Family connections is a vital aspect of our Toowoomba Grammar School boarding program that we hold close to our heart. Our Heads of House regularly make the effort to visit our boarding families so they have a better understanding of our boarders' lives, the challenges and experiences, and staff always enjoy the warmth and hospitality provided by families. Head of Corfe House, Henry White and his wife, Samantha recently spent a weekend with the Acton family on Dalgonally Station near Julia Creek, thoroughly enjoying the memorable experience that Henry has shared below...
The trip was certainly an eye-opener for both of us and, for me, as a Head of House - Boarding, the experience was invaluable – perhaps one of the most formative professional experiences I’ve had to date. This was the first opportunity I’ve had to step into the home of one of my boarders, live with them and their family, and understand life on a remote property. I left Julia Creek with a profound sense of empathy for the experience of remote families, uncovering first-hand the trust that families need to have in boarding schools, the importance they place on effective communication between boarding houses and homes, and the value of real opportunities for connection.
Seeing ‘boys from the bush’ in action at home has also given me a much clearer insight into the challenges a boarder from a remote community must feel when transitioning into a boarding house. After hanging out with Tom and his brothers fishing, hunting, riding motorbikes and horses, it was clear that many boys in similar circumstances live with a great sense of freedom to explore and exercise their curiosity, much of which is somewhat stymied by the structure, routine, rules, and expectations of a middle-years boarding house. Now, please let me clarify – I am still of the opinion that clearly established expectations, routines, and age-appropriate discipline is fundamental to boarding and the development of good character – this is my responsibility to uphold and I intend to maintain this standard – but I now have a completely different point of view regarding the level of independence and trust that can be placed in a boarder within a boarding house, knowing the level of independence and trust they are given at home.
Perhaps most importantly, our trip to Dalgonally and our time with the Acton family have taught us, first- hand, the immense value of establishing positive relationships with boarding families. When working within the pastoral sphere, building connections with boys and their families is inherently part of the job. However, I fear that sometimes, when donning my ‘Head of House’ cap, my relationships with our boarding families are limited to newsletter articles, administrative reminders, and the unfortunate call home about a behavioural concern or disciplinary matter. As such, I can’t thank Sarah and Philip enough for this opportunity; we arrived at Dalgonally for “a few nights with a boarding family”, and we left having stayed “a few nights with friends”. Thank you for bringing us into your home, for filling our bellies with amazing station meat, for teaching me how to crack a whip, for the useful advice about the best bait for catfish, and for letting us help butcher a bull!
- Henry White, Head of Corfe House
Latest Blog
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…
A Magical Collaboration - “Midnight: The Cinderella Musical”
A co-production between Toowoomba Grammar School and Fairholme College, this enchanting musical captivated audiences at the Empire Theatre for two nights in early June, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. A Story Brought to Life “Midnight” is a fresh take on the Cinderella story, featuring music and lyrics by John Foreman and Anthony Costanzo, with orchestrations by Anthony Barnhill and additional contributions from Kate Miller-Heidke. The book, written by Dean Murphy and Pip…
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.
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…
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.
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
