Speeches
Thursday, 31 October 2024
Reception for the Debating SA Awards presentation
I am delighted to host you for this presentation ceremony.
It is a special honour for me to meet you all tonight as the Governor, and in my role as Patron of Debating SA.
Congratulations to all the award winners, and runners up, on your successful 2024 season!
Today, we celebrate not only the achievements of our debaters, but also recognise the hard work, commitment, and resilience that has brought you to this moment.
Seeing so many enthusiastic young debaters here reminds me of my own school days, here in Adelaide.
Like you, I was a debater, and while it was occasionally nerve-wracking, I enjoyed the experience.
While debating took me out of my comfort zone, I’m grateful for the skills I gained – the art of persuasion and the ability to advocate for a position more effectively by taking opposing viewpoints into account.
These skills have served me throughout in my career as a diplomat, adviser, public servant and now as Governor.
As you, too, grow older, you will also be able to grow the skills you have acquired, and they will become part of who you are.
Whether in a job interview, a boardroom discussion, or community meeting, your ability to communicate effectively and think critically will set you apart.
One piece of advice I sometimes give to young leaders is never to leave a room without saying what you want to say. As young debaters, you are well placed to be able to do just that.
I know that you have had to balance your academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments, all while striving to excel in an intellectually demanding environment.
Your success is a testament to the many hours you’ve dedicated to preparing arguments, researching topics, and honing your speaking skills.
It is a moment of pride, not only for you, but also for your teachers and families who have supported you every step of the way.
This year has been remarkable, with 294 debating teams representing 62 primary and secondary schools, involving some 1,350 students.
Debating the Grand Final in the House of Assembly, Parliament House is an honour that few, other than our Members of Parliament, have had the opportunity to experience.
I have no doubt that this occasion also provided you with a glimpse into the world of leadership and advocacy.
The issues that you have debated are directly relevant to today’s society, addressing topics such as:
- Targeted advertising should be banned
- Tourism is a threat to the Great Barrier Reef
- University HECS debt should be abolished
- Immigration is good for Australia.
By debating these topics, you’re analysing information, weighing different perspectives, and constructing logical arguments.
As you face these challenges, you have also developed your resilience.
You have encountered tough opponents, navigated difficult questions, and faced the pressure of delivering your arguments convincingly in front of an audience.
But through this process, you learn to handle setbacks gracefully, respond to tough questions, and keep pushing forward.
The skills you have honed through this competition – critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to engage in meaningful dialogues – are essential tools that will serve you well in any path you choose.
I thank the teachers and parents for supporting our students on their debating journeys.
I also thank Debating SA and the hardworking adjudicators for providing a platform for students to engage in meaningful debates through competitions.
Your efforts not only enrich the educational experience but empower our youth to voice their opinions on issues that matter.
I encourage you all to continue exploring the world of debate and remember that every argument you make is a step toward becoming more articulate, thoughtful, and engaged citizens.
Congratulations once again to this year’s winners, and to all participants!