Hannah Partlett wins public speaking competition at Laurieton

TOASTMASTERS  International formed in California in 1924 with the primary purpose of empowering individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

In 2019 the organisation formed a strategic alliance with Rotary International, with the partnership designed to help members of both organisations improve communication, develop leadership skills and expand their community networks.

One of their collaborations is the Four-Way-Test speech competition, held each year for students in Years 9-11.

The test encourages Rotarians to consider, before speaking or acting: is it the truth, is it fair to all concerned, will it build goodwill and better friendships, and will it be beneficial to all concerned.

Students are required to give a five-minute speech around these concepts to their local Rotary Club, with Toastmasters providing adjudication.

On Monday night students from Camden Haven High School attended the Rotary Club of Laurieton with their families and faculty member Elliott Leighton.

“The wonderful speakers spoke about kindness and how just a small and thoughtful act can transform someone’s life,” Adjudicator Ronnie Philp told News Of The Area.

“Their sincerity felt like a breath of fresh air over a sometimes-jaded world that forgets to think kindly of others.”

Her colleague Mary Jane Olidan concurred, saying “I enjoyed listening to the young speakers deliver their own speeches in front of the Rotarians.

“It takes great courage to speak in front of an audience.

“As a Toastmasters member and adjudicator, it was a privilege to acknowledge their strengths and offer helpful recommendations for improvement.

“The speakers did an amazing job.”

Hannah Partlett was judged the winner and will proceed to the area round, with winners from that heading to finals in Tamworth in November.

By Rachael THORPE