“Keep doing what you love and the opportunities will present themselves.”— Clancy Sinnamon
Clancy Sinnamon (2009–2013) is more than just a filmmaker. He’s a chronicler of moments, a weaver of stories and an inspiration for aspiring creatives, particularly those in regional communities.
From his days as a boarding student at Toowoomba Grammar School, where he first dipped his toes into the world of filming GPS sporting events, to his current roles as sports documentarian and founder of the Outback Film Club, Clancy’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
The echoes of school war cries reverberating around the Chandler Aquatic Centre in 2011 marked the start of Clancy’s cinematic journey. Capturing that moment ignited a spark within him, a passion for storytelling through the lens of a camera. Encouraged by mentors like Student Officer Mr Matthew Harrison, who nurtured his talent and pushed him to perfect his craft, Clancy embarked on a journey leading him to Bond University, where he found a community of like-minded individuals who shared his love for film.
Clancy’s career took flight during a globetrotting stint filming the Australian men’s national cricket team, a dream opportunity for a cricket fanatic like himself. However, the onset of COVID-19 in 2020 brought his adventures to an abrupt halt. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, Clancy found new avenues to explore. He channelled his energy into creating his first feature film, The Smiths, a project that showcased his talent and marked a homecoming to TGS — the original concept for the film was shown at Assembly 10 years earlier.
But Clancy’s ambitions extended beyond his career aspirations; he was determined to pay it forward and inspire the next generation of rural filmmakers. This drive led him back to his roots. He held workshops at Toowoomba Grammar School and eventually founded the Outback Film Club. Through this initiative, Clancy has brought the magic of filmmaking to remote communities across Queensland, empowering over 100 students to explore their creative potential.
For Clancy, filmmaking is more than just a career. It’s a calling, a passion that fuels his resilience in the face of challenges. Whether he’s documenting the Australian men’s national cricket team, making feature films or mentoring young filmmakers in regional Australia, Clancy’s unwavering dedication to his craft serves as an example for aspiring creatives everywhere. As he eagerly awaits the release of Season 3 of The Test on Amazon Prime, Clancy reflects on his journey with gratitude and humility, “I’d like to think that after going through all those difficult times, I’ve come out the other side more resilient.”
Clancy advises students, “Keep doing what you love, and the opportunities will present themselves.” He believes wholeheartedly that non-traditional careers can pay off, “I’m sure that if my teachers reflect on my career choice, they’d know I’ve taken the right path.”
He believes wholeheartedly that non-traditional careers can pay off, “I’m sure that if my teachers reflect on my career choice, they’d know I’ve taken the right path.” In the tapestry of Clancy Sinnamon’s life, each frame tells a story of resilience, determination and unwavering passion — a story that continues to inspire countless others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they may lead.
Latest Blog
Coping with Homesickness
Homesickness can be brutal for both your son and for parents. As a parent it can feel like your heart is being ripped out in some cases daily. It is extremely hard hearing how sad your boy may sound on the phone, and then you are left reeling for 24 hours until the next call – you are often left worried that they are feeling like this all day. Rest assured only vary rare cases are that bad and in most cases it’s temporary and things usually improve as your son settles in. The reality is that…
Introducing Gabe Robbie, the new Head of Curriculum
I am excited to be joining the staff here at Toowoomba Grammar School in the role of Head of Curriculum. I grew up in a small coastal town in NSW and attended the University of Sydney to complete my undergraduate degree. Please don’t hold my NSW origin against me (Go Blues!). Teaching, and education, has always been a passion of mine and ever since I was in high school, the plan was to be a teacher. I graduated from the University of Sydney with a double degree in Education and Arts, majoring…
What Old Boys Have Contributed to TGS Over Time
The Old Boys’ Association has played an integral role in the history and tradition of Toowoomba Grammar School. It was formed on December 29, 1888, when 25 Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys met at Long’s Imperial Hotel to create a new society. The Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys’ Association rules were drawn up, and office-bearers elected. The inaugural president was Mr Joesph Vincent Herbert Esq. (TGS 1877-80) From there, the TGSOBA has grown significantly, ensuring that the Blue and Gold…
TGS Strength and Conditioning Program
Toowoomba Grammar School has a unique approach to athlete development that focuses on providing students with the skills, tools and mindset required to succeed in sports and life. At TGS, the long-term athlete development (LTAD) philosophy is ingrained in every aspect of the School's approach to sport and fitness. The LTAD philosophy emphasises the importance of age-appropriate training and skill development over a long period of time. This approach recognises that athlete development is a…
We Knew Them Before They Were Stars
Our boys at Toowoomba Grammar School are fortunate that Performing Arts is as popular as sport and academics, thanks to our culture of respect and inclusivity. Boys are supported and encouraged to immerse themselves in music, drama and art and are not afraid to chase their dreams in these fields. The success of our performing arts students dates back decades, with our Old Boys performing all around the world in theatre, music, film and photography and are accomplished and well recognised in…
Country Roads Take Me Home
Toowoomba Grammar School boarding provides the ideal living environment for our boys while they develop the values that will define their character. Throughout the course of this year, I have been privileged to visit many of the towns and properties that our TGS boarders call home. When walking around those towns wearing a shirt with a TGS crest, it doesn’t take long to meet an Old Boy or to be asked about one of the boarders currently at the School. Our boarding staff pride themselves on…
TGS Corfe House - A Home for Young Boarders
In Toowoomba Grammar School’s Boarding Program, Years 5 to 7 students reside at Corfe House – a nurturing environment providing close pastoral support and guidance to the School’s youngest boarders. The skills, relationships and perspectives that boys develop here set them up for the rest of their boarding and school journey. Toowoomba Grammar School understands the challenges for young students transitioning into boarding. Leading the way in creating a ‘home away from home’ is the Corfe House…
TGS Mates Program - Character Building Education
Current research into character education has shown that educators should not be focusing solely on preparing students for their Year 12 final exams but should be supporting them to become humans who exhibit good character and virtues to contribute to creating a healthier society (The Jubilee Centre, 2022). The Jubilee Centre, which is attached to the University of Birmingham in the UK, maintains that good character is the foundation for improved attainment, better behaviour, increased…
Our TGS Old Boys' Wall of Achievement
The next time you visit the School grounds, pause for a moment at the Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys' Wall of Achievement. This concept was the initiative of the then Deputy Headmaster, Mr Roger Buttenshaw, and was supported by the Board of Trustees, Headmasters Mr Hugh Rose and Mr Peter Hauser, and the TGSOBA - Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys' Association. The opening of the Wall of Achievement took place in 2003. Thousands of TGS Old Boys have gone on to lead productive and valuable…
