The Southreport

For a SouthReport episode celebrating the people who have shaped the life of TSS, few guests are more fitting than Ms Sharon Joss. After 25 years of dedicated service in the Junior School, Sharon has become a much-loved and familiar presence to generations of boys and families, bringing warmth, wisdom and a genuine passion for teaching to her work every day.

In this episode, Sharon reflects on a remarkable journey that spans continents and cultures. She shares memories of her childhood in Zimbabwe, her family's move to South Africa, and the experiences that ultimately led her to emigrate to Australia. Along the way, she offers insights into the people, places and events that helped shape her outlook on life and education.

Sharon's story is one of resilience, adaptability and a deep commitment to helping young people flourish. It is also a reminder of the rich and diverse experiences that our staff bring to the TSS community.

Please enjoy this conversation with Ms Sharon Joss on The SouthReport.

For this episode of the SouthReport Podcast, I’m delighted to welcome Jeff Symms, Deputy Headmaster and Head of Preparatory School at The Southport School. With a deep commitment to boys’ education and a wealth of experience in school leadership, Jeff plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning, wellbeing, and character development of our youngest students, while also contributing to the strategic leadership of the School as a whole.

In our conversation, Jeff reflects on the unique opportunities and challenges of preparing boys for a rapidly changing world, the importance of building strong foundations in the early years, and the values that underpin a thriving school community. He also shares insights into his educational philosophy, the evolving role of schools in supporting children and families, and what inspires him most about life at TSS.

For this episode of the SouthReport Podcast, I’m delighted to welcome Jeff Symms, Deputy Headmaster and Head of Preparatory School at The Southport School. With a deep commitment to boys’ education and a wealth of experience in school leadership, Jeff plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning, wellbeing, and character development of our youngest students, while also contributing to the strategic leadership of the School as a whole.

In our conversation, Jeff reflects on the unique opportunities and challenges of preparing boys for a rapidly changing world, the importance of building strong foundations in the early years, and the values that underpin a thriving school community. He also shares insights into his educational philosophy, the evolving role of schools in supporting children and families, and what inspires him most about life at TSS.

Welcome to another episode of the SouthReport Podcast.

Today, I’m delighted to be joined by Christian Oneto, Deputy Head of Senior School – Pastoral Care at The Southport School.

Christian is a passionate educator and leader who works closely with our young men, staff, and families to foster a culture of care, belonging, character, and wellbeing. In a role that sits at the heart of school life, he has a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing boys today and the importance of creating an environment where every student can flourish.

In this conversation, we explore the pastoral dimension of education, what it means to support the development of young men in an increasingly complex world, and the values and relationships that underpin a thriving school community...and of course, we talk about rowing. We’ll also gain insight into Christian’s own journey in education, the lessons he has learned along the way, and his hopes for the students in his care, as well as his own family.

Few people know The Southport School quite like Ian 'Browney' Brown.

For generations of TSS students, staff, and Old Boys, Ian has been a familiar and much-loved figure whose connection to the School spans decades. A passionate historian, gifted storyteller, and valued member of the TSS community, he has dedicated countless hours to preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped the School's identity.

In this episode of SouthReport, Ian takes us on a journey through the rich history of TSS, reflecting on the people, traditions, and moments that help to define the School. From fascinating anecdotes to insights about how the School has evolved while remaining true to its values, Ian offers a unique perspective that only someone with such deep ties to the community can provide.

Whether you're an Old Boy, a current parent, or simply interested in the remarkable story of The Southport School, you'll enjoy this conversation with one of the great custodians of our heritage.

Let's join Ian Browney Brown.

We are delighted to launch Series 2 of The SouthReport Podcast with a conversation featuring Mrs Kate Gallie, TSS Year 7 Coordinator. Mrs Gallie plays a pivotal role in supporting boys as they make the important transition into secondary school, helping them navigate new opportunities, challenges, and experiences during their first year of Senior School.

Known for her warmth, energy, and deep commitment to the students and their wellbeing, Mrs Gallie works closely with students, families, and staff to ensure every boy feels connected, supported, and ready to thrive. In this episode, she shares insights into the Year 7 journey, the importance of building strong relationships, and what makes the transition to life at TSS such a formative and rewarding experience.

More importantly however, Kate gives us an insight in to life raising four boys, all who have attended TSS, and being married to an Old Boy.

Join us as we begin a new season of The SouthReport by getting to know one of the passionate educators helping shape the next generation of TSS men.

Our guest today is someone who has quietly shaped the lives of students across academics, leadership, and boarding life. Mr Conan Bland is the Head of Education Support, but his impact goes far beyond the classroom. As the former Head of Cadets, Mr Bland guided students through challenges that built resilience and confidence. And in boarding, his time as Head of House made him a trusted figure and the kind of leader students knew they could rely on.

Mr Bland brings heart, humour, and a deep understanding of young people, and we’re excited to sit down with him for a conversation that reflects all of that.

This was recorded in PNG at the same time as Mr Holtsbaum's interview so you will hear some references to the National Fishing Titles throughout the interview.

Kate Waring bursts into this episode of The SouthReport with the same energy she brings into her chemistry classroom, the kind that makes even the periodic table feel like it’s trying to keep up with her. Known for turning complex scientific concepts into explanations that even the most easily-distracted boys suddenly understand, controlled explosions into “teachable moments,” and teenagers into actual fans of chemistry, Kate has become a legend in our TSS grounds.

Her connection with students runs deeper than a beaker full of copper sulfate. Whether she’s helping them master stoichiometry, navigate life, or survive the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence, Kate is the teacher they trust, the mentor they remember, and the adult who somehow always knows when someone needs a pep talk, hug… or one of her infamous brownies.

Outside the lab, Kate is everywhere, coaching, organising, supervising, cheering, and administering first aid. When she’s not shaping young minds, she’s passionately supporting the sport of rugby, a sport she loves with the same enthusiasm she brings to life.

In this episode, we dive into the world of a loyal teacher, mother, and wife who mixes humour with heart, science with soul, and rugby with absolutely everything...

Get ready for a standout conversation on the SouthReport Podcast as we sit down with Kerrie Aquilina for an open, insightful, and genuinely compelling interview.

Together, we dive into the stories, experiences, and ideas that shaped her journey. We explore the moments that matter, the challenges that defined her, and the perspectives she bring to the table. This is an episode that offers depth, honesty, and a closer look at the person behind the recent Anglican Schools Commission award.

This week on the Southreport we are joined by Joe Dolan, our Head of Football and the heartbeat of the TSS football program. Joe brings an energy you can feel the moment you step onto the pitch with a mix of passion, precision, and a genuine belief in what young men can achieve when they’re pushed, supported, and inspired.

From building a fast, fearless playing style to shaping a culture that values resilience, humility, and hard work, Joe has transformed the way our boys think about the game and about themselves. He’s a coach, a mentor, and a driving force behind one of the most exciting programs on campus.

Strap yourself in and we hope you enjoy this episode of the Southreport with Joe Dolan, a man who lives and breathes the world game.