GPS100
The Great Public Schools' Association of Queensland officially launches GPS100: a year-long Centenary celebration
In 2018, The Great Public Schools Association of Queensland reaches a special milestone. This year marks 100 years of the spirit of fellowship, competition and creativity that enriches our community of students, Old Boys, parents, staff and friends across our nine member schools – a global community that extends far beyond the school gates.
Throughout 2018, we will honour the best of GPS’s rich history; reflect on myriad achievements and celebrate the spirt of fellowship that has made GPS 100 years strong. The Centenary also offers an exceptional opportunity to look forward and consider how GPS may evolve and develop over the next one hundred years, and beyond.
GPS100 launch event
Today, at a special opening ceremony held at St. Joseph’s Nudgee College, The Great Public Schools' Association of Queensland launched GPS100, hosted by GPS Association Chairman for 2018 and Nudgee College Principal, Mr Peter Fullagar.
One hundred and fifty students of different ages from all nine member schools attended the launch, joined by Old Boys, teachers, board members and other special guests. The much-anticipated occasion set the tone for the Centenary and provided inspiration for the boys to take back and share with their own schoolmates, in the spirit of fellowship.
GPS 'history makers' shared their individual experiences and offered the assembled audience inspiration and encouragement. History-makers included international cricketer and Queensland’s all-time leading wicket-taker, Michael Kasprowicz, (BSHS, 1989), who spoke about the power of taking ownership of your own destiny. Gregory Terrace Old Boy and Young Australian of the Year for 2016, Nicholas Marchesi (GT, 2011), also gave an inspirational history-maker’s address along with his colleague, David Tubb (GT, 2010), about the power of opportunity and contribution, reflecting on their services to the homeless with their mobile laundry and shower service, 'Orange Sky Laundry'.
A New Tradition
A GPS new tradition was introduced with the gift of a magnificent Centenary Flag to each school.
Director of Sport from Brisbane Grammar School, longest serving current member of the GPS Sports and Activities Committee and GPS Statesman Mr. Ron Cochrane, introduced the Centenary Flags as a tribute to GPS loyal and passionate supporters. The flags were presented by each Headmaster or Principal and received by School Captains. GPS Centenary pins were presented to Old Boys’ representatives for every student and staff member at the event - and commemorative pins will be shared at each school over the coming year.
Centenary Flags Prose
In this centenary year, the GPS is not only celebrating its rich history, traditions and values, but also looking forward to a bright future in which these traditions and values live on and thrive. In the spirit of the Centenary, the Great Public Schools’ Association is introducing a new tradition. Inspired by the unwavering passion of those who support GPS sports and activities, we are proud to introduce the Centenary Flags.
For every goal and every point, for every run and every wicket, for every finish line crossed, for every concert performed, they have been there. Rain or shine or wind or searing heat, our GPS supporters cheer tirelessly for those on the field, on the river, on the court, on the stage with war cries and encouragement, leading their teams into battle.
Years from now history books will record 2018, one hundred years after the Association’s formation, as the beginning of a tradition that celebrates those in the stands, in the stalls and on the side lines. The Centenary Flags celebrate the rivalry, passion and fellowship that is garnered among supporters at every GPS school, and powers the performances of a lifetime.
This tradition is for our loyal supporters. Every time the Centenary Flag is raised it is to acknowledge the GPS spirit of fellowship, and that behind every person competing, there are many more cheering them on.
The event concluded with a grand finale - the premiere of the GPS100 movie trailer 100 years strong. The full movie - GPS Life in a Day - will be the highlight of the Centenary year and will be made by students and Old Boys throughout the Centenary year. The movie will debut in September – to mark the actual foundation date of the Association.
So during the course 2018, we invite you to join in celebrating one hundred years of extraordinary commitment, resilience, courage, healthy competition, support, pride and fellowship that have helped make GPS 100 years strong.