ACT Primary Schools Speaking Competition

The 2023 Rostrum Primary Schools Speaking Competition has now concluded for another year.

Rostrum has been running this competition for schools in the ACT and surrounding areas of New South Wales for over 50 years. Each school was invited to enter one competitor into the competition after running a selection process in their own school. Then followed quarter finals and semi finals across the ACT adjudicated by Rostrum members until the Grand Final was held for 8 talented finalists and 3 reserves.

The Grand Final was held at the Canberra College Performing Arts Centre, Phillip on 18th September. Our guest of honour joint founder of the competition Dorothy Hine, presented the Warren Hine trophy to the winning speaker and a trophy to the runner up. The Randall Falkiner trophy for best research was presented by Jane Shelling ACT Rostrum President and the People’s Choice trophy was awarded by Linda Thane, Chief Competition Coordinator.

The results of the competition are:

First place – Alice of Canberra Girls Grammar School
Runner up – Leo of Marist College
Randall Falkiner Award for Research – Ben of Curtin Primary School
People’s Choice Award – James of Throsby School

General Information

Grand Final Speech Topics

Important Dates

Hints for Students

Guidelines for Teachers and Parents

Guidelines for schools hosting quarter finals and semi finals

Winner and runner up 2023

From the Archives

Enjoy the speeches from the 2017 Grand Final by clicking on the YouTube link for each speaker –

Competition Speeches

“A Winning Formula” by Heli L., Mt Rogers Primary School, Melba – https://youtu.be/FbjoCpayXvM

“Adapting to Change” by Marama H., Campbell Primary School – https://youtu.be/e0pWGgMwS7g

“Adapting to Change” by Luca H., Holy Family Primary School, Gowrie – https://youtu.be/txVT8U1oAWQ

“Citizenship” by Clancy P., Marist College Junior School, Pearce – https://youtu.be/FgxfLDfiBJk

“Making A Difference” by Akira B., Lyneham Primary School – https://youtu.be/4akPyGv_HXE

“Making A Difference” by Katie P., Torrens Primary School – https://youtu.be/hpftrqgFI1M

“Adapting to Change” by Oliver S.-H., Rosary Primary School, Watson – https://youtu.be/itE1hWPvI2M

“Making a Difference” by Kabir B. of Neville Bonner Primary School, Bonner – https://youtu.be/LKleXHRG8ms

Guest Speakers

“Endangered Species” by Tristan P. of Yass Public School – https://youtu.be/bUpE8NmNfDM

“Australia Day” by Aysha C. of Gold Creek Primary School – https://youtu.be/iUxwzO_5-uU

“A Quiet Achiever” by Audry K. of Canberra Girls Grammar School, Deakin – https://youtu.be/z88_AnzUXRk