THE SCOOP

Parents, Associations and Volunteers

We extend our heartfelt thanks to members across our Parent Associations. Special mention to Caroline Williams and Paulina Moncrieff who I worked closely with during their presidential tenures. Caroline and volunteers organised many parent events along with co-educational opportunities for the boys. Paulina was instrumental at the Boatshed and the Weigall canteen. We also farewell several long-standing committee members; Anita Alexander, Brooke Pepper, Alison Herbert, Tarquin Samuels and Ben Callaway are stepping down as their sons also depart the School. The Community Office is grateful for the help received from volunteers throughout the year. They have enriched the School. We hope all past parents will join us when future opportunities present. Please be sure to contact us at community@sydgram.nsw.edu.au to allow us to add you to the VIP list for invites and updates.

The Old Sydneians’ Union

The Old Sydneians’ Union has continued to strengthen its connection with the School and alumni throughout the year. The Annual Lunch in the Strangers’ Room at NSW Parliament House was a standout occasion, drawing over 150 attendees. A memorable moment was the conversation between The Honourable Chief Justice Andrew Bell (OS 1983) and Dominic Knight (OS 1994), which captured both the spirit of intellectual engagement and diversity in career paths.

The OSU Mentoring Program, led by Tom O’Neil (OS 2009), is testimony to OSU commitment to support our Old Boys as they transition from university to the workforce. With 248 participants, the program paired university students with experienced industry leaders.

Events such as the Grammar in Business, the annual OSU Golf Championship, the Young Leavers’ event and the Alligator Wine gatherings provided meaningful opportunities for Old Sydneians to network in professional and social settings.

Looking ahead, the introduction of Saturday morning barbecues at College Street during summer home games in Term IV 2025 will offer a welcoming space for all to enjoy the School’s sporting culture.

This year’s Great Debate was a huge success. The Alastair Mackerras Theatre was full, lit up with sharp wit and spirited banter on the topic “that the best education is entrepreneurship.” It is worth mentioning that the same School team that debated the OSU also won the GPS Premiership in the final debate of the year against Sydney Boys High School. It was an exceptional debate on the topic: “that being apolitical is immoral”, providing plenty of mutual respect and enthusiastic barracking from both schools.

It’s been a pleasure to work alongside President Nick Manettas (OS 2009) and the OSU Committee, whose dedication ensures that our alumni remain engaged with the School and each other.

Outstanding Achievement in the International Chemistry Quiz

Congratulations to the 144 pupils across Form II and Form IV participated in the International Chemistry Quiz. In addition to sixty-four boys receiving a High Distinction, seven boys achieved a perfect score. Grammar recorded the highest number of perfect scores nationally.

The 13th Headmaster of Sydney Grammar School

We are very much looking forward to welcoming Mr Stuart McPherson when he officially commences as the Headmaster in 2026. The community had a glimpse of Johneen and Stuart McPherson during a wet week in August. While the Weigall Old Sydneian event was a washout, the McPhersons were warmly welcomed by staff, boys and parents at events throughout the week.

On the cricket front, we look forward to celebrating 150 years of cricket against Melbourne Grammar School at a commemorative dinner at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday 22 January.

Click here to access the invitation.