2011 National Oratory Competition

Students speak out at the finals of the National Oratory Competition

History was made at Australian Catholic University’s (ACU) Strathfield Campus as seven finalists battled in the inaugural ACU National Oratory Competition last month.

All six campuses were represented in the grand final and the competition was tight as orators addressed the topic “why is a concern for justice, equity and the dignity of all human beings fundamental in the 21st century?”

First place was awarded to Charlotte Claxon, first year Bachelor of Teaching/Arts student from Strathfield.

“My winning speech came from thinking deeply about the topic and piecing together what I already knew about the subject,” Charlotte said.

“I have always enjoyed public speaking and I was thankful for the opportunity to speak and be heard.”

Second place was awarded to Zach Woodward, Bachelor of Education student from the Brisbane Campus, and third place went to Claire Hartmann, Bachelor of Nursing/ Paramedicine student from Ballarat.

“One of the most fascinating parts of being involved in the competition was having the opportunity to hear such a broad range of rich and diverse student perspectives on a topic which is so closely linked to the University’s Mission”, said Eric Robinson, National Oratory Competition Coordinator and Campus Life Coordinator at the Brisbane Campus.

“The Australian Catholic University National Oratory Competition is set to become a very important event on the ACU calendar for 2012 and beyond”, he said.

Among the panel of adjudicators was Professor Anne Cummins, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, from the University’s North Sydney Campus.

“As we increase the University profile to include Law and broader Arts and Business courses, this type of program becomes critical for students who wish to develop a sophisticated range of skills”, she said.