James talks his way to next level
Ararat College student James Mullin will represent Ararat Legacy at a preliminary final of Legacy Junior Public Speaking Awards in Bendigo next month after winning a regional final.
If he wins the Bendigo event on September 18 he will then have the opportunity to compete in a state final in late October.
James, who spoke about ‘Adam Goodes – An Inspiration’ won the regional final at Ararat’s Astor Cinema from Beaufort Secondary College’s Jaelyn Brand.
Master of ceremonies and Melbourne Legatee Gordon Archer opened proceedings and welcomed 10 participating students from Ararat, Marian, Stawell and Beaufort colleges.
Teachers, parents and students watched contestants speak with passion and conviction on their chosen topics.
Judges Robyn Clelland, Lee Albert and David Tyler were hard pressed to select a winner at the conclusion of both the prepared speeches and impromptu round.
Ultimately, chief judge Ms Clelland announced James as the winner.
In presenting awards and certificates, Ararat Legacy president Steven Shannon said the organisation was privileged to host the annual awards to help foster student development.
“We are continually amazed by the confidence and capability of our youth,” he said.
“We congratulate all the stu- dents involved and commend our secondary colleges for continuing to support this activity.”
Ararat Legacy Club thanked ongoing funding support through the State Government’s Veterans Council Grants Program and the Ararat RSL Sub Branch for the awards.