“Some of Theo’s teachers were mine, so it was lovely to reminisce on old times while also experiencing new things through his eyes.”— Nicholas Hess, TGS 1997-2001
For Nicholas Hess, Toowoomba Grammar School isn't just a place where he spent his school days, it’s a foundation for life, one that continues to influence him long after graduation.
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,” reflected Nicholas, who was a boarder in Taylor House from 1997-2001.
“You develop these bonds that last a lifetime. I still catch-up with some of my mates, and I bump into people who went to TGS in different facets of my life everywhere. Those connections and friends are the biggest thing for me.”
This sense of belonging is something Nicholas believes is unique to TGS. The friendships formed through shared experiences on the playing field and stage, in the classroom and in the boarding houses.
One of his favourite memories was playing for the First XV in the O’Callaghan Cup on Grammar Downlands Day in 2001. He missed playing half the game after breaking his thumb but recalls the thrill when Ashley Leeder (1997-2001) kicked the penalty right on full time for TGS to draw the game 24-all. It’s still considered one of TGS’s legendary matches.
For Nicholas, his relationship with the School didn’t end when he walked out of the gates in 2001. His return here, first as a coach (Rugby 2005-09 and Tennis 2007-09) and a Boarding Assistant (2007) then a member of the Old Boys’ Association committee from 2017, was a natural progression, a way to show gratitude for what the School and his parents had given him.
"My parents sacrificed a lot for me and my brother (Fraser 2002-06) to go here, and I just wanted to give back as a show of my appreciation for all they’ve done and what I experienced there," he shared.
And he has given back, not only through the TGSOBA, coaching and assisting in boarding, but drawing on his knowledge as a Financial Planner to start a financial literacy program for our students.
“It’s just an hour-long presentation, but it’s important. I teach the boys about budgeting, understanding tax, interest and the importance of being financially aware,” Nicholas explained.
“It’s basic stuff, but it sets them up for life.”
It was always a given that Nicolas would send his son Theo here (2022-24) which presented another dimension to this already strong Blue and Gold connection.
“It was great to be able to share similar experiences, despite our generational gap,” said Nicholas.
Now, with Theo pursuing his basketball career in the USA, Nicholas has more time on his hands and has answered TGS’s call for Boarding Assistants; he spends Friday nights or weekends guiding the young men he can relate to so well. That involvement on the frontline enhances his position on the TGS Old Boys’ Association.
“I like to see what’s happening behind the scenes,” explained Nicholas.
“It’s imperative that TGS maintains many of our old values and traditions, but it’s also important that we grow and move forward - I can help achieve that balance by being on the OBA.”
The OBA is a chance to relive the past, as well as shape the future of the School. Nicholas is passionate about encouraging other Old Boys to reconnect with TGS, either as Boarding Assistants, organising reunions, coaching/volunteering or joining the OBA committee.
“There’s always a place to come back to,” stated Nicholas.
“Even if it’s just supporting the boys at games, that’s a good start and you never know who you will bump into."
“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and it’s great to be able to give back.”
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