Clancy Sinnamon (2009–2013) is more than just a filmmaker. He’s a chronicler of moments, a weaver of stories and an inspiration for aspiring creatives, particularly those in regional communities.

From his days as a boarding student at Toowoomba Grammar School, where he first dipped his toes into the world of filming GPS sporting events, to his current roles as sports documentarian and founder of the Outback Film Club, Clancy’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.

Establishing Outback Film Club has been a real triumph

The echoes of school war cries reverberating around the Chandler Aquatic Centre in 2011 marked the start of Clancy’s cinematic journey. Capturing that moment ignited a spark within him, a passion for storytelling through the lens of a camera. Encouraged by mentors like Student Officer Mr Matthew Harrison, who nurtured his talent and pushed him to perfect his craft, Clancy embarked on a journey leading him to Bond University, where he found a community of like-minded individuals who shared his love for film.

Clancy got to work with his childhood idol, Former Australian Cricketer Matt Hayden

Clancy’s career took flight during a globetrotting stint filming the Australian men’s national cricket team, a dream opportunity for a cricket fanatic like himself. However, the onset of COVID-19 in 2020 brought his adventures to an abrupt halt. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, Clancy found new avenues to explore. He channelled his energy into creating his first feature film, The Smiths, a project that showcased his talent and marked a homecoming to TGS — the original concept for the film was shown at Assembly 10 years earlier.

But Clancy’s ambitions extended beyond his career aspirations; he was determined to pay it forward and inspire the next generation of rural filmmakers. This drive led him back to his roots. He held workshops at Toowoomba Grammar School and eventually founded the Outback Film Club. Through this initiative, Clancy has brought the magic of filmmaking to remote communities across Queensland, empowering over 100 students to explore their creative potential.

Helping students in the film industry is a legacy Clancy wants to leave

For Clancy, filmmaking is more than just a career. It’s a calling, a passion that fuels his resilience in the face of challenges. Whether he’s documenting the Australian men’s national cricket team, making feature films or mentoring young filmmakers in regional Australia, Clancy’s unwavering dedication to his craft serves as an example for aspiring creatives everywhere. As he eagerly awaits the release of Season 3 of The Test on Amazon Prime, Clancy reflects on his journey with gratitude and humility, “I’d like to think that after going through all those difficult times, I’ve come out the other side more resilient.”

Clancy advises students, “Keep doing what you love, and the opportunities will present themselves.” He believes wholeheartedly that non-traditional careers can pay off, “I’m sure that if my teachers reflect on my career choice, they’d know I’ve taken the right path.”

“Keep doing what you love and the opportunities will present themselves.”
— Clancy Sinnamon

He believes wholeheartedly that non-traditional careers can pay off, “I’m sure that if my teachers reflect on my career choice, they’d know I’ve taken the right path.” In the tapestry of Clancy Sinnamon’s life, each frame tells a story of resilience, determination and unwavering passion — a story that continues to inspire countless others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they may lead.


Latest Blog

Sports & Activities
/
Thursday, 05 June 2025

Pioneering Excellence: Launching TGS's Athletic Development Program

Our Athletic Development Program represents a paradigm shift in how schools nurture sporting talent—combining cutting-edge technology, evidence-based practices and a whole-person philosophy that prepares young men for success beyond the scoreboard.

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 29 May 2025

Reflecting on the Past, Walking Forward Together

This week is an important time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to reflect on how we can each contribute to achieving reconciliation. The theme for NRW 2025, 'Bridging Now to Next,' calls on us to honour the past, acknowledge the present and actively build a better future. It reminds us that reconciliation is not a destination, it is a journey guided by reflection, respect and a shared commitment to walking together. As we look back on the…

Read More
Blog Thursday, 22 May 2025

A Bright Start to our Rising and Leading Series

More than 150 members of the Toowoomba and Darling Downs community joined us to hear from leading demographer and data commentator Simon Kuestenmacher, whose presentation sparked fresh thinking about the decade ahead.

Read More
Grammar 150
/
Thursday, 15 May 2025

Women of Grammar Luncheon

A Tribute to the Heart of the School Originally scheduled for International Women's Day but rescheduled (thanks, Cyclone Alfred!) to the eve of Mother's Day, the timing felt serendipitous. It was a day to honour the women—past and present—whose quiet strength, tireless support and enduring love have shaped the School's legacy and the lives of its boys for 150 years. The marquee was beautifully appointed for a day of merriment

Read More
Old Boys
/
Thursday, 08 May 2025

Lachlan Stuart's Marathon Feat

Mr Stuart will return to TGS again for the event held on Wednesday, 28 May to support the Year 12's significant fundraising G150 Gift Run event. The boys are running 1500km in a relay format to honour a 1968 TGS Interact Club fundraising project that will help upgrade the original School gates on Herries Street, along with raising funds for the Nerve Connection Foundation.

Read More
Old Boys
/
Thursday, 01 May 2025

Remembering Private Colin Stirling, a TGS Old Boy (1899-1900)

This was the headline that screamed out on the pages of the Toowoomba Chronicle and Darling Downs General Advertiser on Thursday, 15 August 1901. With ANZAC Day just last Friday, this week we continue to honour many of our Old Boys who gave the ultimate sacrifice including Private Colin Stirling, a TGS Old Boy (1899-1900) and our first former student lost in the Boer War. The story began with: “News was received on Tuesday afternoon that in an engagement at Kopjesfontein, on the 6th instant,…

Read More
Community Engagement
/
Thursday, 24 Apr 2025

Honouring Tradition: Toowoomba Grammar School and ANZAC Day

This year marks 98 years since TGS and the 13 Army Cadet Unit (Toowoomba Collective Unit) first participated in ANZAC Services in Toowoomba. The School's commitment to these services is a testament to its deep-rooted military traditions and the enduring spirit of remembrance. Mounties out the front of School House in 1908. A Legacy of Service Toowoomba Grammar School's military traditions date back to its early days. The School's Cadet Unit, formed in 1892, has been a cornerstone of its…

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 03 Apr 2025

Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week - Developing Good Character Beyond the Classroom

We offer a range of enrichment activities for our boys, but the last week of Term 1 is a very special opportunity for all of our Senior School students. It's Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week, which provides age-appropriate physical challenges in a safe, well-supervised environment. Activities on the various camps may include ropes courses, rock climbing, bodyboarding, surfing, mountain biking and canoeing. The aim is to foster a love of the outdoors and an appreciation of the environment.…

Read More
People
/
Thursday, 27 Mar 2025

Stories behind key TGS staff helping shape our students

It was my great privilege to join TGS as Head of House - Boyce Boarding in 2024. The opportunity to lead these young men of character on their TGS journey carries great weight but is also enormously exciting. Embarking upon this project alongside my wife Meg as Boyce Boarding House Manager strengthens the team further. I am hopeful that we will demonstrate to the boys how positive relationships can foster a warm and supportive environment. I know that many of our boys are familiar with strong…

Read More