Honouring the Symonds Family

Earlier this year, the Main Oval was officially renamed The Symonds Family Oval in acknowledgement of former staff members Ken and Barb Symonds, and their children Andrew, Louise and Nick Symonds.

Ken was All Saints’ foundation Head of Senior School, Head of Languages and passionate cricket coach who served the School for 24 years prior to his retirement in 2011.

Barb also taught here for many years and Andrew, Nick and Louise (all proud members of McIntosh House) made significant contributions to the life of the School.

An incredibly talented sportsman, Andrew went on to be a renowned international cricketer and television commentator.

Sadly, Ken lost his battle with cancer in 2019. In 2022, the untimely death of Andrew also impacted upon many people in our community.

The Symonds Family Oval dedication ceremony was both celebratory and poignant, as it reflected with special fondness upon the rich lives of both father and son.

Lead Picture Credit: Andrew Symonds, ICC Cricket World Cup Website

The family continues to be wonderful ambassadors for All Saints to this day, with Nick currently working as one of Brisbane’s leading architects and Louise following in her father’s footsteps as a PE and French teacher at Townsville Grammar School.

All Saints Chief of Staff and long-time family friend and colleague of the Symonds’ Mrs Sue Daly says that each of the family members have brought something special to the School.

“I think the Symonds Family legacy is all about selfless contribution in building a community,” says Mrs Daly. “Naming the oval in their honour is a fitting tribute.”

It was a delight to welcome both Barb and Nick to campus for the dedication ceremony.

Barb recounted many fond memories during her address and thanked the community for its support over the years.

“I received many prayers and condolences from All Saints families and friends both after the loss of my loving Ken and then Andrew, and I would like to say thankyou to you all for that,” said Barb.

“It is wonderful to think they will always be remembered at All Saints. As a family we have many memories of our time here. There can’t be many who can say that their school photo contains the whole family – parents and children.”

Andrew's 'driving' spirit

Barb Symonds tells the story of her son Andrew’s particular deeds, and perhaps misdeeds, on the All Saints Main Oval best: 

“When he played for the Gold Coast Dolphins, Andrew would help prepare the grounds on the Main Oval, because back then they held games at All Saints. He would be putting the covers on the night before the game, and he would also mow and roll the pitch. Many don’t know this, but Andrew also learned to drive a car on the oval, obviously before the grounds staff got involved!”