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At a Glance...

TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Established 1875

Headmaster’sNewsletter

Tuesday, 27 August 2019

Director of Studies

Headmaster

Head of Junior School

Head of Senior School

Director of Sport and Activities

Director of Boarding

Director of Performance

Cadets

Library

Boarder Parents’ Support Group

School Notices

Headmaster’s book recommendations on the topic of leadership

‘The Wedding Singer’ Success

Become a Grammar Boy for a Day - Junior School, Tuesday, 3 September

Big Band & R’n’B Extravaganza - Saturday, 31 August

University Scholarship Programs

Mental Health Apps

Career Advisers

School Counsellor

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From the Headmaster

We offer this through the formal curriculum being presented both within and outside the classroom but also through the boys’ involvement in our extensive co-curricular program. Here we do rely on the boys actively seeking to participate and contribute in this area and over ninety per cent of the Senior School boys demonstrate a positive voluntary involvement in this regard.

Another element of a Toowoomba Grammar School education is the way we, in conjunction with parents, develop valued and highly important personal attributes. Here we focus on ten key aspects: integrity; resilience; persistence; respect; courage; compassion; humility; service; loyalty and enthusiasm. Many visitors to the School and those in the general community interacting with our boys note these qualities and the boys frequently receive commendation in this regard.

In terms of the boys’ overall development we also seek to foster an aspirational climate, one that recognises and applauds hard work, determination and effort. We see this time and time again with the boys’ academic studies and vocational pursuits. The boys are taught that they can improve their levels of understanding of any topic through

persistent application. Not all boys have fully developed this skill and some leave matters such as revision for assessment items to the last minute.

Through the role-modelling behaviour and achievements of Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys and current senior students, the younger boys recognise that hard work is a necessary condition prior to achievement. The boys are also encouraged to appreciate that a large part of any education is time spent in reading and research. I am currently in the process of interviewing all Year 11 boys who have applied for the office of School Prefect for 2020. Approximately sixty young men from the Year 11 cohort will apply to be considered for selection as a School Prefect. Every boy is interviewed by me and a vote from all Year 11 boys and all teachers will also form part of the selection procedure. Furthermore, I consult with all Housemasters, both day and boarding, and all members of the School Executive. I also consult all current School Prefects and ask for their recommendation.

In terms of leadership training this can be achieved via prior experience in leading teams in either sporting or cultural endeavours and also via part-time employment and

involvement in youth groups, community service and the like. Leadership training, like all education, can also be enriched by wider reading on the topic. Relevant to this, I offer the following titles of books that may be of interest to parents and/or their sons on the topic of leadership. There are countless others but these are some of the ones I have considered interesting and valuable. The books are relevant to all boys in the Senior School who want to learn more about leadership. I have categorised these books on leadership under the subheadings of sport, history, military, corporate and general, and community service.

Sporting

• Rugby - James Kerr’s book Legacy: What the All-Blacks Can Teach Us About The Business of Life (Constable, 2013). This is a highly regarded book providing an insight into the behaviour of the All-Blacks. The first chapter on Character refers to a point I often make to our students: “the All Blacks sweeping up their changing room sheds after a game – never be too big to do the

Headmaster

Established 1875


A GPS School for boys Prep - Year 12Boarders from Year 5

PO Box 2900, Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA24 Margaret Street, East Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA

Telephone: (07) 4687 2500 Facsimile: (07) 4687 2666Email: [email protected]

ABN 86 510 299 250 - CRICOS Reg No. 00525D

Dear ParentsA major part of being a Toowoomba Grammar School student revolves around receiving a broad, well-rounded education.

mailto:[email protected]

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small things that need to be done”. The leadership principles of adaptability, purpose, responsibility, learning, expectations, preparation, pressure, authenticity, sacrifice and legacy are all covered in this book many of our boys would relate to and enjoy.

• Rugby League – Wayne Bennett – Don’t Die With The Music In You (Steve Crawley ABC Books)

• Cricket – Steve Smith – perhaps he is in the process of writing a new book, hopefully titled What I Learnt About Character and Leadership Through Personal Mistakes. Fingers crossed. Or what about:

• Roland Perry – Waugh’s Way: The Steve Waugh Story: Learner, Legend, Leader

• Steve Waugh – Never Say Die (Harper Collins, 2003)

• Michael Vaughan – Time to Declare (Hodder & Stoughton, GB, 2009). This book has been recommended to me by the Coach of the TGS 1st XI Cricket team. It highlights how Vaughan changed the English playing mentality against a very strong, highly successful and confident Australian team to win the 2005 home Ashes series. Having not won the Ashes for over 14 years, he only selected young aspiring English cricketers who were not scared by the Australian success and changed their game mentalities.

• Football – Tim Cahill Legacy (Harper Collins, 2015)

• Australian Rules Football – Paul Roos –

Here It Is: Coaching, Leadership and Life (Penguin, Random House, Australia, 2017). Roos was a former Captain of an Aussie Rules team, 350 game veteran, coached the Sydney Swans to their first AFL Premiership in 72 years and later coached the Melbourne Football Club. The book refers to creating a culture where respect for one another, hard work, humility, honesty and discipline are valued.

• Rowing – Daniel James Brown – The Boys in the Boat (Viking Penguin, 2013). I have never rowed in a racing eight but I greatly enjoyed reading this book. It follows nine Americans representing The University of Washington rowing crew preparing for their epic quest for rowing gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. The book is a nautical version of Chariots of Fire, and is another great read for all young men and adults.

History

There are so many examples but here is a selection:

Dennis N.T. Perkins – Leading At The Edge: Leadership Lessons From the Extraordinary Saga of Shackleton’s Antarctic Expedition (Amacom, USA, 2012). All boys should read this inspirational account of the leadership of Shackleton in his team’s goal of completing the first overland crossing of Antarctica.

Eric Foner – The Fiery Trial (W.W. Norton & Co., 2010). This book was recommended to me as a great book about Abraham Lincoln that focusses less on the issues of slavery and abolition and more on Lincoln as a leader

navigating the difficult environment of race, politics and war.

Speeches That Changed The World – (Quercus Publishing, London, 2010). This includes speeches from Martin Luther King, Winston Churchill, John F. Kennedy, Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Indira Gandhi and others. This is a favourite of mine for both inspiration and also for a greater knowledge of world events and history.

More recent history

Rudolph W. Giuliani with Ken Kurson – Leadership (Little, Brown, 2002). Another one of my favourite books on leadership, the author Giuliani was the Mayor of America’s biggest city when he led New York and the American nation through the tragic aftermath of the World Trade Centre attacks on September 11, 2001. Some of the chapter headings highlight the relevance of this book – Prepare Relentlessly; Everyone’s Accountable; Surround Yourself With Great People; Reflect, Then Decide; Develop and Communicate Strong Beliefs; Be Your Own Man; Loyalty; Stand Up To Bullies; Study, Read, Learn Independently etc.

Military

Roland Perry – Monash: The Outsider Who Won a War (Random House, Australia, 2004). This is a biography of Australia’s greatest military commander. The Senior School boys learnt more about Monash following an Assembly address presented by Boarding Housemaster, Mr Tony Wallis, on Thursday, 22 August.

Headmaster

Another element of a Toowoomba Grammar School education is the way we, in conjunction with parents, develop

valued and highly important personal

attributes.

Headmaster



Director of Studies




Library

Cadets


School Notices

Career Advisers

School Counsellor

Willink J & Babin L – Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win (2015). The authors use Navy SEAL combat stories to translate to lessons in business and life. The concepts are also introduced in a TEDx talk, University of Nevada.

Corporate and General

Stephen R. Covey – The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Despite being first published in 1989, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide, it continues to attract readers as do his other later books on leadership.

Kouzes J. & Posner B. – The Leadership Challenge (Jossey-Bass Publishers, San Francisco, 1995). Whilst dated, this book includes good content with chapters on the practices of exemplary leadership; learning from mistakes; enlisting others; fostering collaboration; strengthening others; setting the example; and celebrating accomplishments. This is more suitable for older students.

Simon Sinek – Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action (2011). The author has also delivered one of the most popular TED videos of all time.

Simon Sinek – Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t (Portfolio/Penguin, 2014). The author uses the U.S. military, and in particular the United States Marine Corps, to explain the importance of leaders being focussed on their people. Perhaps relevant to our TGS boarding community, Sinek refers to the Marines gathering to eat and noticing that the most junior are served first and the most senior are served last. Marine leaders are expected to eat last because leadership requires one to place the needs of others above your own. The book also uses effective accounts of corporate and sporting success and the leadership skills involved.

Tim Hawkes – Ten Leadership Lessons You Must Teach Your Teenager (Hachette, Australia, 2016). This book is highly recommended and the author is well known to me as the former Headmaster of The King’s School, in Parramatta, one of Australia’s oldest schools and a member of the GPS Association of NSW. Hawkes has written some other excellent books, including Ten Conversations You Must Have With Your Son and Boy Oh Boy: How To Raise and Educate a Son.

John C. Maxwell - The 21 Laws of Leadership

Community Service

Hugh Evans – Stone of the Mountain: The Hugh Evans Story (Lothian Books, 2004). The author was the inaugural World Vision Youth Ambassador and the Young Australian of the Year in 2004. The book explores the establishment of the Oaktree Foundation, Australia’s first youth-led volunteer organisation, and Hugh’s work in orphanages for children in South Africa.

If you have really enjoyed any other book on leadership, particularly service leadership, feel free to send me an email and let me know - [email protected]

Food for thought – perhaps you could purchase one of these books for your son for a birthday or Christmas or general holiday reading.

Kind regards,

Peter B. HauserHeadmaster

If you have really enjoyed any other book on

leadership, particularly service leadership, feel free to send me an email and

let me know - [email protected]

Headmaster

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From the Head of Senior School

It was a thoroughly enjoyable musical that showcased the amazingly talented young people who attend both Toowoomba Grammar School and Fairholme College. I must also acknowledge our Chess, Basketball and Rugby players who are in the middle of their respective seasons at the moment. Attending games keeps me in constant awe of our dedicated young men.

Keeping boys busy is key to building good health. Our boys currently have a lot on their plates with their studies and co-curricular commitments. It is at this time of the term that we start to notice how tired and run-down our boys are becoming. Please remember to promote good sleeping habits in your house for your son. Good sleep is crucial for growth, learning (it helps us to consolidate our knowledge) and emotional development. Encourage good sleep habits by:

• Setting the same sleep and wake times for your son each day;

• Not allowing phones, tablets, computers and television in your son’s bedroom;

• Exercising every day;

• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

• For more on good sleeping habits please visit our SchoolTV page.

House Colours

Many boys strive to achieve House Colours during their time at the School. To be eligible, boys need to show consistent endeavour in a range of House and School activities. Boys

need to accumulate points in four categories:

• Category A – House Sport/House Activity

• Category B – Cultural/Academic/Cadets/Outdoor Activities/Clubs/Societies

• Category C – GPS Sport and Other Sport

• Category D – Service

Boys are first eligible for House Half Colours. They then continue to earn points towards House Full Colours and House Honour Colours. I wish to congratulate the following boys who have recently been awarded House Colours.

House Honour Colours:

Jeremy Bazley 11 Boyce D

Harry Rogan 12 Mackintosh D

Ben Peacock 11 Stephens D

Lachlan Seawright

12 Groom D

House Full Colours:

Joshua Adamson

11 Taylor D

Sam Harmsworth

11 Stephens D

Lachlan Schultz 11 Groom D

Daniel Da Silva 9 Boyce D

Nick Elliott 12 Taylor D

Kavinda Perera 11 Groom D

House Half Colours:

Sam Anderson 10 Boyce D

Thomas Shields 11 Groom D

Ryan Hogan 12 Boyce D

Hamish Wells 10 Boyce D

Alex Gotze 12 Mackintosh D

Lachlan Carmody

11 Mackintosh D

Tomas Lattimore

11 Mackintosh D

Charlie Wigan 10 Boyce D

Henry Reardon 11 Boyce D

George Wunsch 11 Mackintosh D

Year 12 QCS Test

The Year 12 boys are entering their final preparations for the QCS Test. They have sat their final practice test and have been debriefing with teachers. Year 12 boys will be invited to a special breakfast prior to the first QCS Test session on the morning of Tuesday, 3 September. This is a good chance for the boys to come together, relax and enjoy the company of their friends before taking on this very important period of testing. I would like to wish the Year 12 boys sitting the QCS Test all the very best.

Mark OliphantHead of Senior School


Established 1875


Congratulations to all boys and staff who were involved in the production of The Wedding Singer last week.

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Established 1875



From the Head of Junior School

Over the past few weeks, Junior School boys have been involved in a range of interesting and diverse learning opportunities. This included working with Members of Parliament, performing on stage at the Empire Theatre and being challenged academically, both at school and in external competitions. Working well in class, playing a musical instrument, enjoying sport and developing each child’s social capacity are part of the daily fabric of our School.

Youth Parliament

Recently, Junior School House Captains participated in the 2019 Toowoomba Youth Parliament. The Youth Parliament was presided over by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Hon Curtis Pitt MP with further support provided by two local Members of Parliament, Patrick Weir MP, Member for Condamine, and David Janetzki MP, Member for Toowoomba South.

Primary school students from across our region were in attendance, all presenting one minute speeches on either a set topic

or a topic of choice. Junior School boys were members of the Government and voted on Government and Opposition motions throughout the day, using the same format as the Queensland Parliament. This was a wonderful experience for our House Captains, further building on their recent experiences from the Year 6 Canberra excursion.

Eisteddfod Success

Many boys and staff were involved in the instrumental section of the Toowoomba Eisteddfod in recent weeks, with our individual instrumentalists and various ensembles featuring prominently. The Junior School instrumental program is substantial, with entry level involving our Year 2 string program and the Year 4 woodwind, brass and percussion program. Beyond this, there are many instrumental ensembles boys can join involving brass, woodwind, strings and percussion. The highlight is being invited to join the Junior School orchestra.

Approximately 35 boys are members of our Junior School orchestra and play at an advanced level. These boys won their section at the Eisteddfod for the fifth year in a row. Overall, Junior School ensembles were awarded six first place trophies, five second place and one third place awards, along with several highly commended certificates. This is a fine achievement when you consider we are the only boys’ school competing in the Primary School sections at the Eisteddfod.

I congratulate the boys on their efforts and successes. The music staff who prepare and conduct our ensembles, consisting of Mrs Dixon, Mrs Otto, Mrs Brix, Mrs Buchholz, Ms Fletcher and Mrs Crook deserve high praise for the quality of their work with Junior School music.

Mathematics Competition Success

On Tuesday 13 August, a Junior School team competed in the regional rounds of the QAMT (Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers) Mathematics Quiz. Congratulations to Jett Heffernan, Sebastian Kerle-Taylor and

Dear Parents

The Junior School Orchestra was awarded first place in their section.

The Chamber Winds were awarded first place in their section.

The Percussion Ensemble were awarded first place in their section.

(L – R) Hammond Briggs, Archer Onley, William Dwan, Charlie Lachmund and Matthew Jacob after the Youth Parliament sitting, pictured with the Hon Curtis Pitt MP.

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School CounsellorBanjo Seaniger for their success on the evening, becoming the inaugural winners of this competition. I would also like to thank Mrs Amy Casey, Co-ordinator of Years 4 to 6 for supporting the boys at this external competition.

Scott CampbellHead of Junior School

The music staff who prepare and conduct our ensembles, consisting of

Mrs Dixon, Mrs Otto, Mrs Brix, Mrs Buchholz, Ms Fletcher and Mrs Crook

deserve high praise for the quality of their work with

Junior School music.

(L – R) Banjo Seaniger, Jett Heffernan and Sebastian Kerle-Taylor with their QAMT Mathematics competition first place medals.

> Click poster to enlarge <


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Established 1875


From the Director of StudiesYear 12

The QCS test is fast approaching and we are very pleased with the approach the boys are taking in their preparations for this significant event in the academic calendar. Recently the boys underwent trials in which they experienced three of the four tests over two days. This enabled them to gain some insight into the exam fatigue that is one of the major factors the boys need to contend with over the two days of testing on 3 and 4 of September. It is important that as boys lead into these tests that they remain well rested and healthy.

With Rugby season in full flight, we invariably find some boys are injured and we probably have not seen the back of the flu season yet. It is important to note that if there are any injuries between now and the testing dates, I can apply for special provisions’ extra time or a laptop to write responses if required, but that I need a medical certificate as soon as possible so that I can make the application to the QCAA. In the event that your son is ill on the day of the exam, please ensure that you get a medical certificate dated that day. We can get an exemption for any boy who is ill on the days of testing and it will not affect his OP eligibility.

Year 11

Many subjects will complete Unit 2 work either at the end of this term or early next term. This will effectively make them “Year 12” students from an academic perspective. The implication of this is that the work they will be doing once they commence Unit 3 in any subject is summative and contributes to their ATAR. If any boy is still finding a subject difficult or one in which they are unlikely to experience success, they need to see me as soon as possible to discuss their options going forward. Our goal is to ensure every boy is enrolled in a course of study in which he can experience success. The other implication of starting Unit 3 is that I must report all extensions to the QCAA. Please be aware, that to receive an extension on an assignment or to have an exam postponed, it must be a genuine illness or family emergency. In the event of an illness, I must have a medical certificate. If a boy misses an exam due to illness and it is not accompanied by a medical certificate, I cannot reschedule the exam. The result of this is that his Unit will be considered to be incomplete and cannot contribute to his QCE or ATAR. I am not allowed to grant extensions or reschedule exam dates for things which are within the

family’s control. This includes things like driving tests, dentist appointments etc. Please check the assessment planner before making any such appointments. If a boy has a cocurricular commitment I can reschedule his exam for the last day at school that he will be in attendance before his departure for his cocurricular event.

Special Commendations

Congratulations to the following students who received Special Commendations recently:

Special Commendations – Academic Effort

Angus Thompson English – Persuasive Letter

Cooper Tobin English – Persuasive Letter

Joshua Zahra English – Persuasive Letter

Alison YoungDirector of Studies

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The level of skill in the choral range, dance choreography and outright enthusiasm of our Performing Arts students were on full display at the Empire Theatre as the boys of Toowoomba Grammar School and girls of Fairholme College took to the stage in the musical The Wedding Singer. The months of preparation, rehearsals and late nights culminated in a fantastic show that the Toowoomba community enjoyed immensely. Many thanks are to go to our dedicated staff ably led by Director of Performance, Mrs Natalie Otto who, in a relatively short space of time, has reinvigorated the Performing Arts department with her zeal and vision for all things creative. My congratulations are also passed on to the students who were involved, from the characters on stage to the efforts of the backstage crew. I look forward to seeing future productions that these extremely talented students will be involved in as they progress through their thespian journey.

Looking at our Basketball program, it continues to go from strength to strength evidenced by the comparison of statistics between 2018 and this season. For example,

in 2018, after five rounds, the entire program had scored a total of 1823 points contrasted with 3194 points scored against. Compared to this season, again after five rounds, our program has amassed 2541 points for and only 2980 points against. Such a dramatic improvement in both the offensive and defensive outputs of all teams is quite an achievement. Leading this revival of TGS Basketball is our Director of Basketball and Head Coach, Mr Kabe Cicolini whose direction of the program continues to provide not only these fantastic improvements but also pathways for our students post-Toowoomba Grammar School. On an individual level, we look at players like Captain of Basketball Jason Spurgin who leads the program in points on 92 points. Following closely behind him is Tawana Ngorima on 78 points. What makes this even more incredible is that Tawana is only in Year 7 and these points are scored in the 7A competition on a running clock. Older brother Ngaa Ngorima (1st V) brings up third place with 58 points and there is no doubt that sibling rivalry is driving those statistics. However, what can’t be seen is the intrinsic motivation that pushes all players from

the 1st V down to the 6B teams. Teamwork, sportsmanship and having fun are ingrained in all sports and it has been fantastic to see Mr Cicolini and his team of dedicated coaches continuing to hold those values in high regard across the program.

The nature of Rugby in the Queensland GPS competition continues to gain exposure in mainstream media and although one may argue that any publicity for schoolboy sport is a good thing, it is important to remember that these young men who have their matches live-streamed to a national audience, their statistics analysed and scrutinised, and train at a level well beyond their years are but adolescents. The advent of technology and social media has brought these young men’s pursuits to the forefront of society and places undue pressure on them to perform. As a school, Toowoomba Grammar continues to encourage our players to enjoy the game and play to the best of their ability and consider winning and losing as part of the journey of sport development. In saying this, I must acknowledge the efforts of some fine individual performances such as Chace Oates scoring 4 tries and 7 conversions

Established 1875



From the Director of Sport & ActivitiesThe talent of our students continues to amaze me as we come to the halfway mark of our school term.

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in a single match as the 13A team stood strong against their counterparts from Downlands College. In addition to this, we have Bono Roberts in the 12A team leading the TGS Rugby program having scored 8 tries after five rounds, or Dewald Geldenhuys in the 4th XV who crossed the white line three times in his match against Downlands College. The depth of our younger age groups also comes to the fore with our Under 13 teams leading the program with a total of 536 points scored for and 236 points against. As part of this dynamic group of young men are our 13C team who, after five rounds, are the only team in the School who remain undefeated and whose defensive record stands with incredulity with only 15 points being scored against them so far this season. As many schools look to their 1st XV as a measure of their program, Director of Rugby, Mr Jono Farrell instead has the vision to see that the benchmark of success is underpinned by the

strength and depth of all teams, not just the 1st XV. His efforts each afternoon in touching base with coaches and players provide the platform for each coach to launch successful ventures each week against more traditionally ‘fancied’ opponents. In saying this, I do not mean to undermine our 1st XV and their efforts in what is a difficult and formidable level of competition, but instead look to shed some publicity on our other teams that often do not get to share the limelight.

I look forward to sharing more team and individual achievements with the Toowoomba Grammar School community as we progress through the final stanza of Term Three.

Wes DunneDirector of Sport & Activities


I look forward to seeing future productions that these extremely talented students will be involved in as they

progress through their thespian journey.

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School CounsellorFrom the Director of Boarding

Established 1875



I was recently involved in providing feedback for a university study which is looking into the wellbeing of Australian boarding students. The main question being asked is what “enhances the wellbeing of boarders” and it was calling on parents, school staff and obviously boarders to give their perspectives. I was happy to share my opinion and insight as it is something I am particularly passionate about after being a boarder myself (many years ago) and also living and working in boarding schools for the best part of the last 20 years.

There is little doubt in my mind that the facilities and infrastructure made available for boarders has a definite impact on their wellbeing. The standard of accommodation has improved in boarding schools over the years which was both necessary and important. As well as this, the provision of quality food, laundry, academic support, health care and recreation activities all support the wellbeing of boarders living away from home. These days, sending your child away to boarding school is offering them a holistic education and the boarders can experience so much more than was ever thought possible in the past. At Toowoomba

Grammar School we are fortunate to have excellent accommodation and the economies of scale to provide a wide range of additional services which enhance the experience of our boarders.

Beyond the physical make up of a boarding school, another key ingredient in promoting wellbeing is for every boarder to feel that they belong in an inclusive community. This provides a sense of identity which helps a young person to feel happy and connected to something bigger than themselves. Toowoomba Grammar School seeks to provide connection and belonging by allocating boarders to vertical Houses. Staying in the one boarding house from Year 8 to Year 12 provides each boy with a familiar home away from home as they go through secondary school. Those you live with can become friends as you ride the ups and downs of living in a community and striving together for a common goal.

Perhaps the biggest influence on the wellbeing of boarders is the staff who work with them in boarding. Supporting the needs of a large group of teenage boys and shaping a positive culture is not an easy task and we are fortunate to have outstanding boarding

staff working at Toowoomba Grammar School. Their genuine care for the boarders builds respect and trust from the boys. Once this is in place the boarding staff are able to reinforce positive values and build a culture in their boarding house which allows the boys to develop and learn in a safe, familiar environment.

Quite rightly, there is a great deal of discussion about supporting the wellbeing of students. In a world of increasing pressure and distraction, the structure and community provided in boarding helps many young people to learn important values and strategies to help them succeed when they reach adulthood. At Toowoomba Grammar School our boarders are indeed fortunate to enjoy the great facilities, the sense of connection and the positive influence of our boarding staff. Our aim is for every one of our boys to enjoy his boarding experience and to take many positive lessons and experiences away from his time at the School.

Jim NobleDirector of Boarding

Dear Boarding Parents,

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Established 1875



Many compliments have been received regarding the extremely high calibre of the musical, from the outstanding acting, singing and dancing on stage, the amazing music produced in the orchestra pit, to the incredible set, props, projections and backstage work.

One of the most pleasing aspects about being involved in a musical is watching teamwork develop and friendships flourish. A comment that has been repeated many times is how the students and staff of Fairholme College and Toowoomba Grammar School worked so well together throughout the rehearsal process. I wish to sincerely thank Katrina Bailey (Director), Wendy Evans (Vocal Director), Brigid Baker (Choreographer), Alison Young (Producer), Karen Hayward (Set and Prop Design), Ray Morgan (Set Construction), Andrea Hohn (Assistant Director), plus many other Fairholme College staff for being absolutely wonderful to work with during the rehearsal process. The strong sense of teamwork that the staff fostered flowed through to the students and, as a result, creativity and trust thrived to produce musical theatre magic. Congratulations to all involved!

BRAVO! Congratulations to the Cast, Orchestra, Crew and Creative Team for the recent hugely successful performances of The Wedding Singer in the Empire Theatre.

Angus Mohr as George, Hamish Wells as Robbie, Ryan Murphy as Sammy.

Hamish Wells as George, John Anderson as Robbie, Ryan Murphy as Sammy. Full Cast in the Finale.

Julian Lachmund as Glen, Josh Adamson as the DeLorean Driver.

Cameron Lumsden, Felix Thomason, Breanna Collins, James Evans, Oliver Schubert, Marcus Baulch, Xavier Schubert, Anah Chung and Izaak Schefe waiting to play in the Orchestra.

Hamish Walker, Gabriel Schubert, Nicholas Clulow, Nicholas Bielby and Tumoana Strugnell as Chefs.

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Queensland Symphony Orchestra Visits TGS

We were very fortunate to be treated to an afternoon of masterclasses presented by the QSO Musicians on Wednesday, 21 August, followed by a delightful concert in the Senior School Assembly Hall. The QSO Musicians visited Toowoomba to work with the successful Prodigy Project school students who will be performing with the orchestra in the Empire Theatre on 28 September. Julian Lachmund, Oliver Schubert, Sean Bain, Ryan Murphy and Sam Lawrence were all lucky to be able to perform in the masterclasses.

Toowoomba Eisteddfod

It seems like a long time ago now, but at the time of writing my last newsletter article the Eisteddfod was still in action. All TGS students represented their school incredibly well and performed to the absolute best of their ability. As is the case in all Eisteddfods, not all performers come home with a prize, but all students are winners for their dedication to their rehearsals and performances.

Please see below for the Senior School Music Ensemble results:

• Chamber Strings - 1st Secondary School Small String A Grade Ensemble

• Vivace Trio - 1st Secondary String (unaccompanied) A Grade Trio/Quartet

• Brass Ensemble - 1st Secondary School Woodwind or Brass Ensemble

• Wind Orchestra - 2nd Secondary School A Grade Concert Band

• String Orchestra - 2nd Secondary School String Ensemble

• Saxophone Trio - 2nd Secondary Woodwind (unaccompanied) Trio/Quartet

• Jazz Band - 2nd Secondary School Small Instrumental Ensemble

• Saxophone Ensemble B - 3rd Secondary School Woodwind/Brass/Rhythm Ensemble

• Guitar Ensemble – Highly Commended Secondary School String Ensemble

QSO rehearsing in the Baynes Centre.

One of the most pleasing aspects about being involved

in a musical is watching teamwork develop and

friendships flourish.

Oliver Schubert in his trumpet masterclass.

Sean Bain in his masterclass.

QSO performs for the public in the Assembly Hall.

Senior String Orchestra with their prizes, including the Gary Williams Memorial Trophy, awarded as a shared prize this year for the highest results achieved by a Secondary School for Strings.

Guitar Ensemble warming up backstage.

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Many actors and musicians also performed solos or duets in the Eisteddfod with excellent results attained. Congratulations to all boys for working hard on their solo or duet performances. Some special awards were received:

• Oliver Schubert received the Clive Berghofer Brass Scholarship.

• Matthew Murphy received the Australian College of Music Trophy for Character Recital and the Longwill Family Secondary Speech and Drama Bursary for Boys.

• Matthew Sands was awarded the Australian Speech Communication Association Trophy for Year 11/12 Verse Speaking.

GPS Day Of Excellence

Twenty students from Years 5, 6 and 7 attended the prestigious GPS Day of Excellence at Brisbane Grammar School on Tuesday, 6 August. Boys performed in the Choir, Concert Band and String Orchestra with the eight other GPS Schools. It was a fabulous day of making music and making new friends.

Special Achievement

Congratulations to Darcy Meagher for performing as Gavroche in the Queensland Conservatorium of Music’s production of Les Miserables. Darcy received huge acclaim for his performances in this production. What a star!

Upcoming Events

Paul Morton Choral Festival - Tuesday, 27 August

The Combined Voices Choir and the Grammarphones will be performing in this annual Choral Festival on Tuesday, 27 August at Downlands College.

Big Band & R’n’B Band Extravaganza

The Toowoomba Grammar School Junior School Jazz Ensemble, Senior School Big Band, Senior School RnB Too Band, Senior School Jazz Band and Senior School RnB Band will present an enjoyable evening of jazz, rock and blues music at the Big Band & RnB Extravaganza.

Bring your dancing shoes and be ready for a night of entertainment provided by the talented young musicians of TGS. Complimentary cheese platters will be provided for every table.

Please purchase tickets here: https://www.empiretheatre.com.au/event/740/big-band-and-rnb-extravaganza

Senior School Singers’ Trophy Competition

The Senior School Singers’ Trophy Competition will be postponed to a date later this term or early in Term 4 to allow the singers a slightly longer rehearsal period to perfect their performances.

Natalie OttoDirector of Performance

Matthew Sands and Matthew Murphy, pictured with Mary-Lou Fraser and Rowena Luck-Geary.

TGS Students happy after the GPS Concert.

TGS students in the GPS Choir.

Bertie Mansfield practising his trumpet at the GPS Day of Excellence.

> Click poster to enlarge <

Darcy Meagher as Gavroche in Les Miserables.

https://www.empiretheatre.com.au/event/740/big-band-and-rnb-extravaganza



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Public, school and academic libraries are always interesting and I invariably pick up at least one useful idea for use in my own workplace. During the last holidays I had the pleasure of visiting several libraries in Canada. One of these was the Vancouver Public Library. Located in downtown Vancouver, it was massive, with many branch libraries located throughout the city. It was interesting to see their use of spaces and the architecture of the building. The collection was vast and varied, and I even managed to spot some books written by Australian authors.

However, one does not need to travel far to experience the services offered by libraries other than our own here at Grammar. This term our Year 11 boys have been researching various topics, using online research databases. Although we

have access to a number of databases here at the School, the State Library of Queensland has many more. Most of these are accessible online without having to move from home or the classroom. Freely available to Queensland residents, you can explore the vast array of databases on this page, categorised in sections. Some databases, due I suspect to licensing laws, are for use only at the State Library. Visiting the library in person is always a treat though, as there are often free exhibitions. Take a look at this page for information on how you and your family members can join the State Library of Queensland online.

Liz DerouetHead Librarian

Visiting other libraries is always on my list of things to do when I am travelling, as it is for many librarians.

Library

Library Opening Hours

Monday to Thursday: 7:30am – 5:00pm

Friday 7:30am – 4:00pm

Sunday 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Established 1875


https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/

https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/

https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/research-collections/information-collections/eresources/databases

https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/get-involved/become-member

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Established 1875


Cadets

Cadets

This certainly rang true for the members of Toowoomba Grammar School Army Cadet Unit on their last bivouac, Exercise Long Tan. The cadets were deployed on their 2-night bivouac to a private property overlooking Cooby Dam, where in their sections and platoons they were put through various mental and physical challenges in order to win points for the platoon competition. Not only were the sections tested on their leadership and teamwork abilities, they were mercilessly tested on their resilience by the gale force winds and freezing nights. The cadets undertook activities based on observation and detection, navigation and teamwork challenges such as QDE’s and Obstacle Courses, all the while keeping radio contact and battling the weather.

Huge congratulations go to Platoon One for overcoming the arduous conditions to win the weekend competition. The cadets definitely showed their cadet values of courage, respect, resilience and teamwork on that weekend and the staff wish to acknowledge each and every one who attended; they did the unit very proud.

Also this month TGSACU undertook their Annual Photographs and Training Dining in Night. The photographs were taken in the Old Hall with all the cadets looking their best dressed in ceremonial attire. These photographs

will be available to purchase in the next few weeks. After photos the cadets moved on to the Training Dining in Night, a look at the traditions and customs of a Military Ceremonial dinner. The cadets were exposed to various ceremonial customs such as toasts, speeches and the passing of the “port”. The night was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and a huge thanks must be given to the TGS Kitchen for providing the dinner and to our wonderful volunteers who assisted in the serving and running of the kitchen. We could not have done it without you.

Finally, on Sunday 25 August 2019 TGSACU will be sending a team of 12 cadets to compete in the Annual Tri-Service Competition against other Army, Navy and Air Force Cadet Units in our region. The competition is made up of a number of challenges testing the cadets’ teamwork and military knowledge. It is run by our foster unit, the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey. TGSACU has been victorious in this competition in the past and we wish the team the best of luck.

Lauren TrevisaniCadet Unit Administrator

“I cannot change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” Jimmy Dean

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From the Careers AdvisersQTAC Information Seminar for Year 12 parents

Slides from the Year 12 Parents Tertiary Study Information Seminar, conducted on Tuesday 20 August, are now available. If you would like to receive a copy, please contact Mrs Tanya Simpson via email (see below) and she will forward them to you.

If any parent who could not attend the seminar is interested in a re-run, I am happy to hold a second seminar as follows:

Date: Thursday 19 September 2019 Time: 2:00pm – 3:30pmVenue: Careers Classroom in the Student Services Centre

Topics include:

• Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre application procedures and timeline for Year 12 students

• Accommodation Options

• HECS and HELP Loans, Youth Allowance and Scholarships

If you are interested, please contact Mrs Tanya Simpson on 074687 2603 or [email protected] and I will make necessary arrangements.

Scholarships

As well as working on their university applications, I have been discussing several important topics with the Year 12 boys in relation to their post-school lives. Over the next cycle of classes, we will be focussing on scholarships. Representatives from The University of Queensland and University of Southern Queensland have also conducted lunchtime sessions with a number of the boys on how to write a good scholarship application.

Scholarships can come in a variety of forms, including academically competitive, financial hardship, rural students, war veterans’ children, disability, and scholarships offered by specific companies, employers and members of the public. The “Good Universities Guide” scholarships finder is the most comprehensive database of scholarships in Australia. Go to https://www.gooduniversit iesguide.com.au/scholarships#.VpGcy1LLns4

The scholarship websites for the various universities are also a good place to begin planning to apply for a scholarship. Each university offers a range of academic, equity, accommodation and sports scholarships as well as industry linked scholarships. Closing dates for scholarships vary within a university and between universities. Listed below are links to some of the key academic scholarships available.

Key Academic Scholarships

• Bond University: https://bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/how-apply/scholarships

• Griffith University: www.griffith.edu.au/scholarships

• Queensland University of Technology (QUT): https://www.qut.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships

• The University of Queensland (UQ): www.uq.edu.au/scholarships

• University of Southern Queensland (USQ): www.usq.edu.au/scholarships

USQ’s Future Community Leader Scholarship

Valued at $6000, USQ’s Future Community Leader Scholarship is for students commencing full-time study at USQ and is offered in recognition of students’ participation in the community and to provide maximum opportunity for students to start tertiary study at one of USQ’s campuses. Applications close 1 September. https://www.usq.edu.au/scholarships/future-community-leader

Established 1875


Careers Advisers

https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/scholarships#.VpGcy1LLns4



https://bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/how-apply/scholarships



https://www.griffith.edu.au/scholarships

https://www.griffith.edu.au/scholarships

https://www.qut.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships

https://www.qut.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships

https://scholarships.uq.edu.au/

https://www.usq.edu.au/scholarships

https://www.usq.edu.au/scholarships/future-community-leader

https://www.usq.edu.au/scholarships/future-community-leader

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Bond University’s Scholarship Program

The Bond University’s Scholarship Program encompasses a range of full-fee and part-fee tuition remission scholarships available to future leaders and provides them with access to an exceptional educational experience. Scholarships are awarded to the best and brightest well rounded students who have excelled academically, or in the areas of leadership, community and sport. Applications close 6 September.

Iglu Academic Excellence Scholarship (IAES)

The Iglu Academic Excellence Scholarship (IAES) will be awarded to one graduating student who will study in Brisbane in 2020. Iglu is a purpose-built student accommodation provider with two properties; Kelvin Grove and Brisbane City located in close proximity to QUT Kelvin Grove and Gardens Point as well as UQ. The scholarship recognises community involvement and academic success and covers 50% of a student’s first year of accommodation at Iglu in Brisbane. Applications close on Friday 14 September. All Year 12 boys have been emailed this

information including the application form. For more information about Iglu, go to https://iglu.com.au

Medicine Interview Taster 8 September 2019, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pmThe University of Queensland, St Lucia

In this 2-hour session, students will be given a crash course on the Medical School Interview including covering the core skills and techniques to succeed in the Interview and MMI scenarios.

Interview tutors will guide them through what the Medicine Interview/MMI really is and teach them the fundamentals. They’ll also step them through some commonly observed interview scenarios. This is a free event.

Find out more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/medicine-interview-taster-brisbane-tickets-64858738232

2020 Stanwell Apprenticeships

Stanwell Corporation is currently accepting applications for their 2020 apprenticeship intake at their Stanwell Power Station near Rockhampton.

They are currently recruiting for the following positions:

• Mechanical Fitter and Turner

• Warehousing Operations

• Electrical Instrumentation

As well as receiving on-the-job training at the Stanwell Power Station, you will also undertake study at CQ University to earn a nationally recognised qualification.

Applications are open until Sunday 1 September. Go to http://careers.pageuppeople.com/529/caw/en/filter/?job-mail-subscribe-privacy=agree&search-keyword=&category=apprenticeship%2ftraineeship

Stacy Nottle and Jenny BallCareers Advisers

Careers Advisers

Scholarships can come in a variety of forms, including academically competitive, financial hardship, rural students, war veterans’ children, disability, and scholarships offered by

specific companies, employers and members of the public.

https://iglu.com.au/

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/medicine-interview-taster-brisbane-tickets-64858738232



http://careers.pageuppeople.com/529/caw/en/filter/?job-mail-subscribe-privacy=agree&search-keyword=&category=apprenticeship%2ftraineeship





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From the School Counsellor

School Counsellor

Established 1875


Digital Mental Health: Application (App) Review

Digital Mental Health comprises services, programs or applications (apps) that are delivered via online, mobile or phone based platforms. In recent years, there has been a proliferation of Digital Mental Health options that have become available with the rise of internet and smartphone users. With the influx of these options, it can be difficult to determine what, if any, might be appropriate. In spite of this challenge, Digital Mental Health options are typically reasonably-priced, or most often free, and can offer a wealth of resources that make therapeutic techniques more accessible, portable, and cost-effective.

Before diving in and subscribing to online services, programs or apps, I think it is important to contextualise that the use of any Digital Mental Health resource should not be seen as a replacement or alternative to more traditional treatment. Similarly, some professionals and parents alike question the effectiveness of these resources when used in isolation. However, in the work that I and many others do, Digital Mental Health options serve as an excellent tool to help young people stay connected and on track outside of sessions and the work they are doing in therapy.

In my role as School Counsellor, the work I do with young people is often about understanding and finding what best suits their needs at a particular time. My intent in this article is not to be prescriptive or biased towards any particular resource. Rather, I hope to provide a little guidance as to the types of online services, programs and apps that have assisted some students in the past

and that might be helpful for others in the future.

If Digital Mental Health is something you or your son might be interested in exploring further, some of these highly-regarded resources might be helpful:

• Smiling Mind: A website and app teaching mindfulness meditation to young people (7-22 yrs), and adults. Accessed on these pages.

http://www.smilingmind.com.au,

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/smiling-mind/id560442518?mt=8,

http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smilingmind.app&hl=en

• eheadspace: Internet chat, email or phone support for young people (12-25 yrs). Registration mandatory for online chat. Accessed via: http://www.eheadspace.org.au/ 1800 650 890 (9am-1am/7 days AEST)

• The BRAVE Program: An online program to help children and young people (3 to 17) overcome anxiety. Comprises of both youth and parent components. Accessed via: http://www.brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au/

• ReachOut Breathe: An app to help reduce the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety by slowing down your heart rate with help from your mobile phone (iOS) or Apple Watch. Accessed via: http://itunes.apple.com/app/apple-store/id985891649?mt=8

• ReachOut WorryTime: An app to help control everyday stress and anxiety

by giving you a place to store worries, and alerting you when it’s time to think about them. Accessed via:

http://itunes.apple.com/app/apple-store/id964311176?mt=8

http://play.google.com/store/app/details?id=air.au.com.reachout.worrytime

• Breakup Shakeup: A behavioural activation app that provides fun, easy activities to do to help young people (14-25 yrs) cope after a breakup. Accessed via: http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/breakup-shakeup/id1017200579

• Youth Beyond Blue ‘The Check-in’: A free app helping people to check-in with friends and family whilst coaching young people through how they might support their friends. Accessed via: http://www.youthbeyondblue.com/help-someone-you-know/thecheckin

As always, if I can support in any way do not hesitate to contact me directly. With any general recommendation, I would encourage you to do your own research and critically evaluate any resource before committing to downloading or subscribing. As appropriate, always consult with a treating mental health practitioner.

Jennifer Johnson-Saul School Counsellor [email protected]

Source: http://www.emhprac.org.au/

https://www.smilingmind.com.au/

https://apps.apple.com/au/app/smiling-mind/id560442518

https://apps.apple.com/au/app/smiling-mind/id560442518

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smilingmind.app&hl=en



https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/

https://brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au/

https://brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au/

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id985891649

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id985891649

https://apps.apple.com/au/app/reachout-worrytime/id964311176

https://apps.apple.com/au/app/reachout-worrytime/id964311176

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.au.com.reachout.worrytime



https://apps.apple.com/au/app/breakup-shakeup/id1017200579



https://www.youthbeyondblue.com/help-someone-you-know/thecheckin

https://www.youthbeyondblue.com/help-someone-you-know/thecheckin

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I am looking forward to seeing many of you at our Boarder Parents’ Mothers’ Luncheon this Friday.

I would like to thank Boarder Mums who have provided homebake for sporting home games during 2019. We have only two home games to go, this Saturday and the 14th September. Thank you all for your baking efforts!

Our next BPSG meeting is 19th September, 1.30pm in the Pavilion. This is our last meeting for the year and also our AGM. Please come along.

Very soon, you will receive an Invitation to the Boarder Parents’ Appreciation Function. This is an opportunity for you to invite any day parents to say thank you and appreciate their contribution towards your

son. You may wish to invite day parents of a boy who has transported your son to an event, had your son on leave, been in a sporting team with or simply because they get along in class.

If you have any queries or suggestions in regards to boarding please don’t hesitate to contact me at any time via phone 0438 489 170 or email [email protected]

Kym WrightPresident, Boarder Parents’ Support Group

Boarder Parents’ Support GroupHello Boarder Parents, Boarder Parents’ Support Group

Established 1875


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A GPS School for boys Prep - Year 12Boarders from Year 5

PO Box 2900, Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA24 Margaret Street, East Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA

Telephone: (07) 4687 2500 Facsimile: (07) 4687 2666Email: [email protected]

ABN 86 510 299 250 - CRICOS Reg No. 00525D

Established 1875


School Notices

School Notices

Uniform Shop Opening HoursMonday 8:00am-5:00pm

Tuesday-Friday 1:00pm-5:00pm

Email: [email protected] Ph: 07 4687 2528

Over the last few months, the Enrolments and Marketing Office has been compiling a Prospectus to replace the old Information Pack. We are delighted to share with you the link to the online version which is set out to the right. Our Prospectus will introduce you to the incredible opportunities we can offer your son. We invite you to introduce the School to your friends and work colleagues.

Toowoomba Grammar School Prospectus

Click here >>

Dear familiesIf anyone has crutches they are no longer using and you wish to donate them, the school Health Centre would love to take them off your hands.

Kind regardsThe Nurses

Health Centre> Click poster to enlarge < > Click poster to enlarge <

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.flipsnack.com/TGS19/toowoomba-grammar-school-prospectus-fzhj4jc7e.html

https://www.flipsnack.com/TGS19/toowoomba-grammar-school-prospectus-fzhj4jc7e.html

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