Local school students awarded for speaking with confidence

Public speaking can be daunting for many – except for a talented group of local Year Five and Six students who recently seized the opportunity to deliver engaging speeches before judges, family and friends.

Proudly hosted by the City of South Perth and supported by Toastmasters International, the Speak with Confidence Awards took place at the Civic Centre Council Chambers on Wednesday 28 June, featuring two competition rounds in the morning and the finals round in the evening.

The annual awards, which are now in their twenty-eighth year, provide an excellent interschool opportunity for older primary school students to practice and develop their public speaking skills in a safe and nurturing environment.

City of South Perth Mayor Greg Milner, who presented the awards after the finals, said the awards are a great way for Year Five and Six students to grow in confidence, learn a valuable life skill and showcase their talent.

“Public speaking isn't just about giving speeches—it's about mastering a skill that helps people communicate clearly and persuasively, make a positive difference and emerge as leaders.”

Students participating in the 2024 Speak with Confidence Awards chose their own topics and wrote their own speeches, which they presented to a panel of three judges from Toastmasters International and an audience of teachers, students and family members.

The topics covered everything from climate change, success and marketing to mullets, weird sports, pain and more.

“I’m very impressed with the speeches I heard from an outstanding field of exceptionally talented young speakers”, Mayor Milner said.

After a difficult selection process, first prize was awarded to Caitlin Fisher from Manning Primary School for her speech titled ‘Siblings’.

Angelique Curtis, student of Como Primary School, received second place for her speech ‘The Number 13’, while third place went to Oliver Reed from Aquinas College, for his speech titled ‘Smart Phone Apocalyse’.

Mayor Milner congratulated all winners and entrants, which included six finalists chosen from 16 students across nine schools within the City of South Perth.

“I’d like to commend all entrants on their outstanding submissions. Well done to everyone who earned a place in tonight’s finals.

“The judges had a very difficult time selecting just six students to continue to the finals and an even tougher time choosing a winner.”

The winner, Catilin Fisher, was awarded a beautiful trophy kindly donated by Manning Men's Shed. She and the runners up also received a book voucher.