When Chris Wicks’ (1981-85) son Lachlan was just two days old, Chris proudly strolled across the road from St Vincent’s maternity ward, over Trustees’ Oval and down to the Toowoomba Grammar School office to enrol his firstborn.
“I had such fond memories from the School and enjoyed all the opportunities available, particularly participating in sport and learning at such a high level; my sons were going to have the same great education,” said Chris adamantly.
Chris was a boarder from Dalby and an “all-rounder” as a student. He was part of the 1st XV, a CUO in the Cadets, a member of the debating team, involved in drama (featuring in two plays during his time) and a good academic student.
“I really enjoyed boarding,” reminisced Chris.
“It was great to be part of all the activities that were on offer and to be immersed in the School community.”
He studied Applied Science at the University of Queensland, Gatton and is currently the Access Strategy Manager at Arrow Energy in Brisbane. But he has maintained strong connections with TGS through a number of important roles. His two sons are also Old Boys, Lachlan (2002-10) and Hamish (2010-14). Lachlan is now an operations and logistics manager, and Hamish is a carpenter.
One of the values taught at Toowoomba Grammar School is the importance of giving back and contributing to the community. Chris has certainly done that for TGS itself! He has had over 25 years of direct involvement with the School – from being a student to a parent to a member of the Old Boys’ Association Committee to a Trustee.
“Not quite Glen McCracken territory, but it was a good run,” laughed Chris.
He was President of the TGS Old Boys’ Association from 2006-08.
“The TGSOBA is a great way for Old Boys to stay actively connected with the School,” said Chris.
“The Association works closely with the School to promote it while maintaining the history, traditions and values that we, as Old Boys, think to be important.”
He joined the TGS Board of Trustees in May 2011 and was Chair of the Finance Committee from 2016 to 2022. During that time, the Board implemented a number of major capital works projects, including the P.B. Hauser Aquatic Centre, the Glen McCracken Sports Centre, the new Boyce and Taylor Boarding Houses and various other infrastructure projects that formed part of the larger “jigsaw puzzle” as Chris refers to it.
“It was great to be able to contribute to the School in this way and play a role in its long-term future,” said Chris.
“It’s very rewarding to drive down Margaret Street and see the iconic buildings that you’ve contributed to.”
He said the Board plays a crucial role in preserving the traditions of the School whilst providing strategies to help it grow and move forward, as well as a responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of the boys and staff.
After much consideration, Chris resigned from the Board in February 2022. He had served for ten years and ten months.
“It was a difficult decision,” he said.
“I enjoyed having the opportunity to give back, but I felt it was time for fresh blood to bring some new ideas and a different perspective.”
Chris is very proud of the capital works projects, as well as the structures and systems the Board implemented during his time to ensure that the School would be in a strong position moving forward.
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