Newsletter
Week 5 Term 1

Today we welcomed Trustees and parents to Centenary Hall for the School’s annual Foundation Day assembly. Our special guest speaker was Old Boy Dr James Fielding ’04, the founder and CEO of hearing health company, Audeara.

Every year since the foundation stone of the first Brisbane Grammar School was laid at the Roma Street site on 29 February 1868, the BGS community has commemorated the School’s foundation on the last Friday of February.

The foundation stone, to me, is a constant reminder of the initiative shown by those Brisbane citizens who founded this school during the early days of the state of Queensland.

When the first State Parliament passed the Grammar Schools Act of 1860, 70% of children between the ages of five to 15 were uneducated, and parents who wanted their children to have a secondary education were forced to send them to school interstate or abroad.

BGS was this city’s first Grammar school, serving a small but ambitious local population. As Brisbane grew so did BGS, and today was an opportunity to reflect on this School’s pioneering role in Queensland education.

The School’s first Headmaster, Mr Thomas Harlin – after whom the senior Boarding House is named – led a team of qualified staff. Even the earliest BGS curriculum revealed a fusion of tradition and innovation. From the outset, boys were required to study foreign languages and, only a few years after the School opened, Physics and Chemistry as separate subjects were added to the curriculum.

However, people have always expected more than merely formal, academic education from schools like BGS. Our school is also concerned with the serious work of developing the whole person.

In doing so, it seeks to lay the foundations of principles and skills that will equip its students to become learners and leaders throughout their lives. Moreover, it seeks to establish the foundation of a strong character, based upon morality and committed to public service.

In 1881, when BGS moved from its original site at Roma Street to our current site at Gregory Terrace, the school gave visual expression to these concepts of leadership, scholarship and service in the magnificent stained-glass window at the northern end of the Great Hall. Later, each character element was portrayed as a “virtue” in the stained-glass windows of the war memorial library.

In addition to taking time at the Foundation Day assembly to reflect upon the continuing purpose and history of this fine school, we also celebrated the importance of good scholarship and a quest for knowledge as a key basis for a worthy and meaningful life.

We presented several scholarships and bursaries both to students who have recently graduated with great honour and to young men who are just embarking upon their secondary school careers.

I am pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 awards.

• R H Roe Scholarship – Hamish Moss
• A J Mason Scholarship – John (Jacob) Duncan
• A S Roe Scholarship – Alexander (Alec) Donald
• J G Nowlan Bursary – Yunze Cheng
• Frank Shaw Bursary – Gabriel Zheng

The Trustees’ Scholarships:

• Ethan Cao
• Freddie Chang
• Yunze Cheng
• Mason Gao
• William Gong
• Benjamin Lambert
• Henry Wang
• Gabriel Zheng

Finally, we recognised BGS staff who have contributed 20 years of service. In the past, we have celebrated the contribution of staff upon their retirement or resignation, but today we create a new tradition of honouring these people on Foundation Day.

We thank the following staff for their wise counsel of students and their commitment to the values of Brisbane Grammar School:

• Alison Cleary
• George Flatscher
• Ian Grice
• Paul Kenny
• Vicki Palmer
• Justin Shears
• Jean Walker
• Andrew Webb

Read Grammar News online

The latest edition of Grammar News includes a feature on Brisbane Grammar School's global outlook and growing international reputation, highlighting the School’s desire to develop global citizens who are engaged in the world beyond Brisbane.  

The cover story showcases BGS Old Boy David Malouf AO '50, an internationally celebrated poet and novelist. There are articles about students Jasper Chin Moody and Rahul Kumar succeeding on the world stage, and profiles of fashion entrepreneur Ben Nothling ’94, veteran Australian diplomat Ian Biggs ’80 and Olympian David Weightman ’88.

Former Socceroo and current BGS Football coach Matthew McKay ’00 writes about playing at a FIFA World Cup, and retiring American-born Music teacher Jim Noble looks back on 37 years at BGS.

We ask BGS families to be patient and supportive of staff while they move traffic through the drop-off zone at the front of the School.

Please adhere to the following procedures to ensure the safety of the BGS community:

• The front entrance between the traffic lights and the passenger loading zone is to be kept clear. It is not to be used as a waiting area before 3.15pm pick-up.
• Cars can enter the passenger loading zone to pick-up and drop-off passengers before 8.30am and after 3.15pm.
• Do not exceed the 5km speed limit in the pick-up and drop-off zone.
• Pay attention to traffic controllers and security guards – they keep our community safe and deserve our respect and cooperation.
• Exercise patience and courtesy towards other drivers.
• Please move as far as possible into the pick-up and drop-off zone to ensure efficient traffic flow.
• For safety reasons, please do not pick-up or drop-off your son before the pedestrian crossing at the entrance to the zone.
• The pick-up and drop-off zone has a two-minute parking limit. Drivers must stay with their vehicle during this time.
• The staff car park on off of Kalinga Avenue is not a designated drop-off or pick-up zone for students.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Besides Week 5 being shoe cleaning week, and Week 6 hair cut week, midterm offers parents an ideal opportunity to reflect on how their son are progressing.

Term 1 offers the opportunity to establish good practice for the year. If you feel that your son is not progressing satisfactorily, then I ask that you consider contacting his Head of Year to discuss what can be done, or discuss with him possible changes to routines at home and school.

I have learnt that at the centre of many issues for adolescent boys is their inability to organise their time and create a manageable balance with their various activities.

Creating an observable plan for him is a helpful way of giving him a chance to be more organised.

I have enjoyed attending the various Senior School Parent Information Evenings this term. I have been impressed with the number of parents in attendance and the assistance offered to parents and caregivers by Heads of Year.

This week’s Year 11 meeting was an excellent example. Good working relationship between home and school provides benefits for your son.

It is never too late or too early to start this conversation.

During my journey through Brisbane Grammar School, I have experienced life as a day boy and, more recently, as a boarder. I recognise how privileged I am to have experienced both aspects of life on campus.

However, be it the classroom or the corridors of Harlin House, there is one constant: The senior cohort are the custodians of the culture and connectiveness of their own year group, and to a large extent the remainder of the School.

We do this through the tone we set, the example we provide, the encouragement offered, and the positive male role models we are encouraged to be.

Whether it’s striving to achieve an academic goal, making a significant contribution in the Cocurricular program, or providing our flagship teams with devoted support from the sidelines, all are incredible opportunities to sustain what has gone before us, and an opportunity to leave the School in a better place.  

As one of the four school leaders in 2023, it is one of my ambitions is to bring about a culture of increased inclusivity to the student body.

Over the past two weeks, senior boys have been making the journey down to the oval during lunchtime to play touch footy with the Year 7 students.

It’s an enjoyable challenge and an opportunity to further evolve the school culture.

What I have most enjoyed about the touch footy is not the game itself, but watching my peers interact with the younger grades.

I am delighted to see new friendships being formed and, most significantly, a sense of inclusion and encouragement permeating through boys of different year groups.

Doug Chapman
Captain of Boarding

One of the great privileges of working in Boarding at Brisbane Grammar School is to care for and be responsible for a group of able and motivated young men who have a tangible academic ambition.

While not unique to BGS, that same academic ambition is not a given in every school or institution.

It is most certainly not the case that all boys have the same starting point, and our work in Boarding is to create an environment and culture that lauds, celebrates and supports boys to achieve their best in their various studies.

The innovate structure of both Griffith and Harlin House provide copious opportunities for boys to do work as and when needed.

To my great delight, I have observed a good number of both our younger and older Boarders engaged in work either directly after lessons, or at times when we might expect them to be more focussed on supper or a late-night snack.

That said, the backbone of the academic focus in Boarding happens every evening in The Lilley Centre.

Boys know where to locate themselves on the ground floor during Prep so that they can either work in isolation, or collaborate, or on occasions do a group session with staff.

That established routine assists a great deal but equally we are especially fortunate to have at our disposal two academic staff each evening in their role as Boarding Tutors.

While their prime role is to set the tone in Prep, supplemented by our Academic Tutors, it does mean that our young men have at their disposal a great deal of readily accessible assistance that they can call upon.     

2022 was an exceptional year in Boarding for many reasons, especially so when we reflect on the achievements of our senior cohort.

Firstly, the outcome for each boy reflected a laudable application in the classroom and in Prep.

It has been a delight to hear from them in recent weeks and learn of their success and their plans for 2023. Some plan to commence university this year; others will pause and reset before completing the next stage of their journeys.

That said, we should also take a moment to congratulate our 2022 Year 12 boarders who achieved outstanding results.

With a median ATAR score of 97.2, a figure of which any school let alone boarding community would be proud, our most recent leavers have certainly set the standard and provided a fine example to the community.

We are especially proud of those who achieved a score of 99 or better. Long may Harlin House be a ‘home away from home’ for our Boarders, where working hard and talking pride in academic achievements are given traits. 

Berian Williams-Jones
Director of Boarding

Year 12 Illness and Misadventure Procedures for Internal Assessment

Year 12 students who become ill or experience an adverse event at the time of assessment in Units 3 and 4 must obtain appropriate medical documentation to support any application for an extension or Access Arrangement and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA).  

This is a Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) requirement.

There are three key principles for internal assessment:

• The illness or event must be unforeseen and beyond the control of a student. Examples may include illness, injury and funerals of close family members.
• The situation cannot be of the student’s own choosing or that of their parents/guardians, such as a family holiday at the time of assessment.
• The School is required to implement AARA at the school level.

Students must apply for AARA using this form: CLICK HERE.

This parent application must be accompanied by appropriate medical or other relevant supporting documentation and must not be issued by anyone related to the student.

The School will then assess the application to decide if this is reported by the Headmaster to the QCAA, or if a formal AARA application needs to be made to the QCAA.

School-approved absences

There are situations where a student may need to request a school-approved absence.

Examples could include representing Australia at an international sporting event, or international university entrance examinations.

The academic guidelines for these absences are complex and must be discussed directly with the School via BGS Director of Assessment and Reporting Mr Mark Schumann.

Year 12 Illness and Misadventure Procedures for External Assessment

If a student does not attend a scheduled QCAA external exam at the end of 2023, there are no possible alternative arrangements.

If a student is unable to complete an external exam, they must apply to the QCAA under Illness and Misadventure guidelines and there are strict rules about detailed medical documentation requirements.

When the situation is non-medical, students must supply other relevant evidence including police reports, other government departments’ reports, and official notices.

Upcoming university visits

Next month, we are hosting representatives from University College, London and the Australian National University for student information briefings regarding admission and scholarships.

Senior School students have been advised of the details and we look forward to engaging presentations from both institutions.

Dr Nathan Simmons
Director of Counselling and Academic Services

Year 5E and F brought the Year 5 program to a close on Monday. The boys had wonderful conditions and achieved a lot during their day trip to Moogerah.

5E and F were particularly collaborative during the aquatic activity where they worked together to connect a range of paddle craft to make a bridge.

They also completed a series of paintings under the guidance of Mr Jon Hodges to describe the traditional lore story of the battle between the land and sea animals.

8C also engaged in Indigenous storytelling during their expedition. The boys learnt about the Goanna Story and how a range of personal attributes come together to make an effective mob.

Max Woolley was positive role model for his peers during the week. He was consistently prepared to help his group and volunteer his time. Max stood out during the group initiative activities for his willingness and ability to collaborate on group tasks.

Sam Kelley was identified by his peers as a great contributor to the class. Sam was recognised for displaying the behaviours associated with the program focus on community.

Oscar Menzies was an excellent participant in every aspect of the program. Oscar maintained a positive attitude and was willing to help both staff and students during height activities, in the kitchen and around the campsite.

Jarrod Tan was also recognised by his peers for his effort during the week. The class identified Jarrod as a great contributor who was willing to persist through the challenges and maintain a strong effort throughout the program.

Philip Sangster was consistently keen to lend a helping hand at every opportunity. Philip maintained an excellent attitude towards the activities and program and set a record on the morning run for the 2km and 4km courses!

Year 11 Outdoor Education Leaders Lachie Elliot, Daniel Martin and Tristan Knudsen were excellent leaders. They maintained a high standard all week and made excellent connections with the 8C students.

Ms Sam Kolkenbeck-Ruh provided wonderful support to 8C and was fully involved in the program taking on every challenge with her class.

A short movie of the boys' experiences can be viewed via the 5EF Video and 8C Video links.

Outdoor Education photos are now available via the School’s photo management system, Pixevety. The platform helps the School safely manage and share our photos.

This user guide provides instructions on how to access, navigate, search and download photos. The system uses single sign on and must be accessed via MyGrammar > Useful Links > Pixevety.

Once activated, you will be prompted to enter a login email and password, but please do not attempt to login this way. Instead, go back to MyGrammar and click on Pixevety again.

You can then view the photos by clicking on the Outdoor Education Year 5 or Year 8 folder in Pixevety.

Derek Jarvis
Director of Outdoor Education

Since the beginning of the 2023 school year, many eager BGS boys have been fundraising for the Starlight Foundation and supporting sick children in hospital through two main initiatives: the Super Swim, and the Pass for Starlight.

For the Super Swim, BGS swimmers have been raising money while they swim, adding to the total lap by lap during the month of February. By this point, we are excited to announce that our 2023 Super Swim team has raised almost $12,000.

Over the past few weeks, the Public Purpose Starlight committee has visited the Years 12, 11, and 10 social spaces and given students the opportunity to throw a rugby ball at a target, competing to become their year level champion. To enter the competition, boys have donated $2 (for two throws) or $3 (for five throws) to Starlight.

Students have had a blast contributing to the cause, having a crack and contributing to our fundraising total. But we’re not done yet.

Students still have a chance to support both the Super Swim and Pass for Starlight, as the initiatives continue this term.

Pass for Starlight will be coming to the Years 5 to 9 social spaces, with details announced in the Daily Bulletin. You can also sponsor one of our swimmers by clicking HERE.

Thank you to all our BGS students and parents supporting our initiatives to bring joy to the lives of as many hospitalised kids as possible.

Stephen Kyprios, Daham Kodithuwakku, Zachy Yap and Henry Duffield

BGS Art is encouraged to see a large number of boys take part in programs such as the Silversmithing Masterclass, Painting Masterclass, Drawing Masterclass and Art Club.

Silversmithing Masterclass

At the Silversmithing Masterclass, silversmithing artist Vivien Bedwell has shared her skills and expertise while teaching the boys how to safely use the equipment and tools associated with silversmithing.

Vivien’s works comprise of contemporary jewellery and sculptural objects, which the boys have been keen to emulate in their own projects.

Once they have mastered the skills, students will have the opportunity to plan, design and create their own small objects.

Drawing Masterclass

Life drawing is at the heart of all Fine Art training, and our Years 10-12 students have the opportunity to develop a range of classical and contemporary approaches to the human form.

This is one of several exciting collaborations between the Art Departments of BGS and Brisbane Girls Grammar School this year. We welcomed 10 girls and Ms Jo Hine to our session last week.

BGS Old Boy and celebrated figurative artist Scott Bretton will be working with students this term.

Students work with clothed models after school each Thursday from 3.30pm to 5.00pm. Limited places are still available for those who would like to join via My Grammar cocurricular page.

Painting Masterclass

The Painting Masterclass offers Senior students the technical skills and knowledge to improve their painting process, exploring the effect of light on a subject as well as composition, colour-mixing and techniques used in the craft of water-soluble oil painting.

Students are given uninterrupted studio time to focus on their own work with an expert teacher to help extend their skills.

During this process students are encouraged to gradually adjust and improve the most important elements of a painting: tones, colours, texture and details.

The Painting Masterclass is about understanding and applying this technique.

This term, students have taken on the task of creating a portrait of an inspiring teacher or friend, with the view to entering these portraits into the Brisbane Portrait Prize.

Art Club

The BGS Art Club is designed to provide a small group of students across Years 5 -12 a place to create and share their passion for painting, drawing, printmaking and photography in a safe and supportive environment.

In addition, students in this club have opportunities to hone their skills by understanding the basics of various techniques. 

In Term 3 students will be focusing on photography and what makes a good photograph. Numerous activities will focus on composition and artist expression, allowing students to explore their interests.

Exercises focusing on the rule of thirds, leading lines, angles, symmetry, monochrome, drawing with light and architecture. We will also have sessions that focus on photo editing using Adobe suites. With this software, they can enhance photographic images for their use and publication. 

A project that the Art club will be in charge of this year is designing and painting the traffic signal box directly outside Brisbane Grammar. We are currently just working out the logistics.

However, we still have spots open, so anyone interested in joining is welcome. Please contact Ms Sarah Kelly at sarah.kelly@brisbanegrammar.com.

Follow us on Instagram grammarart.bgs to view more examples of students’ exciting work.

Rebecca Masciantonio
Teacher of Visual Art and Design

Leadership is about relationships and putting the needs of others before your own.

Form Senior Badge Ceremony

At last week’s Middle School assembly, Mr Sam Lobascher (Head of Year 12) outlined his expectations for our 2023 Form Seniors. Our Form Seniors were then presented their badges by our Middle School Class Captains.

We were delighted to share this special occasion with Year 12 parents.

Form Seniors play an important role in the life of a Middle School student. At this early stage of the year, it is already evident that strong connections are being formed. 

Visiting classrooms for Tutor Group and Student Wellbeing lessons as well as spending time in the playground provides our Form Seniors the opportunity to build strong relationships with our younger students and to serve as positive role models. 

This unique opportunity is one that many of our Year 12 boys aspire to and we thank them for their leadership and willingness to serve our Middle School community. 

Grammar Man  

Our first Grammar Man awards for 2023 were also presented at last week’s Assembly.  

Grammar Man awards are presented to one student from each year level who epitomises our School’s values through his words and actions. 

Congratulations to this month’s recipients.

Outdoor Education

Each Friday afternoon, it has been wonderful to see our Year 8 classes return home from their Outdoor Education experience at Pepperina Hill. 

My conversations with the boys reveal that they have thoroughly enjoyed the program and can’t wait to return to Moogerah in Year 9. 

Visiting Pepperina Hill is a great way for the boys to challenge themselves, to collaborate with their peers and to establish new connections within their Tutor Group.   

8E will commence their Outdoor Education program on Tuesday 27 February.

The BGS Year 8 rowers have their season-culminating event this Saturday at Wyaralong Dam. This year we have 11 Year 8 Quad crews in action and we are looking forward to seeing them compete against other crews.

It is also a big week for our swimmers with the GPS Championships now just one week away. Grammar Only night is an important part of the BGS swim team’s preparation for the GPS Championships. 

At this community-building event, we see our Old Boys race against our current Opens Team and a new inductee will be added to the BGS Swimming Hall of Fame.

The Junior GPS team will be named next Monday at Break 1 in the Music Auditorium. All swimmers should attend this important meeting. 

Next Friday, all of our Year 6 cohort will be attending the Championships as spectators. More details regarding this will be emailed home to parents and carers over the weekend.

Our Year 5 and Year 6 Debating teams made a stunning debut last Friday with all teams winning their debates against TSS. Despite some early nerves for most of them, the boys rallied and were convincing and deserved winners.

The Kerridge Cup matches were well attended by the volleyball community last Saturday. It was a relaxed atmosphere and lots of fun. 

However, I’m sure all teams are looking forward to playing their own matches against Nudgee College this Saturday. All Middle School teams are playing at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at Boondall this weekend which should be an exciting experience.  

Cricketers from Year 6 and 8 return to Northgate this week, while the Year 5 and 7 cohorts play Nudgee College at Nudgee.   Team photos are on for all teams playing at Northgate this week.  Please check the photo schedule here  on mygrammar carefully and make sure your son is well presented and punctual at his allotted photo time.

Cricket

Results: Round 4 vs TSS

TEAM	WON BY
5A	TSS
5B	TSS
5C	NC
5D	NC
5E	GT
6A	TSS
6B	BGS
6C	GT
7A	BGS
7B	TSS
7C	BGS
7D	BGS
7E	BGS
8A	TSS
8B	BGS
8C	BGS
8D	BGS
8E	BGS
8F	BGS

Cricket Player of the Week

Team	Name
5A	Frederik Epari
5B	Charlie Carew
5C	Henry Maguire
5D	Luca Elix
5E	Harish Anand
6A	Marcus Swan & Angus Hart
6B	Alex Coates
6C	Sebastian McBride Malaquias
7A	Lewis Carroll
7B	Oliver Cook
7C	Flynn Oliver
7D	William Hooper
7E	Rohan Aiahla Reddy
8A	Oliver Harris
8B	Praj Saini
8C	Edward Driessen
8D	Aiden Grady
8E	Andy Bathgate
8F	Raul Selva

Debating

Results: Round 4 vs TSS

TEAM	WON BY
5.1	BGS
5.2	BGS
6.1	BGS
6.2	BGS
7.1	TSS
7.2	TSS
7.3	No debate
8.1	TSS
8.2	TSS
8.3	TSS

Debater of the Week

Year Level	Name
5	Maayan Nallainathan
6	Ricky Chin
7	Dominic Incani
8	EJ Koch

Sailing

Sailor of the Week

Year Level	Name
7	Yunze Cheng
8	Jayden Yeh

Swimming

Swimmer of the Week

Year Level	Name
10 years	Oscar Harvey
11 years	Reuben Martin
12 years	Oliver Cook
13 years	Evan Li

Glenn McFarlane
Assistant Head of Middle School - Sport and Activities

As we reach the halfway point of Term 1 2023, I remind each of our sporting programs to remain focused and continue to prepare well.

While some programs have experienced a difficult season to this point, we also head into final preparations for the GPS Swimming and Head of the River Rowing Championships where many are tracking for success.

With the onset of assessment and Term 2 sport pre-season planning on the horizon, there is a natural tendency to look ahead and allow distraction to affect our performance.

As we often state, we are operating our sporting programs within an educational context. While results are important and we all want to win, the life lessons and personal development our students gain from being involved are far more important.

Resilience and a sense of character are crucial traits for student athletes to possess. Not only do these skills help them succeed on the playing field, but also prepare them for success in other areas of their lives.

Resilience allows student athletes to bounce back from setbacks and challenges, while character development helps them make ethical and moral decisions.

In Cocurricular, setbacks are a part of the game. Athletes who possess resilience are better equipped to handle these challenges and adapt and come back stronger.

They are able to maintain focus and drive, even when things or momentum are against them. Resilient athletes understand that failure is a natural part of the process, and they use setbacks as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Developing a sense of character is also essential for all student athletes. As role models in their communities, they are often looked up to by our younger students.

Developing a strong sense of character helps them make ethical and moral decisions on and off the field.

They learn to value teamwork, fair play and respect for others. These values not only help them succeed in sport but also prepare them for success in their future careers and personal lives.

Furthermore, resilience and character development also contribute to an athletes’ mental health and wellbeing. Building resilience helps student athletes manage stress and anxiety that often come with high pressure situations.

Developing a strong sense of character helps them build self-confidence and self-esteem. It also helps them form strong relationships with teammates and coaches, which can provide important support encouragement during difficult times.

As we reach the culmination of many of our programs over the coming weeks, it is our hope that through this time our student athletes are able to reach the goals they have set for themselves and their results accurately reflect the hard work all have put into the season.

If this is not the case, we hope that all take the lessons that present and use them to develop, improve and meet the next challenge that no doubt will arise be it in the classroom or on the sporting field.

I wish all our teams continued success for the rest of the season.
 

Round 4 of GPS Debating has been the halfway mark for our Years 8-12 teams and the beginning for our Years 5-7 teams.

We were very glad to welcome our new teams and pleased to see such enthusiasm and commitment from all boys who participated.

A special congratulations to our Years 5 and 6 teams who all won their first round of debates.

We had a strong round at TSS with 13 wins and seven losses, and some of our Years 5, 6, 9, 10, and 12 teams remain undefeated this season.

We would like to thank our debating community and parents for their incredible support this year, and we look forward to the next few rounds with all our BGS teams continuing to improve and develop their skills week to week.

Dana Schottlaender
Debating Director

The cast and creative team of the Senior Dramatic Production have been working hard in the rehearsal room to bring our BGS community a show you won’t soon forget.

A pivotal part of any theatrical production is ensemble training. The training has been focused on building trust and collaboration between the cast members.

This is a critical step in creating a cohesive performance that is greater than the sum of its parts, and we believe that this focus on ensemble training will be evident in the final product.

Behind the scenes, the creative team have been working closely with our set designer and video designer to create a visually stunning production.

These discussions have been incredibly fruitful, with both designers bringing fresh and exciting ideas to the table.

Our set designer, Josh McIntosh, has been working on creating a versatile and dynamic set that can transform seamlessly to create different settings throughout the show.

Complementing this, Nevin Howell, our video designer, has been working on incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance the visual experience for our audience.

Thank you for your continued support of our theatrical community and we hope to see you at the show in Term 2.

Amy Irvine, Ben Newth and Naomi Russell
The Creative Team

Fencing Sign-on

Thank you to everyone who signed on for the 2023 Fencing season.

I will be in contact soon with more particulars, including nominations for your weapon of choice and trials. 

Whites Hire

Monday to Friday, 6-10 March. 

The information about whites hire and the order form is now available on MyGrammar. 

Students should attend at their allocated time. One parent may accompany their student if necessary. 

First IV Trials

Trials for the First IV will be held on 13-17 March with overflow into the following week if required. 

More information is available on MyGrammar. 

Those who wish to trial will get details about specific bout times soon. Not all students need to trial to participate in Fencing. Only students who nominate to trial are required to attend.

Musketeers Raffle Call for Donations

The Musketeers are currently looking for help in the form of raffle donations.

Fundraising is one of the key purposes of The Musketeers and crucial for maintaining the equipment-heavy sport of fencing, with new equipment being our major expense.

We are reaching out to BGS Fencing families to donate and/or source prizes for our 2023 raffle.

The prizes can range from smaller items that can be added to a larger 'basket' prize, to a more significant gift to be a major raffle prize.

Past donations have included electronics, gaming consoles (Xbox/Wii/PlayStation), gift vouchers, fencing gear, Dungeons and Dragons merchandise, even replica Medieval swords which proved extremely popular!

All funds raised from raffle ticket sales will make a huge difference to the continued success, safety and enjoyment of all the boys involved in BGS Fencing.

If you think this is something you are able to do to assist the fencing community, or if you have any questions please contact Noeleta Boardman or Damien Armenis at Musketeers.support@brisbanegrammar.com.

Other Important Dates

QFA State Development Squad starts on Saturday 18 February, in Yeronga.

QFA Introduction to Fencing Competition on Saturday 18 March, in Yeronga. 

Melanie Chin
Director of Fencing

Music played while studying was most strongly reported to relax,
alleviate boredom and help concentration.

Kotsopoulou, A, and Hallam, S, The Perceived Impact of Playing Music While Studying: Age and Cultural Differences, 2010

I often speak with students about listening to music while studying. My experience suggests that it depends on the music you’re playing. There is no doubt that many students find it helpful, and the quote above suggests there is something to this.

As we move into initial assessment for many students, families might like to experiment with background music while boys study – even if it using music to revive and inspire during breaks.

Good luck!

String Festivals

It has been exciting this week to have launched into our first round of performances.

The Upper Intermediate String Festival brought together some of our ever-improving intermediate string players in collaboration with similarly experienced students from BGGS.

On Monday, they rehearsed together for the first time. They thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to explore some new repertoire while getting to know each other.

On Wednesday, they knuckled down and aimed to polish their music as best they could. Clearly they did a terrific job because the concert that evening was full of vitality and joy.

Well done to all involved including our wonderful string staff Stephen Chin, Amy Phillips and Alison Harbottle.

Very soon it will be the turn of our most experienced players with String Fest. This is always a much-anticipated event featuring some of the best string playing you’re likely to hear from school musicians.

BGS will be welcoming students from several other schools to collaborate and to perform for each other.

You won’t want to miss the final concert!

Senior String Festival
Wednesday 8 March, 6.30pm
Great Hall

Volunteers needed

The Music Support Group does a wonderful job at supporting our young musicians at events such as String Fest.

With so many students involved, we need help in many aspects of the event.

If you are able to assist with the catering and front of house for Strings Fest, please CLICK HERE to register to volunteer.

If you have any queries regarding parent volunteering, please CLICK HERE to contact the Music Support Group.

Peter Ingram
Head of Music

With only one week until the 2023 GPS Swimming Championships, an air of excitement is building amongst the BGS Swimming community.

The team has prepared well and there seems to be a lot of positive energy moving forward into the final week.

I wish to remind all swimmers at this stage of the season, it is essential to continue to thoroughly prepare both physically and mentally for the main event.

Team announcements will be made on Monday 27 February for the Junior GPS team at first break (10.10am) in the Music Auditorium and the Senior GPS Team at second break in the Gallery (1.00pm).

Further information regarding training times, ticketing for the Championships and specific GPS day arrangements are available on My Grammar.

We look forward to seeing you at the GPS Championships next week.

Swimming Presentation Evening

After the conclusion of the GPS Championships on Friday 3 March, we invite all swimmers (Year 5-12) and their families to join us for a celebration of the 2023 GPS Swimming season.

This will be held at The Lilley Centre Learning Commons and Forum at 7.00pm.

This important occasion allows us to recognise the achievements of the team and to gather as a community one last time at the end of what has been a busy yet rewarding GPS Swimming Season.

Food and drinks will be provided at this event. Payment for Presentation Evening is required by Tuesday 28 February so that we can finalise numbers for catering purposes.

Matt Logan
Swimming Director

Volunteers needed in Term 1

In the lead-up to this year’s rugby season, The Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), in partnership with World Rugby and Rugby Australia, is calling on students from Grades 9 to 12 to get behind brain research.

The goal is to identify a biomarker that will test the severity of concussion and recovery from it.

Baseline testing has started at GPS schools and will run through to April 2023. If the athlete experiences a concussion, a similar series of post-concussion tests will track how their brain recovers.

Students in Grades 9 to 12 who are playing rugby, basketball or swimming are eligible.

CLICK HERE to express your interest here.

Grammar Shop Trading Hours

OPEN: Monday - Friday 7.30am–11.00am

CLOSED: All public and school holidays.

The Grammar Shop will be closed on Wednesday 1 March 2023 from 8.30am to 10.00am due to the P&F Auxiliary Annual General Meeting.

Payment and Grammar Shop Online Orders

Grammar Shop purchases can be made in-store and online using Visa, Mastercard or the BGS Card account, which can be accessed (MyGrammar > BGS Card).

The online store can be accessed by entering the BGS Card system and then clicking the ‘Grammar Shop Online’ link at the top of the screen. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours before coming to the shop to collect your order. 

A significant number of students are still coming to the Grammar Shop without sufficient funds on their BGS Card. Please ensure funds are available for students before they come to make purchases. If you have selected a 'daily limit' for the BGS Card account, this will need to be removed prior to the student making the purchase. 

Blazer Submission for Award Embroidery

With Term 1 well underway, we thought it best to advise senior students of the schedule and process for submitting blazers for embroidery, as there have been some changes to prior years. 

The final cut-off date for blazer submission before the winter uniform season is Friday 24 March 2023 (Week 9). 

It is important for everyone to understand that there can be no exceptions to this date. 

We are working very closely with Hi Profile, our embroiderer, to ensure they have enough time to complete all the submitted blazers to be ready in time for the winter uniform commencement. 

YEAR 12 STUDENTS IN TERM 1 FLAGSHIP TEAMS: Your yellow Awards Forms will be handed out directly to you after the awards have been finalized during the week of 20 March 23. If you wish to get your blazer embroidered, please bring the form with your blazer to the Grammar Shop by Friday 24 March before school. 

YEARS 10-12 (not in Term 1 flagship teams): If you have outstanding awards you wish to be embroidered, please go to the Cocurricular Office to have your Awards Form printed. Bring the form with your blazer to the Grammar Shop before shop closing at 11.00am. We ask that this is done sooner than later to avoid last minute rush, possibly missing the cut-off date. 

YEAR 9: This is the first year you will be wearing blazers and most of you will still need to go to the Grammar Shop to purchase. If you have awards to be embroidered, please go to the Cocurricular Office to get your Awards Form printed and bring that with you when you come to the Grammar Shop to purchase your blazer. We ask that you start this process soon and not wait until the last week to avoid the rush and missing the cut-off date. 

Our goal is to have all blazers back in the Grammar Shop before or, at the latest, by Wednesday 26 April 23.  

Returned Embroidery

Please go to MyGrammar | P&F Auxiliary | Embroidered Blazer/Item Pick up list to check whether your blazer or other embroidered items are ready to be picked up. We appreciate you collecting these items as soon as possible. Click HERE to see the list.

Stylus Pens

The Grammar Shop sells HP G3 stylus pens for $130 for Years 7-12 and the Dell tablet pen. These pens can be used on all tablets, including Toshiba tablets.

Tuckshop 

Open weekdays before school and during breaks.

The Tuckshop provides a selection of hot food, fresh salads, wraps, rolls and drinks.

The Tuckshop is currently operating cash free. Therefore, the BGS Student ID Card is the only payment method. Please add funds to your Student ID Card (MyGrammar > MyStudent > BGS Card).

Tuckshop +61 7 3834 5229
Grammar Shop +61 7 3834 5347
Roster Secretary Lana Szumowski - auxiliaryvolunteers@brisbanegrammar.com

The P&F Auxiliary AGM will be held on Wednesday 1 March 2023 in the Great Hall, commencing at 8.45am.

All current BGS parents are welcome to attend. Please RSVP by email to P&F Auxiliary Secretary Lynda Dunglison at auxiliarysecretary@brisbanegrammar.com by Monday 27 February.

All voluntary positions will be declared vacant. Nomination Forms are available on request from Lynda. Completed forms are to be returned no later than Thursday 23 February to the above noted email address.

Please send any other enquiries by email.

Lynda Dunglison
Auxiliary Secretary

The BGS Sportsman’s Lunch is back! This year, it will be held on Friday 21 July at the Rivershed at Howard Smith Wharves.

Now is the time to grab your mates and get a table together. You'll enjoy a long lunch from 11.30am and be entertained by a highly anticipated panel discussion.  

Speakers and MC will be announced soon.

The BGS Sportsman's Lunch is open to everyone in the BGS Community: partners, current parents, past parents, future parents, coaches, volunteers, staff, Old Boys, friends and business associates.

CLICK HERE for early bird tickets.

With the 2023 GPS Football season fast approaching, the Wembley Club is seeking volunteers to convene the Northgate canteen for the four home game days in Term 2.

This volunteer role does not require previous canteen experience and will be supported by the Wembley Club. It can be either a full or half day.

For further enquires please email the Wembley Club committee on Wembley.Support@brisbanegrammar.com