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No more Trust-Falls
Trust is widely recognised as the glue holding successful organisations together.
Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships. It forms the foundation upon which relationships, collaboration, and innovation flourish.
Stephen M.R. Covey
With trust, students feel more included, develop a sense of belonging, and feel valued. Consequently, they become more confident in themselves and within the school environment. In other words, students learn best when they are happy, feel supported, and are challenged in equal measure.
Trust has become a central principle for organisations, societies, and schools. This isn’t too surprising, given the significant impact that trust—or mistrust— can have on an organisation. But when did everyone become so mistrustful?
Remember when you were a kid and played the ‘trust-fall’ game with your friends? Nobody trusts trust-falls anymore.
So how do we build and gain trust in schools?
- A strong, shared purpose.
- Make connections, and create and maintain relationships.
- Context is important – know your audience and meet them where they are at.
- Culture does not stand still, it is shaped. We are all stewards of culture.
Policies alone do not keep children safe, culture does.
Scott Mayall, Grammar Acting Head of Secondary
In addition to the measurable benefits for student outcomes, success, and the wellbeing of both staff and students, trust as a foundational value also keeps us all safe. Evidence of a strong organisational culture is often found in workplaces where trust is palpable –“it’s the way the place makes me feel.”
In schools where trust is present, students feel comfortable making mistakes, voicing concerns, and offering feedback without fear of reprisal. This openness leads to better decision-making and the ability to adapt quickly to challenges, further demonstrating the strength of the organisational culture. Trust also enables effective communication, which is a clear marker of a robust culture. More trusted communication builds more trust – it’s a positive feedback loop.
Without trust, we don't truly collaborate; we merely coordinate or, at best, cooperate. It is trust that transforms a group of people into a team.
Stephen M.R. Covey
In conclusion, trust and school culture are inextricably linked. Trust serves both as an indicator and a driver of a strong culture, shaping the way people interact, collaborate, and innovate. Organisations such as Sunshine Coast Grammar that prioritise trust are rewarded with higher engagement, loyalty, and performance, all of which are unmistakable signs of a healthy and resilient culture.
Excerpt from a prospective family’s quote following our recent Open Day:
When we visited the campus for a tour, we immediately felt a sense of warmth and community. The staff we met were welcoming, genuine and clearly passionate about their students. We noticed how friendly and confident the students were, which spoke volumes about the culture of the school. The natural environment, calm atmosphere and respectful tone throughout the campus really resonated with us, and we left feeling certain that this was the right fit for our family. We value SCGS for its strong sense of community, its focus on character and wellbeing, and its dedication to helping each child reach their full potential. We are confident that Sunshine Coast Grammar School is the ideal environment for both of our children to grow academically, socially and personally.
World Teacher's Day
Next Friday, 31 October, we are celebrating World Teachers’ Day.
This is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and commitment of our wonderful teachers. To express our gratitude, we want to hear from our Grammar community. Please take the time to write a short message telling us why our teachers mean so much to you and your child/ren.
Write your message here.
Anna Owen
Principal
FROM THE P&F
President
One of our first 'lasts' was our Year 12 Valedictory Chapel Service, which included the Year 12 band leading ‘My Lighthouse’ as well as some authentic and powerful testimonies of student faith journeys. Here are some of the words students shared:
‘One of the most prevalent ways that the school has directly impacted my faith is through giving me the knowledge of God being a constant that is always there.’
‘Being surrounded by such a kind and hopeful community brings so much support and peace for any troubles one of us is facing. I am beyond grateful for the relationships I have formed at Grammar and for the opportunity to be a part of such a purposeful group like JOLT (Jesus Over Lunch Time).’
‘This year, I have really discovered my faith and what it looks like for me. I’ve had a bit of a rocky year, but at the same time, I have made connections with people I never would have thought.'
I also shared with the students these words: ‘As we look back, be reminded that the Christian message is an invitation to know that you can have your past forgiven, present empowered and future secure. I encourage each of you to live out our Christian values, but more than that, understand the need for someone greater to be in your life and in your future. Someone who loves you each so much and who knows your future. Someone who you can connect with daily and that you can rely on when you face the unknown that lies ahead, and that is, of course, our loving God, through his son Jesus.’
Jon Taylor
School Chaplain
Masterplan Review – Your Voice Matters
We are excited to launch Masterplan Review, a collaborative opportunity for our entire school community—Senior and Middle Leadership, staff, parents, and students—to reflect on recent campus developments and how they’ve shaped our previous master plans.
This inclusive process is designed to ensure transparency, invite meaningful feedback, and encourage forward-thinking ideas. While embracing change, the review remains aligned with the core principles of earlier masterplans, ensuring continuity and strategic direction.
Key stakeholder engagement sessions have been scheduled with the school's Executive team. Parent consultation sessions are planned for the week commencing 17 November. Further details and invitations will be shared in the coming week.
Media Consent Update
Parent Orbit continues to evolve with new features designed to make school communication more efficient and accessible. We’re excited to introduce an enhanced function that allows parents to update their child’s Media Consent details directly within the app—giving you greater control and flexibility over your preferences. For details on step-by-step instructions, please see GECO - Media Consent for further information.
Media Consent at Grammar encompasses a range of permissions that allow the school to use student images and videos across various platforms. This includes content shared on social media, used in advertising materials displayed on campus, and published on external platforms such as promotional websites or publications.
Even if you have selected 'No' for Media Consent, your child will still have an internal school profile and annual class photos, unless otherwise notified.
Processing Time: Changes to your child’s media consent may take up to five school days to be fully updated in our system.
Confirmation Message: If you see a pop-up box that says “Warning” (see Step 6 of the instructions), this means the media consent has not yet been updated in the Student Information System.
Event Timing: Media consent changes cannot be processed on the same day as a school event. Please ensure updates are made well in advance.
Sunshine Coast Grammar School is unable to monitor or manage media usage at external events your child may participate in, such as those organised by a third-party group. Media consent provided to Grammar applies only to school-managed activities and platforms. For any external events, media permissions and usage are governed by the policies of the organising body, and we encourage parents to review those independently.
Queensland Government Grant Contribution
We would like to recognise the Queensland Government for the financial assistance provided to Sunshine Coast Grammar School in the construction of the Cafeteria, Primary Building A and B projects. The financial assistance was provided as part the External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme, which is administered by the Queensland Independent Schools Black Grant Authority.
To avoid classroom disruptions, please email or write a note to your child’s teacher if they need to leave early. This allows them to leave class without a call. Please remember to sign them out at the Student Reception before leaving.
Kelly Somerville
Director of Operations
FROM THE HEAD OF PRIMARY
There has been much to celebrate over the past two weeks.
Students have had the opportunity to continue their development through programs including the Years 3-6 Swimming Carnival; Red, Orange and Green Ball Regional Tennis Competitions; the Lightning Cup Netball competition; the Grammar Chess Tournament; the SCIPHA Day of Excellence Codebreaking Challenge and our annual Jane Thomas Speaking Competition for Year 6.
This evening, we honour the incredible talents of our students at the Forest Fest, celebrating their achievements in Music and Art. Watching students achieve their best is a fulfilling feeling, and at Grammar, we get to do that often. Thank you to our parent community for your support of these wonderful events.
Term 4 is always an eventful term. Please keep an eye on the Events Newsletter, as well as class GECO announcements and invitations, to ensure you are up to date.
Prep Orientation Days
Our first Prep Orientation Day for our 2026 Prep cohort was held on Wednesday, 15 October, and the second will be next Wednesday, 29 October. We are excited to welcome our future Prep students.
Uniforms
A reminder that students should be wearing formal hats with their formal uniform and the blue sports hat with sports uniforms. Blue hats can be worn in the playground at lunch and recess. Parents, thank you for your support in relation to your child’s uniform.
‘A Way With Words’ Jane Thomas Speaking Competition
On Wednesday, we hosted the finals of our annual ‘A Way With Words’ Jane Thomas Speaking Competition for Year 6 students. This competition is held in honour of Jane, who was the first teacher of the speech and drama program at Grammar.
The Year 6 students studied Morris Gleitzman’s ‘Once’ in English. The task in this unit involved writing a script for a monologue based on a moment from the novel from the perspective of a character. In Term 3, Year 6 Humanities and Social Sciences unit studied the migration to Australia, including those seeking asylum, which has helped to add a depth of understanding to the novel for students. In Drama, the students worked with Mrs Karleen Fitzgerald to develop and refine their performances, exploring character and performance skills.
Craig Angel
Head of Primary School
Booklist 2026
The 2026 Booklists are now available via the Class and Year Level Parent Pages on GECO.
This year, a textbook pack has been arranged for each year level. The textbook pack must be ordered through Campion and will be delivered directly to classrooms. Stationery items may be purchased from any supplier.
As part of our sustainability focus, families are encouraged to reuse items where possible. Teachers will send unused items home in the final weeks of Term 4. Visual Art, Music and Christian Education resources will remain at school for use in 2026.
A small number of compulsory items remain available only through the Grammar Shop: Homework Bag, Library Bag and Art Smock.
Please ensure all orders are finalised by Wednesday, 10 December 2025 to avoid delays and additional costs.
FROM THE ACTING HEAD OF SECONDARY
Today, we proudly marked the formal handover of student leadership during our Secondary Leadership Assembly, where we inducted the 2026 School Captains, Prefects, and House Leaders. Each new cohort brings fresh perspectives and ideas that enrich the life of our school community. These moments reflect the trust these students have earned and the promise that youthful energy and vision bring to each year.
We extend our warm congratulations to all students on their appointments.
While student leaders often serve as the visible face of the school, their most important role lies in fostering meaningful connections between students, staff, and the broader community. Leadership can be 'loud', as seen when House Leaders rally their peers at sporting carnivals, and it can be 'quiet', when students advocate behind the scenes or offer support to those who need encouragement. Every leader plays a vital role, and we look forward to the contributions they will make in shaping the story of 2026.
As our Year 12 students prepare to commence their external examinations next week, we wish them well and encourage them to use their remaining study days effectively. This milestone marks the culmination of their school learning journey, and we trust that the habits and routines developed over many years will guide them through these final challenges. We wish each student the very best in the weeks ahead.
Last week, we also acknowledged the hard work, dedication and excellence of our Year 12 students at the annual Gold Colours and Special Awards Assembly.
Gold Colours are awarded to students who exemplify excellence and distinction. This year, we are proud to recognise exceptional talents across Music, Sport, Debating and Robotics.
Congratulations to all students and award recipients.
| Uniting Church Christian Character and Service Award | Maya U |
| ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award | Molly E |
| ADF Future Innovators Award | Marley R |
| Chorister of the Year Award | Tulsa H |
| Instrumental Musician of the Year Award | Julian M |
| Global Citizen of the Year Award | Molly E |
| Principal's Award for Citizenship | Nirvan P |
| Principal's Leadership Awards |
School Captains - Molly Evans, Nirvan Panesar Vice-Captains - Zenna Penay, Noah Hanson |
| Maria Woods Award |
Ella N |
For a detailed description of the special award winners, refer to the document below:
Families can view more photos from the Assembly on GECO Galleries.
Mr Scott Mayall
Acting Head of Secondary
FROM THE HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT
Year 10 Geography Excursion to Moreton Bay
This term, students travelled to Wynnum where we met with Aimee from the Moreton Bay Environmental Centre ready for a day on the water to study the impact of plastic pollution. We spent time on the foreshore conducting a rubbish audit with the data collected contributing towards a larger study of marine debris within Moreton Bay. We then boarded the Inspiration and carried out fieldwork activities to collect data about marine debris using a plankton trawl. Samples were then studied under microscopes in order to identify species and look for evidence of microplastics. Students have begun working on field reports which make use of the observations and data collected on the excursion. These reports will contribute towards their Semester Two result for Geography.
Year 8 Geography Excursion to Point Cartwright and Cotton Tree
Year 8 students spent a day at Buddina and Maroochydore, conducting fieldwork on the beach and investigating coastal management processes. They completed field sketches, measured longshore drift and constructed beach profiles and were able to observe the council’s sand management techniques at the mouth of the Maroochy River.
All students conducted themselves with great maturity and enjoyed being out in the field to see Geography in action.
FROM INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN
Congratulations to Year 12 Furnishing Skills student Jack M, who was awarded First place in the Senior School category at the Cooroora Woodcraft Show at Cooroy recently. Cash prizes were kindly donated by the sponsors of this event, Bullock Manufacturing.
Ben Dutton
Teacher
FROM THE DEAN OF CO-CURRICULUM
Chess
QLD Inter-School State Finals
Last weekend, our Premier Secondary Chess Team participated in the State Finals, held at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace in Brisbane. Competing against some of the strongest school teams in the state, our students demonstrated resilience, strategic thinking, and excellent sportsmanship across six intense rounds of play.
Day 1 Highlights:
- Round 1 vs. Brisbane Grammar School: A tough start with all boards narrowly defeated against the team that ultimately finished fourth.
- Round 2 vs. St Patrick’s College: A strong comeback with wins from Savannah, James, and Lucas.
- Round 3 vs. Cairns State High School: Continued momentum with wins from Savannah and James and draws from Sebastian and Lucas.
Day 2 Highlights:
- Round 4 vs. The Southport School: James secured a win on Board 3.
- Round 5 vs. Rockhampton Grammar School: A standout round with wins from Savannah, James, and Lucas, and a draw from Sebastian.
- Round 6 vs. Toowoomba Grammar School: A challenging final round against the team that finished fifth.
Across the tournament our team earned a total of 10.5 points, placing 17th out of 22 schools. We are incredibly proud of all four students for their dedication, teamwork, and for showing great composure under pressure. Well done to Sebastian R (Year 10), Savannah H (Year 11), James V (Year 11) and Lucas L (Year 9).
Grammar Championship Tournament
After a long weekend of chess at the State Finals for our secondary students, on Monday our primary students joined in for our 2025 School Championship Tournament. All three divisions were highly competitive with lots of draws and close matches. It was great to see all of the students using the tactics and skills they’ve picked up over the entire year at chess lessons.
Only our most dedicated and top chess players were invited to our School Championship Tournament, so well done to everyone who took part.
2025 Results
| Division | Position | Name |
| Junior Primary (Year 1 - 3) | First | Alyna A (Year 3) |
| Second | Ben W (Year 3) | |
| Third | Maisie M (Year 3) | |
| Senior Primary (Year 4 - 6) | First | Xavier F (Year 5) |
| Second | Jamie W (Year 5) | |
| Third | Harrison S (Year 4) | |
| Secondary | First | Sebastian R (Year 10) |
| Second | Lucas Lee (Year 9) | |
| Third | Christian F (Year 10) |
Jessica Richards
Teacher in Charge - Chess
Debating
In a very close debate, Lucy M's (Year 11) team (Erika C, Sahana S, Olivia R, Emma P and Zara S) were defeated by Mrs Roush’s very motivated team (Lauren M, Issy R, Ashwyn Mand Elly H) on the topic that “All political donations should be revealed to the public”. Grammar are, once again, the Intermediate Division Champions.
In a showcase of debating on the Sunshine Coast, the Senior Division Grand Final was a thrilling debate between Matthew Flinders and Mrs Guteridge’s indomitable team (Emily C, Corri S, Alice K and Matilda O) who won their third consecutive championship on the challenging topic that “Security is more important than Freedom."
With 52 teams from 15 schools across the Sunshine Coast competing this year, we are excited for the future of debating!
High School Musical
Rehearsals for High School Musical are progressing with great momentum! Students have been working hard in separate singing, acting, and dancing sessions, bringing energy and enthusiasm to each rehearsal. The first Sunday morning rehearsal was very successful, with over 100 students dancing and singing in Grammar Hall. We’re excited for the next Sunday morning rehearsal on 2 November, as the cast continues to grow in confidence and cohesion. Stay tuned as this musical is shaping up to be a fantastic showcase of Grammar talent and dedication.
Speech and Drama
Do you have a child who loves to perform, create, or express themselves with confidence? 2026 enrolments for Speech & Drama are now open!
Speech & Drama lessons are a wonderful way for students to build confidence, communication, and creativity — all while having fun. Through acting, poetry, prose, and performance, students develop skills that last a lifetime: clear speech, expressive delivery, teamwork, and self-assurance on stage and in everyday life.
Whether your child is a natural performer or simply looking to grow in confidence, Speech & Drama provides a supportive space to shine.
What we offer:
- Weekly lessons during school hours or after school
- Opportunities for performances, exams, and showcases
- A positive and encouraging environment where every student is valued
To secure your child’s place for 2026, please complete the enrolment form or contact Ms Harvey (kharvey@scgs.qld.edu.au) for further details. Places fill quickly each year — we can’t wait to welcome our new performers!
FROM THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT
Athletics
QRSS State Championships
Congratulations to our Sunshine Coast Region representatives who competed at the state championships last week. The results are in and congratulations to Amber G who’s 4 x 100m relay team set a new state record!
Results below:
|
Name |
Age |
Event |
Result |
|
Amber G |
12yrs |
100m |
semi-final |
|
|
|
4 x 100m relay |
1st |
|
Amelie G |
15yrs |
100m |
3rd |
|
|
|
200m |
5th |
|
|
|
4 x 100m relay |
3rd |
|
Billy B-P |
17yrs |
Discus |
5th |
|
Davi NR |
17yrs |
100m |
semi-final |
|
Mack C |
12yrs |
100m |
2nd |
|
|
|
Long Jump |
1st |
|
|
|
4 x 100m relay |
5th |
|
Ryan K-D |
18-19yrs |
Javelin |
9th |
|
Toby B |
11yrs |
Tetrathlon |
8th |
Basketball
Champion Basketball School of Queensland Tournament (CBSQ)
From October 16–19, our Junior Secondary girls’ basketball team proudly represented Grammar at the prestigious CBSQ Tournament. Competing against some of the top basketball schools in the state, the girls demonstrated exceptional grit, resilience, and teamwork throughout the four-day event, finishing with a commendable 3-3 record.
Facing a demanding schedule of late-night games and early morning starts, the team rose to every challenge with determination and spirit. They demonstrated the We not Me attitude of our school to put six games' worth of effort on the court.
We are incredibly proud of how the team conducted themselves both on and off the court. Their sportsmanship, perseverance, and passion for the game demonstrated what it means to be a Sunshine Coast Grammar student. Congratulations to the team and coaching staff for a memorable and hard-fought tournament!
Thank you to Amanda and Jason Brooks for their efforts in supporting the students on this tour.
Harriet D (Year 4) competed in the Sport Climbing Queensland Youth Bouldering State Titles on 12 October and placed fifth in the Youth X division (U11). Well done, Harriet!
Cricket
Hockey
Grammar entered a mixed Years 7-11 team into the Ballinger Cup Hockey Competition last Thursday. Led by Mrs Farley, the team improved throughout the day and left their best match until last. Through the pool stages, the team had a win, loss and draw, and in the Division 2 final, the team comfortably accounted for their opposition. Congratulations to our Division 2 Champions!
Mountain Biking
Over the weekend of 6–7 September, Charlie F travelled to Townsville to compete in the 2025 AusCycling Gravity Enduro State Championships. We were thrilled that he took out first place in the U19 Male category — a fantastic achievement after finishing a close second in 2024. He is now the proud QLD State Champion.
Following that, Charlie raced at the Kooralbyn MTB Festival — the largest multi-discipline MTB festival in Southern Queensland. He finished first in the Enduro, and second in both the Dual Slalom and Downhill events. His combined results earned him the title of Junior “King of Kooralbyn.”
Most recently, Charlie travelled to Collie, Western Australia, to compete in both the AusCycling MTB Enduro Oceania Championship and the 2025 National Enduro Championship. He placed fourth in the Oceania U19 Male category and went on to finish seventh in the National Championship.
It’s been a big season of racing, and he now has just two events remaining. Next weekend he’ll race the final round of the South-East Queensland Enduro Gravity Series in Toowoomba, where he’s currently leading the U19 Male category after five rounds. He’ll then finish the season at the NSW Downhill State Championships in November.
It’s been a long but incredibly rewarding season, and we look forward to sharing Charlie’s final results.
Surf Life Saving
Finley L (Year 5) competed at the Surf Life Saving State Endurance Championships held at Alexandra Headland. She placed third in the surf race and took out first place in the Under 11 girls 1km board race. A fantastic start to the surf season – well done, Finley!
Tennis
Xavier F (Year 5) won the Sunshine Coast Region Green Ball Tennis Tournament in Nambour during the school holidays. Xavier played exceptionally well, defeating the number 1, 2 and 4 seeds on his way to victory. He won all four matches with scores of 6–3, 6–2, 6–3 and 6–3.
Primary School's Cup Regional Competition
Last week, we entered nine teams across the Orange, Green and Red Ball competition for the Tennis Queensland Primary Schools Regional Cup, with three teams qualifying for the State Final in Brisbane in January.
- Orange Ball Runners-Up: Xavier F, Hamish C, Edward W, Thomas W, Parker J
- Green Ball Mixed Team (undefeated): Hattie O, Rafferty K, Harvey H, Parker C, Nate N
- Red Ball Mixed Division A – Undefeated Champions
All teams competed with enthusiasm and positivity. For several players, it was their first tournament experience and an insight into competitive tennis in a supportive environment.
In the Green Ball Division:
- Girls' team finished as runners-up
- Participation teams fought hard and enjoyed each match
In the Red Ball division, featuring our youngest players (Year 1 – 4):
- Girls team placed second, losing only one match
- Participation team also lost just one match
Thank you to Coach Nick, who held additional training sessions for the students, so that they were comfortable with the format. Also, thank you to Nicole Halloran for assisting us with the teams.
Well done to all our teams who represented Grammar with pride, displaying an excellent attitude and respect for their opponents.
Triathlon
World Triathlon Championships - Wollongong
We are proud to celebrate the incredible performances of five student-athletes and one teacher as they represented Australia at the 2025 Championships in Wollongong over the weekend.
Against the best competitors in the world, four Grammar athletes finished in the top 10 and one in the top 20!
- Grace Brimelow (Year 12) - SECOND - Women's PTS4 Para Triathlon
- Will Kisby (Year 10) - 4th - Men's Junior 16-19 Years Sprint, FIRST - Age-Group Mixed Relay
- Jude Brimelow (Year 10) – 7th in Junior Sprint, 8th in Mixed Relay
- Addison Houslip (Year 10) – 16th - Women's Junior 16-19 Years and the first Aussie to cross the finish line
- Maureen Cummings (PE Teacher) – 4th in Aquabike, 10th Australian Team appearance
- Hannah Pollock (Year 12) – Australia Junior Team Reserve
We congratulate all our athletes on their exceptional efforts and representation of Sunshine Coast Grammar and Australia. Their dedication, courage and sportsmanship continue to inspire our school community.
QLD All Schools' Aquathlon and Triathlon Championships
Grammar had a number of students competing for a place in the Sunshine Coast Region team to compete at the QRSS Aquathlon and Triathlon Championships next April. In blustery conditions, there were some exceptional performances. Congratulations to the following students on their results.
|
Name |
Age |
Sunshine Coast Placing |
Overall Placing |
|
Jacob R |
Intermediate Triathlon |
2nd |
27th |
|
Oscar K |
Junior Triathlon |
1st |
1st |
|
Noah C |
Junior Triathlon |
6th |
46th |
|
Grace M |
Junior Triathlon |
3rd |
11th |
|
Aiden H |
Junior Triathlon |
9th |
72nd |
|
Oscar K |
Junior Aquathlon |
1st |
2nd |
|
Harvey H |
Junior Aquathlon |
3rd |
24th |
Water Polo
Australian Selection
We congratulate and celebrate Patrick B’s selection in the Water Polo Australia U16 Water Polo Squad. Pat will be fighting for a place in next year’s world championship team. Go Pat!
Paul Cross
Teacher in Charge - Water Polo
NETBALL
Netball Academy
The 2025-2026 Grammar Netball Academy has recommenced and will continue to run from Term 4 2025 to Term 4 2026. At Grammar, our netballers are extremely fortunate to have the expertise of specialist coaches from within Netball Queensland and Australian High Performance coaching and playing pathway, sharing their knowledge.
Designed to deliver multiple benefits to our students, the Academy provides a training environment for athletes to develop technical, tactical, educational, and strength and conditioning skills in addition to their Grammar Club netball opportunities.
Next Gen Program
Our Program is thriving under the guidance of our Grammar Coaches and senior student mentors. Designed for Grammar Netballers in Years 1 – 4, this program focuses on developing fundamental skills and encouraging lifelong physical activity in a supportive, non-competitive environment for students, both new and returning to netball.
Unity Water Lightning Cup
Three teams competed in the annual Lightning Cup today, and we are particularly excited to have our first-ever Lightning Cup Boys team compete this year!
Teams have been training hard in preparation for this competition since the beginning of Term 3.
Congratulations to the following Years 5-6 students who have been selected to represent Grammar this year across the following teams: Grammar Boys, Grammar Championship, and Grammar Development.
|
Grammar Boys |
Grammar Championship |
Grammar Development |
|
|
Aiden H |
Alissa C |
Adeline C |
|
|
Ari W |
Brooklyn D |
Chloe B |
|
|
Aston J |
Chloe S |
Georgie U |
|
|
Beau B |
Lily P |
Greta B |
|
|
Beau R |
Madison U |
Indigo K |
|
|
Charlie C |
Marley H |
Isla S |
|
|
Hugh C |
Mia R |
Jessica M |
|
|
Hunter J |
Mia S |
Kayla W |
|
|
Jack C |
Odette M |
Maddie C |
|
|
Riley M |
Olivia K |
Tori S |
|
|
Theodore D |
Penny N |
||
RUGBY
QLD Reds Selection
Congratulations to Nate Kerin-Bird and Charlie Meredith for their selection in the QLD Reds U16 Team for the Super Rugby Australia competition. Their achievement is a reflection of years of hard work, consistency, and a genuine passion for improving both on and off the field.
It was also wonderful to have several past students, Zane Glanville, Max Furniss, Blake Miller, and Finn Prass, return to share in the evening. Their continued connection to Grammar Rugby is a testament to the strong bonds and values built through the program.
Captains' Dinner
Our annual Captains' Dinner was a fantastic evening celebrating the achievements, spirit, and community of Grammar Rugby. Held at the Maroochydore Surf Club, the event brought together players, families, coaches, sponsors, and special guests for a memorable night of reflection and recognition.
The guest panel speakers, Maddi Collins, Rory Owen, and Harry Grant shared their stories, insights, and powerful messages of resilience and teamwork that deeply resonated with everyone in attendance.
It was also wonderful to have several past students Zane Glanville, Max Furniss, Blake Miller, and Finn Prass return to share in the evening. Their continued connection to Grammar Rugby is a testament to the strong bonds and values built through the program.
We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors, Hinterland Heavy (Matt and Danielle Larsen) and Evans Built (Sean and Maree Evans), for their generous support. Their commitment to Grammar Rugby plays a vital role in providing opportunities and experiences for our players.
Congratulations to all award recipients and thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the event.
|
Secon XV |
|
|
Best Forward |
Tom A |
|
Best Back |
Blake L |
|
Most Improved |
David W |
|
Grammar Team Player |
Will C |
|
Player of the Year |
Lachlan S |
|
Players Player |
Kobi S |
|
First X Girls |
|
|
Best Forward |
Jemima H |
|
Best Back |
Meg F |
|
Most Improved |
Ruby A |
|
Grammar Team Player |
Grace E |
|
Players Player |
Maya U |
|
First XV Boys |
|
|
Best Forward |
Adrian DK |
|
Best Back |
Rohan N |
|
Most Improved |
Davi N |
|
Grammar Team Player |
Dom L |
|
Special Awards |
|
|
Rookie of the Year |
Charlie M |
|
Female Player of the Year |
Meg F |
|
Male Player of the Year |
Adrian DK |
|
Referee of the Year |
Oli P |
|
Spirit of Rugby |
Eve C |
|
Lifelong Player |
Zac G |
|
Legacy Players |
Jess C, Meg F, Imogen F, Maya U |
|
Representative Players |
|
Sunshine Coast School Girls |
|
Layla A, Jess C, Meg F, Jemima H, Sarena M |
|
Sunshine Coast School Boys |
|
Adrian DK, Zac G, Owen H, Billy KB, Rohan N |
|
South East QLD Girls |
|
Jess C, Meg F, Sarena M, Maya U |
|
South East QLD Boys |
|
Fraser N |
|
Qld School Girls |
|
Meg F |
|
Qld School Boys |
|
Adrian DK, Owen H, Rohan N |
|
QLD Country Girls |
|
Jess C, Sarena M, Maya U |
|
QLD Country Boys |
|
Nate KB, Charlie M |
|
QLD U16 Reds |
|
Nate KB, Charlie M |
|
Australian School Boys |
|
Adrian DK, Rohan N |
Photos will be available next week.
SWIMMING
St Andrew's Anglican College Relay Carnival – We Want Our Best!
Are you in Year 3 to Year 9 and keen to represent Grammar at the SAAC Relay Carnival on Tuesday 25 November? We need you!
We’re looking to send our strongest team yet to showcase the incredible swimming talent in our community. After placing third in 2025, we’re aiming even higher this year, and we need our best swimmers to step up.
Be brave. Be fast. Be a Lion.
Swimmers in Years 3-6 must record a time to be eligible for selection. Students in Years 7-9 are required to fill out the form on GECO to nominate.
Training
Training is held every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 7:30 - 8:00 am at the Grammar Aquatic Centre.
If you’re unable to attend a morning training session, primary students will have the opportunity to record a time during the following sessions:
|
Year |
Date |
Time |
|
3 |
Friday, 31 October |
Sport 2:20 – 3:00pm |
|
4 |
Tuesday, 28 October |
PE lesson |
|
5 |
Monday, 27 October |
PE lesson |
|
6 |
Wednesday, 19 November |
PE lesson |
Let’s build a team that roars - see you in the pool!
QLD School Sport Australia National Championships
We wish Nellie P (Year 7) every success as she competes for the Queensland National Championships in Ballarat. Let’s go, Nellie!
QLD Open Water Championships
Year 11 student Rylee S has been selected to attend the Junior Pan Pac Open Water Swimming Camp, joining Luke Stafford as a Coach on the Australian Team. The camp, held on the Sunshine Coast from October 19-26, brings together elite junior swimmers and coaches from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the USA for a week of development and international collaboration.
The program will culminate with the Junior Pan Pacs Open Water Race on Saturday, 25 October, hosted by Swimming Queensland at OzSki, Coolum, alongside the Queensland Open Water Championships, Wide Bay Championships and the Australia Cup.
Adding to the excitement, 20 Sunshine Coast Grammar club swimmers will also compete across the day, contending for Queensland and Wide Bay titles.
The Junior Pan Pac is an incredible opportunity for Rylee to refine the technical and tactical elements of open water racing while training alongside some of the best young swimmers from around the world.
Best of luck to all swimmers!
Luke Stafford
Director of Swimming
UPCOMING EVENTS
District and Regional Trials
District and Sunshine Coast Regional Trials commence next week for some sports. It is important that students monitor announcements closely, taking note of the strict closing dates.
Please contact Mrs Hoffman (Secondary) or Mrs Halloran (Primary) if you have any questions.
Students 10-12 years https://scissa.asn.au/trial-info-primary/
Students 13-19 years https://scissa.asn.au/trial-info-secondary/
Grammar Run Club
Olympian Juan Van Deventer leads the Grammar Run Club on Monday mornings on the training oval at the top of school from 7.00 - 7:45 am.
These sessions are open to all staff, students P-12 and their parents. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with members of the Grammar community, get fit and have fun in a supportive environment. All abilities are welcome!
Grammar Fitness Centre
Attention all secondary students and athletes
Improve your physical and mental health by exercising regularly, using the Grammar Fitness Centre, free of charge.
The school gym is located in the Aquatic Centre and is available for use by students in Years 7-12 on Monday and Thursday afternoons between 3:15 - 5:00 pm. All you need to bring is a towel, water bottle, covered shoes and a positive attitude. These sessions are supervised and led by a qualified personal trainer who can help create a training program for you.
We value our students and would like to celebrate success through sport. Please email news articles and a maximum of three photos to Mr Withers - awithers@scgs.qld.edu.au (Primary) and Mr Abrahams - jabrahams@scgs.qld.edu.au (Secondary), and we will try to include them in our fortnightly newsletters. It is important that we mention all Grammar students involved in an event, so please include the names of all participants in your article.
Mr Justin Abrahams Mr Andrew Withers
Director of Sport (P-12) Assistant Director of Sport - Primary
FROM THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT
Year 12 Rock Band
The Year 12 rock band Near Death Experience performed for a supportive audience of staff and students in the Music Hangar last Thursday lunchtime. Most of the band have been playing together for four years, both at school and in their own time. Their program consisted of new songs and some of their favourites that they have been playing since they were in Year 9! They will perform for the last time at Forest Fest today.
Congratulations and farewell to:
Julian M– Guitar and Vocals
Pepper G – Bass Guitar and Vocals
Eve T – Guitar
Tulsa H – Vocals
Calum F – Keyboard and Vocals
Nirvan P – Drums
Fraser N - Drums
Immersion Showcase
Families of Year 3 and Year 5 students are warmly invited to attend their respective end-of-year Immersion Showcase Concerts in the Music Hangar.
Please refer to the attached flyers for the exact class performance times. Morning tea will be provided, and we look forward to welcoming you to celebrate the students' musical achievements.
Year 5 Band Immersion Showcase
Date: Tuesday, 18 November
Time: 5AC & 5MC 11:30 am - 12:00 pm, 5SP & 5PS 12:30 - 1:00 pm
Year 3 Strings Immersion Showcase
Date: Friday, 21 November
Time: 3SM 11:00 - 11:30 am, 3WE 11:40 am - 12:10 pm, 3RC 12:20 - 12:50 pm
Live @ The Hangar
Our concert series this term takes place from 3:30 - 4:30 pm on the following dates:
- Thursday, 6 November
- Tuesday, 11 November
- Thursday, 13 November
Our concerts are always an incredibly eclectic mix of ages, levels, and instruments. Everyone is welcome to watch our students perform. Musicians - please speak to your child's Instrumental Music Specialist if you would like to take part in this valuable performance opportunity.
AMEB Exams
Thank you to our seventeen incredibly dedicated instrumental music specialists this term, many of whom have diligently prepared students for AMEB exams. We will be celebrating our students' achievements at assembly soon.
Victoria Bradbury
Director of Music Performance
FROM THE LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
Senior French and Japanese classes – 2025: Au revoir! Sayonara!
With formal lessons now complete for our Senior French and Japanese classes, we would like to take this opportunity to wish our students all the best with their final exam/s and their life beyond Grammar. It has been a privilege to observe the outstanding development of these students both in their language classroom and the wider Grammar community. All have demonstrated a genuine commitment to their studies and should be proud of their linguistic abilities. We hope that their life beyond Grammar affords them the opportunity to continue to engage with their languages and embark on their travels as true global citizens.
French Cultural Experiences
Last term, our secondary students enjoyed a range of engaging experiences to enrich their French learning and practise authentic language use. Year 8 students enjoyed their excursion to Flo’s Crêperie and took part in an incursion exploring the cultural significance of crêpes—learning how to prepare and enjoy them. Year 7 students participated in a “dégustation” tasting experience, while Year 8 explored meals and dining out through the Au restaurant unit, deepening their understanding of French food culture. To wrap up the Year 7 unit on sport, students learned to play pétanque, a traditional French game played by all ages. We look forward to more opportunities in Term 4 to bring language learning to life!
Guest Speaker: Japanese
Year 9 Japanese students were honoured to hear from Aunty Christine, a proud Gubbi Gubbi woman and author, who shared her passion for preserving the Gubbi Gubbi language and culture through storytelling. Her visit highlighted the power of stories to connect people, keep traditions alive, and shape identity—perfectly complementing the class’s exploration of storytelling in Japanese culture.
Onigiri Action
October 16 marked World Food Day, a global call to tackle food insecurity. To support this cause, our Japanese Ambassadors joined the Onigiri Action campaign by Table for Two, which provides meals to children in need. For every onigiri (rice ball) rolled and photographed, five lunches are donated worldwide.
Thanks to the support of our secondary community, we served 63 onigiri, meaning 315 meals will reach children who need them most. A small act, a big impact—thank you for making a difference!
Host families for French students required – Term 2 2026
As part of our ongoing relationship with ELO and Lycée Emile Duclaux in Aurillac, we are seeking host families for three boys who will be placed in Year 10 or Year 11 lessons in 2026. During their visit, they hope to improve their English language skills through immersion in our academic program, and we are seeking a homestay family or families from around 18 April - 10 June 2026 (the duration of Term 2). Whilst it would be advantageous for host families to have a child currently studying French, this is not a prerequisite to hosting.
If your family is interested in hosting, please complete an application here by Friday, 31 October. Further information is available below.
For further information, contact Mrs Georgie Richardson on 5445 4444 or grichardson@scgs.qld.edu.au
NOTICEBOARD
Biosphere Festival 2025
29 October to 8 November 2025
Immerse yourself in one of the many events to experience the Sunshine Coast Biosphere.
From bridging cultures with our ‘On Country Cultural Tours’ and Gathaa First Nations Market to being inspired by our leaders of tomorrow at the ‘Future Council’ movie, get ready to immerse yourself in eye-opening Sunshine Coast Biosphere experiences.
Check out the Biosphere Festival program.
Read MoreJanuary School Holiday Acting Workshop
When: Monday 5th January 2026, Tuesday 6th January 2026 and Wednesday 7th January 2026
Times: Monday 5th January and Tuesday 6th January - 10am to 3pm; and Wednesday 7th January - 10am to 4pm
Performance time: 3pm on Wednesday 7th January
What to wear: Theatre blacks (plain long black tights, pants, leggings and a plain black t-shirt)
Book your Tickets here.
Give your child the opportunity to shine on stage in our exciting 3-day film and acting intensive! Designed for young performers of all experience levels, this dynamic program focuses on building confidence, creativity, and performance skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Throughout the intensive, students will engage in a variety of drama activities, including:
- Improvisation games to spark creativity and quick thinking
- Voice and movement exercises to enhance stage presence
- Character development and storytelling techniques
- Script work and scene study to bring stories to life
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will collaborate with their peers to rehearse and prepare for a final showcase performance. On the last day, family and friends are invited to celebrate their achievements as they take the stage to perform what they’ve learned.
This immersive experience not only nurtures a love for acting but also helps children develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and self-expression. Whether your child dreams of a future in theatre or is simply looking for a fun and creative experience, this intensive is the perfect opportunity to explore the magic of performance!
To secure your spot for the holiday workshop, please contact Ms Harvey or complete the online enrolment form.
Places are limited — don’t miss out on the fun!
Read More