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.

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 commitment to military training and discipline. Despite various challenges, including financial difficulties and government policies, the Cadet Unit has persevered, reflecting the School's steadfast dedication to honouring its history and values.

Since the formation of the School in 1875, Old Boys and staff have fought in every global conflict and United Nations Peacekeeping Missions including:

The School's Old Hall houses several Rolls of Honour, commemorating those who served and those who paid the supreme sacrifice. During World War I, 388 Old Boys enlisted, with 66 making the ultimate sacrifice. In World War II, 1364 Old Boys, staff and trustees volunteered, with 125 losing their lives. TGS has the distinction of having supplied a truly significant number of Generals to the Australian Army compared with many other secondary school institutions.

The Mothers' Memorial: A Sacred Place

The Mothers' Memorial in Toowoomba stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the community's sons and daughters. Commissioned by the women of Toowoomba and unveiled in 1922, the Memorial has been the focal point of ANZAC Day services for decades. It serves as a sacred place for relatives to connect with their loved ones who paid the ultimate price for freedom and justice.

The dedication on the Memorial reads: "To the memory of those gallant boys who gave their lives in the Great War, 1914-18 for the sake of freedom and justice. Their name liveth forever." Additional slabs with names from World War II and the Korean War were added in 1955. The Memorial's location, chosen for its historical significance as a place of military recruiting and commemoration, has become a central part of Toowoomba's ANZAC Day traditions.

The Evolution of ANZAC Day Services

Over the years, the format of ANZAC Day services has evolved, but the core values of courage, endurance, sacrifice and mateship remain unchanged. From the first formal service in 1922 to the introduction of the Dawn Service in 1947, these commemorations have grown to include various community groups, reflecting the collective spirit of remembrance.

The institution of the 'Torch Ceremony' and 'Fade Away Ceremony' in 1947 added unique elements to the Toowoomba ANZAC Service. The Torch, symbolising the passing of remembrance from one generation to the next, was first handed to a member of the TGS Cadet Unit, Cadet-Lieutenant Lucas. These ceremonies have become integral parts of the ANZAC Day services, emphasising the continuity of memory and respect across generations.

The Role of Toowoomba Grammar School

TGS has played a significant role in these services, with its Cadet Unit often forming the Guard of Honour at the Mothers' Memorial. This tradition, maintained for 95 years, underscores the School's commitment to honouring its Old Boys and staff who served in global conflicts. The involvement of TGS in ANZAC Day services is a source of pride for the School and the broader Toowoomba community.

Photographic evidence from the Toowoomba Grammar School Magazine of 1941 confirms the presence of Grammar Cadets on guard at the Mothers' Memorial, a tradition that has continued to this day. Despite changes in uniform regulations, such as the 2015 ban on handling .303 rifles in public, the school has adapted by wearing World War I re-enactment uniforms. This adaptation ensures that the visual and symbolic aspects of the Guard of Honour are preserved.

Community Involvement

The participation of community groups such as the Boy Scouts, Red Cross, Girl Guides and community bands has enriched ANZAC Day services over the years. These groups, alongside ex-servicemen and women, current servicemen and women and cadets, ensure that the legacy of ANZAC Day is passed down to future generations.

The community's involvement dates back to the early days when mothers would lay wreaths on graves and memorials. The inclusion of various community organisations in the services has been documented since 1927, highlighting the collective effort to honour and remember. The first Dawn Service, as we know it today, was held in 1947, debunking earlier myths about its origins. This service, along with the Remembrance Services held at the Toowoomba Cemetery and the Gardens of Remembrance, underscores the community's commitment to honouring the fallen.

Conclusion

As we prepare for ANZAC Day 2025, we reflect on the enduring traditions and the significant contributions of Toowoomba Grammar School and the broader community. The Mothers' Memorial remains a sacred spot, a place where we honour those who died for us. Recognition must also be given to the ex-servicemen and women, current servicemen and women and the various community organisations that have participated in ANZAC services over the years.

Lest we forget.