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 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.

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.