We also congratulate Darcy M, who is representing the First XI in Football, and give special mention to Kingston M, who scored a hat-trick in the opening round of GPS Football. From last term, we also celebrate our cricket trophy winners: Darcy M, recipient of the JJ Pigeon Trophy for outstanding fielding; Will M, Third XI Player of the Season, including a five-wicket haul against BGS; Hunter R, 9C Best Batsman and Player of the Season; and Will Mc, 8C Player of the Season.
Our laundry service remains at the heart of keeping our boys looking their best. While we applaud the boys for wanting to do their own washing, we also remind them just how busy life becomes during the term. The laundry service should be used, especially for uniforms. Please ensure all items are clearly named so they can be returned promptly. Student Services can assist with labels, so boys are encouraged to see them if this needs to be done. There is no need for boys to be doing excessive laundry, and we ask parents to encourage their sons to keep their laundry skills mainly to personal items.
We are also looking forward to hosting a few gatherings in the near future. Dates and venues will be provided well in advance, and we are excited about the opportunity to come together as a Taylor House community.
For now, take care. I look forward to seeing you all soon.
