and Richard Liu ( Year 11 ), who were both finalists in the Debaters ’ Association of Victoria public speaking competition .
This year Scotch hosted the premier interschool public speaking competition between Lauriston Girls ’ School , Camberwell Grammar School and Melbourne Girls ’ Grammar . With over 100 students attending online , the event showcased the power of public speaking to bring people together , and provided an opportunity for students across the schools to escape the monotony of the lockdown . A prepared speech delivered by Rion Ahl ( Year 12 ) and an impromptu speech by Nicholas Kluckow saw Scotch achieve second place .
In a world filled with increasing divisiveness and opinion it is critical that we find our voices , and it is through public speaking that many this year have pushed beyond their comfort zones and defined themselves for a lifetime to come .
As my own public speaking journey at Scotch comes to an end , I implore you all to take that audacious step onto the podium and use your extraordinary gifts of speaking and persuasion for good . Sincerest thanks to Ms Leckie , Mrs Kamte and the Vice Captain of Public Speaking , Nicholas Kluckow , all of whom have been instrumental in running this year ’ s program . I wish next year ’ s participants the best of luck .
RION AHL – CAPTAIN OF PUBLIC SPEAKING
www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 39