Public speaking comp postponed

THE regional final of the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Competition will be held on Wednesday, 25 August at Legacy House, Ballarat.

Organiser Allan Mckinnon said the altered formalities will begin at 9.30am, following a 9am arrival, on at 5 Raglan Street South.

“Due to the present state of COVID in Victoria and how it might impact schools, I have decided, with advice, to change… this year’s competition,” he said.

Earlier in July, St Patrick’s College was set to host the event which engages secondary school students aged 12 to 14. Selected pupils from most of the city’s high schools participate.

“The aim of the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Competition is to enhance the oral communication and public speaking skills of students, and to help young people appreciate the ideals of Legacy,” Mr Mckinnon said.

Entrants must present a prepared five-minute speech on any topic linked to the ideals of voluntary service, care, comradeship or remembrance, and a two-minute impromptu speech on a topic chosen by the competition’s chief judge.

Judges seek an impactful opening and conclusion, entertaining on-topic subject matter, originality, coherent plain English, a steady, clear, strong presenting voice, good posture and body language, eye contact, and appropriate humour.