As a School community, we are proud to stand together in recognition of National Reconciliation Week (NRW).

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 struggles and strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we also look forward to unity, and the promise of a future shaped by mutual understanding.

“This week, our School has come together in meaningful ways to reflect, learn and act.”
Mr Scott Gale, Indigenous Education Coordinator

National Reconciliation Week Assembly

Our School Assembly was a moment of celebration, respect and leadership.

Led by Year 12 First Nations students, Kainen Beezley and Tallen Robinson, the assembly focussed on the theme 'Bridging Now to Next' and what it means for our School and our nation.

A highlight of the assembly was a video, where students and staff shared their perspectives on reconciliation. Through honest and thoughtful responses, this encourages all of us to think deeply about how we can be part of the journey forward.

We are also incredibly proud to announce that Kainen Beezley will be honoured as the Yalari Captain for 2025. Kainen’s leadership and voice are vital to ensuring that our School continues to grow as a place of inclusion, respect and cultural understanding. At today’s Assembly he was recognised not only for his individual achievements, but his commitment to reconciliation in our School and beyond.

Whole School Reflection Activity

Next week, all students and staff will participate in a School-wide reflection, taking time to consider:

  • What reconciliation means to each of us
  • What our School is currently doing to support reconciliation
  • What actions we can take each day to create lasting change.

This activity reinforces the idea that reconciliation is not just a one-week event, but something we commit to as individuals and as a community, every day.

In the words of this year’s NRW theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next’ is about carrying the lessons of the past as we move forward, stronger and more united. Reconciliation is not always easy, and the journey has not always been straight. But each step we take, as a School and as a nation, helps bridge the space between where we’ve been and where we are going.

Custom-designed jerseys

Toowoomba Grammar School is proud to announce that the First XV Rugby team will wear a special one-off competitive uniform featuring Indigenous artwork during their trial games on Saturday, 7 June 2025. This unique occasion coincides with National Reconciliation Week and reflects our commitment to recognising and celebrating First Nations culture within our School community.

These custom-designed jerseys will be worn exclusively for this trial match, symbolising a meaningful gesture of respect and unity. The inclusion of First Nations artwork in our sporting uniforms marks another important milestone, particularly for the 51 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who are valued members of the TGS community.

The design on the jersey's centres around the Toowoomba Grammar School campus as a place of learning and storytelling. The flowing lines radiating from the centre represent the individual journeys our students and staff take to and from their home communities, a powerful symbol of connection, identity and shared purpose.

This week, we reflect and most importantly, we move forward together.


Latest Blog

Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 23 Oct 2025

When School days become years of Mateship, Growth and Unforgettable Memories

Yesterday’s Awards Assembly for our senior cohort saw lashings of pride, reflection and a time for parents and caregivers to savour the very nearness of graduation after years of growth and grit. As the boys prepare for their final external exams and the much-anticipated Formal, this gathering marked the beginning of their final chapter at Toowoomba Grammar School. The assembly featured a moving reel that traced their growth from wide-eyed Junior School boys to confident young men. There were…

Read More
Teaching & Learning
/
Friday, 17 Oct 2025

Japan: A Journey of Discovery, Culture and Connection

For 30 students and four staff members from Toowoomba Grammar School, the recent Japan Cultural and Technology Tour was a vibrant tapestry of tradition, innovation and transformation. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, this immersive experience offered students a unique lens through which to view the world. The Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Read More
Stewardship
/
Friday, 10 Oct 2025

TGS Puts Boys’ Online Safety First with Global EdTech Honour

This year, Toowoomba Grammar School was honoured at the Global EdTech Awards, becoming the only Australian school to receive recognition in this category of the prestigious international program. While the category - Best Network Manager - may not often make headlines, it celebrates the quiet achievers who empower learning, protect students and enable innovation. Arthur C. Clarke once said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” If that’s true, then network…

Read More
Grammar 150
/
Friday, 19 Sept 2025

Ompelliargo - Episode 2 - School House: A Gothic Revival at the Heart of TGS

School House in 1907 Constructed in 1875, School House is more than just a structure - it’s a symbol of the community’s commitment to education and a cornerstone of the School’s heritage. Designed by Toowoomba architect Willoughby Powell and built by local craftsman John William Garget, the building reflects the Gothic Revival style, a design language that blends classical proportions with pointed arches, intricate fretwork and a sense of grandeur. Heritage architect Ms Stephanie Keays, a…

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 11 Sept 2025

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…

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 04 Sept 2025

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.

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Thursday, 28 Aug 2025

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…

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Thursday, 21 Aug 2025

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…

Read More
Old Boys
/
Thursday, 14 Aug 2025

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…

Read More