2006 Grammarian

THE GRAMMARIAN THE MAGAZINE OF TOWNSVILLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

VOLUME 10

Registered by Australia Post Publication No PP445800/00031 NORTH WARD CAMPUS - PHONE (07) 4722 4900 Website: www.tgs.qld.edu.au

ANNANDALE CAMPUS - PHONE (07) 4725 3588 Email: tgs@tgs.qld.edu.au

From the Principal

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From The Principal’s Desk After nearly three years of planning and twelve months of building and construction, I am pleased to report that the Middle School is fully operational with 430 Year 7-9 students enjoying the benefits of their ‘state of the art’ Precinct.

Special Guest, Mrs Hilary Marsh, ‘cut the ribbon’ and unveiled the magnificent $6.5m facility at the official opening ceremony on Saturday 1st April. Hilary’s late husband, long serving Board member and Deputy Chairman of the Board, Mr Ross Marsh, unfortunately passed away in January. Ross had been a wonderful servant of the School Community and he will be sorely missed by all who had the honour to work with him at the School.

As I put pen to paper for this editorial, I also prepare to take six weeks sabbatical leave which, amongst other things, will include a pilgrimage to Gallipoli and a number of school visits in the UK. My somewhat ambitious agenda includes a review of senior management structures, performance pay for teachers, middle schooling developments, inter-school links for staff and students, boarding and personal development curricula.

At this stage, schools on my itinerary include: Bristol Grammar, Cheltenham College, the Kings School, Royal Grammar, Marlborough College and Clifton College.

I look forward to the opportunity provided by the Board of Trustees to take this sabbatical break and to share my findings and experiences within the School community upon my return.

Richard Fairley Principal

ANZAC Day

ABOVE (L-R) Mr Lux Foot, Col. Kim Faithfull, Mr Fairley & Mr John Foot BELOW (L-R) Mitch Jonsson, Issac Ketchell & Daniel Farlow

From the Principal Captains 2006 Boarders The Grammarian

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3

TGS commemorated ANZAC Day in a ceremony in the School Quadrangle on the 24th of April this year.

intends to visit the graves of Henry and Alexander Foot when visiting Gallipoli this year to pay homage to their sacrifice.

The School community were privileged to have special guests, Lux and John Foot attending the ceremony. Lux and John Foot are sons of Richard Foot, who was one of five brothers, all of whom went to school at TGS. Richard, the youngest, was too young to enlist for service in the war, but his four brothers fought in the First World War. Fortunately, George and Eric survived the war. However, tragically, Henry and Alexander were killed in action at Gallipoli.

Our School Principal, Mr Fairley,

School parent, Colonel Kim Faithfull, father of Jessika (7.1), addressed the School community with an important message of remembrance, stating, “The fundamental purpose of ANZAC Day is to pay homage to the men and women who have served Australia in times of conflict, but especially those who gave their lives. In doing so, we ensure the recognition by our youth that peace and freedom we benefit from today were bought at the expense of enormous sacrifice in the past.”

General News Senior School Middle School

Page 4-5 Page 6 Page 7-8

Junior School Past Grammarians TGS Community

Page 9-10 Page 11-13 Page 14

Senior School Captains Hilton Bristow – School Captain Hilton is a gifted academic, having achieved a Maxima Cum Laude Award in every year of his secondary schooling at Grammar. Dux of his Grade in Years 8, 10 and 11, he was also awarded the Subject Prize for Physics in Year 11 (2005).

Juggling a busy schedule, Hilton is an active member of the School’s musical activities as well as enjoying a variety of sporting pursuits.

Kingsley Grimshaw – School Vice-Captain Kingsley has received Cum Laude Awards in each of his secondary years of education. In Years 9 and 10 he received Academic Awards, as well as the H & PE Award in 2004.

Kingsley is a keen cricketer and the Captain of the School’s First XI. He has captained two Queensland Championship winning teams (2003/04; 2004/05) and is currently the Captain of the Tropical North Queensland side.

Sarah Reilly – School Vice-Captain Sarah has made a strong impact academically since arriving at TGS two years ago, receiving a number of awards including Magna Cum Laude Awards and Academic Awards at Speech Night in Years 10 and 11. In 2005, Sarah also received the Agnes McWhinney Prize for Legal Studies and the Subject Prize for History.

Sarah is a well-rounded young lady with interests in drama, sport and the welfare of the School community.

Middle School Captains Joseph Goicoechea (9/06) – Middle School Captain Joseph came to Townsville Grammar last year having spent his primary years at St Joseph’s The Strand where he was elected as their Sports Captain. Joseph is a keen sportsman, captaining the North Queensland basketball side in 2004 and being selected as a representative for both the Townsville Rugby Union and Basketball teams.

Joseph is also a fine student receiving a Maxima Cum Laude and was Dux of Year 8.

Megan Simmonds (9/06) – Middle School Captain Megan arrived at Townsville Grammar in Year 8 in 2005, having spent her primary school years at St Joseph’s The Strand where she was a member of the Student Council. Megan is academically successful as well as on the sporting field. In 2005, Megan received a Cum Laude and the Performing Arts Award at Speech Night as well as representing TGS in Netball and Cross-Country.

Junior School Captains Daniel Anderson (6/06) - School Captain Daniel commenced Preschool at the Junior School in 2000. Since that time Daniel has been an excellent student, awarded a Cum Laude in Year 5 and an Academic Award at Speech Night. He has participated in the School Art Club and Science Club, and won the Science Quiz in Year 4. Not surprisingly, Daniel lists Science as his favourite subject, and hopes to become a Zoologist.

Laura-Jane Cooper-Jackson (6/06) - School Captain Laura-Jane also commenced Preschool in 2000 and has involved herself particularly in the musical life of the School. She participates in Band, String Ensemble and Celtic Strings. Laura-Jane also enjoys Club Netball. In Year 5 she was awarded a Cum Laude and Academic Award, after receiving the prize for All Round Performance in Year 4. Laura-Jane’s favourite subject is English and this year in her role she is looking forward to helping other students.

Captains 2006

Lauren-Phoebe Nielsen – School Captain Lauren-Phoebe has been the recipient of many Academic Awards throughout her schooling, including Rowland Medallist in the Townsville Grammar School Writing Competition (2004), Proxime Accessit (2004), and the Dr Jim Baker Prize for Science (2004).

Lauren-Phoebe was selected as the only Townsville participant at the National Youth Science Forum held in Canberra in January this year. From this forum she became one of six students selected nation-wide to represent Australia at the prestigious Canada-wide Science Fair.

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Weekend Fun for the

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Boarders

Boarders

BELOW Amanda Burns, Mr Weir & Zane Biffanti

Some of the boarders enjoying organised weekend activities

Current and past day students alike have wondered what the boarders get up to on their weekends. A group of excited new boarders and our current Head Boarders describe a “typical” weekend...

Head Boarders

Zane Biffanti, Head Boy Boarder, “There are no two weekends the same; every weekend is different. We do a range of organised activities from going to the football…”

“Up the Cowboys”, one pipes in. “…to going to the Strand or swimming in one of the local creeks.”

Amanda Burns – Head Boarder Amanda is a graduate of the Charters Towers School of Distance Education and her arrival in Year 8 (2002) heralded an introduction to a radically different type of school experience.

Zane explains the Senior privileges for weekends, “The Seniors earn privileges such as going down to breakfast later – so you get to sleep in – and extra day leave on Saturday.”

The Senior boarder girls have also organised a “tuckshop” on Thursday nights.

Amanda Burns, Head Girl Boarder stating, “We sell food such as two minute noodles to the boarders to fundraise for a memento for the end of the year for the Senior girl boarders.”

Achieving outstanding results academically, Amanda is also a keen sportswoman, enjoying swimming and representing the School at water polo and netball.

Growing up in Maxwelton near Richmond, Amanda would like to help younger boarders “find their feet” as Head Boarder in 2006.

A diligent student, Zane is also an excellent sportsman, involved in a variety of sports including touch football, soccer, swimming, basketball and rugby.

Well-respected by staff and students alike, Zane is looking to make a difference as Head Boarder in 2006.

The Grammarian

“Life in the boarding house is usually not at all boring“. Zane adds, “You live with your friends and make good friendships, it is a really different experience – it is like one big family“.

One Weekend’s activities

Zane Biffanti – Head Boarder Zane hails from the Burdekin Shire and in Year 10, left behind the relative tranquillity of acreage to share his time and attention with the Boarders of Townsville Grammar School.

The younger boarders aren’t forgotten either. From Years 7 through to 10, the students are provided with “pocket money”. This small amount of money is used on the weekends for outings such as the movies, bowling or dinner outings. But, where is it often spent?

“Maccas!!!” the group wholeheartedly reply.

Friday night

• Going to McDonald’s after school • Study time • Friday night Strand Markets

Saturday

• • • • • • •

Sunday

• Breakfast and meeting of all boarders before activities • Outing to Alligator Creek for swimming and picnic • Back at the Boarding Dorm by Sunday evening for homework and study

Breakfast and meeting of all boarders before activities Day Leave – Shopping at Flinders Mall or Stockland Plaza Lunch back at TGS TV or Movies in the Boarding Dorm Gymnasium and Pool open for use Strand Leave Outing - Ten pin bowling

Students succeed in News Quiz Win

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Earlier this year, the Newspapers in Education (NIE), a department of the Townsville Bulletin, in conjunction with McDonald’s Restaurants ran a News Quiz competition for secondary students.

There were two divisions in the competition, junior and senior. Students were required to read the Townsville Bulletin and answer a number of questions to test their knowledge.

All students involved displayed outstanding commitment and always put in their best efforts.

Music Camp The TGS Music Program prides itself on having the best ensembles in the Townsville region. During May, Grammar Singers, the 80 voice senior choir, travelled to Magnetic Island for three days of intense rehearsals to ensure the School’s tradition of excellence in music is maintained.

Special guest, Anthony Young, travelled to Townsville to assist with the camp. Mr Young conducts the choral programs at St. Laurence's College and St. Thomas Aquinas Church St. Lucia and co-conducts the Queensland Kodaly Choir with James Cuskelly of the University of Queensland.

He specialises in developing the male changing voice.

The goal of the musical weekend was to provide the students with the skills and attitude required to perform to the absolute best of

their ability. The choir held practice for six hours each day, dividing the time into one and a half hour periods similar to a regular school day. Half the practice time was dedicated to working as a whole choir with the other half used to give each section of the choir (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass) the opportunity to work with experts separately. The Tenor and Bass sections found this time extremely useful as they were given the opportunity to work with the special guest, Mr Young. The expertise and guidance that Mr Young provided assisted the growth of the groups Lezom and Take 8.

The singers worked hard all weekend, but of course, there was always time for fun! The weekend was packed with trips to the beach, delicious meals and a talent show on the last night of the camp.

Special thanks must go to Ms Neil, Ms Dyer, Mrs Ahern, Ms Lyne and Mr Young for making the weekend possible.

ABOVE (Top) Junior Team (L-R) Georgina Nielsen, Michael Phillips, Michael Doris, Maxwell Braddick & Miss Cracknell (Bottom) Senior Team (L-R) Jacques Eastment, Lauren Furnas, Alex Hammerton & Miss Cracknell

Healthy Eating at the School Canteen Annette Cook is the Residential Services Supervisor and has worked at TGS for the past 15 years. Annette took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions about the “Healthy Eating Strategy” adopted at TGS. How long has the healthy eating concept been in place?

In 1993, the School canteen went from privately operated to run by the School. Previously the canteen had sold things like pies and chips, and we changed to selling healthier options such as chicken rolls. Past students might remember there used to be one junk food day, Fridays, and we served food like chips and hot dogs.

Last year, Mr Fairley announced that the School would put in place a “Healthy Eating” strategy by limiting “red zone” foods available to students.

The School policy has been in place since the beginning of the year.

What food and drink is now available at TGS? We have a variety of food available for the students, including salads, sandwiches, focaccia and also a range of hot food. We have healthy hot foods like hamburgers using lean meat, chicken burgers using skinless chicken breast and steak and onion sandwiches using rib fillet steak. We are also introducing soup for the colder months.

Any of the “red zone” foods are limited to only fundraising or special events, such as the Swimming Carnival and fundraising by Interact or School discos.

Examples of Red Zone Foods: All soft drink, lollies and chocolate, chips, most deep fried foods and some types of ice creams.

Some of the healthy options available

Ms Neil conducting at Music Camp

General News

Each team participated in two rounds and semi-finals up against other local Townsville schools. The senior team made it through to the semi-finals and was then, unfortunately, defeated. The junior team won a hard-fought battle against Townsville High School and took out first place in the region.

Café Training for

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Hospitality Students

General News

Students studying Hospitality have been serving coffee and café food as part of the “Responsible Service of Alcohol, Coffee Production and Service” unit they are currently studying.

To enhance the delivery of skills in this area, the Hospitality Department have purchased a commercial coffee machine, with students gaining professional instruction from Coffee Dominion owner, Justin Humphrey.

Mr Fairley, Mrs Hall, PF Rowland Medal Winners & Ms Lindsay Simpson

Staff have enjoyed sampling coffee served each Thursday, as well as a lunch prepared

by Senior Hospitality students served at the School’s mock café named the “Java Café”.

Townsville Grammar School Writing Competition

Sports Results

All students from Years 7 through 12 recently participated in the Townsville Grammar School Writing Competition. In an opportunity unique to the students of this School, students were given the opportunity to showcase their writing talents by writing a response to the provided stimulus. TGS has been conducting the Writing Competition since 2000, presenting PF Rowland Medals to the winners of each year level.

Some very pleasing results were realised by a large number of students, with the PF Rowland Medals for 2006 being awarded to: Year Year Year Year Year Year

7 8 9 10 11 12

Lachlan Meikle and Odette Haussmann Nicholas Potter and Madisson Griffiths Michael Phillips and Ellee McClymont Rhys Morris and Kellie Christiansen Adam Schneider and Lauren Mason Sean Kelly and Anna Williams

Medals and High Distinction Certificates were presented at a special assembly where James Cook University Journalism lecturer and published author, Ms Lindsay Simpson was the special guest speaker, sharing her passion for writing with the students.

50m Freestyle 50m Backstroke 50m Butterfly 50m Breaststroke Freestyle 50m Butterfly 50m Freestyle

The Grammarian

OLD Dale Iwanicki (1994) Dale Iwanicki (1994) David Warnock (2000) K. Pietzsch (1976) Gabrielle Vartis (2004) NEW EVENT A.Wockner (1991)

North Ward Campus SWIMMING With the introduction of the Middle School, the North Ward campus now has two carnivals; a Middle School and a Senior School carnival.

Both carnivals were a huge success, with both the Senior and Middle Schools having the 50m championship events, 25m events and a host of novelty events.

The Middle School had their inaugural Big Bomb Dive Competition which was won by Nadia Howell (9/06). Points were awarded for splash height, technique and entry. Not to be outdone, the Senior School had their eighth annual Belly Flop competition that went off with a big splash and Matthew Bryant (12/06) was the eventual champion.

NEW Brad Simmons (9/06) Brad Simmons (9/06) Brad Simmons (9/06) Brad Simmons (9/06) Tatiana Vafiades (7/06) Tatiana Vafiades (7/06) 29.30s Anika Wright (10/06)

29.03s 33.00s 30.88s 37.00s 32.82s

25.66s 29.40s 28.33s 35.68s 31.04s 38.67s 29.20s

New Records Set

CROSS COUNTRY This year, we again held our Interhouse Cross Country Carnival at the Sports Reserve.

In very trying conditions, ranging from rain to heat and humidity, runners participated in the championship, or Gold Course (ranging from 2.7km for Year 7 girls and boys, 4km for girls 13 years to Open and boys 13 to 14 years, while the 15 to 16 years and Open boys ran a 6km course).

GIRLS 1st ROWLAND 2nd HODGES 3rd MILLER 4th WHIGHT BOYS 1st WHIGHT 2nd HODGES 3rd ROWLAND 4th MILLER OVERALL 1st WHIGHT 2nd ROWLAND 3rd HODGES 4th MILLER

RESULTS

EVENT 14 Boys 14 Boys 14 Boys 14 Boys 12 Girls 12 Girls 15 Girls

TOP Staff enjoy a lunch at the “Java Café” BOTTOM Kevin Fujii and Alexander Montague preparing coffee BELOW In Young Chung and Hanalie Antalan enjoying Cross Country

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Interhouse Debating Debating competitions between the houses is a new innovation at TGS in response to the many students keen to be involved in debating.

The success of the debating competitions is largely due to the dedication of the students involved. In particular, congratulations must go to the Year 12 adjudicators (Samantha Roberts, Calum Kippin, Sean Kelly and Jacob Fisher), the Year 9 House Debating Captains (James BELOW (Left) Roxanne Niveri - Year 11.4 (centre) with two Japanese “Geishas” (Right) The tour group at Tokyo Disneyland

LOTE International Tours International LOTE tours are now a major event on the school calendar for TGS students. Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are offered the opportunity of joining the biennial educational tour to the target country of the language they have chosen to study. The tours give students an opportunity to use their language skills in a real life environment, as well as experiencing first hand the culture of the language they are currently studying.

Last December, a group of enthusiastic Year 10 and Year 11 students who were studying Japanese, embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan.

The whirlwind ten day tour consisted of visiting important landmark sites such as Hiroshima and Himeji Castle, as well as allowing time for shopping and sightseeing. The students were also able to visit Shinjo Higashi High School, friendship school to TGS, and engage in a weekend homestay.

Another fascinating part of the tour was many of students’ first experience with snow!

Both the French and Indonesian Tour will occur later this year, with excited students eager to practise their language skills outside the classroom.

The students have been solely responsible for attending meetings, organising teams, preparing rooms for debates and returning these to their original condition.

Trophies for the eventual winning teams will be presented in an assembly towards the end of Term 2. Congratulations to Rowland and Whight Houses, both of which will be competing in the final at the Year 7 and 9 levels.

Senior School

Currently, only four teams are allowed in the Interschool Debating at each level - Senior (Years 11/12), Junior (Years 9/10) and Year 8 (Years 7/8). Due to this, numerous Year 9 and Year 7 missed out on this opportunity. It was decided to organise and implement an Interhouse Middle School Competition for these years, unanimously supported by all students present at a meeting in Term 1.

Hodge, Nathan Roff, Emily McLeod, Michael Doris and Bronte Lyne) and, of course, the willing Years 7 and 9 Debaters. They have set a fine foundation for the future of Interhouse Debating at TGS.

Mr D. O'Regan Debating Co-ordinator

BELOW (Left) Interact Club members collecting food for Salvation Army (Right) Interact Club members fundraising for “CLAP”

Community Service - Interact Club Last year saw the revival of the Townsville Grammar Interact Club, which had a proud history of community service from 1967 to 1992.

In its second year back at TGS, the Club has a new group of enthusiastic Board Members, passionate about community service.

The Interact Club quickly came in to action with its first fundraising activity of the year with the unexpected devastation of Cyclone Larry in North Queensland. The Club contributed to this cause through the creation of the “Cyclone Larry Appeal” (“CLAP”). Students and staff members across both campuses created money trails to collect over $1000 in coins.

Continuing a proud Grammar tradition was the Interact implemented TGS Salvation Army Food Appeal in May. The Club collected non-perishable food items on behalf of the Salvation Army.

A competition between all North Ward classes raised the stakes, with Year 9.5 collecting the most - 380 items over two weeks. The winning class was treated to a Pizza Party to reward their amazing efforts.

The TGS community have and continue to show their strong sense of compassion and willingness to help.

Speaking of behalf of the Interact Club, I thank the School community as a whole for its support.

Shani Rupasinghe Interact President - TGS

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Our New Middle School Precinct Has Finally Arrived...

Middle School

Three years in the making, the $6.5 million dollar Middle School Precinct is now open.

Years 7 to 9 now have a specially designed area to cater to the specific needs of 11 to 14-year-olds.

The Middle School Precinct also doubles as a function area for special occasions, such as the recent Townsville Grammar Audi Art Show.

Magnificent and functional in design, the Middle School Precinct will be a valuable asset for many generations of TGS students.

LEFT TO RIGHT 1. The Middle School Opening Ceremony in progress 2. Mr Fairley welcoming guests to the ceremony 3. Mr Norm Kerley (Head of Junior School), Mr Richard Fairley (Principal), Mr Mark Zietsch (Head of Middle School) with Middle School Captains

Official Opening of the Middle School Saturday, 1 April 2006 saw the culmination of over three years of planning and hard work, when the TGS Middle School Precinct was officially opened in a wonderful ceremony within the Middle School Plaza area.

About four hundred guests, including Middle School students and their families witnessed the traditional cutting of the ribbon by special guest, Mrs Hilary Marsh. In a moving speech Mrs Marsh spoke about the vision for the future of the School that the new building represented. Simultaneously, she acknowledged the vitally important role that Grammar’s history plays, not just for the Middle School, but for the entire Grammar community. Mrs Marsh, nee Davies, as a Past Grammarian, mother of Past Grammarians and wife of the late Mr Ross Marsh [former member of the Board of Trustees, Deputy Chairman of the Board and Chairman of the Building Committee] is uniquely qualified to comment upon the School’s past and future.

Other esteemed guests included Mayor of Townsville, Mr Tony Mooney, members of the current and past Boards of Trustees, key construction representatives, parents and, of course, students.

After the official ceremony, parents and guests were invited to inspect the classrooms within the Middle School. Students and teachers alike were excited and proud to display their colourful classrooms, and in particular the specialty classrooms – the Performing Arts Room, the Middle School Science Laboratory and the Level 2 French, Indonesian, Italian and Japanese classrooms.

The Grammarian

Meet Mark Zietsch, Head of Middle School Mark Zietsch started at Townsville Grammar this year to take up the position of Head of Middle School.

Previous Position: Head of House (Years 8-12) Villanova College, Brisbane Qualifications: • Bachelor of Education • Masters of Educational Leadership (Middle School) Why did you choose to take this position at Townsville Grammar School?

Firstly, the position of Head of Middle School is a perfect job for me in terms of my experience and interests in education.

Secondly, the opportunity to be the inaugural Head of Middle School with a brand new, first class facility was an opportunity not to be missed - I am the envy of many educators throughout Queensland!

What was your first impression of Townsville?

My first visit to Townsville was in May last year. I was impressed with the beauty of the Strand and the distinctiveness of Castle Hill. After living here for six months, I am impressed with the family-friendly environment that Townsville provides.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The times that I am able to go out of my office and work with the Middle School students. I value opportunities to build relationships with students and enjoy seeing them participate in the wide variety of activities TGS has to offer.

Favourite advice to provide your students: Always seek the truth and give your best. If things don’t go to plan, repair any harm done by taking responsibility for your actions and try again. Take each moment as an opportunity for learning.

New Ceramics Studio Art Class in action

The building of the new Ceramics Studio was undertaken with the Middle School construction. The original ceramic area was an outdoor annex established in 1984 and the area was becoming outdated.

The new studio makes efficient use of space, light and natural breezes. The Studio also has two-way shelving, new furniture and a separate room for glazing and firing of student built ceramics. Two new electric kilns have been purchased, an exhaust system and warning light have also been installed for safety reasons and extensive drainage systems for environmental reasons.

The space is now keenly used by all year levels during class time and Art Club.

Year 10 as the Stepping Stone to Success in Years 11 and 12 From the inception of the Middle School, a distinction between “Middle” and “Senior” School has been made. Years 10 through to 12 are now considered Senior Students.

The decision to “seniorise” Year 10 has enabled the students to be better prepared for the academic demands and challenges of the Senior curriculum. Year 10 students have risen to this challenge and have demonstrated a positive and mature attitude to study.

The process to seniorise Year 10 has been an ongoing process for the last two to three years through curriculum restructuring in the lead up to the opening of the Middle School. The curriculum is now aligned far more closely to Year 11 and 12 subjects.

Year 10s are now given opportunities to experience extra curricular activities through completion of TAFE courses on Thursdays. There is also flexibility to enrol in TAFE courses on Wednesday to study such subject areas as Child Care or Certificate II or III in Business.

In addition, students are able to participate in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, as well as work experience programs.

The exciting journey into the Middle Schooling era has many positive aspects that extend beyond the Middle Years. The focus and development of our Year 10 programme and the ongoing impact that this will have on students as they move into Year 11 is very important and contributes positively to an already impressive education development at TGS.

Changes to Year 7 Sport Although we have seen changes to our School structure, we still operate within a district sport structure geared towards “Primary School” and “Secondary School” Sport.

As such, we have had to put in place changes to continue to provide the opportunity for our Year 7’s to participate in conjunction with students from our Junior Campus in the Townsville Primary School Sport for interschool carnivals, Friday afternoon team sport and representative teams.

Year 7 students compete at interhouse carnivals as part of our Middle School. From these carnivals Year 7 students are selected and combined with a team selected from our Junior School to make our “Primary School” team.

There are Open, Year 6 and Year 5 competitions for most sports played on Friday afternoons, with the Open teams usually consisting of primarily Year 7 students.

Under 12 “Primary School” representative teams are selected for many sports each year and are chosen primarily from Year 6 and 7 students with the rare talented Year 5 student included.

Introduction of Italian in 2006 Italian is now the fourth language on offer at TGS. Since the start of Term 1, 2006, over 60 students have been studying Italian as a LOTE subject.

The introduction of Italian at TGS balances the languages on offer to two Asian languages (Japanese and Indonesian) and two European languages (French and Italian).

Support from the community, parents and students has been high and classes are expected to grow in future years.

Year 7 Italian Class wearing their handmade masks

Middle School

New Ceramic Studio

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Junior School

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Students from TGS and Shalom playing football

Students from TGS and Shalom

Community Service Group After relinquishing the Year 7 cohort to the Middle School, many wondered how well the Year 6 students would handle the responsibility of leadership in the Junior School.

After one term of working with this year’s Community Service Group, I have to say that all misgivings have been put aside. This year’s group has shown maturity, dedication, compassion and a great work ethic well beyond their years.

Our first term project was a book drive. We decided to give the books to Shalom Christian College when we found out that they had a lovely new library but did not have many books. The teacher-librarian and the Head of their Junior School were supportive of the idea and suggested that this could be the start of a great friendship between our two schools.

Each class had to collect as many books as they could and we aimed to reward the class that collected the most. With over 270 books collected Year 2S were declared the winners and treated to a special party, catered for with donations from several business houses around Townsville.

We ended up with an absolute feast with generous contributions from the Cheesecake Shop, KFC, Brumbies, Woolworths and Angelina’s.

With boxes of nearly 2000 books, we delivered them in person to Shalom. They made us welcome with a speech from their captains and some musical items. We joined the whole primary school for a sausage sizzle and played lunchtime games of football and basketball. Our students then joined the Shalom students in their classrooms for the afternoon.

On our departure we were presented with thank you cards, a lovely banner painted by the Prep class and requests to come back again. It was a thoroughly rewarding experience on many levels and all parties are keen to develop the relationship further. We are now busy scheming how we can get our new friends to come to us!

Vanessa Kerley Community Service Group Co-ordinator

The Grammarian

Year 2J as Australia

Infant Sports Day On March 16, the Junior School held its Infant Sports Day, with students from Preschool through to Year Two participating in this fun and colourful event. The theme of the day was the Commonwealth Games, with each class representing a Commonwealth country.

Mrs Elizabeth Gauld, playing the part of Queen Elizabeth II, officially opened the “Grammarian Games”. The day’s activities rotated through eleven sports, including: Javelin Cycling High Jump Long Jump Hockey Marathon Gymnastics Shooting Relays Target Ball Basketball This gave all the students participating the opportunity to experience a range of different sports.

At the end of the day, each little athlete was very weary from the excitement of the day and quite content to return to a regular day at school the next day.

BELOW (Left) Mrs Gauld playing Queen Elizabeth (Right) Year 2S as Canada

Third Preschool Class

Current Preschool students

stimulating the eager young minds each day. It is a rich and fun-filled play-based environment, with just enough of the ‘big kid’ teaching and learning to develop the skills they are looking forward to in the primary classrooms.

The challenge of housing the three classes was offset by the transfer of Year 7 into the Middle School this year. Whilst two

Interhouse Cross Country The Junior School Cross Country went off with a bang, despite the gloomy clouds threatening rain on the day. Preschool through to Year 6 competed on the day, with special guests, Paul Bowman from the North Queensland Cowboys and Dean Rutland from QNI also attending the event.

Miller House was the overall winner on the day.

BELOW (Top) Miller Captains, Paul Bowman & Dean Rutland (Bottom) Junior School students competing on the day

Play equipment to be converted for sun safety

classes work in the Ross Marsh Preschool Centre, the third class has set up in the double space formerly occupied by Year 1. This huge space has been a boon for the 25 children as they have taken up residence in their new classroom.

Obviously, playtime provides the opportunity for the three classes to mix and share time together.

Preparing for Prep 2007 In preparation for 2007 when the Preparatory year commences, teachers are considering how best to meet the needs of the young learners. The curricular emphasis and timetabling for specialist lessons aside, we are also improving our already outstanding facilities to accommodate our first ‘preppies’. The fort which the children enjoy is about to be covered in the interests of sun safety. The area around the swing set too will receive an upgrade and of course a large variety of new resources and equipment are being provided in anticipation of the group. It is our intention to continue to provide full-time aide support to each teacher’s prep class. Preparatory schooling offers exciting new opportunities for us, and represents another phase in the life of our School. We can hardly wait!

Swimming This year's Swimming Carnival involved Years 3 - 6, with Year 6 House Captains having their first opportunity to lead the Houses.

There were a number of very fast times on the day, with Monica Lovelock in Year 5 swimming a new record time.

The end result for the day was Miller as the Champion House, but it was a very well contested carnival with the lead changing several times before finally being decided by the relay events.

Using the interhouse carnival for selection, the TGS team competed in the 'A' Schools carnival, again winning the competition overall.

Miller Captains with Shield for Overall Winner of Interhouse Swimming Carnival

Junior School

2006 has brought record numbers of Preschool enrolments into the Junior School. 75 Preschoolers are painting, drawing, singing, swinging, playing, modelling, climbing, creating and learning each day as they undertake the many activities vital to their stage of development. Our three teachers, Miss Charles, Miss Rooney, Mrs Wilson and their hardworking aides are kept busy

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Past Grammarians

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CONGRATULATIONS Two Past Grammarians were recently honoured in the Australia Day Awards. Col ARTHUR BURKE [1961] was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia [OAM]. His citation reads: “For the service to the community, particularly to veterans and their families through the activities of the ANZAC Day Commemoration Committee of Queensland.” Arthur spent one year on the ADDC’s Committee before becoming its honorary secretary for ten years. He says his involvement was a labour of love and he also points out that he would not have been as successful in the task but for the support, dedication and inspiration of his wife. Arthur is also involved in community service and ex-service organisations including Legacy and honorary historian to the 105th Field Battery [Brisbane] and the 4th Field Artillery [Townsville].

MARK NEY [1982] was awarded the Police Medal for his work as Assistant Commissioner on the Federal Police Force. Mark joined the Queensland Police and worked his way through the ranks before moving to Canberra.

Dr SPENCER ROUTH [1953] was recently awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Queensland. The degree recognises his distinguished career and nearly four decades of dedicated service to the University Library. He is currently a member of the working party on the Australian Dictionary of Biography.

Spencer has the unique distinction of winning the Lilley Medal [1949] by topping the State Scholarship Examination, the Byrnes Memorial Medal [1951] for best results at the State Junior Examinations and the John Black Scholarship [1953] for the best results at the Senior Examination.

Professor RICHARD HAYS [1970] left recently for the UK to become Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Keele University. Richard was the Foundation Professor of Medicine at James Cook University.

Vale The Past Grammarians would like to express their deepest sympathies to the families of past students who have recently passed away: MARIAN MILFULL [nee Rowland 1921] died in April. She celebrated her 100th birthday on 18 December, 2005. Marian was the last surviving child of legendary Headmaster ‘Boss’ Rowland. Marian had the unique distinction of being born on the School grounds [in the kitchen] and being married on the School grounds [on what is now the School quadrangle]. Rear Admiral GEOFFREY WOOLRYCH [1943] passed away at Exeter in the NSW Southern Highlands. On leaving the Rosslea campus Geoffrey was selected to the Australian Naval College as a Cadet Midshipman.

Upon graduation in 1947, he proceeded to the UK and spent four years serving in the Royal Navy. On his return to Australia he served in the Korean War before undergoing specialist courses in the UK and the USA. On his return he was placed in command of various ships including the Derwent and the Vampire. Promoted to Rear Admiral in 1980 he became the Flag Officer and served as Chief of Naval Development, Deputy Chief of the Navy

Grammar at Home Weekend 2006

and as Australian Maritime Commander before retiring in 1985.

GRAHAM PARKER [1973] was a student at the School from 1969 to 1973 and taught at Grammar from 1982 to 1993. On resigning from Grammar he moved to St Margaret Mary’s and was teaching there at the time of his death. Graham was a popular member of the School and was liked and respected by staff and students alike. He involved himself in many facets of the School’s life and was universally known as “Enzo”. Graham derived his nickname from that lovable and amiable character, Ensign Parker, in the television show McHale’s Navy.

ANTHONY RAE [2002] was tragically killed in an industrial accident two weeks before his 21st birthday. A pupil at Grammar from 1997, Anthony was also a member of the Old Boys’ Rugby Union Club.

While not Past Grammarians, the Association would like to acknowledge the contribution by two School Trustees who passed away earlier this year. They are ROSS MARSH [1980-2006] and JOHN McINTYRE [1969-1981]. Ross became involved at the School as a member of the Parents’ and Friends’ in 1971 and his association lasted until his

Friday 11 August 2006 • Black and Gold Ball

Marian Milfull on her Wedding Day death in 2006. He was proud of the fact that he was the fourth longest serving member of the Trustees in the School’s history.

Ross’ wife HILARY MARSH [nee DAVIES 1952] attended the Grammar School, as did their four daughters.

JOHN McINTYRE was a prominent engineer in Townsville. He was a School Trustee at a time when the School was expanding at a rapid rate and his engineering expertise was well utilised by the School. John’s four children all attended the School and one of his daughters HEATHER TAIT [1974] teaches on our Junior Campus.

Saturday 12 August 2006 • School Tours • Rugby, Netball and Basketball Games • Past Grammarians Reunion Dinner

Please contact Kristell Lyne on (07) 4722 4973 for more information The Grammarian

General News

Mr Hodges

Mr Purves

The School Foyer For those Past Grammarians who have not visited the School for some years it would be a surprise if they were not impressed when they walked in the School foyer situated in the MAURIE BLANK ADMINISTRATION BUILDING. Guided by the vision of the Principal, Mr RICHARD FAIRLEY, and funded by such diverse groups as the Past Grammarians’, Year 12 students, School support groups and individual parents the foyer has become a most welcome and wonderful focus for the history of the School.

All the Honour Boards have been re-polished and brought up to date. The trophy cabinet has been re-situated and trophies going back to the early 1900’s have been cleaned and placed in the cabinet. A new Honour Board setting out winners of The Governor’s Cup [started in 1905] and the Mary Agnes Donald Prize [started in 1935] will be ready by August of this year.

Photographs of all School Principals are also to be found in the foyer as well as plaques honouring some past students who have died in unfortunate circumstances. The latest addition to the foyer is photographs of two paintings of Mr HODGES [Headmaster 1888-1900] and Mr PURVES [1890-1898]. Mr Purves was the Second Master and then became Headmaster of Toowoomba Grammar before following Mr Hodges as Headmaster of Sydney Church of England Grammar School. Mr Purves is best known at Townsville Grammar for writing the words of the School song.

The School would like to thank SHORE [SCEGS] for copies of the two paintings.

becoming the inaugural winner of the University Medal for Medicine.

Her sister TANIA ZAPPALA [1996] is presently at James Cook University undertaking a postgraduate degree and researching skin cancer. She will be tutoring in the Anatomy Faculty in Semester Two. MARK WARNOCK [1994] has returned from a year in France as a Rotary Scholar. Mark was recently awarded a $16,000 Economics’ Scholarship to the study at the University of Queensland.

Grammar is renowned for its drama and music teaching and this is reflected in many past students being successful in this area.

NATALIE WEIR [1983] recently directed the world premier for the ballet version of Puccini’s opera Turandot. The performance occurred in Hong Kong. Natalie who is married to PETER MARSHALL [1982] recently gave birth to their second boy.

Congratulations to both Natalie and Peter.

SCOTT SHEENS [1999] has been accepted into NIDA as has LUKE EDE [1998]. Scott is the son of Tim Sheens, the coach of the West Tigers’ Rugby League team. Scott’s mother RONDA KELLY [1971] was a student at Grammar. TIM COLEMAN [2000] is doing well as a dancer with the San Diego Ballet Company and is hoping to win a contract with the Royal Ballet Company in the near future.

KIM DEGENHART [2000] has returned recently form Paris where she danced with the famed Moulin Rouge Company for a year.

CARLA DE JONG [1996] and LORI WEIGHTMANN [1993] have both produced shows for Channel 10 in Brisbane. Carla produced the popular afternoon show Scope while Lori was a producer and writer on the show Totally Wild. Lori is currently with the BBC in London.

Grammarians continue to perform on the sporting field both locally and nationally. MATTHEW ELLIOTT [1981] completes the year as the coach of the Canberra Raiders before moving on as coach of the Penrith Panthers. DANNY McKELLAR [1993] has been on contract with the Queensland Reds’ squad while JOSH HANNAY [1997] and MICHAEL LUCK [1997] continue with the Cowboys and New Zealand Warriors respectively. PHILIP REHDER [1984] visited recently from Lae. Philip’s father K.B.REHDER [1947] was a past student and Philip is keen to have his children enrol at Grammar when old enough. A good athlete at School, Philip is the SecretaryGeneral of the PNG Athletics’ Association, a position he enjoys as it allows him to travel the world fostering athletics in his country.

Two long standing past students made contact recently. BOB SMITH [1959], known as “Big Zebu” at Grammar has had a successful career as a Land Engineer and Mining Surveyor. Bob comments that MAURIE BLANK [Headmaster 1948-64] told him he would never make it as a surveyor because his mathematics’ ability was not up to scratch. ROBERT FOX [1961] is enjoying his retirement in the Northern Territory. He is an executive member of the Australian Clay Target Association and is an advisory member of the NT Parks and Wildlife Council. His area of expertise is in the caring of the critically endangered Northern Hairy Nosed Wombat.

BIANCA POWER [1998] and SCOTT IRONSIDE [1993] are two younger past students who are doing well in the world of business.

Bianca won the $10,000 Philip Leong Business Incentive Prize in 2005 and is now doing postgraduate study at James Cook University.

Scott was recently nominated by the Townsville Chamber of Commerce as Young Business Man of the Year. Scott is an engineer by training.

Past Grammarians

Past Grammarians continue to do well in many facets of academic, sporting, cultural and community life. Congratulations to LISA ZAPPALA [1999] on graduating with 1st Class Honours and

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Past Grammarians

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Our Honoured Grammarians In 1996 the Martinez Family, in memory of their father DOM MARTINEZ [1932], presented an Honour Board to the School. This Honour Board recognises Past Grammarians who, since the inception of the Australian system in 1975, have been awarded honours. To date twenty-four past students have been recognised for their contribution to Australian society with one past student, GREG NORMAN OAM, AO [1971], being the recipient of two awards.

As the School archivist I have set myself the task of trying to track down awards, military and civilian, presented to past students under the Imperial Honours’ system that prevailed in Australia prior to 1975. This has not been an easy task as School records are sketchy for some years. It has been easier tracking down military medals awarded to past students. This is, in part, due to the excellent records available through the Australian War Museum.

To date my research reveals that three past students have been knighted. They are LAWRENCE WACKETT [1911] knighted for his services to the aircraft industry, J.L.McKELVEY [1898] a Sydney surgeon and TOM COVACEVICH [1931] a

Cairns based lawyer. It is interesting to note that Wackett was also awarded a DFC and AFC during World War One while Covacevich won a DFC while serving with a Bomber Squadron in World War Two. Wackett was one of the three “W’s” who pursued a career in the military.

Wackett became a Air Vice Marshall while WILLIAM WATSON AO, OBE [1943] became a General and G.WOOLRYCH AO [1943] a Rear Admiral. handful of past A students have been awarded lesser Honours.

JAMES DOUGLAS [1896] was awarded an OBE [Military] in 1919 while CHARLES DAVIDSON [1914] was awarded an OBE [Military] in 1945 and a KBE in 1964. Davidson, a Minister in the Menzies Government, was also Mentioned in Dispatches [MID] during World War One. ERNEST NEAL [1930] received a MBE in 1947 for his services as a Warrant Officer in the South West Pacific Theatre of War. Three staff members have been recognised for their contribution to Australian society. MORTON MOYES [1909-10] received an OBE in 1935 and three Polar Medals as recognition of his work in

the Antarctic. He worked closely with Mawson in the early years of exploration on that continent. KIM ALLEN [1961-1986], author of the History of the Grammar School published in 1988, received a BEM in recognition of his services to education in North Queensland.

JUDY HUNTER [1988-2003] received an OAM for her services to the Arts and Libraries in Queensland.

Trustees to the School have also been honoured for their services to education, the community and business.

JOHN McINTYRE [19691981] received an OBE and OAM while Professors EDWARD SCOTT [1985and RODERICK 1989] CAMPBELL [1972-1982] each received an AM. Grammar’s most decorated soldier is J.D. WHITE [1898] who served with the Middlesex 33rd Regiment and won a DSO, MC and CdeG in World War One. His half R.L.HENDERSON brother [1889] served as a doctor in the AIF and won a MC on the Western Front. The School’s most decorated family would be the Mehan Family.

J.S.MEHAN [1900] won a MC while his brothers A.MEHAN [1908] and D.A.MEHAN [1908] were both awarded a MM for their bravery.

R.L. Henderson

J.D. White

W.T.REED [1904], a boarder from Normanton, won a MM and BAR for his exploits during action. Not as many Grammarians received bravery awards during World War Two although C.R.WILLIAMS [1921] won the DFC while flying on the legendary Dambusters’ raid.

He was on the second wave and tragically lost his life when his plane was shot down. The above is not a full coverage of the achievements attained by Grammarians over the hundred and eighteen years of the School’s existence. It is a reflection, however, of how many past students have involved themselves in so many facets of community life both at a local, state and national level.

If any Past Grammarian is aware of past students who have received either Imperial or Australian honours their input would be most welcome. As pointed out above my research is on-going and any help would be greatly appreciated.

W.J. MULLER

News from Papua New Guinea Kivi Korua, Lina Luingi and Kumalau Gotaha [All 1996] are living in Port Moresby, all working at the Internal Revenue Commission in the same building. Kumalau is with the Audits section of the Taxation office, whilst Kivi and Lina are Customs Officers.

Ralph Boas [1995] is still with the Treasury Department in Port Moresby. Roger Kilembe and Paul Pius [Both 1995] are with PriceWaterhouseCoopers also here in Port Moresby. Asi Vele Tola [1996] is also currently living in Port Moresby.

Michael Ilo [1995], Peter Olali, Calvin Singomat [1996] and Godfrey Wong [1994] are all based in Lae. Michael is with PwC as an Accountant. Peter is a Doctor at the local government hospital. Calvin is refereeing the local rugby competition, as well as playing rugby for his club side, Pirates. Godfrey is currently running the family business with his brother Gary Wong [1991].

Clyde Diuvia [1996] is currently in Kokopo, but rumour has it that he will soon be moving to be with his wife in Port Moresby and has indicated that he will be joining up with the Wanderers rugby team.

The Grammarian

14 TGS Community

Townsville Grammar Audi

Art Show 2006 Wearable Art on display at the TGS Audi Art Show

Our 2006 Townsville Grammar Audi Art Show held on the 13th and 14th of May was a great success, with a high quality selection of artwork for sale by local, interstate and investment artists.

A highlight of the evening were performances by internationally renowned didgeridoo player, Mr William Barton, who made time in his incredibly hectic schedule to open the Art Show and to provide performances for our guests. William had just

returned from playing with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra in the United States, and had to fly back to Brisbane to commence rehearsals for the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, and was a great supporter of the Art Show.

The Art Show’s success was due in no small part to the large and willing band of volunteers. These wonderful supporters gave many hours of their time in setting up and dismantling this

enormous event. A very big thank you to all those volunteers and guests who supported this important Black and Gold fundraiser.

The TGS P&F Association’s fifth Golf Day was held in May at the Townsville Golf Course. More than 30 teams took part with 28 Hole Sponsors supporting the event. It is their contribution, as well as the donation of prizes, which assist in making it a financial success.

Additionally, a putting competition and a raffle are conducted in conjunction with the golf.

winners, awarded on a count back, but judging by the good humour and satisfied teams, everyone went home a winner!

P&F Golf Day

Each team of four was awarded a prize and nearest the pin and longest drive competitions were also contested. The overall winning team on the day were awarded the coveted Green Jacket, a prize of Sunferries Reef Trips and the Annual Shield. The team of James Hill, Andrew Cassidy, Lee Van Antalan and Luke Gulbinas were the eventual

After months of planning by a small but dedicated committee, the day proved a success by raising well in excess of $6000 for the P&F Association. The efforts of the volunteers who helped run the event are also to be acknowledged as without this assistance such a day would not be possible.

The funds raised from this event will directly benefit all our students through an appropriately funded project. We look forward to bringing you another TGS Art Show in 2008.

On behalf of the Committee - many thanks to all for their support as players, hole sponsors, prize donors or helpers.

Norm Kerley Chair - Golf Day Committee Overall Winning Team for the Golf Day

Townsville Grammar School is what it is today because of the many people who have believed in it, who have given loyally of their time and energy and have financially supported the School and its community.

One way you can help Townsville Grammar School continue its fine tradition of academic, sporting and cultural excellence is to consider a gift to the School through a bequest in your will.

Play a part in the future of the Townsville Grammar School. If you would like further information about bequests, please contact the Principal, Mr Richard Fairley on (07) 4722 4926. All information is treated in the strictest confidence.

A Gift to Grammar