Public Speaking is a skill that comes very naturally to quite a number of students at St Bede’s College. 2024 provided a number of opportunities for our students to display their talents across an action-packed program. The students involved worked really hard to continue the development of their speechwriting and delivery throughout the year.
We were amazed by the exceptional speeches they delivered, from their victories at the ACC Competition to their heated rivalry in the Inter-House competition, culminating in the prestigious Brother Quentin O’Halloran Public Speaking Competition.
A massive congratulations to all those involved in Public Speaking throughout 2024. Their dedication and commitment to this craft and program has not gone unnoticed. We look forward to seeing more fantastic speeches from our teams and new members they inspired to be a part of our 2025 program.
Nicholas Gleeson and Leah Oirbans
Public Speaking Coordinators
As the College’s inaugural Public Speaking & Debating Captain, I was excited to begin what will hopefully remain a cherished captaincy position for years to come.
Public Speaking is so much more than talking in front of an audience. It’s the formatting of ideas and furthering your writing and communication capabilities of speech making and debating – it is transferable to so many subjects, with the skills bettering your learning experience. And it goes beyond just school, it’s such a valuable skill in the real world of work, especially for those who want to eventually lead people or businesses to success.
This year has been filled with so much opportunity, from DAV Debating, where schools from across the state debate over 5 rounds, to ACC Public Speaking and Debating Competitions.
Our College has held its own House Competitions for both Debating and Public Speaking, where we welcomed an overwhelming number of students who came to listen and support their House mates.
The year’s events culminated at the annual Brother Quentin O’Halloran Public Speaking Competition in October. We heard insightful and entertaining cases from our students across Years 7 to 12 on important topics including switching to renewable energy, mental health, AI laws and organ donation to name just a few.
I commend all our speakers across Debating and Public Speaking and warmly welcome every St Bede’s student to give it a go!
Liam Casey
2024 Public Speaking & Debating Captain
