20
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL SONY CAMP CELEBRATES
YEARS
Twenty Years of HearT A Legacy of Care
This year marks an important milestone for Toowoomba Grammar School as we celebrate twenty years of the TGS Sony Camp. It is an occasion that offers us the opportunity to pause, reflect and celebrate all that this camp has become over the past two decades. During that time, the Sony Camp has grown into one of the most meaningful and anticipated events in our school year, and I am deeply proud to serve as Camp Coordinator as we acknowledge and celebrate this achievement. At its heart, the Sony Camp is about one simple but powerful goal: providing our guests with a fun, safe and memorable holiday experience. Guided by the Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp model, the camp exists to bring joy to children with disabilities, offer respite to their families and provide our senior students with a formative experience of service, empathy and leadership. Our guests are the heart of this camp. Over the years, hundreds of children have joined us on campus, bringing energy, laughter and honesty that shape every activity and every memory. It is a privilege to welcome them each year and to share in the joy that defines the Sony Camp experience.
The camp would not be possible without the outstanding contribution of our students. Our Year 11 Companions and Year 12 Helpers approach the camp with maturity, kindness and generosity of spirit. They give of themselves fully, and in doing so gain lessons that endure long after the camp concludes, as so many families have shared with us over the years. Over 1,300 Year 11 students have volunteered their time to the TGS Sony Camp. A defining strength of the TGS Sony Camp is the enduring partnership we share with Fairholme College and The Glennie School. The spirit of collaboration between our three schools is genuine and deeply valued, and together we continue to plan and deliver a camp that reflects our shared values. We are also immensely grateful to the Sony Foundation for their continued support and belief in this camp. Their vision has enabled schools like ours to provide these unique and life‑giving experiences to children and families across Australia and New Zealand. As we reflect on twenty years of Sony Camps at TGS, we do so with gratitude, pride and optimism. This publication captures just a glimpse of the stories, relationships and impact that have grown from the TGS Sony Camp, and celebrates a community united by service, care and the simple joy of giving children a wonderful holiday. John Anderson Sony Camp Coordinator Toowoomba Grammar School 20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 3
A Legacy of Care, Service and Connection Tim Kelly, original TGS Sony Camp Coordinator in 2007.
When I arrived at Toowoomba Grammar School in 2007, I was looking for opportunities to introduce programs that would genuinely enrich the lives of our students while making a meaningful contribution to the wider community. Sony Camp was one that immediately came to mind. I had been fortunate to lead Sony Camps at my previous school for four years and had witnessed firsthand the extraordinary impact they had on everyone involved. The camps provided children and young people with disabilities the chance to enjoy a unique and joyful experience, while also giving student volunteers an opportunity to develop empathy, leadership and a genuine sense of service. The experience was transformative, not just for the campers, but for the young people supporting them. Those lessons stayed with me. Early in my time at the School, I spoke with the Headmaster about bringing Sony Camp to TGS. I believed it aligned perfectly with the values of inclusion, compassion and community that are so important in a school environment. There was strong support for the idea, and from that point the journey began. Looking back now, knowing that Sony Camp has become a valued part of TGS for 20 years fills me with immense pride and gratitude. What makes this milestone so significant is that it represents far more than the longevity of a school program. It reflects two decades of care, service and connection that have touched the lives of countless children, students, staff and volunteers. For the campers and their families, Sony Camp provides opportunities, friendships and memories that last well beyond a single weekend. For the students who volunteer, it offers something equally powerful: a chance to grow in understanding, compassion and perspective. Over the years, generations of TGS students and staff have embraced that spirit and carried it forward. Each camp builds on the efforts of those who came before, creating a legacy that has become woven into the culture and identity of the School. To see something that began with a small group of committed people continue to flourish two decades later is deeply rewarding and 4 Toowoomba Grammar School
reinforces my belief that the most enduring school programs are those grounded in genuine values. I have remained involved with Sony Camp long after my time at the School, and this year will mark my 24th camp. Across those years, there have been countless moments that remind me why the program is so special. Time and again, I have watched young people discover strengths they never knew they possessed and form connections that transcend age, background and ability. One experience from the early years at TGS has always stayed with me. We had a camper who did not sleep for the entire three days of camp. At the time, companions were asked to remain with their camper at all times, and one Year 11 student, Shaun Purcell, accepted that responsibility without hesitation. Remarkably, Shaun stayed with his camper throughout the entire camp and, in doing so, also went without sleep. By the end of the weekend, he was completely exhausted. Yet what stood out was not the challenge he had endured, but the extraordinary bond that had formed between the two. Shaun’s care, patience and commitment went far beyond what anyone could have expected. A few weeks later, Shaun spoke at a school assembly about his experience. His reflections were heartfelt and powerful. He spoke about how Sony Camp had changed the way he viewed the world and his place within it. It was one of those moments when you could see the profound impact the experience had made, not only on him but on everyone listening. For me, that story captures the essence of Sony Camp. It is not simply about a weekend away or a service activity. It is about relationships, understanding and personal growth. It is about recognising the value and dignity of every individual and learning that some of life’s most important lessons come through caring for others. Twenty years on, I am incredibly proud that Sony Camp continues to provide those opportunities. Its success is a testament to the generosity, commitment and compassion of the TGS community, and I have no doubt its impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.
The People Behind the Magic For nearly two decades, dedicated staff have helped make Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp an experience that changes lives, not only for guests and their families, but for the students and volunteers who take part.
For Mary Lou Fraser, who has been involved since 2012, the camp is a powerful reminder of gratitude and human connection.
Few people have witnessed that impact more closely than Jenny Bazley, who has attended 18 of the camp’s 19 years.
“The highlight is seeing the students engage with their guest and create a special time that child will hold on to forever.” Among Jenny’s many memories, one remains unforgettable. During the very first camp, a guest with complex needs responded to music in a way his teachers had never seen before. “His eyes lit up with the music. It was a truly magical moment.”
As both a staff volunteer and parent, Stacey Smith has experienced Sony Camp from a unique perspective. She knows firsthand how valuable the camp is for families and carers. “Knowing your child is in a happy, supportive and safe environment and simply having a break, no matter how short, makes the world of difference.” For Stacey, one of the camp’s greatest strengths is helping others see beyond a diagnosis. “Sony Camp allows others to see my son for who he is.”
“Sony Camp provides an annual opportunity to reflect on the abundance of good in our lives.” She treasures watching guests and companions build meaningful relationships, sharing joy, achievement and friendship throughout the weekend.
“The memories and friendships made at Sony Camp stay with you long after the weekend ends.” Jenny Bazley
Former long-serving volunteer Helen Hemmings, who was involved with Sony Camp for 17 years, reflects on the profound impact the experience had on everyone involved. “Being involved with the Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp for 17 years was a privilege,” she says. Helen believes the camp’s enduring strength lies in the joy it brings to children and the valuable respite it provides for families. “The camp’s ability to create joy for children and respite for families, combined with the strong sense of community and lifelong connections it fosters, made it an incredibly special part of my life.”
20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 5
Twenty Years of IMPACT
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20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 7
Partners in Purpose Sue Sullivan The Glennie School
For Sue Sullivan, Sony Camp is much more than an annual event. It is one of the highlights of her year and a powerful reminder of the impact that kindness and human connection can have. What continues to inspire Sue is the remarkable way students from The Glennie School, Fairholme College and Toowoomba Grammar School embrace their roles as companions. “Watching the students show genuine kindness, compassion and friendship to their companions is incredibly moving,” she says. “Their selflessness, empathy and willingness to give so much of themselves fill me with hope and reassure me that the future is in very good hands.” Throughout the camp, Sue witnesses countless examples of young people stepping outside their comfort zones, building meaningful relationships and creating unforgettable experiences for the children in their care. These moments of connection are what make Sony Camp so special.
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For Sue, the impact extends far beyond the guests and companions.
“I feel deeply honoured and privileged to be part of such a special event and to witness the positive impact it has on everyone involved.” Sue Sullivan
She also values the strong sense of community shared by the volunteers, staff and organisers who work together to make each camp a success. “Being part of such a great team makes returning year after year so easy.”
Lou Holley The Glennie School
For Lou Holley, Sony Camp is a chance to make a meaningful difference while helping young people discover the value of compassion, service and community. Having been involved with Sony Camp for the past five years, and preparing for her sixth camp this year, Lou continues to be inspired by the positive impact the experience has on both families and student volunteers.
“What keeps me coming back is that I feel like I am contributing to the community and providing some respite for families.” Lou Holley
Lou understands that the weekend offers parents and carers an opportunity to recharge, knowing their children are surrounded by caring and capable support. Equally important is the impact the camp has on the students who volunteer as companions. “I love that it gives our young people the opportunity to give back and to recognise how fortunate they are to have the lives they have,” Lou reflects. Throughout the Camp, she sees students build meaningful connections, develop empathy and gain a deeper appreciation for the experiences of others. The friendships formed and lessons learned often stay with them long after the weekend has ended. For Lou, Sony Camp is also a reminder of life’s blessings and the importance of gratitude.
“I walk away feeling very grateful for my life and for the good health of my own children.” Lou Holley
It is this sense of perspective, combined with the joy of supporting families and empowering young people, that makes Sony Camp such a rewarding experience. Year after year, Lou sees firsthand how a weekend built on kindness, inclusion and connection can leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Kylie Wallis Fairholme College
For Kylie Wallis, Sony Camp is a truly rewarding experience that continues to leave a lasting impression year after year. “It has been an honour to be part of Sony Camp,” she says. “I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside young people who inspire me and teach me every year.” Kylie values the way the camp encourages students to give back to the community while developing empathy, compassion and a deeper appreciation for others.
“Sony Camp gives our girls an opportunity to give back to the community and to have a lifechanging experience.” Kylie Wallis
She is particularly moved by the lasting connections formed during the camp and the memories that remain long after the weekend has ended. “When I speak with former students who participated in Sony Camp, they always remember their guest and speak fondly of the experience. It is something they never forget.” 20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 9
Volunteers who made a difference Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp would not be possible without the generous support of community volunteers who give their time, expertise and enthusiasm to create unforgettable experiences for guests and their families. From police officers and truck drivers to helicopter pilots, these volunteers bring excitement, adventure and joy to Sony Camp, while helping create lasting memories for everyone involved.
Building connections through community For Dave Thompson and his colleagues from the Queensland Police Service, Sony Camp offers far more than a day out. It provides an opportunity to connect with children and families in a meaningful way, outside of their everyday roles. “Every year, attending Sony Camp is something police genuinely look forward to. It gives us the opportunity to build positive connections with the children and carers outside of our usual police role.” Watching guests climb into a police car or explore an ATV often becomes a highlight of the weekend.
A bird’s-eye view of joy One of the most anticipated arrivals at Sony Camp each year belongs to helicopter pilot, Neill Wagner. For Neill, the experience goes beyond flying. It’s about witnessing the remarkable care, compassion and leadership demonstrated by the young companions who dedicate their weekend to supporting guests. “What a privilege it is to fly my helicopter into Sony Camp each year. Seeing the guests sitting in the pilot’s seat and the carers looking after them places faith back into our upcoming young citizens.” Looking across the campgrounds, the impact of the weekend is impossible to ignore. “To witness the kids enjoying camp on the oval is a pure joy, to see all those smiling faces.”
“Seeing the excitement and huge smiles on the children’s faces is incredibly rewarding. Those moments remind us why we joined the police in the first place: to help people and make a positive difference in their lives.”
“Those moments remind us why we joined in the first place: to help people and make a positive difference in their lives.”
Creating moments of wonder
Dave Thompson, Queensland Police Service
For Adrian Payton, known affectionately as The Big Truck Hero, supporting Sony Camp is all about creating experiences that children might never otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy. “It has been our privilege to support this wonderful camp and the experiences it provides for children living with disability.” Seeing children climb into a truck cab and experience something new brings a sense of excitement that is impossible to miss. “We have particularly cherished seeing the excitement and joy on the children’s faces as they experienced the thrill of being in a truck and are honoured to have played a small part in creating those special memories.”
Part of the Sony Camp magic Queensland Fire and Rescue is proud to support Sony Camp each year, helping create memorable experiences for guests and their families. “Our firefighters always value the opportunity to spend time with this wonderful group of children and the dedicated student carers who support them throughout the camp.” Meeting the children, showcasing the fire truck and sharing simple fire safety messages are highlights for crews each year. “Giving the children a close-up look at the fire truck and sharing simple home fire safety tips is always a rewarding experience for our crews.”
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20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 11
Today’s Grammar Boys Archie Cumming
Luke Burrow
How has being a Sony Camp companion influenced your personal growth or perspective?
What was the highlight of the Camp?
“I went from being a guy that would maybe ignore or not understand the problems of children with disabilities. Now I truly understand how hard it is and to never judge or ignore problems if you have never truly experienced it. I think The Sony Camp changed my personal growth trajectory a lot. It made me more mature and aware of life around me.”
Daniel Wilson What does the 20-year legacy of Sony Camp mean to you? “I think to know that students for 20 years have been in the same position as me, and learnt the same lessons, is quite comforting and makes me optimistic about empathy in society.”
Toby Grills Did you find the experience had an impact on you? “Yes, the experience definitely had an impact on me. It made me realise how important it is to be patient, understanding and supportive of others. At camp, I had to think about someone else’s needs before my own and make sure my companion felt safe, included and happy. This helped me become more aware of how much responsibility comes with caring for another person. It also made me appreciate the little things more, because moments that might seem small to one person can mean so much to someone else. Overall, Sony Camp helped me become more grateful, thoughtful and aware of the positive difference people can make in each other’s lives.
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“The highlight of Sony Camp last year was gaining an understanding of the different situations and lives that other people live - in particular, diverse children with varying needs. There were kids from all walks of life, and we were thrown in the deep end and forced to learn, which was both exciting but challenging. However, there were so many new relationships formed both between us in Year 11 and our companions as well. A very rewarding moment was when one of the children saw me in publicpublic and came up to me screaming my name with arms out for a hug.”
Peter Barac How has being a Sony Camp companion influenced you? Being involved in Sony Camp changed the way I see people. Before camp, I often noticed a person’s disability first. After spending a weekend with the campers, I realised that they are so much more than that. They have their own personalities, jokes, interests and stories. Some of my favourite memories came from simply talking, laughing and spending time with companions. Sony Camp helped me become more patient, compassionate and grateful. Most importantly, it reminded me that everyone wants the same thing: to be included, respected and valued for who they are.
Where are they now? Richard Manchee (2009)
Clancy Sinnamon (2012)
“It was undoubtedly one of the more impactful initiatives in my time at TGS, and as I sit in my office in Sydney as the Principal of a school for students with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities, I can’t help but reflect on how opportunities like Sony Camp led me to where I am.”
“At the time it was a really humbling experience, but it taught me so much. It’s something that I still think about a lot in my adult life. I now occasionally work with kids and I draw back on those skills I learnt.”
Austin Ronan (2019) With hindsight, I can say that Sony Camp was one of the most formative experiences I had while attending TGS. It was a weekendlong intensive crash course in teamwork, problem-solving and the pressures of responsibility. I came away with fresh perspectives and an appreciation for what ‘hardship’ and ‘perseverance’ really are. It is an opportunity I would recommend to any young student who wants to push the boundaries of their normality.”
Daniel Burrett (2009) It still sticks with me. It really took me out of my comfort zone and the day-to-day norm of my little insulated world and gave me a different perspective of what other people go through. It was truly an eye-opening experience and a ball of fun.”
Paige Corke (2017) “How it still impacts me professionally and personally is huge. I am now a pediatric nurse in the Northern Territory. On a daily basis, I deal with children with a range of medical conditions and disabilities, and Sony Camp inspired me in the direction of this work.”
Abbey Holley (2020) “I’m in my first year of teaching and I have Year 1 and Year 2 classes at a very similar age to what my companion was at the time, and persistence is something that I definitely learnt and use every single day. I am so grateful that I learned the skills from that camp which I use now as a part of my profession.”
Jono Moffitt (2023) “I first became involved with Sony Camp in 2023 as a Grade 11 companion - and since then I can’t stay away! I’ve made it a priority of mine to be involved in any capacity possible each year as I think my experiences with the families, children and support staff that attend Sony Camp have had a profound impact on my life post school. I’m now a Teacher Aide at Aspley Special School - and I truly believe I don’t work a day. Sony Camp instilled a strong sense of service to others within me and now the most rewarding part of my day is going to school and supporting children with a disability - something which seemed so daunting all those years ago.“
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Through their eyes For families of children living with disability, Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp offers something truly special: a weekend filled with friendship, adventure and independence for their children, and a rare opportunity for parents and carers to take a breath. For some families, it is the only time all year they have the chance to focus on themselves, reconnect as a couple, spend time with other children, or simply enjoy a moment of rest. “This is our one weekend a year that we actually get to have parent time.”
“I love it from a point of view that I’m a mum with four kids and he gets the experience of making friends with other people.”
For families with limited support networks, that respite can be life changing.
The impact of Sony Camp extends well beyond the guests and their families. Parents of student companions often speak about the profound effect the experience has on their own children.
“It meant the world for someone who doesn’t have a lot of outside help. Sony Camp being a respite meant the world.”
“Tom thoroughly enjoyed his experience in lots of different ways. It’s difficult to pinpoint how the experience has changed him, other than saying that now having had the experience, he is a better human.” Another parent described the experience as transformative. “Archie had the privilege of volunteering and the experience was nothing short of transformative. From the moment he entered the car, he couldn’t stop talking about the camp, the lessons learned and the joy of being part of something so meaningful.” Reflecting on the lasting impact of the weekend, they added: “It is an experience Archie will carry with him for years to come.”
While parents and carers cherish the opportunity to recharge, one of the most rewarding aspects is seeing their children build friendships, try new experiences and be embraced by a community that values and celebrates them. “I think she’s such a precious little joy, but to see her be able to build these relationships and see how caring they are with her and take her under their wing and treat her as one of their own.” The weekend also gives guests the opportunity to spend time with peers, develop confidence and enjoy experiences designed especially for them. “It’s a chance for Tom to interact with his peers and just time for him.” For many families, there is comfort in knowing their child is having fun, making friends and creating memories of their own.
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Together, these reflections highlight what makes Sony Camp so remarkable. It is a weekend that creates joy for guests, provides much-needed respite for families and helps shape compassionate, community-minded young people. Long after the camp has ended, the memories, friendships and lessons learned continue to make a difference in the lives of everyone involved.
A community champion For the team at Toowoomba West Special School, Sony Camp is more than a weekend away. It is a powerful partnership that supports students, families and carers while creating opportunities for understanding, connection and inclusion. Principal of Toowoomba West Special School and long-time supporter of TGS Sony Camp, Glenn Gatehouse, reflects that one of the most remarkable aspects of Sony Camp is the way it brings together schools, volunteers, families and the wider community to create meaningful experiences for children with additional needs. The camp provides a rare opportunity for parents and carers to take a well-deserved break, knowing their children are being cared for in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment. Parent and volunteer, Stacey Smith, has experienced that impact from both sides. Before joining the Camp team as a staff member, she attended as a parent and saw firsthand what the experience meant for families. “Knowing you can place your child in a happy, supportive and safe environment and simply have a break, no matter how short, makes the world of difference,” Stacey says. “Being able to enjoy a hot, uninterrupted cup of tea is something quite recharging. It’s the little things.”
The result is a ripple effect that extends well beyond the Camp itself. Guests gain confidence, families feel supported, and young volunteers develop empathy, understanding and lifelong memories. It is a reflection of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. As Glenn reflects, Sony Camp exemplifies the values that Toowoomba West Special School holds dear: inclusion, respect, opportunity and belonging. Year after year, the Camp reminds everyone involved that the most powerful outcomes often come from simple acts of kindness and genuine human connection.
For families connected with Toowoomba West Special School, those little things can make an enormous difference. The support offered through Sony Camp gives parents and carers a chance to rest and recharge, while their children enjoy a weekend filled with friendship, fun and new experiences. Glenn believes one of the camp’s greatest strengths is its ability to help people see beyond a diagnosis and recognise each child for who they truly are. It is something Stacey has witnessed through her own son’s involvement. “Sony Camp is special to me because it allows others to see my son for who he is, rather than his diagnosis,” she says. “When people spend time with him, they see he’s just like most rowdy 12-year-old boys who love kicking around in the dirt. As a parent, that warms my heart.” Throughout the weekend, students from The Glennie School, Fairholme College and Toowoomba Grammar School build genuine friendships with their companions, learning that connection comes from shared experiences, laughter and kindness, rather than differences. Those relationships often become some of the most meaningful memories of the Camp.
20 Years of Sony Camp at TGS 15
20
YEARS
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Special thanks to Snap Printing Toowoomba for generously printing this publication in support of Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp.