The Grammar Boy: TGS Character Cast in Bronze for All Time

Unveiled on Friday, 7 November 2025, this new statue is more than a work of art. It is a symbol of the enduring character that has shaped Toowoomba Grammar School for 150 years.

The ceremony began with the ringing of the School House bell, it’s a sound many current students were hearing for the first time but one that may just have stirred memories for some of the Old Boys in attendance. As Headmaster Dr John Kinniburgh remarked in his address, “Today is a special occasion… one I’ve been looking forward to the most.”

Joined by Mr Bronte Smith (Chair, G150 Committee), Mr Andrew Webster (President, Parents and Friends’ Association) and Mr Trent Raymond (Vice-President, Old Boys’ Association, representing Mr Simon Cook), Dr Kinniburgh led the unveiling of the statue. A special part of our G150 celebrations, it is a collaborative gift from the Parents and Friends’ Association, the Old Boys’ Association and the School.

The statue’s concept, Dr Kinniburgh shared, was born from a 2023 conversation between Mr Smith and our Deputy Headmaster, Mr John Anderson, about the defining qualities of a Grammar boy.

The statue’s outstretched hand is no accident. It is a gesture of welcome, respect and friendship. “The statue is a reflection of you,” Dr Kinniburgh told the students. “A typical Grammar Boy: welcoming, polite, respectful. That is you and that is Grammar.”

Crafted by sculptor Liam Hardy and Marios Hrniciarik of Sculpt Studios, the statue is rich in detail from the blazer and hat to the feeling that he’s looking you in the eyes, a mark of respect when he greets you. Positioned on the Promenade in front of School House, it stands at the heart of the School’s journey. “Statues are silent storytellers,” said Dr Kinniburgh. “They don’t speak, but they remind. They don’t move, but they guide.”

In a delightful twist that blends tradition with a touch of humour, the Grammar Boy has officially been enrolled at Toowoomba Grammar School, he even has a real student number. Dr and Mrs Kinniburgh have graciously accepted the role of his guardians, while Deputy Headmaster Mr John Anderson and his wife, Veronique are listed as emergency contacts. It’s really a fitting arrangement for a boy who will never be late, never miss a class and always wear his uniform impeccably. Though he may never sit an exam, he will stand as a quiet companion to those who do.

And in the short time he has been here, countless boys have already gone to greet him, peering though the windows of School House many staff have watched boys gather around before School, during morning tea and at lunch breaks. It’s been a spontaneous, heartfelt welcome to a new figure who represents the tradition of the last century and a half. He truly embodies all the hopes we hold for our Old Boys and current students alike: that they remember the lessons taught here when afar and asunder. He’ll be here no matter where they are, still setting the standard, simply being a good bloke, a likeable human. A hope we all have for our boys and men.

The Grammar Boy is fast becoming part of School tradition. Year 12s will pass him on their way to their final assembly. New students will walk past him on their first day. Sports teams may tap his hand for luck. “He is here to be part of your journey,” the Headmaster said.

As the sun catches the bronze of the Grammar Boy’s blazer in the afternoons - one can almost feel the weight of history and the lightness of hope. This is a statue not just to be seen, but to be felt, he’ll be a companion to generations of Grammar boys. If you haven’t already, we can’t wait for you to meet him.