Grammarian The
RGS PAST STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION WINTER EDITION 2021
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From the President In my time as President of The Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association, there have been moments which I have been very thankful to be a small part of. The School held the Distinguished Past Students Awards Dinner on 24 July and it was an honor to present the awards to winners on the evening, along with Distinguished Past Student Awards Committee Chair Steve Deaves. I think all attendees can say it was a wonderful evening, celebrating the achievements of the past students, who have achieved truly amazing things in their lives and careers. It was very special to present the Past Students’ Association Life Membership to Mrs Pam Drillis. Mrs Drillis taught myself, my brother and countless other students in her long and celebrated career at RGS. She was the former Head of Home Economics at The Rockhampton Grammar School until her retirement in 2015. Pam was one of just two female teaching staff when she started at RGS. Initially employed by Headmaster Mr Arthur Butler for a trial period of six weeks, and with two young children at home, Pam was quickly appointed full time after just three weeks. Pam arrived to two stoves not working, no kitchen power source and there were no teacher aides. Many trips were made to the supermarket to supply the ingredients for cooking. The Home Economics subject changed over Pam’s 32 years at the school, including Pam having the opportunity to teach cooking in the RGS Primary School. We continue to wish Pam all the best in her retirement and hope we all get to see her again very soon! In this report, I’d like to take this brief opportunity to introduce you to the other Management Committee Members: • Vice President, Robert South. • Secretary, Annie Belonogoff. • Treasurer, Nick Johnson. • Committee Member, Adrien Lang. • Committee Member, Ashleigh Harvey.
I also want to thank immediate Past President and Secretary Alison Payne for all her hard work and support through out the years. Her presence on the Association will be sorely missed. In 2020, we were forced to postpone many of our flagship events. However, we have taken this opportunity to continue working on projects and initiatives that the Past Students’ Association have undertaken. We are looking forward to establishing a past students’ mentorship and leadership programme, partnering past students with current students based on similar career paths. It is our aim that current students can seek tangible career advice through past students that hold distinguished careers in their chosen industries. The Association will also continue to host networking events for all school years in various cities. We are also looking forward to playing an active role in assisting the School in the identification of capital projects to benefit the broader school community and students of all ages. To find out about these and other Association initiatives, you are welcome to • Follow our Facebook page • Receive copies of either the AGM Presidents Report or Minutes from the Management Committee meetings which are once per month. • Or Email our Past Students Email address for an update - paststudents@rgs.qld.edu.au
Tom Birkbeck President (RGS 2009)
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Distinguished Past Students
RGS past students achievements acknowledged at annual awards dinner
Gary Larson RGS: 1983 - 1984 Distinguished Past Student
Rachel Downie RGS: 1985 - 1987 Distinguished Past Student
Rod Laver RGS: 1947 - 1949 Distinguished Past Student
Hugh Grant RGS: 1954 - 1957 CQ Community Contribution Award
Errol Payne RGS: 1958 - 1961 CQ Community Contribution Award
Gary Larson was born in Gladstone and during his boarding school days at The Rockhampton Grammar School he played in the centres for the Australian schoolboys rugby union team. With little offers from rugby union after school, Gary turned his focus to rugby league. Gary went on to play rugby league for Australia and Queensland along with club rugby league for the North Sydney Bears and Paramatta Eels in the NSWRL (NSW Rugby League) competition. Gary made his first grade debut for North Sydney in 1987 before cementing his place in the first grade forward pack in 1989. His breakout season was in 1991, when Gary was rewarded with a call up to the Queensland State of Origin team. Gary played 24 consecutive games for Queensland. Gary made his Australian debut in 1995 in a TransTasman Test against New Zealand. He would play all three Tests to help the Kangaroos to a series win, a team that did not include Super League players of that year. Later that year he would also play in the Rugby League World Cup where Australia defeated England in the final, playing in front of 66,540 at Wembley Stadium in London. Gary played in nine Tests between 1995 and 1997. Gary also played a lead role in the North Sydney Bears resurgence. In 1991 he helped the club to the finals for the first time since 1982. Gary played 233 games for the North Sydney Bears and 17 games at Parramatta.
In 2020, Rachel Downie was awarded the Queensland Australian of the Year for her work with education and helping young people to say something when they see or experience harm. Twenty-five years ago Rachel became an educator to help young people flourish. After losing a Year 9 student to suicide, Rachel decided she needed to find a way to support young people to seek help for themselves and their peers. This led Rachel to developing and self-funding Stymie – an old-fashioned word for stop – to allow students to anonymously report harm without fear. Students use Stymie to report family violence, bullying, cyber-bullying, depression, illegal activity, harassment, self-harm, and harm to their communities. The Rockhampton Grammar School is a supporter of Stymie. “As a teacher I very quickly realised that there was no point in trying to educate kids if we couldn’t make them feel safe and loved and fulfilled - we have to nurture them into learning,’’ Rachel said. It was a teacher at RGS who inspired her to try and help the next generation of students - Mrs Johnson. Rachel says the Year 10 Art teacher “really connected with me as a human”. “She saw a side of me that needed something beyond the curriculum,” Rachel said. “I really flourished through her support and I felt really inspired, I wanted to do that for other kids.”
Rod Laver was born into a tennis family in Rockhampton, the third of four children to Roy Laver and Melba Roffey. A tennis court was always a familiar feature in every house the Laver family lived in. Despite his small build, Rod was not discouraged and showed promise on the court from a young age. During his early school years at RGS, the School’s yearbook reported on the Minor Tennis team as “having more than ordinary ability and their future will be watched with interest.” (Capricornus Yearbook, 1949). At 15 years of age, Rod turned his focus to playing tennis and in 1956, won the US Junior Championship. Rod Laver would go on to become the first male tennis player to win two calendar year Grand Slams - with wins at Wimbledon, the Australian, French and US Opens in both 1962 and again in 1969. Rod was ranked number one in the world in nine different years and ended his career with 200 singles titles, including 11 Grand Slam titles. Widely considered one of the greatest players in the history of tennis, Rod also represented Australia in Davis Cup, helping the team to win five titles. Rod Laver’s blend of aggressive play and rapid movement made him one of the first modern players in the sport. In 1981, Rod was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and in 2000 was bestowed the honour of having centre court at Melbourne Park renamed Rod Laver Arena.
Hugh Grant was a Head Day Boy and Prefect at The Rockhampton Grammar School in 1957. Raised in Rockhampton, Hugh was the recipient of the best exemplar of the school motto and was also the Archer Cup athletics winner in both 1956 and 1957. These school accolades and leadership opportunities would pave the way for Hugh’s career, both in the legal profession and in supporting local community organisations. In 1964, following university studies, Hugh was admitted as a solicitor in the State of Queensland. In 1966, Hugh joined the Grant & Simpson Lawyers partnership. This was the start of a long and rewarding career in the legal profession with Hugh working at Grant & Simpson Lawyers until his retirement in 2006. Hugh was a Member of the Council of Queensland Law Society from 1983 - 1997. During that time he was also President of the Society in 1996 and 1997. From 1991 - 1998, Hugh would also serve as a Board Member on the Queensland Law Foundation, a charitable trust. In the 1990s, Hugh was also a member of the Board of Iwasaki Foundation, another charitable foundation, and in 2009 was appointed Chairman of the Iwasaki Foundation. In 2008, Hugh received an Order of Australia Medal for Services to Law and the Community.
Emeritus Professor Errol Payne has made a substantial contribution to the development of higher education in Central Queensland. His commitment started in 1967 when, as a foundation staff member, he commenced in the role of assistant chemistry lecturer with the then fledgling Queensland Institute of Technology (Capricornia). QIT (Capricornia) progressed through several institutional changes to become CQUniversity Australia we know it today. Professor Payne was Dean of the University’s Faculty of Applied Science from 1990 until 1997, and Foundation Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Health and Sciences from 1998 until 2005. From these senior roles, he played an important part in the development of the other CQU campuses in Bundaberg, Gladstone and Mackay. Following his 39 years of service as both a teacher and senior academic leader at CQUniversity , and its predecessors, Professor Payne’s achievements continued as a volunteer with the Australian Country Hospital Heritage Association at the Rockhampton Heritage Village, and through the Errol and Berenice Payne 50th Anniversary Scholarship at CQUniversity. Professor Payne is also an Honorary Life Member of the Royal Australian Chemistry Institute. In 2019, Professor Payne was awarded the Rockhampton Regional Council Citizen of the Year honour.
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John Price RGS: 1981 - 1985 Outstanding Achiever Award
Pam Drillis RGS: 1983 - 2015 Honorary Life Membership
Raised in Rockhampton, John Price enjoyed Biology and English studies at RGS. During his school years John also won various debating and public speaking awards and in Year 12 received the Student Communicator of the Year Award. After completing school he hoped to pursue medicine or physiotherapy. However, he was accepted into an Arts/Law degree at the University of Queensland (his third preference). John graduated with Honours and worked for a national law firm before starting a 20 year career with ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission). ASIC is Australia’s integrated corporate, markets, financial services and consumer credit regulator. The Federal Government appointed John to the regulator’s board in 2012 and he was re-appointed as an ASIC Commissioner in 2015, 2018 and for a brief period in 2020. John was also appointed to CAMAC (Corporate and Markets Advisory Committee, a law reform advisory body), the Financial Reporting Council (monitoring financial reporting and audit) and the Council of Financial Regulators (Australia’s peak body coordinating financial regulation). Internationally, John represented Australia through IOSCO (International Organisation of Securities Commissions) and the Trans-Tasman Banking Council. In 2020, John was appointed Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Head of Regulatory Compliance based in Melbourne.
Pam Drillis was the former Head of Home Economics at The Rockhampton Grammar School until her retirement in 2015. Many students considered Pam the “mother” of RGS. Pam was one of just two female teaching staff when she started at RGS. Initially employed by Headmaster Mr Arthur Butler for a trial period of six weeks, and with two young children at home, Pam was quickly appointed full time after just three weeks. Pam arrived to two stoves not working, no kitchen power source and there were no teacher aides. Many trips were made to the supermarket to supply the ingredients for cooking. The Home Economics subject changed over Pam’s 32 years at the School, including Pam having the opportunity to teach cooking in the RGS Primary School. Pam’s special memories are all the students she met over the years and the way they engaged in the subject. Pam also enjoyed her role with the School’s Golf co-curricular programme. On Pam’s retirement from RGS she said, “After 32 years I will miss driving into the school with its beautiful landscaped surrounds, the friendliness and dedication of the students to achieve to their best ability, RGS Staff and ancillary staff that have helped me.”
Berenice, Errol (RGS 1961) and Alison (RGS 1985) Payne
Tom Birkbeck (RGS 2009) and wife Rachel
John Price’s parents, Kathleen and John Price
Gary Larson (RGS 1984) catches up with his surprise guests at his table
RGS Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds and Lance Currie (RGS 1959)
Elaine and Graham Clark (RGS, 1956)
Adrien Lang (RGS 1993), Warwick Anderson (RGS 1988) and Steve Deaves (RGS 1987)
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Beef 2021
RGS past students shaping the industry landscape Beef Australia 2021 is over for another year in Rockhampton, and everyone can catch their breath for a few years until Beef 2024! RGS past students are regularly entwined in our country’s Beef industry. Here is just a snapshot of some of our past students with a passion for their industry. Cyril Close There’s more to an auctioneer than frantically keeping pace with the cattle sales. TopX part owner Cyril Close (RGS 1983) has watched the industry transform and become more professional since he first tested the waters as a novice cattle auctioneer working for Primac, in Miles, in 1986. “I vividly remember my early days of being an auctioneer. I was hopeless,’’ Cyril said. Read more of Cyril’s story at - https://www.rgs.qld.edu.au/news/a-fast-talking-people-person
Ben, Jack, Sally and John Speed Like many families from the land, Ben (RGS 2006), Jack (RGS 2008), Sally (RGS 2010) and John (RGS 2011) Speed are not just siblings, they are colleagues. Along with their parents John and Marg Speed, the four siblings are the heart of the family’s Redrock Cattle Company, an extensive breeding and fattening operation which incorporates nearly a dozen properties throughout the Northern Territory and Central Queensland. Read more about the Speeds at - https://www.rgs.qld.edu.au/news/in-it-together
Ian Burnett Ian Burnett’s drive to give back to an industry he had grown up in was the catalyst for his progression into becoming a key industry representative. Growing up on the family property “Bendemeer”, north of Clermont, Ian (RGS 1968 – 1970) was involved with the Queensland Graingrowers Association and the Cattlemen’s Union. Read more about Ian’s story at - https://www.rgs.qld.edu.au/news/giving-back-to-the-industry
Claire Sherry Claire Sherry, “Wahroonga” Marlborough, graduated from RGS in 2019 and was weighing up whether to pursue university studies or have a gap year. Claire opted for the latter which reaffirmed her passion for the cattle industry. Below is Claire’s recollection of her 2020 gap year. Read more about Claire’s story at - https://www.rgs.qld.edu.au/news/a-year-of-discovery
Claire Mactaggart “I never take for granted where we live.” That outlook on life continues to take Claire Mactaggart (nee Wyland, RGS 1992) towards new opportunities, her most recent being on the Board of Directors for Beef 2021 (2 – 8 May). Read more about Claire’s story at - https://www.rgs.qld.edu.au/news/claire-masters-a-juggling-act
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Beef 2021
RGS past students photo gallery
Meg Wilson (RGS 2017) catches up with RGS Primary students
Ryan Childs and Mackenzie Leeson (RGS 2019)
Andrew (RGS 2003) and Katie Crowther (RGS 2002) with Rose, Florence, Charlie and Edward.
Lauren Galloway (RGS 2019)
Tamara Finger (RGS 2011)
Shannon Goodwin (RGS 2009)
Matthew Richardson (RGS 2017)
Josh Kele (RGS 2013), Dan Tyson (RGS 2013) and John Speed (2013)
Emily Keehn (RGS 2009) and mum Anna.
Stewart Norford and Madeleine Storey (RGS 2012)
Olivia Marks (RGS 2017) and Matilda Patterson (RGS 2016)
Sarah MacKenzie (RGS 2016)
Congratulations to all RGS families, both current and past, who were involved in Beef 2021
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Remembering Mr Butler Mr Arthur Butler, the sixth Headmaster of The Rockhampton Grammar School, from 1972 - 1987. Arthur Edward Crosse Butler was born in Brisbane on 16th October 1933. His primary education was at Buranda Boys State School and secondary at Brisbane State High School. After completing a teacher training course at Kelvin Grove he was appointed to the oneteacher Amity Point State School on Stradbroke Island in 1953. In 1956 Arthur and Carol were married, and Mr Butler commenced secondary teaching at Cavendish Road High School, Brisbane in 1957 where he coached many rugby teams as well as studying at Queensland University for a Bachelor of Commerce degree, which he attained in 1965. Arthur left the Education Department in 1963, obtaining a position at Church of England Grammar School, Brisbane where as well as teaching he coached rugby teams and helped found Junior Rugby Union. In 1966, Mr Butler applied for a house-master position at Trinity Grammar School, Sydney and the family moved into the residential position. After two years Mr Butler became Deputy Headmaster with occasional periods as Acting Headmaster while still teaching and coaching rugby. He applied for the position of Headmaster of the Rockhampton Grammar School and in May 1972 the family moved to Rockhampton where Mr Butler was Headmaster until 1987. There were many changes and challenges in that time. In 1977 girls were welcomed back as day students and boarders, new classrooms and dormitories were built, as well as a large assembly area and a new library after the devastating library fire in February 1985. In September 1986, Mr Butler suffered a severe heart attack and realising he could not continue as headmaster resigned in 1987. The school had grown and changed in those 15 years and Mr Butler was very proud of all that had been achieved. In his farewell to the Seniors of 1972 he wrote, “Every school day gives its chance.” Mr Butler and his wife Carol, guided a school with a long history and on departing, he acknowledged both those before him and provided insight into future generations at the School: “The Rockhampton school image is shining brightly. It can be likened to a torch that has shed both warmth and light to man. Every school wants to establish itself - and indeed needs to evaluate, and if necessary, re-establish itself; for to stand still is to go backwards.” When Mr Butler arrived in Rockhampton, RGS had 317 students enrolled.
Vale: Mr Arthur Edward Crosse Butler 16/10/1933 - 8/4/2021 A Grammarian forever (words by Stephen Butler, Mr Butler’s son, RGS 1978)
At the 2019 RGS Distinguished Past Student Awards, Mr Butler (pictured with wife Carol), generously accepted a Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association Honorary Life Membership accolade.
Vale: Mrs Carol Butler (01/11/1936 - 05/07/2021) The Rockhampton Grammar School sends its condolences to the Butler family following the passing of Mrs Butler on 5 July, 2021. In the 1987 Capricornus Yearbook, School Captain Kathy Grundy wrote about Mrs Butler: “We feel it equally important though, to express our gratitude to Mrs Butler, for her years of constant, enthusiastic support. She has given unselfishly of her time to attending debates, toastmasters presentations and oratory competitions; school musicals, drama presentations and eisteddfods - her attendances never went unnoticed, and certainly never went unappreciated. However, it has been in the non-academic branch of education that she has been a most obvious and enthusiastic supporter. She has proven a staunch supporter of many of the co -curricular activities that her husband, the Headmaster, has advocated including netball, cricket, softball, rugby and rowing. These loyalties are illustrated by her patronage of the Grammarians Netball Club and the honour of having a racing four named after her. Mrs Butler’s involvement with such associations as the P&F, the Ladies Auxiliary and the Red & Black Shop, reflect her willingness to be part of school activities and also display the many ways she has been supportive of her husband - not forgetting of course, his strong love for, and active involvement, with rugby. So we thank you Mrs Butler, for your years of support and encouragement to us - the students; to the various groups in which you have played an active and willing role and also (and I’m sure I speak for all Grammarians, past present) for sharing your husband with us for the past fifteen years. So just as the Headmaster retires from his present position, so too does Mrs Carol Butler, ‘first lady’ of The Rockhampton Grammar School.”
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On advising the School community of Mr Butler’s passing, on the Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students Association Facebook page, the School received many heartfelt words of sympathy for the Butler family. Here are some some of the comments from RGS past students. RIP Mr Butler... you were one of a kind and very caring. Condolences to the Butler Family. - Bernadette N Warren Ruthenberg My deepest condolence to Mr Butler’s family, he was my headmaster then and a kind man. He will always be in our hearts. Graduate 1983 (Catherine Wong) - Catherine Koh Mr Butler was a really great man and Headmaster- firm, fair, warm and kind. I have many fond memories of Mrs Butler & him - Phillippa Flockhart A truly remarkable headmaster who always had the students best interests at heart. A man of integrity and one who had an education vision. Rest In Peace you made a positive difference on many a young life. (Mine being one). - Steven Case Great man, he certainly helped straightening me out, condolences to the family - Peter Weaver Rest in Peace Mr Butler. You will be missed and you were the Best. Condolences to Mrs Butler and family and the RGS families that knew and loved him too. Tanya Richardson (1979-1981) - Tanya Fossey A true gentleman who was firm but fair. Took time to know all of the students, staff and families. Forever part of Grammar legend. Condolences to his family. - Sue Schluter Condolances to Mr Butler’s family and friends. I recall when he took over and the changes he made were for the better. - Thor Prohaska Mr Butler was a great headmaster and person. He was often seen walking around the school grounds at lunch break chatting to students...and he knew us all by name. RIP - Julie Donovan Mr Butler was an outstanding headmaster who held the respect of all his students & their parents. Under his leadership he encouraged all students to do their very best which has carried them throughout their lives. Was a privilege to know him & Carol. Condolence to the family. - Dellrae Greentree
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RGS Celebration by the Sea. Celebrating 140 years of RGS and 50 years of Ritamada | Ritamada | 19 June 2021 Thank you to our event sponsors City Printing Works, RGS Past Students’ Association, hb&co, Treasury Wines and PacPlus. Thank you also to MC Simon Irwin, Lily and Lotus, Whisk Creative Cater and all the RGS teams who helped create a memorable day.
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Nick Johnson (2015)
Angela Wells (1993)
Brett Morrison (1985)
Deb Carr (nee Bolton, 1993)
Ben McCamley (2003)
Ashleigh Harvey (nee Norford, 2005)
Michael South (1975)
Annie Belonogoff (2009)
Mark Birkbeck (1982)
Ben Wright (1988)
Matt McAlister (1996)
Simon Donovan (1992)
Gordon Stunzner (1988)
Jason Wells (1999)
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Hannah (2018) and Sophie (2016) Keune at the RGS Formal.
Kyle (2016), Renee (2015) and Trent (2018) White at the RGS Formal.
Morghan Wight (2018) and brother Grady (Year 10) at the RGS Formal.
Isabelle (2015) and Imogen (2016) Johansen at the RGS Formal.
Simon Lever (1981), Robert South (2009) and Tom Birkbeck (2009)
Graeme Power (1967) returned to RGS from the ACT.
Marcus Lang, Jordan Geddes (1995) and Adrien Lang (1993)
Dianne Pidgeon and daughter Prue (2019) at the RGS Formal.
Robert Lang (1968) helps at a local rowing regatta.
Gemma Brennan (2016) helps out at the schoolgirls rugby league competition.
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Sisters taking the lead Tamara Finger and Lauren Finger are travelling their own paths to achieve their dreams Tamara Finger (RGS 2011), who manages who own commercial beef enterprise based at Tyagarah and Aralee, in the Middlemount district, is joining AgForce’s push to give younger people a greater voice and hopes her new role with the organisation’s Young Producers’ Council can drive discussions in the right direction.
Tamara Finger
What is the AgForce Young Producers’ Council? It was formed in January this year and includes 10 members, from the ages between 18 and 40, from across the State and representing the different commodities of cattle, cane, grains and sheep). At the moment, it’s a blank piece of paper. We’re trying to drive the next generation and what the industry looks like moving forward. Also looking at what role our age group will play in that. It’s also about building businesses. It’s very hard for young people to get into agriculture. We want to look at what avenues are available and how to make that easier, or what we need to do to change the industry. It’s also about getting more people involved and getting more people to the table for the conversation. We want to create more networking opportunities and more education pathways so young people can see the difference from learning the theory to the practical side of the industry in the paddock. Why do you enjoy working for AgForce? It’s definitely about getting back to the grassroots of the conversation rather than sitting at the end
result and talking about that all the time. It’s good to talk about grassroot issues and not just what’s happening at the top. It’s about fixing the issues from the ground up rather than working backwards all the time. The industry is getting better at this and is changing that narrative of always defending ourselves to telling our own story. Life after RGS? Out of school I returned home and took on a business traineeship with Isaac Regional Council, working in customer service and administration. I also worked in administration at the Council depot in Moranbah. Then I returned to RGS for two years working in boarding and worked for Senator Canavan for just over two years where I got to learn the political side rather than just the industry side. Now I’m on the lobbying side and I’m definitely more interested on staying on this side of the conversation. My whole intention of getting involved with AgForce was to help create opportunities for others. For further information on the Young Producers’ Council visit the AgForce website.
Why let yourself follow one passion in life. Lauren Finger (RGS 2014), also now known as Lauren Shae in the music business, released her debut single “Strawberry Sunset” on 14 May. It is just one of the many hats the Taroom district property owner enjoys wearing. How does it feel being a recording artist? “I keep thinking that’s not me. It’s still a nice feeling knowing that other people like listening to your music.” How did this opportunity come about? “I was new in the Taroom district and invited some people over for dinner one night. I was making pizza in the kitchen and just singing away. I didn’t realise they could hear me outside through the window. I was so embarrassed, but they said to keep going. After that I would just post a few songs on social media. A friend of mine heard one of my songs and got one of his friends, who is a music producer in Nashville, to listen to the song. It just went from there.”
Lauren Finger
Did anyone know you could sing? “My family didn’t even know I was doing this. Mum knew I could sing but no one else in the family did. I’d only ever really sung to myself and never in front of anyone else. The debut single attracted 700 streams on its first day released. This means the world that I have the opportunity to make music.” Recording a song isn’t your main business interest? “In 2019 purchased by own cattle property in the
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Taroom district and I’m now running 1200 head of Droughtmaster. I also have my own Droughtmaster stud, “La Shae Droughtmasters”. I wanted to be a vet after school but didn’t get the grades so I worked as a vet nurse in Moranbah for two years and then returned home to the family property near Dysart. It was different moving away from the Dysart district when the family sold the property, but this (my own property) was always something I wanted to do. I always had breeders when I was a little kid.” You were one of five siblings growing up on “Meadowbrook”, how different has it been running your own place? “Not knowing many people from around the district was hard and having to figure out things for myself. Previously I was always around my parents and siblings who I could ask for help. I’ve had to figure out how this property works. I still love the freedom and the peace of living on the land.” Do you have spare time for anything else? “I also do a bit of modelling for Roma business Dusty Creek. I’ve done a bit of modelling previously but that’s all just a bit of fun.” Follow Lauren’s music journey at https://www. facebook.com/lauren.shaemusic/
Reunited in Men’s Sheds Geoff McIntyre and Ian Osborn’s paths have crossed paths many times since they left RGS.
Geoff McIntyre (1962) and Ian Osborn (RGS 1964) first met as boarders at RGS before later crossing paths in their working careers and more recently they again now enjoy collaboration in their respective Men’s Sheds at Dalby and Pittsworth. Ian was president of Pittsworth for several years having now retired from the role whilst Geoff plans to retire from the Dalby president role at the end of this year.
Geoff McIntyre
“We have thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship of our members and the opportunity to participate in the establishment, development and leadership of our respective sheds since 2013 at Dalby and at Pittsworth,’’ Geoff said. The Dalby Shed is located in the Dalby Pioneer Park with three buildings: a former district dance hall used as the timber workshop, a former main street butcher shop as the steel shed and a former catholic primary school double classroom moved on site a couple of years ago. It provides a lunch/meeting room and a recreation room. “Our facilities are very good and of course the sawdust is good for the former dance hall floor – much to the satisfaction of the district residents who built and used the hall for many years,’’ Geoff said. “Our Parish Priest in Dalby referred to the Shed days as “pupil free days for our wives!” Ian said the Pittsworth & District Men’s Shed Inc. was now in its eighth year since inception while membership has risen from seven to 60.
Ian Osborn
“Odd in this period,’’ Ian said. Ian said the group was situated in the Pioneer Village precedent covering approximately 3 acres, which was administrated by the Toowoomba Regional Council, who generously allowed them to lease three small sheds and an old 1923 vintage cottage which serves as the smoko room and office. The have also built a large shed to allow expansion. “Men’s Sheds are all about the health and wellbeing of the members, particularly men’s mental health,’’ Ian said. “Medical problems are handled better when shared with their mates, as we (according to our doctor daughter) suffer “normal senile decay”. Shoulder-to-shoulder we work on community projects, enjoying the company. “Our activities vary according to the skills brought to the shed by our members.
Geoff left RGS after Junior in 1962 to attend the Qld Agricultural College at Gatton – now UQ Gatton. “But for the first two years in Rockhampton, I worked with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (now Department of Agriculture Fisheries & Forestry) at Biloela, Toowoomba and Dalby until retirement in 2013 - almost entirely working with the Qld cotton industry. Narelle and I live in Dalby, with our children and grandchildren in Brisbane. I continue part time consultancy with the industry Best Management Practices programme. It has been great to meet several RGS past students in the Central Queensland region. As a Darling Downs Rugby referee for some 40 years I had the privilege some years ago to referee an RGS 1st XV game. Ian left RGS after Senior in 1964, and went jackerooing with the AML&FCo, starting at ‘Caiwarro’ near Hungerford on the Qld/ NSW boarder, then being transferred to other company properties in NSW over a 10 year period, rising to assistant manager before purchasing a small property in the Walgett/ Collarenebri district where he lived with his wife for the next 35 years, raising four children on Distant Education and Boarding School. “We ran sheep/dryland farming and some irrigated cotton in later years, We are now semi-retired in the Pittsworth District, breeding Boer Goats - just to give us something to do! We thoroughly enjoyed our 1960 – 65 Reunion in 2014, and very much remember our fellow class mates and boarders lost in the 1960 plane crash at Mackay. We were absolutely amazed at the school’s development and successful expansion programmes.”
“At present we restore old furniture; assemble small garden windmills; design and build, to clients specifications, snake-proof above ground dog kennels; assemble Indian Mynor bird traps and make wooden surveyor marking pegs. “While our average members’ age is about 76 some prefer to have a cuppa and enjoy the company, which is what the we are all about. On some occasions, we all go on day bus trips to local sites which we all enjoy.”
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Australian honours Grace gains national selection
From the RGS Rowing Club on Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River to the metropolitan setting of the Sydney Rowing Club, Grace Sypher (RGS 2019) is still making winning moves in the sport of rowing. Grace represented the Australian under-23 rowing team at the World Cup simulation regatta at Penrith from 11-13 June. With many international sports still in limbo with COVID, this was the next best opportunity for the up and coming stars of the sport to test their times against the best from around the world. Grace earned a start in the lightweight women’s quad scull crew following an impressive performance at the National Rowing Championships in Tasmania (where the RGS rowers also had a successful campaign winning 1 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals). At Lake Barrington, Grace won gold for the Sydney club in the under-21 quad, 2 silver medals in the U23 lightweight single and U23 lightweight double, and two bronze medals in the NSW U21 Youth 8 and Open women’s quad 500m sprint.
Teaching reward Molly’s teaching aspirations
Molly McGrail (RGS 2020) was one of 38 Year 12 graduates across Queensland to receive a Queensland Government Aspiring Teaching Grant to help pursue her education tertiary studies. Molly is studying Primary School teaching, studying a fouryear degree through QUT. Why did you want to pursue a career in teaching? “I wanted to study teaching because I loved being around kids and had a passion for helping people. I really wanted to spend my life in a job I would enjoy and especially wanted to be able to positively influence other people’s lives.” What benefits do you receive being a recipient of this grant? “I received a payment of $2,500 from the Queensland government. I can put this towards buying textbooks and other study related materials. This grant sets me up for my education studies.” What does it mean to you to receive this grant? “I feel so humbled to have received this grant, especially only out of a small number of people in Queensland. This grant validates that all the hard work I put in to receive an offer to my dream course was worth it.”
Industry Leader Nigel leads Cotton Australia
Nigel Burnett (RGS 1995) was appointed chair of the Cotton Australia board. The Emerald grower and long-term industry innovator, from “Colorado”, was previously Deputy Chair of the organisation. Speaking with Queensland Country Life, Nigel said: “We have a number of key priorities that I will be giving attention to including rebuilding trust in our industry, our environmental sustainability framework, our industry leading myBMP program and the many projects with our partners, aimed at improving stewardship and biosecurity.”
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Sansuka joins State’s best Recognition as one of Queensland’s top Year 12 students in 2020.
RGS 2020 Dux Sansuka De Silva received a QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education) Distinguished Academic Achiever award from the QCAA (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority). Sansuka was one of 37 students across Queensland to receive this honour for demonstrating exceptionally high achievement across a diverse range of learning options. This is Sansuka’s story reflecting on his 2020 Year 12 success. Career goal: To work as a doctor in regional and rural communities and ultimately become a clinical geneticist. Study plans: I am currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Monash University. Favourite subject in Year 12: I enjoyed Chemistry, particularly the focus on biochemistry and organic chemistry in Unit 4. Tips and advice for current students: My biggest tip for current Year 12 students is to ask lots of questions! For all my subjects, as I was revising or doing practice questions, I would have a separate notebook where I would list down any issues or concepts I was still struggling with. This allowed me to then ask my teachers or peers for assistance and enabled me to be a more engaged and active learner.
QCE Achievement Award winners stories – 2020 graduates https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/ certificates-and-qualifications/qce/qceachievement-awards/2020-winners/stories
Brisbane All Years Reunion | Transcontinental Hotel | 22 May 2021
Glyn Wood (1979) and Alan White (1983)
Ian Geddes (1963), Bob Sayce (1964, David Gill (1965) and Graham Clark (1958)
Ian Turner (1961) and Gordon Shaw (1960)
Ray Ashford (1970) and Jules Guerassimoff (1957)
Steve Brown (1979), Andrew Thomson (1979) and Mark Morris (1977)
John Alexander (1979) and Michael Orgill (1979)
Mike Evans (1958) and Harold Barry (1956)
Lance Currie (1959) and Bruce Mason (1958)
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For the love of rowing Edwina Luck (pictured far left, RGS 1980 - 1981) was introduced to the sport of rowing at RGS and has never looked back, this year winning a fifth national championship coxing a Queensland Eight boat. This is Edwina’s story.
“My coxing journey began at Rockhampton Grammar School in 1980 when I coxed the never to be beaten Lightweight Girls’ 4+ to Head of the River and Qld State victories in 1980 and 1981. My passion for coxing began at The Rockhampton Grammar School. I have fond memories of the rowing shed on the Fitzroy River, with many photos of old rowing legends from Rockhampton in the upstairs bar area. I remember learning to row in ‘tubs’, gosh they were heavy! But they were such beautifully crafted boats with lots of detail in the inner shell. I remember regattas at our wonderful course, and going away to Bundaberg and Maryborough. My Dad also had a boat named after him, ‘The Frank Luck’, so I have very fond memories of that time in my life. Although I don’t remember using a cox box! Having tasted success for two years as a Qld champion schoolgirl coxswain in the never to be beaten Lightweight Girls’ 4+ to Head of the River and Qld State victories in 1980 and 1981, I was inspired to step back in a boat some 30 years later after watching my twin daughters follow in my
footsteps as schoolgirl coxes for St Margaret’s in Brisbane. I joined Brisbane’s Commercial Rowing Club in 2014 which re-ignited my passion for coxing training and racing. That year and into 2015, I had the opportunity to cox the Queen’s Cup, King’s Cup and Qld Masters women’s 8 at various State Titles and training sessions. And it was 2015 when my journey back into competitive coxing really stepped up when I was selected as coxswain for the Qld State Masters women’s 8. I have been part of this Qld crew which are Australian Masters Women’s champions crew for five of the past six years. It is incredible to row with these elite women year after year, and every year is different. I have learnt many life skills over the years about understanding how to get the best from my crew. To remain calm and clear-headed when it’s going crazy outside the boat. And how each person responds differently, and how I can push each one beyond what they imagine their limits are. Rowing is a wonderful sport.”
The RGS Rowing Club hosted the Australian Olympic Rowing team in June and July for their final training camp before travelling to Tokyo for the 2020 Olympic Games (in 2021). The passion for rowing was evident - from our country’s elite rowers to a group of students learning their craft and chasing their own rowing glory.
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Meg Absolon discovered anthropology studies while pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Queensland. Meg has since uncovered a rich and rewarding career unearthing treasures from eras past.
CQ: How did you start your career in anthropology? MA: I was studying a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in anthropology and whilst working at the Queensland Museum I was introduced to the conservation department which ensures preservation of collections. Following down this path I completed a Master of Applied Science in Conservation of Cultural Materials and then worked as an objects conservator in museums and art galleries. CQ: What are some of the cultural materials you have worked with over past years? MA: The object types a conservator works with can be very diverse. At the Museum of Tropical Queensland in Townsville I worked on maritime archeological artifacts from the wreck of HMAS Pandora. I also worked on ethnographic objects, railway museum artifacts and historic house contents before making my way to National Gallery of Australia. At the Gallery I worked on sculpture, decorative arts, contemporary art, as well as Australian Indigenous and Pacific cultures works of art.
Q&A Meg Absolon 1989 I’ve been very fortunate that my job also took me to Antarctica where I spent four field seasons working on artefacts from the early explorer huts, which are still standing today, of the Scott, Shackleton and Mawson expeditions. It’s incredible what they managed to take down there to set up bases for their exploration of Antarctica. It is also remarkable what remains after such a long period in a very hostile environment. It was a privilege to work with those objects and to help ensure they are preserved even further into the future. Most recently I worked at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, Hawaii, on their cultural collections and installing exhibitions.
broader storage environment is addressed. I also think about who used it or who created it and how they created it. I had a great trip up to Yirrkala, in the Northern Territory, to speak with Indigenous artists themselves and see first-hand the techniques they used to create the artworks and hear about their connection with the work. CQ: Is there a particular collection that stands out for you? MA: Every collection has amazing gems within it. Every object in a collection or an exhibition has a story and a history. The connection we have with art and artefacts is different for everyone but if it leads us to feel and think and create then it’s a standout collection.
CQ: What are you looking for in this line of work? MA: Whether it be art or artefacts the aim is to provide the best preservation needs for the collection for future generations. I’m interested in the physicality of the object and its current condition. Conservation treatments are devised for immediate stabilisation of an object and then the
“Every collection has amazing gems in it.” Meg Absolon
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Turning friendship into business
When a group of RGS friends reunited after school they took a chance in unchartered waters.
Founders of Hide to Tide Sam, Maddie, Will and Ben.
Working cattle in the yards one day at a Clermont property became the catalyst for a group of four young friends to start a clothing brand. The group, Ben Beatty (RGS, Year 8, 2014), Sam Gray (2017), Will Callanan (2017) and Maddie Podlich, had always dreamed about having a business together. Sam came up with the phrase ‘Hide to Tide’ and it was Maddie, with her background in marketing, who said ‘why don’t we just do it’. The boys grew up in Central Queensland on farms in Clermont and Marlborough and were all boarding students of The Rockhampton Grammar School, while Maddie grew up in Brisbane and spent time on her family’s properties in rural New South Wales. The four friends became a close-knit group and often travelled together.
They wanted to provide products that were universal, and suitable for men and women. They launched a range of hats that sold out within a month. Hide to Tide fishing shirts and hats. They also had a line of fishing shirts which they spent six months designing and perfecting, going back and forth with sampling. The group is now working on a summer collection and has a few ideas in the pipeline with everything from swimmers to work shirts. They also hope to partner with a charity to donate profits. While they may be hundreds of kilometres apart at times, the friends makes the business partnership work. ‘Hide to Tide’ - hidetotide.com.au
Award Winning Central Queensland Cattle Producers
Matt Quinn (2006) along with parents Peter and Bev, from “Essex Grazing Company” at Middlemount, produced a winning formula at the Beef 2021 commercial cattle competition. A drought-induced foray into custom grain feeding, a move away from their more familiar grass producers, the Quinns entered nine pens to deliver two first, two seconds and a fifth placing as well as the grand champion sash for their grainfed Charbray steers.
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Ryan Olive (2004) won the 2021 Rabobank Young Beef Ambassador Award at Beef Australia 2021. A third-generation Brahman breeder from “Raglan Station”, Ryan received the award which recognises young, forward-thinking and high-achieving beef producers. This year saw a record number of nominations from across the country. Initiating the development of the live export facility, Ryan oversaw the building of the state-of-the-art cattle-handling facility, which has been servicing live-export trade from Port Alma, south of Rockhampton, since 2018.
Pursuing a dream
Service Rewarded
Persistence leads Flynn Geddes (RGS 2019) venturing towards a long term goal In June this year, Flynn Geddes proudly stood on the stage at Brisbane Town Hall and accepted a Duke of Edinburgh Gold International Award from the Governor of Queensland, His Excellency The Honourable Paul de Jersey AC (pictured above). It was in that moment that years of personal dedication came to fruition. Here is Flynn’s story: “The Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award will forever hold a special place in my heart. A highly rewarding experience that focuses on the principals of community, service, and self-improvement. As part of the award programme I had to demonstrate a commitment to five key components for a few years. For my service component, I volunteered at 98.5FM 4YOU Radio learning how to host and produce my own segment every week; for my skill component, I developed skills in horsemanship; I committed myself to a physical routine at a local gym for my physical component and two adventurous
journeys which were one of the highlights of my experiences. I hiked the mountains of the Gold Coast for 4 days and 3 nights on two occasions, carrying everything in and everything out and for the Gold residential project and I completed an acting course at NIDA held in Brisbane over 5 days. During this programme, I not only learnt valuable skills in time management, commitment, and self-assessment but I also met incredible people from all walks of life. These people not only offered support and encouragement but demonstrated empathy and respect to all participants. I thank The Rockhampton Grammar School for allowing me to undertake this endeavour while I was still at school. Also, to mention my extraordinary mentors including Mr Boicos (RGS), for guiding me throughout my Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award journey. This would not have been nearly as impactful without their support.”
Constable Tara Dziewicki (RGS 2011, left, pictured with Senior Constable Nyree Gilluley) were both commended for their work at a house fire in Rockhampton last year where they helped save a baby trapped in the fire. Both officers received a Queensland Police Service District Officer Certificate.
Hold on tight!
Congratulations to Lawson Nobbs (RGS 2014) on joining the victorious Queensland team in the 2021 PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Origin Championship that wrapped up in Cairns in July. (Photograph courtesy of PBR Australia)
Keeping connected
RGS 2009 alumni Robert Hassell, Aveechal Prasad and Matthew Dennis caught up at the wedding of Francois Malan on 21 March. Robert is now based in Adelaide working in the medical profession while Aveechal is also working in medicine, based in Brisbane. Matthew is an engineer in Rockhampton.
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Class of 2011 Where are they now? Mikaela Todd
What do you enjoy about your career path?
Lives: Townsville
“I’ve developed an understanding of the unique challenges associated with providing healthcare in remote areas. I’m passionate about overcoming these challenges and encouraging others to practice in rural areas of Australia. The recent pandemic has further highlighted the importance of health professionals who are committed to ensuring that the community has access to quality health services. Being able to provide continuing care to the community during these unprecedented times has been a rewarding challenge. My success as a Pharmacist has been beneficial to my success as a Medical Student both educationally and professionally. I’m excited to expand on my knowledge to help those in areas where accesses to health professionals is limited.”
Occupation: Pharmacist and Medical Student What have you been doing since graduating from RGS? “I graduated with a Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours and Academic Medal for Bachelor Coursework from James Cook University in 2018. As an Intern Pharmacist I won the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s rural video competition at the Australian Pharmacist Processional Conference, as to why others should consider rural practice. I’ve purchased my first home in Townsville. Currently I am living in Townsville studying Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University; after a successful admission in 2019. During this time, I have completed several rural placements including places such as Cloncurry and Mount Isa.”
Sophie Gregory
What do you enjoy about your current career path?
Lives: Brisbane Occupation: Medical Registrar at the Prince Charles Hospital What have you been doing since graduating from RGS?
“The daily variability and challenges, as well as the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and make a positive influence to their health.”
“Aside from work and study, I have been performing and recording as both an alto and occasional soloist with the Australian Voices choir.”
RGS students giving back to CQ rugby union The Rugby Capricornia Grand Finals were hosted by Colts in August at Tom Nutley Fields. There were plenty of RGS past and current students and families, along with a few RGS staff, on the sidelines with both the Dawson Valley Drovers and Frenchville teams fielding many RGS past students including 2012 - Ben Cumming 2013 - Henry Bowkett, Matt Kime, Dan Tyson 2014 - Damon Moore 2016 - Dougal Storey, Adam Honnery 2017 - Billy Smoothy, Cooper James 2019 - Max Pevny-Chapman, Walter Wilson, Eddy MacKenzie, Cane Comiskey, Joe Callanan, Will Tyson, Brady Collocott, Tate Beak 2021 - Luke Whalan (current Year 12 student)
Remember when....back in RGS school days
Ben Cumming
Henry Bowkett Matt Kime
Dan Tyson
Damon Moore
Dougal Storey
Adam Honnery Billy Smoothy
Cooper James Max PevnyChapman
Walter Wilson
Eddy MacKenzie
Cane Comiskey
Will Tyson
Tate Beak
Luke Whalan
Congratulations to Frenchville on winning the A Grade 2021 Premiership.
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Joe Callanan
Brady Collocott
from the
Archives A story worthy of a writer’s own words Stan Benson was a boarder from Bluff before he departed RGS in 1935 to pursue a career in journalism. Journalism pursuits were briefly placed on hold during World War II when Stan joined the 42nd battalion in New Guinea. Stan would later write about the battalion’s experiences during that time in the book – “History of the 42nd Australian Infantry Battalion in world War II”. Stan Benson passed away in March 1995, but years earlier on a return visit to RGS in the late 1980s, Stan recalled an eventful evening at RGS in 1935 which involved running through the streets of Rockhampton at 3am in a dressing gown. Stan had been sent into town to try and find some brandy on the advice of Headmaster Kellow’s doctor. “None of the hotels were open, so I had to get a Police Officer to help us wake up the publican,” Mr Benson recalled. Mr Kellow, the School’s third Headmaster passed away later that night of pneumonia on 6 September. Stan was a regular member of RGS sporting teams, from cricket to tennis and was also a star on the athletics track, winning the 1935 Archer Cup. On leaving RGS Stan worked for four years at The Morning Bulletin and then for various newspapers in New South Wales before joining CSR (Colonial Sugar Refinery) as editor of all their publications. Stan worked for CSR for 23 years. Stan instigated the formation of the Australian Council of Agricultural Journalists (ACAJ) in 1973 and acted as its Secretary for some years.
Yearbook Reviews There were some to-the-point sports critiques on Capricornus yearbooks of years past. Here is Stan’s “Criticism of Players” cricket review from the 1935 Capricornus yearbook: Benson: A hard hitting batsman with some good scores. Drives very severely, and hooks and pulls effectively. Always liable to fall in the first over due to over -anxiousness to score. Bowling does not improve, but he still gets wickets. Often effective as a partnership breaker. Can field well, but not a keen fieldsman.
A life member of the Farm Writers’ Association of NSW, Stan was elected secretary of the organisation in 1969 and President in 1979.
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RGS in 2021 The past inspires new partnership
With international borders, and state borders, remaining difficult to cross, the biennial RGS Netball Tour to New Zealand ventured to the Sunshine Coast in May. RGS played games against strong netball schools, Matthew Flinders College (pictured) and Sunshine Coast Grammar School. Playing against Matthew Flinders College, the teams played for the inaugural Anthony Vincent Cup, which will now be played between both Schools whenever we play First level games across any sport. Mr Vincent was the Deputy Headmaster at RGS for a decade before moving to Matthew Flinders in that school’s early years to take on the role of Principal. His passion for sport and co-curricular activities shaped both schools and we hope that this trophy will inspire these students to challenge themselves each time they represent their respective school while continuing the proud traditions of both schools. Thank you Mr Vincent. RGS Magic coach Zoe Seibold (nee Richardson, RGS 2001) caught up with past RGS staff at the netball (from left) Mr Arthur Kelly, Mr Anthony Vincent, Mrs Aileen Kelly and Ms Denise Wright.
Farewell Mr Hadwen
Mr Geoff Hadwen arrived at RGS in 2003. At the end of Term 1 2021, Mr Hadwen retired as Head of Primary. Stepping in for Mr Hadwen, as Acting Head of Primary, has been RGS past student Bruce Saxby (RGS 1973). Reflecting on his time in the RGS Primary School, Mr Hadwen sat down with Mr Saxby to talk about RGS Primary - including some advice on trying not to get tied to the office desk and get around to the classrooms as much as possible. Mr Hadwen was well known for his incredible memory of Primary students names, but he did admit he was “terrible” with parents names. Working with a wide range of staff was also an invaluable asset for Mr Hadwen. “The important think about staff is they are not all the same,’’ Mr Hadwen said.
RGS Music Festival Music performances were restricted to online productions in 2020. However this year, RGS Music students had the opportunity to return to the stage and play in front of an audience at Rockhampton’s Pilbeam Theatre. The evening showcased the music talent in both RGS Primary and Secondary schools.
“Everyone has different strengths. They firstly have to have a genuine love for the kids.” Mr Hadwen worked in the education sector for over 40 years. When asked by Mr Saxby about his greatest career satisfation Mr Hadwen recalled his early teaching days and gave this advice: “All kids are good, you just have to find it in them sometimes. They’ll all make mistakes and it’s ok to make a mistake, but not twice. Not the same mistake twice.” Mr Hadwen has been spotted enjoying a lot more golf since his retirement and is still loving watching his beloved South Sydney Rabbitohs play league.
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WEDDINGS
BABY Georgie Turner and Reagan Conaghan Lane Conaghan was born on Christmas Day, 25 December, 2020 to proud parents Georgie Turner (RGS 2016) and Reagan Conaghan (RGS 2014).
Sophie Anderson and Ben Cumming Ben Cumming (RGS 2012) and Sophie Anderson (RGS 2012) were married on 14 May 2021 at St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral in Rockhampton followed by their reception at the RGS Rowing Club. The bridal party consisted of Maddi Anderson (RGS 2008), Megan Anderson (RGS 2010), Harry Patterson (RGS 2012), Will Patterson (RGS 2014), Bek Maguire (RGS 2012) and Tom Cumming (RGS 2014).
VALE Keith Purdie Vale: 2804/1940 16/07/2021
Brooke Daniels and Tyson White Brooke Daniels (RGS 2008) and Tyson White (RGS 2008) were married at Henderson Park near Rockhampton on 28 November 2020. Their wedding party included Brooke’s sister, Hope Daniels (RGS 2010) as well as Jacque Symonds (née Olive) (RGS 2008).
Born at Clermont and raised in Capella, Keith attended RGS in 1954 and 1955. Keith was Peak Downs Shire Council CEO from 1965 1969, Emerald Shire Council CEO from 1969 - 2001 and Bauhinia Shire Council CEO from 2002 - 2003. Keith was also involved with many community groups over the years, including more than 50 years with the Lions’ Club. In his honour, flags in his home towns of Emerald and Capella were flown at half-mast on the day of his passing. Keith, 81, was a father of four and grandfather of seven. His funeral was held in Yeppoon.
Mitchell Stewart Vale: 08/09/1991 02/07/ 2021
Angie Balderston and Izak Holmes Angie Balderston (RGS 2009) and Izac Holmes were married at Flaxton Gardens, on the Sunshine Coast, on 16 April 2021. Joining the bridal party were Prudence Lam (RGS 2010), Aishling Mcleod (RGS 2010) and Stephanie Doherty (RGS 2008).
Mitchell Ryan Stewart attended RGS in 2007 and 2008 for Years 11 and 12. Mitchell was a boarder from Blackwater, the son of Robert and Kristine and a brother to Shane and AJ. During his time at RGS, Mitchell was a School Prefect in 2008. Mitchell was aged 29 years.
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The Rockhampton Grammar School Archer Street, Rockhampton Qld 4700 P 07 4936 0600 | W www.rgs.qld.edu.au | E paststudents@rgs.qld.edu.au CRICOS Provider No. 00507F