THE BLUE AND GOLD - Friday, 24 July 2026

Dear TGS Families

The commencement of a new semester naturally brings with it a sense of anticipation. It offers boys the opportunity to recommit to their goals, embrace new challenges and continue their growth as learners, young men and members of our community.

This semester, however, begins under particularly difficult circumstances.

It was with profound sadness that we commenced this week with the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of our colleague, Lucy Andreas. Lucy was a deeply respected educator whose energy, warmth and commitment to the boys in her care touched many lives during her time at Toowoomba Grammar School. Her passing has been felt keenly across our community by students, staff, parents and Old Boys alike.

In recent days I have been reminded of the strength of the TGS community. Staff have supported one another, boys have shown genuine care for their mates and families have reached out with messages of kindness and encouragement. In times such as these, the true character of a community is revealed not by what it achieves, but by the way it cares for others.

I would like to thank all members of our community for the compassion that has been shown this week. Whether through messages of support, quiet acts of kindness or the care extended to those most affected by Lucy's passing, your thoughtfulness has been greatly appreciated.

As a School, we will continue to support Lucy's family and one another in the weeks ahead. Should the family wish to share details of arrangements to celebrate Lucy's life with the School community, we will communicate that information in accordance with their wishes.

As we remember Lucy and the contribution she made to our School community, we do so knowing that the sadness of this week will remain with us for some time. At the same time, it reminds us not to take for granted the opportunities before us or the people alongside us.

As we look ahead to the semester, I encourage every Grammar Boy to make the most of those opportunities. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the boarding houses or through co-curricular pursuits, each day presents a chance to learn, grow and contribute positively to our community.

The weeks ahead will undoubtedly bring challenges and successes, setbacks and achievements. Through it all, may we continue to care for one another, make the most of the opportunities before us and contribute positively to the community we are privileged to share.

Kind regards

Dr John C Kinniburgh
Headmaster

In this article, as School Counsellor, I share insights to help Junior School boys settle confidently into the second half of the year. The first week back after holidays can feel like a reset button has been pressed: bags are repacked, alarms return and boys begin finding their school rhythm again. A helpful way to think about this transition is through three Rs: routines, relationships and resetting. These are closely connected to each boy’s wellbeing, sense of belonging and readiness to learn (Allen et al., 2021).

The first R is routine. After a break, boys often need time to reconnect with the rhythm of school. Predictable routines help children feel secure, organised and ready to learn. Often, small routines make the biggest difference: packing a bag the night before, finding the hat, returning to consistent sleep patterns or arriving with enough time to settle. Research on school transitions highlights that family and school support can help children manage changes in routine and wellbeing (Donaldson et al., 2023).

Within the Junior School, routines reduce uncertainty, build independence and give boys confidence about what comes next. A boy who understands the morning routine, classroom expectations and what he needs for the day is better placed to focus on learning, friendships and the opportunities available throughout the semester. This steadiness also creates the conditions for the second R: relationships.

Relationships are often where boys find their confidence again. A familiar teacher, supportive friend, welcoming classroom and sense of being known can make the return to school feel easier. Research highlights that teacher-student relationships support students’ engagement, wellbeing and sense of belonging (Nix et al., 2022). Genuine rapport is also built in small moments outside formal conversations. On 28 July, for example, I will be taking six players to Champion of Champions on the bus to Brisbane. Experiences like this provide time to talk, listen and connect in a less formal setting, helping boys feel known beyond the classroom.

For Junior School boys, the third R is resetting. A new semester gives boys the chance to ask, “What is one thing I want to do well this term?” This might be packing their bag the night before, reading for ten minutes, greeting their teacher, using their diary or choosing one friendship habit to practise. Resetting does not require major change. Confidence is often rebuilt through small wins: arriving prepared, asking a question in class, managing a tricky morning or noticing effort as well as achievement.

Not every boy will settle back in the same way. Some return with energy, while others may be unsettled, tired or unsure. A classic example is the morning cry of, “I can’t find my socks.” In a rushed morning, this can quickly become stressful. Rather than jumping straight to frustration or fixing the problem, a calmer response may be to pause, acknowledge the stress and guide one next step: “That’s frustrating. Let’s check your drawer first, then your school bag.” This helps boys feel heard while still moving toward problem-solving.

Physical wellbeing also sits naturally within these three Rs, particularly routine and resetting. Routines are not always easy to maintain. In many families, the challenge is not knowing what helps, but beginning again when routines are missed or disrupted. This is where psychological skills matter. Goal setting, persistence, flexibility, self-talk and noticing progress can help boys build confidence through small, manageable habits. Drawing on my background as a former Physical Education teacher, I have seen how movement, sleep and healthy routines help boys arrive more settled, alert and ready to learn. I also see this in my own family. I have started interval training with my 10-year-old son, often at 5:40am, and a 2 km run with my 8-year-old daughter. We miss mornings, and this is not a rule that must last forever. Rather, it is a renewed focus on consistency, connection and building healthy habits together. Research suggests that parent role modelling and shared family physical activity can support children’s participation in active routines (Matos et al., 2021).

Parents are encouraged to talk with their sons about school, listen carefully and offer reassurance. Changes in mood, behaviour or sleep during the first few weeks of term can signal that a boy may be finding the transition more challenging. As School Counsellor and a father of five, I understand that each child settles in their own way. My role is to support boys with social, emotional and practical challenges, including worries, routines, friendships, coping strategies and wellbeing check-ins. In most cases, the best starting point is a conversation with your son’s classroom teacher. From there, wellbeing concerns can be discussed with me if counselling support may be helpful.

Taken together, routines, relationships and resetting provide a practical framework for a strong start to Semester 2, with physical wellbeing woven through each area. None needs to be perfect. What matters is consistency, encouragement and noticing the small steps that help boys feel capable and connected.

As the semester begins, the aim is not simply to get boys back into school, but to help them return with confidence, connection and support. With the shared support of families, teachers and the Toowoomba Grammar School community, boys are well placed to embrace Semester 2.

Lyle Gothmann
School Counsellor

References

Allen, K.-A., Slaten, C. D., Arslan, G., Roffey, S., Craig, H., & Vella-Brodrick, D. A. (2021). School belonging: The importance of student and teacher relationships. In M. L. Kern & M. L. Wehmeyer (Eds.), The Palgrave handbook of positive education (pp. 525–550). Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-64537-3_21

Nix, T., Pendergast, D., & O’Brien, M. (2022). Belonging in school: The effect of teacher-student relationships: A systematic quantitative review of the literature. Education Thinking, 2(1), 63–90. https://analytrics.org/article/belonging-in-school-the-effect-of-teacher-student-relationships-a-systematic-quantitative-review-of-the-literature/

Donaldson, C., Moore, G., & Hawkins, J. (2023). A systematic review of school transition interventions to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes in children and young people. School Mental Health, 15(1), 19–35. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-022-09539-w

Matos, R., Monteiro, D., Amaro, N., Antunes, R., Coelho, L., Mendes, D., & Arufe-Giráldez, V. (2021). Parents’ and children’s (6–12 years old) physical activity association: A systematic review from 2001 to 2020. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23), 12651. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312651

Welcome to Term 3. I hope families enjoyed a restful break. The Careers Department has had a busy start to the term, with Career Plan interviews, subject selection conversations and tertiary application preparation well underway.

At the end of last term, we hosted the Beyond the Blue & Gold Careers Expo for our Years 10, 11 and 12 students in the new DET Centre. We were fortunate to include over 40 exhibitors from a wide variety of industry and tertiary providers for our students to engage with and explore the many diverse career opportunities available to them.

The presentation from Brisbane 2032 highlighted the requirement for a variety of trades, labour, professional and volunteer roles in preparation for the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is an exciting time for our boys to be exploring career options.

Year 10 Career Plan Interviews

The Year 10 Career Plan Interviews are nearing completion and it has been valuable to meet with boys and their parents to discuss subject selection, future priorities and each student’s Career Avenues Profile completed last term. These conversations are an important milestone as the boys prepare for their senior years at Toowoomba Grammar School and life beyond the School.

Completed subject selection forms must be submitted to Student Services by Tuesday, 11 August.

Year 12 UCAT Test

At the end of Term 2, Year 12 students considering medicine or dentistry attended a practice University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) examination at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), alongside students from other schools in the region.

Our Year 12 boys have either completed, or will soon complete, the UCAT over the coming weeks. Entry into medical and dentistry programs is a lengthy process that requires early preparation and sustained commitment. The boys have worked hard over the past 18 months and we wish them every success as they move into the next stage of the application process.

Year 12 QTAC and Tertiary Application Information Evening

As Year 12 students prepare for tertiary applications, the Careers Department will host a QTAC and Tertiary Application Information Evening for parents in Week 3 on Tuesday, 28 July. Year 12 students are also welcome to attend and will be required to attend in uniform.

The session will also be livestreamed via Microsoft Teams for families who are unable to attend in person. Further details will be shared with Year 12 families soon.

Event details

Date: Tuesday, 28 July

Time: 5:30pm–6:30pm

Venue: DET Lecture Theatre

Year 12 2026 QTAC Guides

The 2026 QTAC Guide is now available on the QTAC website. All Year 12 boys have been sent a PDF copy for review and students considering a Queensland university pathway are encouraged to explore the guide carefully.

The Careers Advisers will support boys through the application process, which opens on 4 August. Interstate applications also open in early August for students considering study outside Queensland. Students are asked to submit applications by the end of Term 3 to avoid additional application fees and to ensure course closing dates are met.

Some universities offer early entry programs, giving students the opportunity to receive an offer before the end of the year. Scholarship applications are also beginning to open and each university has a range of options for students to explore.

This is an exciting stage for our Year 12 boys, although it can also feel overwhelming. Careers Advisers will continue to meet with each Year 12 student this term to discuss pathway options and provide support with applications. Lunchtime workshops will also be held to assist students with creating a QTAC account and completing Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) registration.

Families with questions are encouraged to contact the Careers Department to arrange an appointment.

University Updates

UniSQ 2026 Open Days

UniSQ will host Open Day events at the Springfield and Ipswich campuses on Saturday, 8 August and at the Toowoomba campus on Saturday, 15 August. The Toowoomba event will run from 10:00am–2:00pm.

Students will have the opportunity to meet lecturers, speak with current students, learn more about scholarships and explore the Head Start program. Admissions staff will also be available to assist students with applications on the day. Further information is available via UniSQ Open Days.

QUT Open Day

QUT Open Day will be held on Sunday, 26 July. This event provides an opportunity for students to explore courses, entry pathways, campus life and future career options through tours, showcases and interactive demonstrations. Further information is available via QUT Open Day.

James Cook University QTAC Information Webinar

James Cook University (JCU), in partnership with QTAC, will host a one-hour QTAC Information Webinar on Thursday, 30 July 2026 from 7:00pm–8:00pm.

The webinar will provide information about the QTAC application process, including preference selection, entry requirements, ordering preferences, pathway options, ATAR calculations, the Educational Access Scheme and strategies for responding to offers. Further information is available via the JCU QTAC Information Webinar.

UQ Open Days

The University of Queensland (UQ) will hold Open Days at the St Lucia campus on Sunday, 2 August and the Gatton campus on Sunday, 16 August. Students considering study at UQ are encouraged to attend, explore the campuses and programs, ask questions and learn more about student life. Further information is available via UQ Open Day.

Griffith University Open Day

Griffith University Open Day will be held on Sunday, 9 August. Students can explore study areas, take part in hands-on activities, attend information sessions and speak with educators and current students. Further information is available via Griffith University Open Day.

Term 3 is always an important and exciting time in the Careers calendar. We look forward to continuing to work with the boys and their families as they explore subject choices, tertiary pathways and future opportunities.

Anthea Richters
Head of Department - Careers

Celebrating the 2026 GPS Tennis season - its biggest year on record

With 36 teams and more than 160 boys representing Grammar, 2026 was a landmark year for the Tennis program.

Head Coach Mr Gavin Wright praised the commitment shown by players throughout the season, particularly those new to the game.

Tennis Captain Henry Maunder reflected on the camaraderie and opportunities that made his time in the program so rewarding.

A Winning Start at the Toowoomba Eisteddfod

Toowoomba Grammar School's Performing Arts students have made an impressive start to this year's Toowoomba Eisteddfod, with Sam Davidson taking first place in Double Bass under the guidance of Teresa Brix.

The achievement sets the tone for a busy week ahead as Junior and Senior boys continue competing across a range of sections.

We congratulate Sam on his success and wish all our performers the very best as the Eisteddfod continues.

Launching the 2026 Rugby Season

Players, families and Old Boys came together at Gip's as the Rugby Supporters' Group officially launched the 2026 TGS Rugby season.

Guests heard from Head of Senior School, Mr Mark Oliphant, Rugby Captain Luke Burrow and Vice-Captain Ruben Kruger, Head of Rugby, Mr Jack Wiggins, First XV Coach, Mr Scott Gale and Wallaby, Queensland Reds player and Old Boy Matt Faessler (TGS 2015-16).

With the support of Mort & Co, the event was a fitting start to what promises to be an exciting season ahead.

The Basketball Season Starts Here

Players, coaches and families gathered for the Basketball Season Launch, marking the beginning of another campaign in blue and gold.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the First V jerseys, recognising the hard work and commitment required to earn the honour.

For those boys, it was a proud moment as they prepare to represent Grammar on and off the court this season.

Celebrating the 2026 Football Season

Players, coaches, families and supporters came together to celebrate another strong season of TGS Football and recognise achievements across the program.

A number of individual awards were presented on the night, with Tom Putter named Rale Rasic First XI Footballer of the Year.

The Year 12 Third XI was also recognised as Team of the Year, highlighting the contribution made by players across all age groups.

Building Confidence Through Communication

Students in the TGX program took part in a practical session on communication, public speaking and pitching led by Director of Performing Arts Mr Travis Dowling.

Drawing on his experience in professional theatre, university teaching and youth programs, Mr Dowling shared strategies for delivering a compelling message with confidence.

The session reinforced an important lesson for our boys: confidence is not something you're born with, but something you build over time.

Honouring Excellence in Track and Field

This week's Assembly provided an opportunity to recognise the outstanding performances from the Senior School House Track and Field Championships.

Stephens House claimed the House Championship after a strong all-round showing, while a number of students were recognised as Age Champions for their achievements across the competition.

The celebration highlighted the determination and house spirit on display throughout the Championships.

Learning from the Best

Students from the TGS Performing Arts program recently had the opportunity to work alongside musicians from Camerata – Queensland's Chamber Orchestra.

Through the experience, boys gained valuable insight into the skill, discipline and collaboration required at the highest levels of performance.

It was a memorable learning opportunity that challenged and inspired our young musicians.

A Life-Changing Experience in Tanzania

The Tanzania Tour has provided our boys with unforgettable experiences, from cultural exchanges at The School of St Jude to exploring some of East Africa's most remarkable landscapes.

Along the way, they have built friendships, embraced new perspectives and gained a deeper understanding of the communities they visited.

As the journey drew to a close, the lessons learned and connections made left a lasting impression on all involved.

An Unforgettable Oxbridge Adventure

From the streets of London to the colleges of Cambridge, our Oxbridge Tour students enjoyed an extraordinary blend of learning, culture and adventure.

Highlights included world-famous landmarks, academic classes, the Camquest challenge and a taste of student life in one of the world's great university cities.

As the tour came to a close, the boys returned home with new knowledge, lasting friendships and memories that will stay with them for years to come.

Football and Friendship in Japan

Fifteen Year 7 and 8 footballers experienced an unforgettable week in Japan, combining international competition with cultural immersion.

The boys trained with local students, competed in the Maebashi Mayor's Cup International Youth Soccer Tournament and represented Grammar with distinction, finishing with just three losses across a demanding schedule of matches.

A chance reunion with former TGS Boarding House staff member Hiroshi Imai was a reminder of the lasting connections and global reach of the Grammar community.

For a comprehensive list of our upcoming events, head to the TGS Events Calendar.

Mental health is an essential part of a young person's overall wellbeing, influencing how they think, feel, learn and interact with others. Yet many of us can feel uncertain about how best to identify concerns, start conversations or access appropriate support.

Mental health literacy is not about becoming an expert. It's about recognising when something isn't right, knowing how to respond and understanding where to seek help when needed. By building this awareness and capability, we can play an important role in supporting wellbeing, reducing stigma and encouraging early help-seeking.

This Special Report explores how we can strengthen our mental health literacy and includes a Mental Health Literacy Reflection Tool. By completing a series of questions, you can reflect on your own understanding, confidence and readiness to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people.

It is an opportunity to identify your strengths, recognise areas where you may wish to build your knowledge and take positive steps towards feeling more confident in supporting children and young people.

Read more here.