As Term 3 progresses beyond the halfway mark, the Senior School has been abuzz with activity, celebration and reflection. Since Friday, 8 August, we’ve experienced a remarkable series of events that have brought our community together in meaningful ways.

Reunion Weekend and Grammar Downlands Rugby Fixtures

This year’s Reunion Weekend was especially poignant as we welcomed back Old Boys and visitors in celebration of our School’s 150th year. The camaraderie and pride were palpable as alumni reconnected with their peers and shared stories with current students. The Grammar Downlands rugby fixtures, hosted by Toowoomba Grammar School, were a highlight of the weekend, showcasing spirited competition and sportsmanship. We are incredibly proud of all staff, students and volunteers who pulled together to host such a large and successful event.

G150 Assembly and Time Capsule Opening

The Reunion Weekend followed two significant anniversary events: the G150 Assembly and the Opening of the Time Capsule. These occasions offered a moment to reflect on our rich history and to celebrate the legacy of Toowoomba Grammar School. The assembly was a moving tribute to our past, while the time capsule ceremony connected generations of Grammarians in a shared vision for the future.

Boarders’ Mothers Luncheon and Rising and Leading in Sport

The Boarders’ Mothers Luncheon was held in the Pavilion at the School and was a cherished tradition that honours the vital role of our boarding families. The warmth and appreciation shared during the luncheon were deeply felt. Meanwhile, the Rising and Leading in Sport function, held at Rumours International, celebrated the achievements and leadership of some of our past student-athletes. Both events were enthusiastically received and underscored the strength of our School community.

Junior School Book Week

During this last week, the Junior School brought vibrant energy to Book Week, with boys embracing the theme through colourful costumes and enthusiastic participation. Their joy and creativity were a delight to witness and a reminder of the importance of fostering a love of reading from an early age.

Year 12 Mock Exams and Term 3 Assessment

As we look toward the end of Term 3, our Year 12 students are preparing for their Mock Examinations, which begin in the final fortnight of term. These exams are a vital step in their journey toward the External Examinations in Term 4. All Senior School boys are encouraged to maintain focus and diligence as they complete their assessments. The commitment shown by our students and staff during this period is commendable and reflects the academic rigour of our School.

Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp

Looking ahead to the September holidays, we are proud to host the annual Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp. In its 19^th year at TGS, this remarkable initiative will see 48 Year 11 boys volunteer to support children with disabilities for three days and two nights, providing care, companionship and joy. Our Year 12 boys will assist in organising activities throughout the camp. Preparations are well underway and we commend all involved for their generosity and commitment to this meaningful event.

Performing Arts Highlights

As Term 3 draws to a close, we look forward to two exciting events in our Performing Arts calendar. First, the TiGAA Showcase will feature our talented actors in a celebration of dramatic performance and creativity. Following this, the term will conclude with the Big Band and RnB Band Extravaganza, a musical event that promises to be both energetic and inspiring. We hope to see strong community support for these gifted performers as they share their passion and hard work with us all.

Introducing Scholarion – Our New Student Information System

We are excited to share that Toowoomba Grammar School is preparing to launch a new Student Information System called Scholarion, beginning in Term 4 and continuing into 2026. Scholarion will replace TASS and several other systems, consolidating them into a single, secure platform that will enhance communication, data management, and overall efficiency across the School.

For students and parents, Scholarion promises a more streamlined experience, with improved access to academic records, attendance, co-curricular activities and communication tools. We will move to a new user-friendly portal for parents. The system will also support automated messaging and reporting, helping families stay informed and engaged with their sons’ progress and school life.

We are currently in the implementation phase, with module teams working hard to configure the system to suit our School’s needs. More information will be shared with families as we approach the launch, including opportunities to learn about the system and its features.

Smartphone Delay Initiative

This term, Toowoomba Grammar School has launched a community-wide consultation on a proposed Smartphone Delay initiative, aimed at encouraging families to postpone personal smartphone ownership for students until after Year 7, with the possibility of extending this expectation through Years 8 and 9. The initiative is grounded in compelling research and expert advice, including guidance from the eSafety Commissioner and other child development authorities, which highlight the risks of early smartphone use—such as disrupted sleep, reduced attention and increased anxiety.

As part of the consultation process, we have gathered feedback through student, staff and parent surveys, alongside a Parent Information Session and other community engagement efforts. The results of these surveys and feedback will be shared with families at our upcoming consultation meetings. Following this, recommendations will be presented to the School Executive to consider the School’s position and guide any potential implementation. We remain committed to working in partnership with our community to support student wellbeing and development.

John Anderson
Deputy Headmaster

Influenza/COVID Cases

We are still seeing a significant number of boys with suffering from Influenza A, B or COVID through both the day and boarding boys. Please, if you son is not well with flu-like symptoms, fevers please keep them at home until these symptoms resolve and no longer experiencing any fevers. This will help dampen the spread. Handwashing and cough etiquette also play a pivotal role.

Flu Vaccinations

We have been in correspondence with the Darling Downs Public Health Unit who have advised that it is still not too late to get a Flu Vaccination. If your son is a boarder and you would like for him to receive a flu vaccination, please email the health centre so we can arrange for this. They are free and most pharmacies will administer them. Further information can be found via this link.

I also would like to pass on my sincerest thanks to the nursing staff at the health centre for all the hard work and dedication especially over the last few weeks.

Stacey Smith and the team of Registered Nurses
TGS Health Centre

Anxiety and Young People

Anxiety is a natural and expected part of growing up. In fact, it plays an important role in helping young people prepare for challenges, stay alert to potential dangers and adapt to new situations. It can motivate them to study for a test, practise before a performance, or tread carefully in unfamiliar settings. However, for many children and adolescents today, anxiety can shift from being a helpful response to becoming intense, persistent and disruptive.

The world young people are growing up in is fast-paced and often demanding. Academic pressures, social expectations, family changes and the constant presence of digital media can all contribute to heightened stress and worry.

When anxiety is left unrecognised or unsupported, it can begin to affect a young person's wellbeing, learning, friendships and self-confidence. That's why it's so important for adult carers to understand how anxiety may present in children. Everyone experiences anxiety differently, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

This edition of SchoolTV raises awareness and provides families with practical strategies to help young people manage anxiety in healthy, constructive ways.

Here is the link to your Edition.

Helping Boys Thrive in a Changing World

Recent research from the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) offers powerful insights into what boys need to flourish. The findings are clear — thriving boys share four key experiences:

• They believe in their own ability.
• They trust in the ability of the adults guiding them.
• They know their voice is valued.
• They understand that relationships are essential to their success.

These foundations help boys develop the habits and values they’ll carry into adulthood — a launchpad for their post-schooling years. A strong values base not only supports personal growth but also inspires them to contribute back to their communities, while still celebrating their unique passions and potential.

In today’s complex world, the challenges are greater than ever. Information is no longer the sole domain of human teachers and parents; digital technology and AI deliver facts instantly. Yet, despite this technological shift, no algorithm can form the authentic human connection that boys need to thrive. Relationships remain the heartbeat of learning.

A boy’s development is most strongly shaped by his home, his peer group and his experiences of success at school. Unfortunately, data shows concerning trends: boys are leaving tertiary education at alarming rates, and tragically, young men are overrepresented in suicide statistics. This underscores the urgent need for boys to build strong, valued relationships with teachers and their wider community.

Boys’ social groups tend to be larger and more competitive than girls’, which can influence behaviour and self-worth. Cultural expectations of gender can further complicate how communities care for boys. We also know boys are deeply relational in their learning — they thrive when teachers form, maintain and repair relationships with them. If a relationship breaks down, many boys will not try to mend it for fear of being dismissed again. When rituals are done well, however, they can leave a lasting positive impact.

In working with boys, five issues stand out:

1. Navigating care in the online world.
2. Working wisely with technology.
3. Learning to disagree agreeably.
4. Understanding the importance of time and space.
5. Building connection, friendship, belonging, and mentorship.

Mentors and parents can foster connection in simple yet powerful ways:

• Coach his team.
• Turn up voluntarily to something that matters to him.
• Share a mealtime together.
• Celebrate the small wins.
• Communicate authentically by listening to his interests and investing in them.

As Tom Batty, Chair of the IBSC, wisely says, “School administrators and staff must have soft hands that don’t move.”

Our Wellbeing and Character Program exists for this very reason. By focusing on connection, belonging and the development of each boy’s unique character, it equips students not only to navigate the modern world but also to thrive in it. We see the difference every day — boys with a stronger sense of self, a deeper sense of belonging and a growing commitment to contribute to something bigger than themselves.

The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are — the challenge is discovering exactly who that is and using it for the benefit of all.

Michael Hall
Head of Pastoral Care

Over the next few weeks there are a couple of events coming up that may be of interest to students considering a career in Defence.

Defence Careers Australia - Toowoomba: Trade Careers Information Session

Apply your existing trade skills or receive world-class training in order to work with formidable military assets and enjoy the many benefits of a career in the Australian Defence Force.

Date: Monday, 25 August
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Toowoomba ADF Careers Centre
Details and Registration: https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/bowdqmp

Defence Careers Australia - Toowoomba: Defence Careers Information Session

Wondering whether a job in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the right fit for you? Come along to an upcoming info session where you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn everything you want to know regarding job roles in the Navy, Army and Air Force. You'll have the chance to speak with current serving members to see if an ADF career is the one for you.

Date: Tuesday 3 September
Time: 6:00pm- 8:00pm (AEST)
Location: Toowoomba ADF Careers Centre
Details and Registration: https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/ycgz1iu

It is highly recommended you book for either of these events as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!

The University of Queensland - UQ Ready - Virtual

For students considering UQ, they are offering an online informative night that will provide you with everything you need for a smooth transition from high school to university. This webinar is suitable for students in Year 11 and 12, parents and carers.

Date: Tuesday, 3 September
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Online
Details and Registration: https://study.uq.edu.au/events/uq-ready

If you would like to speak with a member of the Careers Team, please email us for an appointment.

Anthea Richters
Head of Department - Careers

I have written many times before on the value and impact of reading for students. Children’s Book Week, a nation-wide celebration of reading, provides the perfect platform to celebrate the value of reading as a whole community.

There are two distinct aspects to reading I would like to acknowledge:

• Learning to read, reading to learn
• Culture of reading

I would encourage you to read the Blue and Gold articles from both Mrs Chantelle Baur, Deputy Head of Junior School – Teaching and Learning who writes about our teaching of reading; and from Ms Amanda Hall, Deputy Head of Junior School – Students who writes about our culture of reading as a community. They highlight the value of each component, which I share below works together to form lifelong readers.

As a Junior School, ‘learning to read and reading to learn’ is a feature of our every day. From Prep to Year 6 each class is developing their understanding for the fundamentals of reading from oral language, phonological awareness of letters enabling students to decode words, to reading fluency and comprehension skills for understanding. Reading is a complex series of skills explicitly taught at every age level in the Junior School. Once students become more proficient in their reading skills the world opens up for them. Parents might recall when their child first started to read full sentences, it’s an exciting moment both for them and you. The value and impact of reading is immense for young people. Students can read questions, instructions, story books and gather information on their own. The power of learning to read develops into reading to learn. These are the technical skills and value of reading.

The culture of reading is where we as a community promote reading for the broader value it offers all of us. Reading for enjoyment, to share experiences and knowledge, to connect with another person, to understand another perspective. Valuing this as a community is a powerful message for young people. It says ‘reading is important for all of us’. Junior School students are still developing their technical reading skills, this can be challenging at times; students benefit from regular encouragement from adults to share their knowledge, skills and interests in reading. Children’s Book Week offers exactly that, an opportunity for all of us to celebrate the value of reading together through shared story reading, quizzes and character dress-ups. The fanfare of Book Week seems to grow each year, and the big kids (adults) enjoy themselves just as much, perhaps even more so, than younger kids!

Our Thursday morning Character Parade exemplifies this point perfectly:

Thank you to all the parents, and grandparents, who supported Book Week this year through your attendance at the Character Parade and/or your assistance in preparing costumes. The parade is always a highlight of the week and a truly special memory for everyone. Thank you to teachers for your efforts in promoting reading each day and your support in creating stunning doorway designs to highlight a particular book or story. Thank you to our students for your excitement and enthusiasm for Book Week. A final special thank you to Mrs Worthington - Teacher Librarian for organising activities and a visiting book author Katherine Battersby to grow our appreciation and enjoyment for reading through workshops for each class. It’s been a fabulous week.

We would like to also extend a sincere thank you to the Junior School Supporters’ Group (JSSG) for their generous donation of funds to allow us to purchase a Reading Tree for our Junior School Library. This signature piece will be a prominent feature of the Library standing 2.4m high in the centre of the Library, housing books to read in the truck of the tree, a surrounding seat for students to read under the canopy of branches and leaves. This beautiful furniture piece supports our culture of reading for all age groups, inviting young readers to pause for a while, enjoying a good book under the reading tree. Thank you to the JSSG and broader community for this tremendous gift to the school that our students will enjoy for many years to come.

In other activities

Recently, our Year 3 and 4 students hosted the Glennie School and Fairholme College Year 3’s and 4’s for a STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) activity morning. This years theme for Science Week was ‘Decoding the Universe’, using nature and scientific knowledge to help us understand our world. Our activities utilised decoding skills and pattern recognition to discover meaning and unlock understanding. Students made their own pin wheel decoder, an old device to create and decode messages; students also learnt about animal tracks and used their knowledge to explain what might have happened when looking at a series of tracks in different settings. It was a fun morning together with lots of inquisitive minds asking thoughtful questions. Our sincere thanks to the Glennie School and Fairholme College students and teachers for your support of the morning, and our Junior School boys and staff for their contributions to a great event.

Preparations for 2026

I know it might seem early, but preparations for 2026 have commenced. Teachers and the Diverse Learning team are beginning to build class lists for 2026. Classes are composed factoring the range of student learning needs and abilities, pastoral and social supports in a balanced manner across the cohort. If your son has specific needs that you would like us to be mindful of, that the Diverse Learning Team may not already be aware of, you are welcome to e-mail Mrs Chantelle Bauer – Deputy Head of Junior School Teaching and Learning with these details for us to consider in our process. Teachers and the Diverse Learning Team carefully consider class composition to cater for each students learning needs. Once the class lists are generated we will inform each family of the class their child is in for 2026 in readiness for transition day in the final week of this Term 4. This enables both students and teachers to be familiar with each other, the classroom and features of the year ahead prior to the holiday break.

Ken Raven
Head of Junior School

Celebrating Book Week: A Joyful Journey Through Stories and Community

As we turn the pages of another vibrant Book Week, we are reminded of the magic that stories bring into our lives and the powerful memories they create for our children. Book Week is more than just a celebration of literature—it’s a celebration of imagination, creativity and connection. It’s a time when our Junior School comes alive with characters leaping off the pages and into our classrooms, doorways and hearts.

This year, as in years past, we’ve been amazed by the incredible effort and creativity that goes into the costumes our students wear. From classic literary heroes to whimsical new favourites, the parade of characters is a testament to the dedication of our families. We know that behind every costume is a parent or caregiver who spent time brainstorming, crafting and encouraging their child’s love of reading. Thank you for your enthusiasm and support—it truly brings Book Week to life.

Looking back at past Book Weeks, it’s clear that these moments leave lasting impressions. Children remember the joy of dressing up, the excitement of sharing their favourite books and the fun of discovering new stories with friends. These experiences help foster a lifelong love of reading and learning, which is at the heart of everything we do in the Junior School.

Throughout this year, we’ve had so many wonderful opportunities to come together as a community. Whether it’s through events, assemblies or celebrations like Book Week, each gathering strengthens the vital connection between home and school. These shared experiences remind us that learning is a partnership—and when we work together, we create a rich and supportive environment where every child can thrive.

Book Week also gives us a chance to reflect on the broader purpose of education: to inspire curiosity, nurture creativity and build resilience. Reading opens doors to new worlds and perspectives, helping our children grow into thoughtful, empathetic individuals. As we celebrate the joy of books, we also celebrate the journey of lifelong learning. Thank you for being part of this journey. Your involvement, encouragement and support make all the difference. We look forward to many more moments of connection, celebration and learning together.

Amanda Hall
Deputy Head of Junior School - Students

Reading: A Gateway to Discovery

At Toowoomba Grammar Junior School, we believe that reading is more than a skill—it is a gateway to discovery, imagination and lifelong learning. From the earliest years in Prep through to Year 6, we encourage our boys to engage with a wide range of texts that challenge their thinking and expand their understanding of the world.

Reading complex texts plays a vital role in developing critical literacy skills. These texts introduce our students to sophisticated vocabulary, nuanced ideas and diverse perspectives. Whether exploring historical accounts, literary classics or contemporary non-fiction, our boys learn to interpret meaning, analyse structure and appreciate the richness of language.

In the Junior School, we integrate reading into every aspect of the curriculum. Teachers model fluent reading and foster thoughtful discussion. This approach not only improves comprehension but also builds confidence and curiosity. Our boys learn to ask questions, make connections and reflect on what they read. These experiences create a vibrant reading culture where boys are inspired to explore new genres and share their favourite stories with peers. Reading becomes a joyful and meaningful part of their daily lives.

By engaging with complex texts, our students develop the ability to think deeply, communicate effectively and grow into informed, empathetic individuals. At Toowoomba Grammar Junior School, we are proud to nurture readers who are ready to lead, serve and succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Reading in Year 3

Yirra and her Deadly Dog, Demon

• “I really liked the book because it has a lot of action, is cheeky and it has Aboriginal knowledge.” (Rory)
• “Demon had amazing teachers, but we also have amazing and wonderful teachers but 2x better!!!” (Zach)
• “I really like how everyone sat there quietly reading the book together and there were some funny bits as well like when Demon pooped around the house and the backyard.” (Eddie)
• “I really enjoyed Yirra and her deadly dog Demon because it is so cheeky! This book included some Aboriginal culture. I also enjoyed reading about Yirra who couldn’t find her iPod because Demon had buried it. Ha ha! This book is great. There are lots of similes which helps us visualise the characters better.” (Arthur)
• “The book sounds scary but it’s light-hearted and Demon is Yirra’s beloved dog. Demon was about to be taken away, but Danny saves Demon.” (Ekam)
• “I liked how Demon always took thongs and Yirra’s stepdad always got up him.” (Max)

The One and Only Ivan

• “This book has lots of emotions” (Jacob).
• “The book is about cruelty to animals which makes us think.” (Darcy)
• “Everyone gets a chance to read aloud.” (Max B)
• “Funny things he says about humans, ill-mannered clowns and we use to many words. I think some of the things he says about us is true.” (Max V)
• “It’s interesting because the more we read it the more interesting it becomes and the more I want to know about Ivan and the story.” (Lionel)
• “Reading aloud helps us imagine the characters.” (Rory)
• “Every book (Matilda, Yirra and Ivan) has been really unique and interesting, with lots of emotion in every book so far.” (Digby)

What is it that you like about reading chapter books for English

• “I like it when it is DEAR time and the class is always excited about reading. I personally feel relaxed and calm.” (Landon)
• “It has helped my confidence and ability in reading.” (Mahaliez)
• “I like sitting down and reading with other people because I get to enjoy the story with others.” (Walter)
• “All of the books have funny bits in them and we get to laugh together.” (James)
• “It gives me joy to listen to other people read.” (Izyan)

Chantelle Bauer
Deputy Head of Junior School - Teaching and Learning

Musicians’ Concert – Thursday, 28 August

Our Term 3 Musicians’ Concert will be held on Thursday, 28 August, commencing at 2:30pm in the Junior School Hall. A letter with all details, as well as a nomination form was emailed to all families last week. Nominations are due on Friday, 22 August.

RnB and Big Band Extravaganza

The RnB and Big Band Extravaganza will be held in the Senior School Assembly Hall on Friday, 5 September, commencing at 6:30pm. Our Junior School Jazz Band will be performing, and in addition you will also hear performances from the Senior School Jazz Ensemble, RnB Too, Big Band and RnB Band. Drinks and nibbles will be available to purchase on the evening. I encourage families to attend what promises to be an enjoyable and entertaining evening.

THRIVE FESTIVAL - Thu 25 – Sun 28 Sep

The Empire Theatre’s school holiday festival for kids is back—and it’s bubbling with fun. From giant jellyfish and crafty sea creatures to bubbles, fairy bread and live performances, THRIVE is a jam-packed four-day celebration for children aged 0–12 and their grown-ups. With both free and ticketed events, there’s something for every family to dive into this spring. For more information, please head to the Empire Theatre website.

Kellie Dixon
Head of Junior School Music and Director of Performing Arts (Acting)

Athletics

Congratulations to all boys who competed at the Range Zone carnival recently. Toowoomba Grammar School took 25 boys to compete at this carnival with 13 boys successful in being selected in the Range Zone team to compete at the Darling Downs carnival. Congratulations to Don Algie, Lincoln Allan, Harry Allen, Riley Bland, Landon Broksch, Cooper Collie, Peter Donovan, Quinton Lowry, Rory Pihl, Andrew Reeves, Charlie Sullivan, Connor Talbot and Dominic Talbot. We wish all boys the best of luck in their athletic pursuits as the competition becomes stiffer with each subsequent event.

Mini Meets

For the last month, boys have prepared a run, throw and jump at a Wednesday training session to then compete against Glennie, Fairholme and Downlands students on Friday afternoons. The boys enjoyed their athletic interactions with the students from other schools and were great ambassadors for the School. Thanks to all staff involved, particularly Mrs Pratt, Mr O’Toole, Mr Raven and Mr Stone.

PE Homework

Being able to throw overarm is a key skill that transfers to many sports. Please spend some time in the next few weeks throwing a tennis ball, baseball, vortex (or any type of ball) with your son. The more you do, the better he will become. And it is great chance to have a chat and catch up with him!

Sporting Success

Congratulations to Henry Carige on recently representing the Darling Downs at the State Football Championships in Brisbane. Darling Downs finished fourth in a very tough competition, the best result in recent memory. Well done Henry on being a vital cog in that team.

Takumi Inoue, James Jenkins, Harry Allen and Jordan Seddon were all part of the Darling Downs team at the State Rugby Championships at Nudgee recently. Despite being severely outsized, the Darling Downs boys played well above their weight, making teams really work hard. They narrowly lost to the eventual runners-up in a match they deserved to win.

Orion Khatri has recently returned from an exciting trip to Brazil where he played as part of the ‘select Australia’ team. Despite the language barrier and the cultural differences, Orion performed exceptionally well. Orion will be traveling to Portugal next year to participate in the Christmas tournament.

We have a very active group of boys at TGS, which is fantastic. They often have success in sport that we want to celebrate. If your son has achieved well in any sporting arena, please let me know so that his achievements can be shared with our community.

Brendan Doherty
Junior School Sports Co-ordinator

Year 1 Boys Inspired by Sandra Silberzweig

This week, we celebrate the creative talents of six Year 1 boys who have been exploring the vibrant and expressive world of Canadian contemporary artist Sandra Silberzweig.

Congratulations to: Josh Karki, Gus McNish, Armaan Jammu, Tom McAllister, Clarrie Loughlin and two submissions from Andy Bryant.

Junior School Art Teacher Ms Mary Lou Fraser noted "Silberzweig’s art is deeply influenced by cubism and her unique sensory condition, synaesthesia, a fascinating disorder that allows her to hear and taste colours and see music as visual patterns. Her emotionally rich portraits often weave in stories and cultural mythology, making her work both visually striking and deeply personal".

Inspired by Silberzweig’s style, the boys created two portraits using different mediums:

• Silberzweig Formula Portrait – Drawn on black card, outlined with black “goth glue,” and coloured with chalks using a palette inspired by Silberzweig’s work.
• Freehand Portrait – A more expressive piece completed in oil pastel, drawing on the shapes and colours of Silberzweig’s iconic faces.

These stunning artworks will be proudly entered into the 2026 TGS Art Show and the RASQ Art Competition. Well done to our budding artists for their creativity and enthusiasm.

Mary Lou Fraser
Art & Woodwork Teacher

With nighttime temperatures flirting with freezing and daytime wind chills biting into single digits, the quote “comfort zones are where growth goes to die” rang especially true for the TGS Army Cadet Unit over the weekend. Their first 11th Battalion Field Exercise wasn’t just a test of endurance - it was a full immersion into character development, resilience, and life beyond the luxuries of home.

United in Mateship and Mission

In a powerful display of teamwork and community spirit, TGS Cadets joined forces with their counterparts from 13ACU Toowoomba, 19ACU Pittsworth, 120ACU Dalby, 141ACU Goondiwindi, 17ACU Warwick and 139ACU Lockyer. Together, they tackled an elective-style Field Training activity at Borneo Barracks, Cabarlah - each cadet choosing their own path through a range of hands-on experiences including:

• Command Post and Vehicle Check Point
• Survival Skills
• Reconnaissance
• Engineering

Every cadet also had the chance to test their aim in an archery shoot and apply their First Aid knowledge in a simulated emergency scenario - bringing theory to life under pressure.

Cold Winds, Warm Spirits

Despite the chill, cadets threw themselves into the training with grit and enthusiasm. Whether learning to build snares and traps in Survival, mastering stealth in Reconnaissance, or constructing an observation post in Engineering, each cadet walked away with new skills, stronger bonds and stories to tell.

Homeward Bound

By Sunday afternoon, the exhaustion was real - but so was the pride. As the buses rolled out, weary cadets looked forward to hot showers, hearty meals and well-earned rest. Their determination, teamwork and adaptability were nothing short of inspiring.

Bravo Zulu to all cadets who took part - you’ve earned it.

LT(AAC) Lauren Trevisani
TWGS ACU Executive Officer

RSL Anniversaries Dinner

On Saturday, 9 August eight boys selected from the Grammarphones performed at the Toowoomba RSL Anniversaries Dinner. The dinner honoured 75 years of Australian Service in the Korean War and Malayan Emergency service, 80 years since World War II’s end and 100 years of 7^th Signal Regiment. In addition to performing, a number of boys presented historical presentations on these significant military milestones. Congratulations to the boys involved and also to Mrs Elizabeth Egan and Ms Wendy Burns for ensuring the boys were well rehearsed and prepared for this wonderful performance opportunity.

TiGAA Showcases

Our Junior, Intermediate and Senior TiGAA students have been working extremely hard to prepare for their Showcases will occur next week. I encourage all families to purchase tickets to attend and support our TiGAA students. Tickets are available through the Empire website, or can be accessed through the links below.

Junior and Intermediate TiGAA Showcase

Senior TiGAA Showcase - Thou Art A Villain

RnB and Big Band Extravaganza

Our RnB and Big Band Extravaganza will be held in the Senior School Assembly Hall on Friday, 5 September, commencing at 6:30pm. You will hear performances from the Junior School Jazz Band, Senior School Jazz Ensemble, RnB Too, Big Band and RnB Band. Drinks and nibbles will be available to purchase on the evening.

Kellie Dixon
Director of Performing Arts (Acting)

While many schools across Queensland, including some local independent and private schools, will be observing the Queensland Government’s designated pupil free day on Friday, 5 September, we’d like to clarify that Toowoomba Grammar School will remain open.

All classes and co-curricular activities will proceed as scheduled. It will be a normal school day for all students and staff.

We appreciate your attention to this and encourage families to plan accordingly.

Stay up-to-date with all upcoming TGS events via the Events Calendar.

Stay up-to-date with all upcoming TGS events via the Events Calendar.

Toowoomba Grammar School is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people at the School and is dedicated to protecting them from harm. At TGS, we have zero tolerance for child abuse. Our child protection responsibilities are of the utmost importance to the School and, as such, the School is committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure compliance with all relevant child protection laws and regulations and to maintain a safe and supportive School environment for all children and young people.

We remain vigilant in our efforts to ensure every student's safety and wellbeing.

Harm to a child encompasses any significant detrimental effect on their physical, psychological, or emotional wellbeing, whether through abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Our commitment to student safety is reinforced through age-appropriate awareness programs delivered to students at each year level. Comprehensive information is also accessible via our website, student and staff handbooks, and regular communications through newsletters and staff meetings.

As part of our commitment to child protection, safety and wellbeing, Toowoomba Grammar School has appointed a number of Child Protection Officers as experienced members of the School community who can handle sensitive issues relating to child protection and safety. Our Child Protection Officers are available to report any concerns or answer any questions that you may have with respect to the School's Child Protection Program.

The Child Protection Officers in the Senior School are:

John Kinniburgh – Headmaster

John Anderson – Deputy Headmaster

Mark Oliphant – Head of Senior School

Nick Byron - Director of Boarding

Lyle Gothmann - School Counsellor

The Child Protection Officers in the Junior School are:

John Kinniburgh – Headmaster

John Anderson – Deputy Headmaster

Ken Raven – Head of Junior School

Chantelle Bauer – Deputy Head of Junior School – Teaching and Learning

Amanda Hall – Deputy Head of Junior School - Students

Lyle Gothmann - School Counsellor

Read more about the School's Child Protection Policy and Child and Risk Management Strategy on the TGS website: Policies & Procedures - Toowoomba Grammar School (twgs.qld.edu.au)