By Kate McCarthy, Yr 10, St Monica's College
Constitutional discussion places focus on secession
THE Constitutional Convention is an annual event held in FNQ.
This year, students from across the region came together and debated the political and economic consequences of the topic “Why North Queensland should or should not secede”.
Ideas ranging from the Far North invading the rest of Australia and an in-depth discussion on crocodile culling, inspired by an earlier speech from the Honorary Bob Katter, created an interesting experience for five St Monica’s students.
The day’s proceedings began with speeches by two guest speakers who were each extremely knowledgeable on the topic.
The Honorary Bob Katter, Member for Kennedy, spoke passionately on his vision for Queensland and how the discussed split would benefit the region.
Professor George Williams, the Dean of Law at the University of New South Wales, provided a more indepth look into the process.
He discussed the regulations set in the Constitution regarding steps to enact a possible separation.
The 11 delegates representing schools in the Cairns district were then given the chance to express their opinions and be chosen as one of five student leaders travelling to Canberra in March next year.
There was a soapbox session where students answered questions and raised issues and the St Monica’s team was active with Natalia Loukas ending the day with a JB Hi-Fi voucher and a copy of Bob Katter’s latest book.
Congratulations, Tahnisha Bayldon who obtained a place as a delegate to Canberra.