Public speaking videos

After tens of thousands of students tried out for a chance to represent their schools, and more than 2,000 of them went on to compete at one of 81 local finals across NSW, the 10 best speakers in Years 3 and 4 made it through to this state final, which was held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre on Friday 20 October. Each speaker presents a 3-minute prepared speech about multiculturalism and then a 1-minute impromptu with only 5 minutes of preparation. Congratulations to these finalists and to all the students who participated in 2023, and a massive thanks to the Multicultural Education team of the NSW Department of Education, whose support and funding have kept this competition running throughout its 28 years.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all NSW government primary schools. In 2022, the competition began with schools submitting 1,722 videos of speeches from their students. From there, 152 were chosen to compete live at one of 8 regional finals, and from those finals, these 12 contestants won their way into this state final. The 12 finalists present both a 3-minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a one-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time.

Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Multicultural team of the NSW Department of Education, without whose support this competition would not be possible. One last note – unfortunately, we don’t have a video of the winning speeches, but the others are well worth the watch, we promise!

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all NSW government primary schools, with over 2,000 students competing this year at 93 local finals across the state. Following those local finals speakers competed in ten online regional finals to determine the state finalists in this video. The ten finalists present both a 3-minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a 1-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time.

Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Multicultural team of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all NSW government primary schools, with over 1,000 students submitting speeches in 2020 despite the delays and changes necessitated by COVID-19. For the first time in the 25-year history of the competition this final was held online, with the ten speakers presenting both a 3 minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Multicultural Team of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

The speakers from years 3 and 4 present both a 3 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all twelve speakers and to everyone who took part in the competition this year.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with around 2,000 entering in 2018. The speakers present both a 3 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all twelve speakers and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Equity Unit of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

Zoe McElwee, Dulwich Hill Public School, Prepared - 0:02:59 / Impromptu - 0:46:10
Lilly Watkins, Kanwal Public School, Prepared - 0:06:29 / Impromptu - 0:47:33
Landon Griggs, Hayes Park Public School, Prepared - 0:09:50 / Impromptu - 0:48:43
Dhigash Balaeswaran, Metella Road Public School, Prepared - 0:13:22 / Impromptu - 0:50:02
George Scammell, Mosman Public School, Prepared - 0:16:52 / Impromptu - 0:51:13
A'ishah Ali, Sherwood Grange Public School, Prepared - 0:20:05 / Impromptu - 0:52:29
Nicholas Tait, Gundagai Public School, Prepared - 0:23:53 / Impromptu - 0:53:18
Emily Reid, Banksmeadow Public School, Prepared - 0:27:40 / Impromptu - 0:54:14
Marissa Colucci, Greystanes Public School, Prepared - 0:30:38 / Impromptu - 0:55:32
Jayda Jomma, Wattle Grove Public School, Prepared - 0:34:30 / Impromptu - 0:56:49
Jazz Evans, Samuel Gilbert Public School, Prepared - 0:38:21 / Impromptu - 0:58:25
Laura McNeil, Bellingen Public School, Prepared - 0:41:52 / Impromptu - 0:59:50
Tony Davey, Adjudication - 1:05:46

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering in 2017. The speakers present both a 3 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Massive thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Marcus Papadimitrou, Beecroft Public School, Prepared - 0:02:38 / Impromptu - 0:44:57
Ilia Lowe, Kariong Public School, Prepared - 0:06:13 / Impromptu - 0:46:09
Gloria Hanna, Sans Souci Public School, Prepared - 0:09:36 / Impromptu - 0:47:13
Ellouise Drew, Eurongilly Public School, Prepared - 0:12:48 / Impromptu - 0:48:28
Elliot Spolc, Wentworth Falls Public School, Prepared - 0:17:06 / Impromptu - 0:49:33
Olivia Wright, Robert Townson Public School, Prepared - 0:20:24 / Impromptu - 0:50:56
Ava Hodnett-Daly, Nambucca Heads Public School, Prepared - 0:23:50 / Impromptu - 0:51:48
Benjamin Fram, Gordon East Public School, Prepared - 0:27:37 / Impromptu - 0:52:55
Zachary Mu, Greenway Park Public School, Prepared - 0:30:43 / Impromptu - 0:54:14
David Temperley, Ashbury Public School, Prepared - 0:33:46 / Impromptu - 0:56:00
Romany Janssens, Jamberoo Public School, Prepared - 0:37:18 / Impromptu - 0:57:05
Molly Grogan, Hornsby Heights Public School, Prepared - 0:40:51 / Impromptu - 0:58:16
Tony Davey, Adjudication - 1:02:33

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering in 2016. The speakers present both a 3 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Rafferty Laight, North Sydney PS, Prepared - 0:02:21 / Impromptu - 0:52:10
Maeve Bradbury, Woonona East PS, Prepared - 0:05:51 / Impromptu - 0:53:33
Joe Gilliatt, Bronte PS, Prepared - 0:09:40 / Impromptu - 0:54:55
Rachel Nanthakumaran, Richmond PS, Prepared - 0:13:05 / Impromptu - 0:56:24
Gracie Watkins, Kanwal PS, Prepared - 0:16:18 / Impromptu - 0:57:20
Keira Jones, Forest Hill PS, Prepared - 0:19:25 / Impromptu - 0:58:43
Jules Cross, Hammondville PS, Prepared - 0:22:56 / Impromptu - 0:59:58
Elliot Evans, Cammeray PS, Prepared - 0:26:39 / Impromptu - 1:01:43
Annabel Murray, Minnamurra PS, Prepared - 0:31:13 / Impromptu - 1:02:40
Leevon Young, Mullaway PS, Prepared - 0:34:14 / Impromptu - 1:03:45
Brody Sim, Schofields PS, Prepared - 0:37:36 / Impromptu - 1:04:57
Bella Pollard, Quirindi PS, Prepared - 0:41:23 / Impromptu - 1:06:09
Anhaar Kareem, Marie Bashir PS, Prepared - 0:44:42 / Impromptu - 1:07:13
Lily Cyron, Clovelly PS, Prepared - 0:48:00 / Impromptu - 1:08:25
Adjudication - 1:24:16

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering in 2015. The speakers present both a 3 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 1 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Jordie Brown, Singleton Heights PS, Prepared: 0:03:02 / Impromptu: 0:49:34
Ruby Keast, Castle Hill PS, Prepared: 0:07:28 / Impromptu: 0:50:48
Thomais Papas, Bald Face PS, Prepared: 0:10:53 / Impromptu: 0:52:10
Tylah Lee, Minnamurra PS, Prepared: 0:15:00 / Impromptu: 0:53:16
Thomas Garrett, Castle Cove PS, Prepared: 0:19:24 / Impromptu: 0:54:24
Natalia Jovanovic, Casula PS, Prepared: 0:22:34 / Impromptu: 0:55:44
Joshua Lohse, Taree West PS, Prepared: 0:27:33 / Impromptu: 0:56:33
Alexander Nguyen, Greystanes PS, Prepared: 0:31:53 / Impromptu: 0:57:43
Gabriella Michalopoulos, Strathfield North PS, Prepared: 0:36:12 / Impromptu: 0:58:58
Hannah Dunmore, Deniliquin North PS, Prepared: 0:39:20 / Impromptu: 0:59:48
Joe Gilliatt, Bronte PS, Prepared: 0:42:55 / Impromptu: 1:00:53
Alana Willetts, Emu Plains PS, Prepared: 0:45:53 / Impromptu: 1:02:10
Adjudication by Tony Davey - 1:03:14

Now in its 29th year, this competition sees tens of thousands of students trying out for a chance to represent their schools, and this year more than 2,000 of them went on to compete at one of 80 local finals across NSW. Following those local finals and a series of 8 regional finals, the 10 best speakers in Years 3 and 4 made it through to this state final, which was held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre on Thursday 24 October. Each speaker presents a 3-minute prepared speech about multiculturalism and then a 1-minute impromptu with only 5 minutes of preparation. Congratulations to these finalists and to all the students who participated in 2024, and once again a huge thanks to the Multicultural Education team of the NSW Department of Education, whose support and funding have kept this competition running throughout its 29 years.

Eleanor Lodewijks, Ashfield Public School, Prepared – 0:06:48 / Impromptu – 0:58:25
Frida Gallpen-Brown, Deniliquin North Public School, Prepared – 0:12:04 / Impromptu – 1:00:46
Neil Amin, Homebush Public School, Prepared – 0:17:38 / Impromptu – 1:03:05
India Binks, Jamberoo Public School, Prepared – 0:22:13 / Impromptu – 1:05:22
Minha Inayat, St Andrews Public School, Prepared – 0:27:35 / Impromptu – 1:07:54
Claire Kingma, Tumut Public School, Prepared – 0:32:22 / Impromptu – 1:10:31
Aditi Gupta, Westmead Public School, Prepared – 0:37:20 / Impromptu – 1:12:49
Claire Feeney, Bangalow Public School, Prepared – 0:42:30 / Impromptu – 1:15:16
Max Moss, Gosford Public School, Prepared – 0:47:35 / Impromptu – 1:17:20
Kayla Soukhavong, Eastwood Public School, Prepared – 0:52:58 / Impromptu – 1:18:41
Adjudication – 1:20:53

After tens of thousands of students tried out for a chance to represent their schools, and more than 2,000 of them went on to compete at one of 81 local finals across NSW, the 10 best speakers in years 5 and 6 made it through to this state final, which was held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre on Friday 17 November. Each speaker presents a 4-minute prepared speech about multiculturalism and then a 2-minute impromptu with only 5 minutes of preparation. Congratulations to these finalists and to all the students who participated in 2023, and a massive thanks to the Multicultural Education team of the NSW Department of Education, whose support and funding have kept this competition running throughout its 28 years.

Jaiyan Dey, Northbridge Public School, Prepared – 0:06:28 / Impromptu – 0:54:22
Matilda McCullough, Stanwell Park Public School, Prepared – 0:11:11 / Impromptu – 0:56:14
Freddy Stevens, Mudgee Public School, Prepared – 0:15:15 / Impromptu – 0:57:48
Wendy Su, Sutherland Public School, Prepared – 0:20:29 / Impromptu – 1:00:20
Matthew Howley, New Lambton South Public School, Prepared – 0:25:15 / Impromptu – 1:03:01
Georgia Pilgrim, Kurrajong Public School, Prepared – 0:30:10 / Impromptu – 1:05:30
India Binks, Jamberoo Public School, Prepared – 0:24:49 / Impromptu – 1:07:50
Madeline Kot, Widemere Public School, Prepared – 0:39:44 / Impromptu – 1:10:22
Ayalla Kanety, Armidale City Public School, Prepared – 0:44:46 / Impromptu – 1:12:03
Frances Errington, Newtown North Public School, Prepared – 0:49:36 / Impromptu – 1:14:14
Justin Hau Wai Lai, Adjudication – 1:16:15

In 2022, this competition began with schools submitting 1,722 videos of speeches from their students. From there, 152 were chosen to compete live at one of 8 regional finals, and from those finals these 12 contestants won their way into this state final. The 13 finalists present both a 4-minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a 2-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Multicultural team of the NSW Department of Education, whose support and funding have kept this competition running throughout its 27 years.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all NSW government primary schools, with over 2,000 students competing this year at 93 local finals across the state. Following those local finals speakers competed in ten online regional finals to determine the state finalists in this video. The ten finalists present both a 4-minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a 2-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time.

Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and thanks as ever to the Multicultural team of the NSW Department of Education who have supported this competition for the entire 26 years of its existence.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all NSW government primary schools, with over 1,000 students submitting speeches in 2020 despite the delays and changes necessitated by COVID-19. For the first time in the 25-year history of the competition this final was held online, with the ten speakers presenting both a 4 minute prepared speech on multicultural themes and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all the students who reached this final and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Multicultural Team of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with around 2,000 entering in 2019. The speakers present both a 4 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all twelve speakers and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and finally thanks to the Equity Unit of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

Daniel O'Brien, Grose View Public School, Prepared - 0:05:48 / Impromptu - 0:59:25
Violet Pascoe, Samuel Gilbert Public School, Prepared - 0:09:46 / Impromptu - 1:00:47
Lara Lawson, Russell Lea Public School, Prepared - 0:14:14 / Impromptu - 1:02:58
Ava Dupont, Scarborough Public School, Prepared - 0:18:27 / Impromptu - 1:05:01
Harry Koralis, Bexley North Public School, Prepared - 0:23:05 / Impromptu - 1:07:08
Skye Vaughan, Ben Venue Public School, Prepared - 0:26:37 / Impromptu - 1:08:42
Corey Binks, Orana Heights Public School, Prepared - 0:31:03 / Impromptu - 1:10:53
Caden Anbu, Epping Heights Public School, Prepared - 0:35:48 / Impromptu - 1:12:38
Josie Birtles, Springwood Public School, Prepared - 0:40:51 / Impromptu - 1:14:44
Jules Cross, Hammondville Public School, Prepared - 0:45:40 / Impromptu - 1:17:02
Jasper Chamberlain, Hillsborough Public School, Prepared - 0:50:11 / Impromptu - 1:19:00
Freya McKinley, Concord West Public School, Prepared - 0:54:42 / Impromptu - 1:21:36
Patrick Caldwell, Adjudication - 1:27:36

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with around 2,000 entering in 2018. The speakers present both a 4 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to all thirteen speakers and to everyone who took part in the competition this year, and a final thanks to the Equity Unit of the NSW Department of Education without whose support this competition would not be possible.

Tanisha Chari, Denistone East Public School, Prepared - 0:04:06 / Impromptu - 1:03:34
Alex Blanch, Dubbo South Public School, Prepared - 0:08:30 / Impromptu - 1:05:19
Anhaar Kareem, Greenacre Public School, Prepared - 0:12:45 / Impromptu - 1:07:36
Lily Cyron, Clovelly Public School, Prepared - 0:17:19 / Impromptu - 1:10:11
Charlie Atkin, Camden South Public School, Prepared - 0:21:45 / Impromptu - 1:11:59
Julia Matthews, Pleasant Heights Public School, Prepared - 0:26:22 / Impromptu - 1:14:19
Archie O'Neill, Tighes Hill Public School, Prepared - 0:31:00 / Impromptu - 1:16:08
Abigail North, Parklea Public School, Prepared - 0:35:00 / Impromptu - 1:18:21
Chloe Elbourne, Moree Public School, Prepared - 0:39:38 / Impromptu - 1:20:17
Leah Teoh, Waitara Public School, Prepared - 0:43:52 / Impromptu - 1:22:34
Angelina Colucci, Greystanes Public School, Prepared - 0:48:42 / Impromptu - 1:25:06
Gracie Watkins, Kanwal Public School, Prepared - 0:53:48 / Impromptu - 1:27:13
Jo Gilliatt, Bronte Public School, Prepared - 0:58:27 / Impromptu - 1:29:27
Lloyd Cameron, Adjudication - 1:36:06

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering once again in 2017. The speakers present both a 4 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Misha Liem, Lane Cove Public School, Prepared - 0:03:05 / Impromptu - 1:00:26
Angelina Colucci, Greystanes Public School, Prepared - 0:07:59 / Impromptu – 1:02:30
Ruby Dokmanovic, Brunswick Heads Public School, Prepared - 0:12:47 / Impromptu – 1:04:58
Benjamin Stevens, Concord West Public School, Prepared - 0:17:37 / Impromptu – 1:07:21
Keira Jones, Forest Hill Public School, Prepared - 0:22:08 / Impromptu – 1:09:46
Sayuri Abeysinghe, Murray Farm Public School, Prepared - 0:27:04 / Impromptu – 1:12:07
Anhaar Kareem , Greenacre Public School, Prepared - 0:31:47 / Impromptu – 1:14:10
Parri Barrel, Callala Public School, Prepared - 0:36:21 / Impromptu – 1:16:48
Leah Teoh, Waitara Public School, Prepared - 0:41:23 / Impromptu – 1:18:46
Sam Rodgers, Ferncourt Public School, Prepared - 0:46:16 / Impromptu – 1:20:50
Gracie Watkins, Kanwal Public School, Prepared - 0:50:53 / Impromptu – 1:23:19
Alannah Christodoulou, Bald Face Public School, Prepared - 0:55:22 / Impromptu – 1:25:38
Bronwyn Cowell, Adjudication - 1:33:15

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering once again in 2016. The speakers present both a 4 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Amelie Brown, Sutherland PS, Prepared - 0:04:45 / Impromptu - 1:10:15
Oliver Primrose, Jerrabomberra PS, Prepared - 0:09:25 / Impromptu - 1:12:30
Yasmine Wentzel, Byron Bay PS, Prepared - 0:13:19 / Impromptu - 1:14:50
Nicholas Carmody, Roseville PS, Prepared - 0:17:47 / Impromptu - 1:17:03
Leah Maglis, Mawarra PS, Prepared - 0:22:45 / Impromptu - 1:19:13
Piper Buxton, The Junction PS, Prepared - 0:26:52 / Impromptu - 1:21:34
Daniel Hwang, Artarmon PS, Prepared - 0:31:48 / Impromptu - 1:23:52
Matthew Cohen, Rose Bay PS, Prepared - 0:36:11 / Impromptu - 1:26:04
Malia Barrel, Callala PS, Prepared - 0:40:45 / Impromptu - 1:27:47
Beth Blanch, Dubbo South PS, Prepared - 0:46:00 / Impromptu - 1:29:09
Yunji Lee, Ryde PS, Prepared - 0:50:29 / Impromptu - 1:31:20
Rhiannon Essex, Casula PS, Prepared - 0:55:14 / Impromptu - 1:33:16
Archie Matthews, Moree PS, Prepared - 1:00:05 / Impromptu - 1:35:13
Hiya Patel, Greystanes PS, Prepared - 1:04:41 / Impromptu - 1:37:39
Adjudication - 1:49:15

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all government primary school students, with over 2,000 entering in 2015. The speakers present both a 4 minute prepared speech on multiculturalism and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Multicultural NSW and to the Equity branch of the NSW Department of Education for making this competition possible.

Karina White, Casula PS, Prepared: 0:04:41 / Impromptu: 1:01:56
Charlotte Newton, Waverley PS, Prepared: 0:09:09 / Impromptu: 1: 04:13
Harvey Jakubiw, Thirroul PS, Prepared: 0:13:30 / Impromptu: 1:05:35
Sophie Hambling, Bilgola Plateau PS, Prepared: 0:18:25 / Impromptu: 1:08:00
Edith Mallon, Bolwarra PS, Prepared: 0:22:47 / Impromptu: 1:10:07
Archie Wolifson, Woollahra PS, Prepared: 0:28:03 / Impromptu: 1:12:17
Sophie Edwards, Lidcombe PS, Prepared: 0:32:46 / Impromptu: 1:15:03
Brayden Sim, Schofields PS, Prepared: 0:37:47 / Impromptu: 1:17:01
Rory Partington, Macksville PS, Prepared: 0:42:57 / Impromptu: 1:19:43
Sara Wardak, Westmead PS, Prepared: 0:47:40 / Impromptu: 1:22:09
Charlie Dudley, Deniliquin North PS, Prepared: 0:52:18 / Impromptu: 1:24:42
Flora Tucker, St Ives PS, Prepared: 0:56:54 / Impromptu: 1: 26:28
Adjudication by Bronwyn Cowell: 1:40:07

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. Of the 239 students who competed in 2023, this state final sees the 8 best speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Congratulations to them and to all the students who competed and shared their ideas in 2024.

Open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger, the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award encourages the use of clear and effective spoken English.  Watch the state final and celebrate all the speakers who made 2022 a huge success.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time.

Thanks to Legacy whose nationwide support and funding make this competition possible, and congratulations to all the speakers who made 2021 a huge success.

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. This competition is only possible with the nationwide support of Legacy. Thanks to them for the financial and organisational support and to all the speakers who made the 2019 competition such a success.

Welcoming Address by Her Excellency The Honourable Margaret Beazley AO QC, Governor of NSW - 0:02:05
Megan Wang, Abbotsleigh, Prepared - 0:13:31 / Impromptu - 0:58:22
Rebekah Cooper, Crestwood High School, Prepared - 0:18:21 / Impromptu - 1:00:57
Chloe Hoang, Pymble Ladies’ College, Prepared - 0:23:57 / Impromptu - 1:03:40
Lani Taylor, Bulli High School, Prepared - 0:29:35 / Impromptu - 1:05:57
Brendon Lambert, GRC Peakhurst, Prepared - 0:35:01 / Impromptu - 1:08:21
Mia Seisun, Reddam House, Prepared - 0:40:28 / Impromptu - 1:11:01
Nickie Tran, Sarah Redfern High School, Prepared - 0:45:51 / Impromptu - 1:13:13
Nikki Han, Queenwood, Prepared - 0:51:51 / Impromptu - 1:16:02
Occasional Address by Legatee Lawrie Wright, Sydney Legacy - 1:18:20
Adjudication by Elinor Stephenson, The Arts Unit - 1:31:27

This is the national final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. This competition is only possible with the nationwide support of Legacy, who have been dedicated to it now for 23 years. Massive thanks to them for their ongoing commitment to the education and the lives of young people across Australia.

Evelyn Vincin Walker, St Ignatius’ College SA, Prepared - 0:05:24 / Impromptu – 1:01:22
Hugh Perry, Huntingtower School VIC, Prepared - 0:10:39 / Impromptu - 0:59:27
Ishara Verdickt, SCEGGS Darlinghurst NSW, Prepared - 0:15:37 / Impromptu – 1:03:40
Oscar Tiernan, Launceston Church Grammar TAS, Prepared - 0:20:28 / Impromptu - 0:57:21
Kaitlin Turland, Emmaus Christian College SA, Prepared - 0:25:46 / Impromptu - 0:52:56
Milagros Vargas, Avila College VIC, Prepared - 0:31:10 / Impromptu - 0:48:14
Mackenna Minstrell, Taroona High School TAS, Prepared - 0:36:28 / Impromptu - 0:50:31
Janet Diba, Sefton High School NSW, Prepared - 0:41:54 / Impromptu - 0:55:10
Patrick Caldwell, Adjudication - 1:06:04

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. This competition is only possible with the nationwide support of Legacy, who have been dedicated to it now for 23 years. Massive thanks to them for the financial and organisational support and in particular to the members of Sydney Legacy who helped to make this final happen.

Welcoming Address by His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retired), Governor of NSW - 0:01:50
Lina Amoor, Moorebank High School, Prepared - 0:14:11 / Impromptu - 0:57:46
Olivia Harlamb, Abbotsleigh, Prepared - 0:19:57 / Impromptu - 1:00:19
George McNamara, Merewether High School, Prepared - 0:25:08 / Impromptu - 1:02:51
Preethika Mathan, Santa Sabina College, Prepared - 0:30:35 / Impromptu - 1:05:21
Janet Diba, Sefton High School, Prepared - 0:35:39 / Impromptu - 1:07:43
Ishara Verdickt, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Prepared - 0:41:45 / Impromptu - 1:09:40
Kate Chipman, Hornsby Girls High School, Prepared - 0:46:58 / Impromptu - 1:11:47
Rohan Gandhi, Newington College, Prepared - 0:52:08 / Impromptu - 1:14:22
Occasional Address by Legatee John Butcher, Sydney Legacy - 1:16:45
Adjudication by Tushaar Garg, The Arts Unit - 1:38:50

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Once again massive thanks to Legacy – they’ve been supporting the competition now for 22 years and wouldn’t be possible without their dedication and sponsorship.

Emily Foufas-Noakes, Crestwood High, Prepared - 0:08:02 / Impromptu - 0:51:55
Danielle Villafana, Fort Street High, Prepared - 0:13:15 / Impromptu - 0:54:37
Joseph Stala-Smith, North Sydney Boys High, Prepared - 0:18:15 / Impromptu - 0:57:03
Diya Goswami, Baulkham Hills High, Prepared - 0:23:50 / Impromptu - 0:59:28
Georgia Shakeshaft, Frensham, Prepared - 0:29:20 / Impromptu - 1:01:33
Aidan Woo, Sydney Grammar, Prepared - 0:35:01 / Impromptu - 1:04:00
Sarah McNaughton, Caringbah High, Prepared - 0:40:50 / Impromptu - 1:06:23
Hazel Sung, MLC, Prepared - 0:46:07 / Impromptu - 1:08:32
Occasional Address by His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retired), Governor of NSW - 1:12:45
Adjudication by Patrick Caldwell, The Arts Unit - 1:28:36

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Huge thanks to Legacy who have now been supporting this competition for 21 years – without their sponsorship it wouldn’t be possible.

Hazel Sung, MLC School, Prepared - 0:03:51 / Impromptu - 0:46:18
Luce Neilson, St George Girls High, Prepared - 0:08:53 / Impromptu - 0:48:39
Louise Godhard, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Prepared - 0:14:15 / Impromptu - 0:51:10
Jamie Bell, Northern Beaches Secondary College Manly, Prepared - 0:19:46 / Impromptu - 0:53:05
Jennifer Barnott-Clement, Camden High, Prepared - 0:24:50 / Impromptu - 0:55:24
Sophie Mok, Pymble Ladies’ College, Prepared - 0:30:13 / Impromptu - 0:57:39
Karina White, Hurlstone Agricultural High, Prepared - 0:35:19 / Impromptu - 0:59:42
Sophia McDonnell, Bethany College Hurstville, Prepared - 0:40:40 / Impromptu - 1:02:07
Adjudication by Bronwyn Cowell - 1:15:48

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian secondary school students aged 14 or younger. The speakers present both a 5 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 2 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 5 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to Legacy for their ongoing support and sponsorship which has made this competition possible since its very inception 20 years ago.

Daniel Yim, Sydney Grammar School, Prepared - 0:07:42 / Impromptu - 0:51:53
Shoryu Das-Zaman, North Sydney Boys High School, Prepared - 0:13:28 / Impromptu - 0:54:10
Sophie Mok, Pymble Ladies College, Prepared - 0:18:56 / Impromptu - 0:56:31
Jennifer Barnott-Clement, Camden High School, Prepared - 0:24:13 / Impromptu - 0:58:50
Daniel Selvadurai, James Ruse Agricultural High School, Prepared - 0:29:18 / Impromptu - 1:01:32
Yi Xiu Tan, Kambala, Prepared - 0:35:08 / Impromptu - 1:03:51
Charlee Sutherland, Crestwood High School, Prepared - 0:40:29 / Impromptu - 1:05:56
Claire Yin, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Prepared - 0:45:52 / Impromptu - 1:08:20
Adjudication by Micaela Bassford - 1:24:12

This year 277 NSW students entered the Plain English Speaking Award. After 24 local finals, 6 regional finals and 2 semi-finals, 6 speakers were chosen for this NSW final which was held on Friday 28 June at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre. The speakers present both an 8-minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition, and to ACCO Brands Australia for their sponsorship of the 2024 final.

Murhpy Xi, The King's School, Prepared – 0:05:17 / Impromptu – 0:58:35
Violet FitzSimons, Oxley College, Prepared – 0:14:29 / Impromptu – 1:01:52
Olivia Wright, Hurlstone Agricultural High School, Prepared – 0:23:25 / Impromptu – 1:05:37
Johnny Stamiris, Prairiewood High School, Prepared – 0:32:17 / Impromptu – 1:09:14
Jenny Xu, Pymble Ladies' College, Prepared – 0:41:20 / Impromptu – 1:12:57
Sophia Markham, Armidale Secondary College, Prepared – 0:49:31 / Impromptu – 1:15:40
Himaja Dave, Adjudication – 1:19:20

This is the national final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present an 8-minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing, participate in an interview, and then deliver a 3-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following 4 minutes of preparation time. On behalf of the NSW Department of Education, congratulations to the 5 students who were chosen in 2024 to represent their home states and territories.

Eli Gearing, Centenary State High School, Qld, Prepared – 0: 01:38 / Impromptu – 1:02:29
Lucy Eales, Loreto College, Vic, Prepared – 0:13:25 / Impromptu – 1:05:47
Violet FitzSimons, Oxley College, NSW, Prepared – 0:25:20 / Impromptu – 1:09:02
Debika Dasgupta, Narrabundah College, ACT, Prepared – 0:37:38 / Impromptu – 1:12:24
Ruth Vincent, Corpus Christi College, WA, Prepared – 0:49:46 / Impromptu – 1:15:06
Adjudication – 1:18:14

Enjoy the Plain English Speaking Award 2023 state final held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre on Thursday 22 June.

This is the national final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present an 8-minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing, participate in an interview, and then deliver a 3-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following 4 minutes of preparation time. On behalf of the NSW Department of Education, a massive congratulations to all 6 students who do such a smashing job of representing their home states and territories!

Enjoy the Plain English Speaking Award 2022 state final held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre on Thursday 23 June.

This is the national final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present an 8-minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing, participate in an interview, and then deliver a 3-minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. A massive congratulations to all 6 students on their amazing performances representing their home states and territory in this final.

Subi Thomas, Hale School WA, prepared   0:06:36 impromptu 1:21:55
Penelope Jin, Queenwood NSW, prepared 0:19:28 impromptu 1:24:51
Jessica Grasser, University Senior College SA, prepared  0:31:51  impromptu  1:28:58
Anna Blinks van Broekhoeven, Waverly Christian College VIC, prepared  0:44:30 impromptu 1:31:57
Aditya Naik, Somerset College QLD, prepared 0:56:51 impromptu 1:34:48
Serina Guo, Canberra Girls Grammar ACT, prepared 1:09:17  impromptu 1:37:31
Adjudication 1:40:30

This is the New South Wales final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present both an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time.

Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition.

This is the national final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing, participate in an interview, and then deliver a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time.

Our thanks Consensus Education whose sponsorship of the final was a crucial part of keeping things running in a COVID-19 affected year.

This is the New South Wales final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present both an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition, and to BBM Youth Support whose contribution makes the national competition possible.

This is the New South Wales final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present both an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition, and to BBM Youth Support whose contribution makes the national competition possible.

Elinor Stephenson, Smiths Hill High School, Prepared - 0:05:13 / Impromptu - 0:52:48
Tom Hodgson, The Scots College, Prepared - 0:12:27 / Impromptu - 0:56:00
Emily Kim, North Sydney Girls High School, Prepared - 0:19:56 / Impromptu - 0:59:09
Jamie Bell, Pymble Ladies’ College, Prepared - 0:27:34 / Impromptu - 1:02:02
Vivian Zhu, Sydney Girls High School, Prepared - 0:36:23 / Impromptu - 1:04:07
Sophie Shead, Hornsby Girls High School, Prepared - 0:44:44 / Impromptu - 1:08:00
Tandee Wang, The Arts Unit, Adjudication - 1:16:50

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present both an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition, and to BBM Youth Support whose contribution makes the national competition possible.

Claire Yin, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Prepared - 0:02:30 / Impromptu - 0:51:32
Ella Finlay, MLC School, Prepared - 0:10:08 / Impromptu - 0:54:46
Max Koslowski, Sydney Boys High School, Prepared - 0:18:31 / Impromptu - 0:58:04
Emily Kim, North Sydney Girls High School, Prepared - 0:26:12 / Impromptu - 1:00:51
Tandee Wang, Sydney Technical High School, Prepared - 0:34:29 / Impromptu - 1:03:49
Lauren Park, Pymble Ladies' Collegel, Prepared - 0:42:48 / Impromptu - 1:06:32
Tony Davey, Speaking Competitions, Adjudication - 1:11:37

This is the state final of a public speaking competition which is open to all Australian school students aged 15 or older. The speakers present both an 8 minute prepared speech on a subject entirely of their choosing and a 3 minute impromptu speech on an unseen topic following just 3 minutes of preparation time. Our thanks to the Australia-Britain Society and the NSW English-Speaking Union for their long-standing sponsorship of this competition, and to BBM Ltd whose support makes the national competition possible.

Eleanor Boxall, St Catherine's School, Prepared - 0:05:12 / Impromptu - 0:56:26
Ella Finlay, MLC School, Prepared - 0:13:48 / Impromptu - 0:59:50
Tandee Wang, Sydney Technical High School, Prepared - 0:22:11 / Impromptu - 1:03:06
Isabella Monardo, Kincoppal Rose Bay, Prepared - 0:30:40 / Impromptu - 1:06:06
Isla Collee, SCEGGS Darlinghurst, Prepared - 0:38:51 / Impromptu - 1:09:29
Lauren Park, Pymble Ladies' College, Prepared - 0:47:15 / Impromptu - 1:12:13
Adjudication by Patrick Caldwell, 2003 National Winner - 1:23:39

Congratulations to our 2023 winner, Zeynep Erdogmus, from Hunters Hill High School, and the 7 finalists! Enjoy Zeynep’s winning live performance, along with the finalists below.