THE BLUE AND GOLD - Friday, 1 May 2026

Dear TGS families

It is a pleasure to be writing to you through Blue and Gold while our Headmaster, Dr John Kinniburgh, is on sabbatical. While Dr Kinniburgh takes this well-earned opportunity for reflection and renewal, the School continues to move forward with confidence, purpose and momentum.

As we approach the conclusion of our 2022–2026 Strategic Plan, it is an appropriate moment to pause and quietly acknowledge what has been achieved together. Over the past four years, the School has made strong progress across teaching and learning, student wellbeing, staff development, community engagement and stewardship. Through the dedicated work of our staff and the support of our families, we have seen exciting new projects and many strategic initiatives have been embedded into the daily life of the School, strengthening both our academic programs and our culture.

Just as importantly, this period has laid a solid foundation for what comes next. We are now entering an exciting new phase of strategic planning, one that will look confidently to the future while remaining grounded in the enduring values of Toowoomba Grammar School.

We have commenced work with an external facilitator, to guide the development of our next Strategic Plan. This process will be deliberately consultative, with opportunities for students, staff, parents, Old Boys and the broader TGS community to contribute their perspectives as part of an environmental scan and a series of focus group discussions.

A highlight of this work will be a community event in June, culminating in a presentation from international demographer Simon Kuestenmacher, whose insights on global, national and generational trends will help inform our thinking about the future of education and the world our boys will inherit. I look forward to sharing the invitation to this event to parents and our broader community in the coming weeks.

This is a genuinely exciting time for the School. I look forward to sharing more as this important work unfolds, and I warmly encourage our community to engage with the conversation.

Kind regards
Mr John C Anderson
Acting Headmaster

Toowoomba Grammar School gathered on the Old Boys' Memorial Oval on Friday, 24 April for a solemn and deeply moving ANZAC Day Service. Students, staff, families, Old Boys and distinguished guests came together to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served Australia in times of war, conflict and peacekeeping.

In his address, Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh reflected on the enduring significance of ANZAC Day, reminding the community that it "is about remembrance... an invitation to reflect on the tragedy which always accompanies war." He spoke of the young men of TGS who left the School to serve in conflicts far from home, noting that "we honour these men who served and who gave the ultimate sacrifice," and encouraged students to consider how the ANZAC qualities of courage, service and character might guide their own lives. Dr Kinniburgh emphasised that the spirit shown by the fallen "must surely characterise our lives if they are not to have died in vain."

Our Guest of Honour and speaker at the ceremony, Lieutenant Charles Rodan, 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment, offered a powerful reflection on the Gallipoli campaign. He described how "Australians were the first ashore at Anzac Cove," and how, despite devastating losses, the troops "forged a reputation for courage, resilience and dedication." He reminded the audience that ANZAC Day now honours "all people... who have defended our interests and gone to the aid of others," including the more than 103,000 Australians who have lost their lives in service.

The ceremony featured the reading of the names of fallen Old Boys, the placing of flags by Year 10 students, the Ode, Last Post, Rouse and a poignant recitation of Sir by Year 12 student Samuel Heinrich. Sir was written by TGS Old Boy (1985-89) Damien Morgan, whose words continue to resonate deeply in ANZAC commemorations.

Together, the TGS community stood united in gratitude and remembrance. Lest We Forget.

Challenging minds and building connections

This week, Toowoomba Grammar School proudly hosted a Maths Enrichment Day, providing a stimulating and enjoyable extension opportunity for a selected group of high‑achieving Years 7 and 8 students. The day also welcomed students from The Glennie School, offering a valuable opportunity for inter‑school collaboration and shared learning.

The program, delivered by Felstead Education, featured a rich variety of engaging activities designed to challenge students mathematically while encouraging teamwork and communication. These included a Maths and Sport Show, presented in our new lecture theatre inside the DET Centre; a Maths Amazing Race, which had students running to all corner of the School solving a variety of problems; and a Maths Escape Room, where again students worked in teams of four to apply problem‑solving strategies in creative and time‑pressured environments. The day also included a Maths Trivia Quiz, coordinated by Head of Mathematics, Mr Damien Wrench, which provided a fast‑paced and enjoyable way for students to test their knowledge and thinking skills.

One of the highlights of the day was seeing students from TGS and Glennie working collaboratively and more confidently as the day progressed. While the activities were deliberately challenging, students approached them with enthusiasm and resilience and it was clear that many really enjoyed the experience. The positive energy, engagement and teamwork on display made the day both rewarding and memorable.

The School sincerely thanks the sponsors who helped make the day accessible to all students involved. Chartwells are warmly acknowledged for providing morning tea and lunch for all students and staff, while Heron Eyecare, Ignite Engineering and Engineware are thanked for their generous financial support, which significantly reduced the cost of participation.

The success of this event has strengthened the hope that future Maths Enrichment Days can be offered to other cohorts and that this experience may become a regular feature on the School’s annual calendar, continuing to inspire students’ curiosity, confidence and enjoyment of mathematics beyond the classroom.

It was a proud day for Toowoomba Grammar School as we celebrated the commitment, resilience and team spirit shown across our Swimming program throughout this year’s GPS season. The event brought together swimmers from all age groups to acknowledge not only performance, but the standards, discipline and culture that continue to strengthen the program.

Head of Swimming Mr Matteo Melis reminded the boys of the mindset that has shaped their season, telling them, “Results come after standards, not before.” His message captured the attitude that has defined the squad; a willingness to work hard, support one another and uphold the expectations of a proud TGS swimming tradition.

A series of Performance and Spirit Awards recognised swimmers who consistently demonstrated excellence, determination and leadership: Hank Lee, Fletcher Campbell, Hudson Capp, Conall Moar, Hugo Weedon, Sam Oliphant, Charlie Beverland, Dougie Saal, Myles Logan, Keynan Harvey, Eddie Beverland, Riley Frappell, Bryce Krause, Lachlan Rippon, Lachlan Parker and Blake Best.

One of the standout achievements of the season came from Bryce Krause, whose exceptional swim in the 15 Years 50m Backstroke at GPS set a new meet record. Over the holidays, Bryce went on to elevate his performance even further at the Australian Age Championships on the Gold Coast, where he set a new Australian record for the event with a time of 25.73 seconds. In a moment of remarkable serendipity, this national record surpassed the previous mark held by Olympian and TGS Old Boy (2019–20) Isaac Cooper, linking two generations of Grammar swimmers in a milestone achievement. Bryce was also named Outstanding Performer and Highest Points Scorer at GPS for the TGS Squad.

While the final scoreboard didn’t reflect the full story of the season, the determination, unity and upward momentum within the squad are unmistakable. As Swimming Captain Cooper Healey told his teammates, “the only way is up.”

The future of TGS Swimming is bright, it's built on standards, strengthened by spirit and driven by a team determined to rise.

Last week we proudly celebrated the achievements of our cricketers at the annual Cricket Awards Evening, recognising the standout performances, leadership and commitment shown throughout the GPS season. The event brought together players, coaches, families and supporters to reflect on a year of growth, determination and strong team culture.

We were delighted to welcome special guest Charles Lachmund (TGS 2013–25), 2025 Cricket Captain and current Australian Under 19 representative. Charles recently returned from Namibia, where he represented Australia at the ICC Under 19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. His presence was an inspiration to the boys, offering a powerful example of where hard work, discipline and passion for the game can lead.

Throughout the evening, players were acknowledged for their performances, sportsmanship and contributions to the team environment. The applause from teammates, coaches, parents and caregivers reflected the pride felt across the program, not only for individual achievements, but for the collective spirit that defines TGS Cricket. The standout performers were honoured on the night including the two undefeated TGS teams, the mighty ...

The night concluded with pizza, conversation and plenty of good cheer, as boys and families celebrated the season together. Events like this highlight the strength of our cricket community and the bright future ahead for the program.

The Opens Fiji Rugby Tour (3 to 10 April) provided an invaluable platform for the squad’s preparation ahead of the 2026 GPS Rugby season. More than a playing tour, the week offered high level competition, cultural immersion and real-world challenges that strengthened the group both on and off the field.

Across two demanding fixtures against strong local opposition, the boys were tested physically and mentally and responded with determination and composure. A 22 to 7 win over Cuvu College showcased their resilience in difficult conditions while the final match against Suva Grammar delivered important learning moments against fast athletic opposition. The shared post-match lunch and gear exchange highlighted the sportsmanship and generosity of our Fijian hosts.

Late season Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu brought significant disruption and forced cancellations and venue changes. Despite this, the group’s behaviour was exemplary. Their maturity, patience and adaptability drew praise from resort staff and community members and reflected the values at the heart of the TGS Rugby program.

Cultural experiences including village visits, traditional ceremonies, dance performances and time exploring Fiji’s natural landscapes broadened the boys’ perspectives and deepened their appreciation for the communities who welcomed them so warmly.

The tour also strengthened team cohesion with shared challenges and unexpected moments forging strong connections. Whether training on the beach, navigating weather delays or spending time together, the boys demonstrated unity and purpose throughout.

The Fiji Tour proved a vital step in shaping the squad’s character, resilience and competitive edge. The lessons learned in gratitude, adaptability, humility and teamwork will carry well beyond the 2026 season and remain central to their development as young men and teammates.

From this term, Toowoomba Grammar School is expanding its academic support offerings to provide Senior School students with greater access to structured study support and individualised learning assistance beyond the classroom.

Three initiatives are being introduced as part of this pilot:

• Homework Club – A teacher‑supported study option providing students with a quiet, structured environment to complete homework, revision and independent study.

• Homework Club Plus – An enhanced academic support program offering supervised study with specialist teachers in a dedicated academic setting. The program is designed to strengthen study habits, support students during periods of increased academic demand and contribute positively to the School’s academic culture across both day and boarding communities.

• 1:1 Tutoring with Old Boys and University Students – A term‑based, weekly tutoring program offering individualised academic support tailored to students’ subject needs. Tutoring is available in face-to-face and online formats, with tutors matched to students based on availability and learning requirements.

These initiatives are designed to provide flexible, targeted support that helps students develop effective study habits, build confidence in their learning and take increasing ownership of their academic progress.

Further details, including program structure and booking details were shared directly with Senior School families earlier today.

Bullying can have a profound and lasting impact on a young person's wellbeing, sense of belonging and confidence. It is not always visible and can include social exclusion, verbal abuse and online harassment, often occurring repeatedly over time. Research shows that bullying can increase the risk of anxiety, low self-esteem, social withdrawal and difficulties with learning and peer relationships.

For parents and carers, it can be difficult to know how best to respond. However, recognising the signs, listening without judgement and maintaining open communication can make a significant difference.

Do It For Dolly Day is a national reminder that kindness matters and that everyone has a role to play in creating safe and inclusive communities. This Special Report provides practical guidance to help families understand bullying, support their child and promote empathy, respect and positive relationships, ensuring no child feels alone.

Read more: http://twgs.qld.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-do-it-dolly-day