“I think the boarders were the heart of the School in my day, it becomes your home and just like any home, you protect and support it.”— Dr Scott Mansfield
I have no doubt the future trajectory of my life and career was forged during my time at Toowoomba Grammar School.
Coming from a cattle property near Injune I was in awe of the School’s ovals with lush, green grass and immaculate facilities. I found being able to throw yourself around and not risk skin cuts and grazes quite novel. Sharing the same field where many Old Boys and past heroes trotted was inspirational.
I found the comradery among the boarders my most overwhelming memory. It was like having 60 brothers with similar interests all living under the same roof. There was always someone around to kick the footy with, play a game of basketball or head to the cricket nets. Similarly, when it came to schoolwork there was always someone to clarify some homework, give direction on an assignment or help with that difficult maths equation.
My time as a boarder was in a different age but I have fond memories of watching the PNG lads stalk and trap pigeons. I saw photos of them in full warring outfits and they were formidable, so I don’t think the pigeons had much of a chance!
I remember the nicknames of our year including Dunny Brush, Cecil (from Cecil the ram of Footrot Flats fame), Donkey, Snorkel and Snapper to name but a few. In hindsight these nicknames were terms of endearment and have stuck to this day.
I recall the day about ten of the Seniors picked up Boyce Boarding Housemaster, Vernon Ezzy's Mini-Minor and left it stranded in the grassed area out the front of the house. He got quite the shock when he went to head for university the following day and I don’t recall how it was moved but it was gone by the afternoon.
The loyalty to the School and your fellow boarder ran deep. Most memories I have are of boarding and I don't think dayboys get that same experience.
I have no doubt the future trajectory of my life and career was forged during my time at Toowoomba Grammar School. I feel being immersed with like-minded people gave me perspective and motivation and as a boarder, you grow up quickly and I was taught to work independently outside direct parental guidance. This prepared me for life after school and transition into the real world.
My advice to future boarders would be to make the most of your opportunity. Your parents have made sacrifices to send you to school, so do them proud.
“Respect the history and traditions of the School. Always strive to be better but take time to quietly appreciate your achievements.”— Dr Scott Mansfield
Dr Scott Mansfield is a colorectal and general surgeon at St Andrew’s Hospital in Toowoomba and in 2017 headed the team which performed the region’s first reconstructive bowel surgery. More recently he was one of the surgeons involved in the Regional Queensland Colorectal Cancer Survival Study, which aims to improve outcomes for people in rural areas after bowel cancer diagnoses. During his time at TGS, Dr Mansfield was the Senior Prefect and was awarded a Merit, the prize for Physics and Science, and the Belford Prize for Scholarship, Leadership and Sport. He was a member of the First XI Cricket team, the Cross Country team, Captain of Track and Field and Vice-Captain of the First XV Rugby team.
Latest Blog
The Power of Character and Connection Every Day
As we mark R U OK? Day, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of looking out for one another and staying connected. Whilst today is a National Day of Action, the message is clear: asking “R U OK?” should not be reserved for just one day of the year. By having regular, meaningful conversations with each other, we create trust and normalise talking about what’s really going on in our lives. This simple but powerful practice ensures that when someone is struggling, they know they have a…
Managing Conflict with Pre-Teens and Teenagers
Understanding the developmental challenges of our boys, particularly in managing emotional resilience and independence, helps parents navigate these moments more effectively. Conflict is a natural and inevitable part of adolescence, and for parents of preteens and teenagers at Toowoomba Grammar School, managing these moments effectively is key to nurturing their emotional growth and maintaining a healthy relationship.
Elevating Early Years Mathematics: Insights from a Global Teaching Fellowship
As a primary school teacher with ten years of classroom experience, I’ve had the opportunity to teach across year levels from Prep to Year 3. Throughout my teaching journey, I’ve developed a strong passion for ensuring that every student feels a sense of success in the classroom and equally, that every teacher feels confident and equipped to deliver high-quality lessons. Over time, I’ve become increasingly interested in how we can bring greater consistency and clarity to the way we teach…
Innovation at TGS: Preparing Boys for a Future of Possibilities
This commitment is reflected in how, for generations, our Old Boys have maintained strong connections with the School and their region, demonstrating a dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world. Having students who are able to think critically and evolve with technology will prepare them better for the workforce. Honouring the Past, Preparing for the Future The Grammar 150 celebrations this year offer a special opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions of our…
75 Years of Rivalry and Respect
This year’s match holds special meaning, as it marks 75 years since the very first O’Callaghan Cup clash in 1950. Among those who remember the early days is Malcolm Powell, a proud TGS Old Boy (1948-52) who played fullback for the First XV in 1951. Malcolm, now in his nineties, still vividly recalls the thrill of those early games. “I watched the first Cup from the sidelines, I was in the Thirds that year,” Malcolm recalls. The fiercest of rivals but the greatest of friends “Downlands won that…
Our Sesquicentenary
The day was filled with reflection, celebration and a deep sense of connection to the generations who have shaped the School’s legacy. From the opening of a time capsule sealed in 1975, to a Sesquicentenary Assembly that honoured our roots and looked to the future, the occasion was a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the TGS community. And of course there was cake! A Message Across Time: Opening the 1975 Time Capsule
Better Together - 2025 IBSC Conference
With its global network of over 300 member schools spanning more than 20 countries, the IBSC advocates for educational opportunities that focus on the holistic development of young men. This year, the IBSC Annual Conference was hosted by Belmont Hill School in Boston, United States, where teachers, school leaders and experts in boys' education gathered under the inspiring theme of "Better Together". Toowoomba Grammar School was proudly represented by Mr Luke Rawle, Ms Abby Varley and Mr Henry…
Reliving the Past, Shaping the Future
Mr Nicholas Hess has been a coach for both rugby and tennis and a boarding supervisor after he finished Year 12 His connection to the School runs deep, from the friendships he formed as a student to his dedication now as a Boarding House Assistant and long-standing member of the Old Boys’ Association (OBA). TGS has had a lasting impact on his life, and he has been only too willing to give back to the place that he loves so much. “There’s something special about being part of the Blue and Gold,”…
Never Give Up
Six years ago, after experiencing ongoing muscle weakness, he was given a life-changing diagnosis - Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2i (LGMD2i). Basically, Matt’s body doesn’t produce the chemical substance, Ribitol which is crucial for muscle function. He was told there is no treatment or cure, that he would be wheelchair bound in five to ten years and require oxygen, with the likelihood of an early death. But Matt would not accept that fate. Instead, he took up the fight – not just for…
