Honouring Legacy and Love: The G150 Women of Grammar Luncheon

A Tribute to the Heart of the School

Originally scheduled for International Women's Day but rescheduled (thanks, Cyclone Alfred!) to the eve of Mother's Day, the timing felt serendipitous. It was a day to honour the women—past and present—whose quiet strength, tireless support and enduring love have shaped the School's legacy and the lives of its boys for 150 years.

A Warm Welcome and Musical Grace

Guests were welcomed with canapés and refreshments on the Pavilion lawns, serenaded by the elegant strings of Will Perry, Joshua Green and Nathan Green, under the guidance of Mrs Teresa Brix.

The formalities began with a moving musical performance by Year 11 student Reuben Kruger and Year 12 Senior Boarder Prefect Rupeni Baravilala, setting a heartfelt tone for the afternoon. This seasoned musical duo was more than surprised by the effect Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline had on a marquee full of women.

While the event wasn't directly about the boys, it was a celebration of the women who have nurtured, taught, guided and supported them—mothers, teachers, staff and volunteers who form the School's emotional and cultural backbone.

Mrs Marita Ramia, a proud Grammar mother and communications professional and Arlie Felton-Taylor, also a Grammar mum, TGS Content Coordinator and former journalist were the event’s emcees.

They welcomed guests and acknowledged the efforts of the Grammar 150 Committee and generous sponsors. Their deep ties to the School and passion for storytelling made them perfect hosts for the afternoon's conversations.

Voices of Gratitude from the Boys

Guests were treated to touching reflections from current students, who shared what the Women of Grammar meant to them. For 150 years, women have played a crucial role in shaping Toowoomba Grammar School, influencing its identity and foundational story.

Rupeni Baravilala – Senior Boarder Prefect
"The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about any Woman of Grammar would probably be 'Mum'. Being a Woman of Grammar would definitely be no easy task to complete. I know for certain that even at home, I would be completely lost without my mum. Having that role model in school and in boarding is a reassurance that all the boys love. To every Woman of Grammar past and present, we all thank you for your work you do, whether that is for everyone to see, or behind the scenes for us."

Year 11 student Ruben Kruger shared his sentiments
"What comes to my mind when thinking about women of Grammar is the huge role that they play at school, which can sometimes go unnoticed by the boys. But without this female impact, the School wouldn't be the same. These role models in our lives are what I believe shapes the boys of Grammar into who we are today."

Headmaster's Heartfelt Homage to Women of Grammar

Their contributions are integral to the School's achievements and form a central part of the legacy upon which Grammar has built its reputation. While established for boys, it has always been the women—teachers, staff, mothers, partners, sisters and supporters—who have made an indelible contribution to Grammar's character and traditions.

Throughout history, there have been countless examples of extraordinary women who have worked alongside the young men whose spirit and achievements have defined the School's identity and purpose.

Pioneering Educators

During the war years, many women were appointed to the teaching staff. In fact, during World War II, there were more female teachers than male.

A boarder from 1940 to 1944 wrote: "During the war years, some of our esteemed teachers became instructors in the Army or Air Force. By 1942, we had four women teachers out of seven, and this was a departure for Grammar. This is not to say they were not good teachers. It was just different for us."

In 1973, Mrs Pauline Peters broke new ground as the first full-time female teacher at Grammar, teaching Commercial Subjects and serving as editor of the School Magazine.

Mrs Janet Meibusch became the first full-time female teacher since WWII, teaching Japanese, English and Geography until 1994.

Mrs Lynnette Yeabsley, who joined in 1988, has been a trailblazer. She became the first Female Day Housemaster in 1996, the first female Head of Department (Foreign Languages) in 2001 and led French language and cultural tours to New Caledonia and France. In 2006, she was appointed as the first female Director of Pastoral Care and continues to serve the School with distinction.

Legends of Loyalty

Judy Gillies is the longest-serving employee in the School's history, with 54 years of service (1958–2012) and continued volunteer work in the Museum since 2013—totalling 67 years of contribution.

Mrs Denise Miller served for 40 years (1967–2006) as Secretary to the Board of Trustees and later as the inaugural Curator of the School Museum.

Both Judy and Denise were formally recognised as Honorary Old Boys in 1986 by the Old Boys' Association. Later, Ellen Morosini and Jennifer Fordyce were also awarded this honour.

A Modern Pillar

Mrs Cassandra Smith, who joined TGS in 1999, has served three Headmasters as Executive Assistant. Her professionalism, loyalty and passion for the School are unmatched.

Stories of Strength and Service

A highlight of the luncheon was a panel conversation with four remarkable Women of Grammar.

• Mrs Rachel McLennan – current boarder parent who navigated COVID19 living across the border from her boarder son
• Mrs Lynnette Yeabsley – beloved French and English teacher of 37 years and the first female Day Housemaster
• Mrs Judy Gillies – 54 years of service in the School office and ongoing volunteer, Honourary TGS Old Boy
• Mrs Denise Miller – Museum Curator and Grammar family member since 1967, Honourary TGS Old Boy

Their stories, shared with grace and humour, offered a rich tapestry of memories, milestones and maternal care that have shaped the School's culture across generations.

It was beautifully facilitated by co-host of the luncheon, Mrs Marita Ramia, who applied her skills as a renowned journalist perfectly.

A Legacy in Gold and Gemstones

The afternoon culminated in the unveiling of a stunning legacy piece: the TGS 150 Jo Kinniburgh Brooch, designed by Old Boy Lachlan Hogan (TGS 2003–08).

The entire piece is constructed in 18k yellow and white gold with natural Australian diamonds and gemstones, the logo in 18k yellow gold with natural yellow diamonds and the arms of the brooch in 18k white gold. The piece features natural blue sapphires set in the chevron flanks with baguette white diamonds adding sparkle. The TGS crest is infilled with blue enamel to emulate the TGS 150-year logo.

It was designed and crafted by Mr Hogan at Hogan’s Family Jewellers, itself celebrating a major milestone of 80 years of business in 2025.

The brooch will be worn by the Headmaster or his wife on formal occasions, symbolising the enduring influence of women at Grammar and will be passed down to the next Headmaster or Headmistress of our School.

A Toast to the Future

As the luncheon drew to a close, guests were invited to continue the celebration at George Banks, with a complimentary glass of bubbles and the camaraderie of a community bound by tradition, gratitude and shared purpose.

In honouring the women who have shaped its past and continue to guide its future, Toowoomba Grammar School reaffirmed a truth that has echoed through its 150-year history. Behind every great boy is a community of extraordinary women.

Post Script: Sentiments and a Poem from our Deputy Headmaster

With GPS tennis coaching duties and a late bus back from Brisbane Grammar School, our Deputy Headmaster Mr John Anderson just missed the formalities of the luncheon and joined us too late to say his piece.

He'd penned both some wonderful sentiments and even wrote a poem:

"When considering the Women of Grammar, I am continually inspired by how they bring heart and soul to our School community each day. In countless moments - whether guiding a struggling student with patience, celebrating a breakthrough with genuine joy, or offering quiet encouragement during challenging times - they demonstrate an innate understanding of what our boys need to thrive.

These remarkable women have an extraordinary ability to connect with our young men, helping them build confidence, discover their strengths and navigate their journey through Grammar with wisdom and care.

I am equally moved by the dedication of our boys' mothers, grandmothers, sisters and aunties who form the backbone of our extended Grammar family. Their commitment to their sons' education and personal growth creates a foundation of support that resonates throughout our community. Time and again, I witness how they nurture not just their own sons but reach out to support other boys in times of both celebration and challenge.

Together, these women - both within our School walls and in our broader community - create an environment where our boys can flourish. Their wisdom, compassion and strength leave an indelible mark on our School's legacy and the character of every Grammar boy.

So, on behalf of every Grammar boy, current and old and the entire School community, I thank the Women of Grammar."

The Women of Grammar

They wipe the tears, they cheer the wins,
They find lost hats (and missing twins!)
The Grammar women, day by day,
Keep the chaos far away.

"Is that mud or chocolate cake?"
They know which questions not to ask.
From first grade giggles, teenage grunts,
To proud graduations and silly stunts.

Mums pack lunches, check for tests,
While teachers brave the classroom mess.
Both wondering, as they catch their breath,
"How'd socks alone cause so much death?"

Boys sprint and tumble, learn and grow,
Ask "why" until we don't quite know.
Yet Grammar women stand their ground—
Where boys need love, they're always around.

So here's to those who shape these lads
(And text their sports scores to their dads!)
The heart of Grammar, tried and true:
The women, who help see greatness through.