'If my life were a movie…', ‘If I could invite three people to dinner, they would be …’ and ‘Today is a gift, that’s why it’s called the present’ were the topics of conversation addressed by Years 5 and 6 students at the recent annual Diocesan Public Speaking Competition Grand Final, held at St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Parish Primary School, Bowral.

This much anticipated event provides an opportunity for some of the most promising young public speakers in the diocese to display their public speaking ability and communication skills. This year’s speeches didn’t disappoint, with students confidently presenting inspiring, thought-provoking speeches. 

Competition convenor, Joanne Robinson, Assistant Principal of St Thomas Aquinas said adjudicators, Mrs Gabrielle McPherson and Mr Luke McGinnity, had a difficult job selecting placegetters due to the high quality and standard of the student speakers. 

“The speeches were of a very high standard, with the audience being both informed and entertained by the students who discussed a diverse range of topics,” she said.

“This annual competition is important as it allows students to showcase their skills and express their thoughts in a public speaking forum” — Joanne Robinson.

Congratulations to all finalists who competed in the grand final, particularly to the following students who placed successfully on the day.  

Year 5

1st Place – Paige S – St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School, Bowral.

2nd Place – Nuala F – St. Gregory’s College, Campbelltown.

3rd Place – Lilah P – St. Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Narellan Vale.

Year 6 

1st Place – Geena H – St. Gregory’s College, Campbelltown.

2nd Place – Ethan Z – St. Francis Catholic College, Edmondson Park.

3rd Place – Aiden I - St. Therese Catholic Primary School, West Wollongong.

Thank you to the Catholic Development Fund for their ongoing support of the annual Diocesan Public Speaking Regional Competitions and Grand Final. Thank you to Mrs Gabrielle McPherson and Mr Luke McGinnity for adjudicating on the day.