THE BLUE AND GOLD - Friday, 31 October 2025

In my role as Head of Senior School at Toowoomba Grammar School, I have the privilege of witnessing daily the wonderful opportunities that technology brings to our students' education. Unfortunately, I also see the impact it can have when not used responsibly. I take this opportunity to remind you all of an increasingly important issue: the safety of our children in the digital world.

You will have received a statement this week from the School highlighting that we are now asking parents to delay giving their sons a smartphone until after Year 7. Further to this it is also important to remind families with boys currently in Year 7 to 10 that the Australian Government is going to place age restrictions on children under 16 accessing social media. You can find more information here Social media age restrictions | eSafety Commissioner.

It is timely that parents start having a conversation with their sons about their use of social media. Toowoomba Grammar School supports these actions. We have always been a phone-free school and recognise the impact that phones and social media are having on our young people.

Why This Matters

Research consistently shows that premature exposure to social media can impact:

• Emotional Development: Children may encounter content they're not emotionally equipped to process
• Sleep Patterns: Screen time before bed can significantly affect sleep quality
• Academic Performance: Constant connectivity can impact concentration and learning
• Social Development: Online interactions shouldn't replace crucial face-to-face social experiences
• Mental Health: Early social media use has been linked to increased anxiety and decreased self-esteem

Our School's Commitment

At Toowoomba Grammar School, we are committed to:

1. Protecting our students' wellbeing
2. Providing age-appropriate digital education
3. Supporting parents in navigating these challenges
4. Maintaining clear policies around technology use
5. Creating a safe learning environment, both online and offline

Action Steps for Parents

The eSafety Commissioner reports that children benefit most from

• Supervised online activities
• Age-appropriate educational content
• Clear boundaries around device use
• Open family discussions about online safety

Given these factors we ask each family to agree that by the commencement of next term they will remove their children from social media until they are old enough, according to the government requirements, to access those platforms, that each family will check child safe settings on devices accessed by their children and they will discuss the importance of compliance with this request with their children. If all parents share responsibility for managing access, we can improve the safety of our young men and help to maintain their wellbeing.

I appreciate that some families may feel that access to technology is a decision for parents, not the school or government. However, where many social media platforms themselves prohibit access by children under the age of 13 we consider that this is a reasonable request as part of our commitment to improving cyber-safety where we can.

Community Standards and Social Media Guidelines

At Toowoomba Grammar School, we have clear expectations for social media use that align with our school's official guidelines. These standards apply to all members of our school community - parents, students, staff, Old Boys, volunteers and contractors. These guidelines are in place to ensure that all online communications are appropriate and respectful. Members of the community communicating in a way that is contrary to these guidelines may face disciplinary action. You can access these guidelines here.

Similarly, if boys communicate online in a way contrary to these guidelines, it may be in breach of the Student Behaviour Management Policy and the Enrolment Agreement, which could lead to disciplinary action up to termination of enrolment.

The digital world offers tremendous opportunities for our children, but it requires careful navigation and supervision. By working together as a community, we can ensure our students develop into responsible digital citizens who can harness technology's benefits while avoiding its pitfalls.

End of School Year

Speech Night is scheduled for Wednesday, 26 November and it is compulsory for all students to attend. This is the most important night of the TGS school year and your son's presence is essential. We understand that some students may have work or part-time jobs, but please note that these are not valid excuses for missing this event. If, for any reason, your son is unable to attend, we must hear from you directly.

Additionally, students are required to attend school up until 3:10 PM on Thursday, 27 November. There will be a roll call to ensure everyone is present.

As we approach the assessment period, it is crucial for our students to work hard and stay organised. Planning study time and working on assignments well before their due dates will help manage their workload and reduce stress. Furthermore, actioning draft feedback and receiving results after assessments have been marked is a crucial part of the learning process. Please encourage your son to use this feedback to improve and learn from any mistakes.

If your son is worried as he approaches the assessment period, encourage him to speak to his Teacher, Mentor or Head of House.

Finally, as we approach the end of year events it is important that your son is well presented, hair must be neat and tidy, shoes polished and the boys need to wear their uniform with pride. The boys must wear their Akubra to school every day as it is part of the uniform.

Thank you for your attention and support. I look forward to seeing many of at Speech Night and other end of year events.

Mark Oliphant
Head of Senior School

Celebrating World Teachers’ Day with Gratitude and Good Company

Today many in our teaching community gathered at the Pavilion for a special BBQ lunch in honour of World Teachers’ Day. This annual celebration is a meaningful opportunity to recognise the dedication, professionalism and passion of our educators; those who shape the lives of our boys every day.

From the Junior School to the Senior classrooms, our teachers consistently go above and beyond to nurture curiosity, build character and inspire excellence. Their influence reaches far beyond academic outcomes, fostering a culture of lifelong learning for our boys.

The BBQ was a warm and relaxed occasion, filled with laughter, conversation and heartfelt appreciation. Staff from across the School enjoyed the luncheon cooked by the School's Executive Team.

In his message to staff, Headmaster Dr John C Kinniburgh expressed his gratitude: “Each day, our educators demonstrate a deep commitment to shaping character, nurturing curiosity and inspiring excellence. Your influence extends well beyond the classroom and I remain profoundly grateful for the care and passion you bring to our School community.”

We thank all our teachers for the vital role they play in the life of Toowoomba Grammar School. Your work is the foundation of our success and your impact is felt in every corner of our community.

Taking care of yourself during the exam period

With exams approaching for all boys especially, the final exams for our Year 12 boys, we certainly see an increase in stress amongst our students.

Headspace and other organisations have some really good resources surrounding this which can be found here:

How To Prepare for Exams and Reduce Stress | headspace

5 ways to manage stress during exams - The University of Sydney

Exam stress | Youth | Queensland Government

For all of our school leavers this year, if you son has any medication that may have been kept in the Health Centre, can you please remind them to come and collect it prior to their departure.

We wish all the boys sitting their exams the very best.

The Health Centre Team

De-Stigmatising Mental Health

On Thursday, 16 October 2025, the Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) course was held at our School, with staff from The Glennie School joining in partnership. This 14-hour accredited training, which we offer twice each year, continues to strengthen our school community’s culture of empathy, inclusion and proactive support for the wellbeing of our students and staff.

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all participants for your thoughtful engagement, discussion and commitment to youth mental health. Each participant contributed unique insights that enriched our conversations and reinforced our shared goal of supporting young people with understanding and care. Your active involvement made this a deeply rewarding and successful session. Alida Prinsloo, Ashleigh Hegvold, Darryl Griffiths, John Anderson, Julie Brophy, Kristie Skett, Luke Rawle, Peter Wilson, Peter Nicholls and Janelle Fletcher - for your dedication to learning and to the wellbeing of our students.

Why De-Stigmatising Mental Health Matters

Although awareness of mental health has improved, stigma continues to be one of the biggest barriers preventing young people from seeking help. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW, 2023), around one in five Australians experiences a mental disorder each year. Among those aged 16-24 years, almost 40 percent report having experienced a mental health condition at some point in their lives.

Despite this prevalence, less than half of those affected seek professional support. Jorm (2000) identifies stigma, self-stigma and a lack of understanding as the main barriers. These findings remind us of that de-stigmatising mental health is not simply an act of kindness - it is essential for prevention and early intervention.

When we replace silence with understanding and fear with education, we help students and colleagues alike feel safe to reach out for support.

Challenging Common Myths and Misconceptions

During the course, participants explored several myths that contribute to stigma. Each one sparked rich discussion and reflection:

“People with a mental disorder are ‘psycho’ and dangerous.”

In reality, people living with mental illness are no more dangerous than anyone else. Most are not violent and are, in fact, more likely to be victims of violence.

“People with a mental health problem never get better.”

With appropriate treatment and support, recovery is possible. Many people live healthy, fulfilling lives while managing their conditions.

“Only weak people develop a mental health problem.”

Mental illness is not a sign of weakness; it results from a complex mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. Strength lies in recognising when to seek help.

“If you talk about wanting to die by suicide, you won’t attempt it.”

This myth can be deadly. Talking about suicide saves lives - asking directly and compassionately can reduce risk and open a path to support.

“Medication is not necessary to treat a mental health problem.”

While not everyone needs medication, it can be an essential and effective part of treatment for many, often alongside counselling and lifestyle changes.

Through these conversations, we began to see how changing the way we speak about mental health can directly influence the way people seek and receive care.

The Origins of Mental Health First Aid

Established in Canberra in 2000, Mental Health First Aid was the brainchild of Betty Kitchener AM and her husband Professor Tony Jorm. In the early days, the course was developed to fill a community gap for practical mental health training - one that would parallel the first-aid training provided for physical health.

As the story goes, while walking together one day, Betty remarked that there should be a course teaching everyday people how to respond to mental health crises, just as first aid teaches people how to respond to physical injuries. Tony, who was then a leading mental health researcher, listened carefully to her idea. Together, they designed the world’s first Mental Health First Aid course.

Professor Jorm’s research provided the foundation for the program. He has written extensively on mental health and is recognised as the researcher who coined the term mental health literacy - the knowledge and beliefs that help people recognise, manage, and prevent mental health problems.

From those beginnings in Canberra, the program has grown into a global movement. Today, more than six million people across 25 countries have completed MHFA training, including over one million Australians.

The ALGEE Action Plan

At the heart of the Youth MHFA course is a simple but powerful five-step framework known as ALGEE, which guides how to support someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis:

A — Approach, assess and assist with any crisis

L — Listen non-judgmentally

G — Give support and information

E — Encourage appropriate professional help

E — Encourage other supports (family, friends, and self-care)

Participants practised using ALGEE throughout the training. This model builds confidence and provides a structure for responding calmly and compassionately, whether the concern involves anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance use, or suicidal thoughts.

Our Schools’ Ongoing Commitment

By running Youth MHFA twice a year, Toowoomba Grammar School (TGS) - in partnership with colleagues from The Glennie School - continues to build a knowledgeable, caring community where staff feel equipped to recognise and respond early to signs of distress in young people.

The interactive 14-hour format allows time for practice, reflection, and real-world discussion. Participants consistently highlight the value of learning how to listen effectively - to hear without judgment and to support without taking over.

This most recent course, held at Toowoomba Grammar School, demonstrated that commitment in action. The thoughtful dialogue, shared experiences, and genuine care shown by participants reflected the best of our schools’ cultures and our collective dedication to student wellbeing.

Looking Ahead

De-stigmatising mental health is not achieved in a single workshop - it’s a continuous process of learning, reflecting, and speaking openly. Every time we challenge a stereotype, check in with a student, or show empathy to a colleague, we help create a community where mental health is valued and understood.

Our aim is to continue embedding mental health literacy across our schools, ensuring that staff and students alike have the confidence and knowledge to seek help early.

Together, through programs like Youth MHFA, we can ensure that every young person knows they are seen, heard and supported and that mental health is treated with the same care as physical health.

A sincere thank you once again to our wonderful participants. If you have any questions, feedback, or wish to discuss the course content further, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Lyle Gothmann
School Counsellor

References

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2024). Mental health services in Australia 2023: Summary report. Canberra: AIHW.

Kelly, C. M., & Kitchener, B. A. (2023). Youth Mental Health First Aid Manual (4th ed.). Melbourne: Mental Health First Aid Australia.

Jorm, A. F. (2000). Mental health literacy: Public knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders. British Journal of Psychiatry, 177(5), 396–401.

150 Days of Learning and Legacy

We’ve celebrated many Grammar 150 occasions this year, mostly as a whole school but this week was something uniquely Junior School – the 150 days of Junior.

Typically, we recognise and celebrate 100 days of Prep for our youngest learners to highlight the significant growth they have made since their first day in Term 1. This year with TGS 150 school anniversary we adjusted the Prep milestone out to 150 days and included the whole Junior School in on the fun.

All students and staff, dressed up as either an elderly person or in period piece costume fitting for 150 years ago. Mrs Amanda Hall and Mrs Chantelle Bauer share more details of the occasion in their respective Blue and Gold articles. It was a fun way to recognise and celebrate both the student learning growth over the course of 150 days but also our School history with a Junior School dress-up style.

The end of this week marks the mid-point of Term 4 and whilst there are only a few weeks left in the year we are still very much powering along with lessons and learning. The public speaking competitions are nearly drawing to a close with finalists preparing for their last speeches. Congratulations to all students for their efforts in preparing speeches, practicing and delivering them. This is a tremendous skill to develop and one that will continue to grow each time you have an opportunity to present yourself to an audience.

Year 5s have started their student leadership process in readiness for 2026 as Year 6 leaders. This is a wonderful and exciting experience for them, one we feel is truly valuable for all students regardless of whether they will be nominating for a badge holder role. All Year 6 students are leaders in our community and we look up to them as role models for our younger students. Year 5 students who are interested in nominating for a badge holder role will prepare a speech and deliver it before their House peers if they are nominating for a House Captain position or deliver their speech in front of all Year 3-6 students if they are nominating for a Junior School Captain role. This speech together with their written application highlighting their interests in developing leadership skills will help inform student and staff votes in the process. We wish them all the very best and most of all we hope they enjoy the process of thinking about the impact and influence they can have as a Junior School leader.

In the weeks ahead our Year 3 students will be enjoying a milestone event of their own with Billy Cart building day with their parents. This is an exciting occasion for the Year 3s and their parents as they celebrate the final stage of Early Years in the Junior School and move into the Upper Junior School years which also coincides with a classroom move up to the top veranda and the wearing of a School blazer, Akubra and belt like all boys in Years 4-12.

Year 6 students will be celebrating the culmination of their Junior School years with a Celebration Assembly and dinner with their families. This is a special occasion where we reflect on their development across Prep to Year 6 and wish them well on their next phase of schooling, moving into the Senior School.

The last few weeks will be actioned packed with celebratory occasions and transition events to help students prepare for the year ahead. All wonderful moments to share as a community and we warmly welcome families to join us for the following occasions in particular.

• Friday, 21 November – Twilight concert, Old Boys Memorial Oval, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

• Thursday, 27 November – Junior School Speech Day, Senior School Assembly Hall, 9:00am - 10:30am

Ken Raven
Head of Junior School

150 Days Smarter: Celebrating Growth, Character and Tradition in the Junior School

This week, our Junior School community came together to celebrate a meaningful milestone - 150 days of school - in a year that holds even greater significance as we honour 150 years of Toowoomba Grammar School.

From Prep to Year 6, our boys embraced the occasion by dressing as “older and wiser” versions of themselves, a playful and imaginative way to reflect on how much they’ve grown. The creativity and enthusiasm on display were a joy to witness, and the day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of pausing to celebrate progress - both big and small.

A special highlight was the Prep celebration on Tuesday, 28 October, where our youngest learners marked the day in style. Their excitement and pride were infectious and it was heartening to see how far they’ve come - from those first tentative steps into school life to becoming confident, capable members of our Junior School.

Milestones like these are more than just numbers on a calendar. They are opportunities to reflect on the academic growth our boys have achieved - new skills mastered, concepts understood and challenges overcome. Just as importantly, they allow us to celebrate the character development we see every day: kindness shown to a classmate, resilience in the face of difficulty, leadership in the playground and curiosity in the classroom.

As we continue through this historic year, we do so with deep gratitude - for the traditions that have shaped us, the community that supports us, and the boys who inspire us daily with their growth, spirit and joy for learning.

Here’s to 150 days and 150 years of excellence, character and community at Toowoomba Grammar School.

Amanda Hall
Deputy Head of Junior School - Students

150 Days of Learning - Celebrating Progress, Personalised Support and the Power of Persistence

As we mark 150 days of learning in this milestone year for Toowoomba Grammar School, we take a moment to reflect not only on the passage of time, but on the transformational growth that has taken place in our classrooms - particularly for those students receiving Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports through our Diverse Learning Team.

While the costumes and celebrations brought joy and laughter across the Junior School, behind the scenes lies a deeper story: one of targeted support, quiet determination and extraordinary progress. For many of our learners, especially those who access additional intervention, the journey of learning is not linear. It is filled with moments of challenge, courage and breakthroughs.

Over the past 150 days, we have seen boys who once hesitated to read aloud now share their thinking with confidence. We’ve watched students who struggled with foundational numeracy begin to apply strategies independently. We’ve celebrated the small wins - mastering a tricky sound, completing a writing task, or showing resilience when things felt hard. These moments, though sometimes quiet, are deeply significant.

Our Diverse Learning Team has worked in close partnership with classroom teachers, families and specialists to ensure that every boy receives the support he needs to thrive. Whether through MiniLit, MacqLit, targeted numeracy groups, or personalised learning plans, the focus has remained clear - growth, not comparison.

As Deputy Head - Teaching and Learning, I am incredibly proud of the way our staff have embraced evidence-based practices and high-impact teaching strategies to support all learners. The progress we’ve seen is a testament to what is possible when we believe in every boy’s potential and commit to meeting them where they are.

Here’s to 150 days of learning and to the many more moments of growth, discovery and achievement still to come.

Chantelle Bauer
Deputy Head of Junior School - Teaching and Learning

Athletics

On 24 October, our Track and Field season culminated with the GPS Championships at the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre (QSAC). The boys enjoyed the atmosphere of competing against other schools and some fine performances were recorded. While we didn’t come in the top placings, the boys’ attitude and effort could not be questioned. The pride of wearing the blue and gold singlet was evident in the performances of all boys. Well done to Zackaidyn Fleming (Captain) and Sam Thomas (Vice Captain) for leading the boys well on the day.

Congratulations to the following boys for some fine individual results:

Brenton Gaka, High Jump – First place

Connor Talbot, High Jump – Second place

Cooper Collie, Shotput – Second place

Ben Sullivan, Discus – Third place

Andrew Reeves, 200m – Fourth place

Zac Lintott, Discus – Fourth place

Cooper Romero, Long Jump – Fourth place

Blake Fryer, Long Jump - Fourth place

Physical Education (PE)

Swimming lessons will commence in Week 5 for boys in Years 4-6. These lessons will take place in regular Physical Education class time. Boys should ensure they have TGS togs, towel and swimming cap for these classes.

Brendan Doherty
Junior School Sports Coodinator

Brodribb Excursion

On Thursday, 23 October Tribe and Tribe Junior travelled to Brodribb Nursing Home to perform for the residents. Both choirs and selected soloists delivered a polished and entertaining concert which finished with some combined items from all boys in attendance. Thank you to Brodribb Nursing Home and their staff for welcoming us and also for providing the boys with morning tea after their performances.

Musicians’ Cup 2025 - Showcases Junior School Talent

The Junior School Assembly Hall was filled with music and anticipation on Thursday, 30 October, as students took to the stage for the annual Musicians’ Cup. This much-loved event provided a wonderful opportunity for our young musicians to share their talents and hard work with peers, staff and families.

Congratulations to all the boys who performed with such confidence, skill and musicality.

Our adjudicator, Mrs Lorraine Fuller, praised the high standard of performances and awarded the following prizes:

• 1st – Zackaidyn (flute)
• 2nd – Asala (cello)
• 3rd – Thenul (piano)
• Highly Commended – Harry (alto saxophone), Joshua (drum-kit) and Joseph (piano)

We extend our sincere thanks to the dedicated music teachers and tutors who continue to nurture and inspire our students. Events like the Musicians’ Cup are a testament to the vibrant musical life of our Junior School and the incredible potential of our young performers.

Save the Date

We have a number of exciting performances coming up this term. Please ensure you have these important dates marked in your calendar. Further information and details will be sent to relevant families prior to each event.

Final Cadence Concert - Wednesday, 5 November 5.30pm (all choral and instrumental ensembles performing)

Year 2 Strings Concert - Wednesday, 12 November (all Year 2s performing)

Year 4 Instrumental Concert - Thursday, 13 November (all Year 4s performing)

Kellie Dixon
Head of Junior School Music

Take Note Concert and Performing Arts Awards

On Monday, 20 October the annual Take Note Concert and Performing Arts Awards was held in the Assembly Hall. The evening commenced with entertainment from our RnB Bands under the Parents Cover.

Thank you to families who supported this event and to the Performing Arts staff for your attendance and support. Congratulations to all boys for your involvement in the Performing Arts program this year.

Kellie Dixon
Director of Performing Arts (Acting)

An incredible day of competition for our Junior and Senior School boys at the GPS Track and Field Championships in Brisbane, a culmination of a great season in 2025. Throughout Term 4 we had 50 and 60 boys at each Pre-Meet in Brisbane respectively, which are great numbers and shows the eagerness from our team to compete and improve their chosen discipline.

The GPS Junior and Senior Championships highlighted some of the impressive season’s our boys have had, training throughout the September Holidays and into Term 4.

Led by our Track and Field Captain Matthew Johnson in the 400m, in what was arguably the race of the Championships, he fought well and held on for third behind two Australian Junior record holders.

Our best performance of the day came from Hinata Inoue with a first in the Open’s Shot Put, which took a personal best and edging out some of the Queensland’s best throwers.

Our Junior and Senior teams have come along in leaps and bounds this year, something we will look to continue to build on in the coming years.

Highlights include:

Brenton Gaka - 1st, High Jump Division 2 | 2nd, 100m Division 4 (12 years)

Rueben Kruger - 3rd, Javelin (Open)

Henry Reeves - 4th, 1500m (13 Years)

Jok Jok - 4th, 1500m (14 Years)

Lachlan Roach - 2nd, 200m | 4th, 100m (15 years)

Hinata Inoue - 1st, Shot Put (Open)

Andrew Reeves - 4th, 200m Division 4 (12 years)

Connor Talbot - 2nd, High Jump Division 1 (12 years)

Zac Lintott - 4th, Discus Division 1 (11 years)

Lucas Montgomery - 2nd, Shot Put (15 years)

Cooper Collie - 3rd, Shot Put Division 1 (10 years)

Ben Browett - 3rd, 800m (14 years)

Matt Johnston - 3rd, 400m (Open)

Goy Yous - 3rd, 400m (15 years)

Blake Fryer - 4th, Long Jump Division 2 (11 years)

Ben Sullivan - 3rd, Discus Division 1 (12 years)

Cooper Romero - 4th, Long Jump Division 2 (12 years)

Artie Hudson - 4th, Discus (14 years)

Ollie Miller - 4th, Boys 100m Hurdles (15 years)

Fletcher Lucas – 4th, Boys 80m Hurdles Division 3 (12 years)

George Paton - 4th, Boys 110m Hurdles (16 years)

Relays

TGS 15 Years - 2nd, 4 x 100m Relay

TGS 16 Years - 4th, 4 x 100m Relay

A huge congratulations to all our athletes for their efforts, sportsmanship and Grammar spirit.

Jack Curran
Head of Sport - Athletics

Term 4 Football has been busy both on and off the Field of Play.

Football Supporters Group, Spring Raceday Carnival

On Saturday, 18 October the Football Supporters Group delivered their day of days with the Spring Carnival Raceday at Clifford Park. The day brought members of the Football Family and their friends together for our annual fundraiser which generates funds to assist with delivery of the Football Program. All non-GPS Football and Futsal sits outside of the GPS Levy meaning we need to find funds to support all the extra events that occur throughout the year. FUTSAL, Bill Turner Cup & SEQ Championships are all supported by the funds provided by the Football Supporters Group.

The Head of Football, Nigel Fanning is grateful to Cynthia Burge and all her committee for delivering a magnificent event. We would also like to recognise the tremendous support provided by our Raceday Sponsors;

Cornerstone Risk Group, Dow Landscaping, GTH Group +, Spencer Financial Group, Harvey Norman Toowoomba, Hogan Family Jewellers, McGregor Gourlay Agricultural Supplies, Dulux Protective Coatings, Clifford Gouldson Lawyers, Novotel, Complete Body, Mike Mulvey Football Academy and Marlene Studios.

AFA National Futsal Championships

The AFA National Futsal Championships will take place in Brisbane over three days between 6-8 November 2026 at Cornubia Sports Complex. Boys have continued to train at lunchtimes in the Glenn McCraken Sports Centre since the beginning of Term 4 and are hopeful of being competitive at the championships.

Maebashi Japan Football Tournament 2026 (Years 6/7)

Boys from year 6 & 7 will trial for selection into the 2026 Maebashi Football Tournament occurring next July. Following the recent EOI, selection trials will take place on Friday, 31 October. Following selection, boys will work with coaches in Terms 1 & 2 of 2026 as we build for this important international Junior Academy tournament. The Tour will also include a four-day Tokyo cultural immersion which will include a full day at Disneyland.

Mike Mulvey commits to the school for 2026 and beyond

Toowoomba Grammar School and Football Program are delighted to announce that Head Coach Mike Mulvey (Brisbane Roar, A League Championship winning Coach 2015), has committed his future to the School and Football program. Mike brings a wealth of professional experience to the football program and we are delighted that he will be staying with the school. In other news, Mr Mulvey has also committed to running the SWQ Thunder Senior Men’s Team in the 2026 FQPL Division 2. Mr Mulvey is committed to providing opportunities for boys across the school and the wider community and our connection to the regions premier football team brings great synergy to the football program.

Mini-World Cup dates 2026

Football Families are invited to consider attending the 2026 Mini-World Cup in Inverell in Northern New South Wales next year. Accommodation options remain at a premium meaning parents need to be organised to secure their first preferences. Changes to the competition structure next year will see the competition occurring over the period Monday, 28 of September to Sunday, 4 October 2026. For competition updates, please visit the tournament website at The Inverell Joeys Mini World Cup.

Please note: Under 8s , Under 10s and Under 12s will start on Monday, 28 of September. Under 8 will finish Tuesday, 29 of September and Under 10s and Under 12s will finish Wednesday, 30 of September. Under 14s + 16/17s will commence Thursday, 1 October until Sunday, 4 October.

Nigel Fanning
Head of Sport - Football

Connecting Through Rugby: Longreach Clinic Builds Community and Confidence

Head of Rugby Lincoln Clapham recently travelled to Longreach with two Year 11 students to deliver rugby clinics alongside the Longreach School of Distance Education and Western Queensland Rugby Union. Over 100 young players attended across two sessions, some travelling hours to take part.

The visit was a chance to connect with families from regional communities and showcase the leadership and character of our boys.

Luke B and Archie S embraced the opportunity to coach, inspire and learn from the bush kids they met - many of whom rarely access formal rugby training.

Thanks to the students, staff and families who made this memorable outreach possible. A full blog with reflections from Mr Clapham, Luke and Archie will follow next week.

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)