Yalari Scholarships at TGS

Toowoomba Grammar School is proud to partner with Yalari, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing educational opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from regional, rural and remote communities across Australia.

Through this partnership, TGS supports young men to access a high-quality education within a culturally respectful and supportive boarding environment; empowering them to grow in confidence, identity and leadership.

Our Partnership with Yalari

Toowoomba Grammar School and The Glennie School were foundation partners of Yalari, welcoming the program’s first three students in 2006.

Today, the partnership has grown into a well-established and meaningful pathway, supporting First Nations students to thrive academically, culturally and personally within the School community.

Yalari now supports more than 250 students nationally, with around 50 new scholarships awarded each year. Its alumni network of nearly 600 graduates continues to grow, with former students pursuing university study, employment and further training.

What a Yalari Scholarship Provides

A Yalari scholarship offers full support for a student’s secondary education, including access to:

• A leading Australian boarding school experience
• Academic support and tailored learning pathways
• Pastoral care and wellbeing support
• Cultural connection and identity development
• Ongoing mentoring throughout their school journey

At TGS, this is complemented by our Indigenous Education Program, ensuring each student is supported holistically and feels a strong sense of belonging.

A Supportive Boarding Experience

Boarding plays an important role in the Yalari experience at Toowoomba Grammar School.

Students become part of a connected and supportive community where they are encouraged to develop independence, build friendships and engage fully in school life. Through structured support, mentoring and access to a wide range of opportunities, boys are empowered to grow both personally and academically during their time at TGS.

A Legacy of Opportunity

The story of Yalari is deeply connected to Toowoomba Grammar School through its Founder, Mr Waverley Stanley.

Growing up in Murgon, Waverley was awarded a scholarship to attend TGS (1980-84) thanks to the belief and encouragement of his teacher, Mrs Rosemary Bishop. This opportunity shaped his future and inspired a lifelong commitment to providing the same opportunities to other Indigenous students.

In 2005, Waverley established Yalari and the Rosemary Bishop Indigenous Education Scholarships, creating pathways for young people across Australia to access quality education and achieve their potential.

Today, his vision continues to impact hundreds of students and families, creating generational change through education.

The 80–84 Scholarship

As part of this legacy, the 80–84 Scholarship was established by a group of TGS Old Boys who attended the School between 1980 and 1984.

These alumni played a role in supporting Mr Stanley in the early stages of Yalari and remain committed to creating opportunities for future generations of First Nations students.

Through this scholarship, they continue to honour their connection to the School and contribute to the growth and success of the Yalari program at TGS.

Strengthening Cultural Identity and Community

At Toowoomba Grammar School, Yalari students are encouraged to take pride in their heritage and share their culture with others.

Through participation in cultural programs, community engagement and everyday school life, students contribute to a broader understanding of First Nations histories, perspectives and traditions across the School community.

This shared learning environment supports all boys at TGS to develop respect, awareness and a deeper understanding of Australia’s cultural heritage.

Discover More

We welcome families to learn more about the opportunities available through Yalari and how Toowoomba Grammar School supports every student to thrive.