Throughout my whole life, I have always had a deep passion for writing.
I really think my enthusiasm began in the younger grades, when an annual writing competition encouraged all boys to think creatively. This was where I was first truly introduced to writing fiction. These competitions planted a seed of creativity in my mind that would later grow.
That seed first flourished in Years 5 and 6, when I wrote my first book with help from a friend called Sorcerer Termina. Then, in Year 7, I wrote both Ninth Age and, in the second half of the year, Forsaken Divinity, which was a direct result of reading Stephen King’s The Dark Tower and Ursula K. Le Guin’s A Wizard of Earthsea.
The Dark Tower and A Wizard of Earthsea are really some of the best books I have read, and they also really assisted my fantasy writing. I love reading stories like these as they help me gain inspiration to write and provide a simple starting point from which my stories can develop and create their own identity.
My next idea for a novel (which I picked up walking to school) is called Psyche. The story is set in a fictional version of the Wild West and is centred around two psychics and their sense of justice in a twisted frontier of psychic abilities. I like to think of it as a Western with an interesting supernatural twist.
These stories would’ve never come into full realisation without the help of a huge group of supportive people who have assisted on my journey. Firstly, my mum always encouraged me and was willing to listen to my lunatic rants on story ideas I had come up with.
Additionally, Mrs MacFarlane, a Junior School teacher, always read and gave feedback on the stories I concocted. Moreover, the librarians Mr Crook, Mr Wilson and Miss Walsh, who bought my published books for the library, have all significantly contributed to my writing journey.
This is why I believe that outside support is massively important, and although I’m still developing my craft, my advice to anybody who is willing to pursue the fabulous art of writing is to believe in yourself and be grateful for those who believe in you.
Latest Blog
Where it Began
Two of the three books that Louis has published are tucked into the Fantasy section in the W.M. Dent Library I really think my enthusiasm began in the younger grades, when an annual writing competition encouraged all boys to think creatively. This was where I was first truly introduced to writing fiction. These competitions planted a seed of creativity in my mind that would later grow. That seed first flourished in Years 5 and 6, when I wrote my first book with help from a friend called…
A Steady Rhythm, Exceptional Results
When Henry Geise first picked up the clarinet in Year 4, playing an instrument was compulsory at his primary school; he simply gave it a go. What followed has been shaped less by a single decision and more by years of steady commitment. Henry’s love of clarinet started when he was around eight years old He started on clarinet and bass guitar at the same time, and those two instruments have remained his favourites despite trying piano and picking up acoustic guitar more recently. “I would have…
2026 College Baudoux Visit
Early this term, we were delighted to host 24 students and two teachers for a week-long exchange, an experience made possible through the generosity of TGS families and our valued partnership with Fairholme College. What makes this exchange so special is the richness of the cultural experience. While 15 boys were immersed in daily life at TGS, the nine girls attended Fairholme College, allowing both schools to play an active role. Across the week, students participated in lessons, school…
Beyond Achievement: Cultivating Humanity in Boys’ Education
Mark Oliphant, Head of Senior School and Acting Deputy Headmaster and Luke Rawle, Head of Teacher Learning presenting in Adelaide The International Boys’ School Coalition Australasian Regional Conference was co-hosted by Prince Alfred College and St Peter’s College in Adelaide, South Australia between 3-5 May. The conference theme of Cultivating Humanity: A Compelling Responsibility in Boys’ Education drew over 150 educators from boys’ schools across Australia and New Zealand. Many of the…
Echoes of Home: Boarding is who we are
It's there in the early mornings before the day has properly begun, in the noise of boys lining up in the dining hall and in the easy banter that carries them back from sport in the afternoon. Just as often, it shows up in the quieter moments, the ones that tend to go unnoticed at the time but, slowly and steadily, shape who they become. There's also a shared understanding that doesn't need much explaining. What good rainfall means after a long dry spell, or how strong cattle prices on a Friday…
Fiji Rugby Tour 2026: Lessons in Adaptability and Gratitude
Set against the stunning backdrop of Fiji, the tour, held from 3 to 10 April 2026, blended high-level competition, cultural immersion and unexpected challenges. Two demanding matches against local opposition tested adaptability and resilience, while a late-season Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu forced significant changes to plans and schedules. Throughout the disruption, the boys’ behaviour was exemplary, drawing praise from hosts and reinforcing the values at the heart of the program. Based in…
Musicians First, Teachers Always
When the lights came up on & Juliet at the Empire Theatre, more than 6,700 audience members were treated to a bold, high‑energy production backed by an extraordinary team of professional musicians. Among them were two familiar faces from Toowoomba Grammar School: Ms Teresa Brix and Mr Mark Chalmers. For the TGS community, their involvement in one of the region’s largest theatrical productions is something to celebrate, not simply as a professional achievement, but as a powerful reminder of…
Building Good Character
This commitment extends beyond the classroom into every aspect of School life, including programs that encourage our boys to reflect on who they are, how they treat others and the kind of men they hope to become. This week, students from Years 7 to 10 took part in two significant character and wellbeing programs delivered by Damon Joseph and Daniel Principe. Although different in design, both workshops reinforced the same message, that character is learned, practised and strengthened through…
Stateside Success: The Growing US College Pathway for TGS Boys
A Parent's Perspective: From Blue & Gold to Bowling Green For the TGS boys that take the trip to the United States, their pathways are diverse, but they share a common foundation: the support, discipline and belief built on the 52 acres that is our 150-year-old campus. For past TGS mum, Adele Spurgin, the journey from watching her boys run out in the blue and gold of Toowoomba Grammar School to seeing them play together in the orange and brown strip of Bowling Green State University’s…