General News
15 July, 2025
Winning speech for Hopetoun student
Hopetoun student Darcy Milburn took out second place in the Wimmera Legacy Junior Public Speaking competition in June, overcoming nerves to present impressive speeches.
Mutoa College students Lyra Reardon and Chardonnay Pickering joined Darcy in the winning line up.
The WLJPS annual competition offers the opportunity to ovecome nerves, gain confidence and prepare for a future that inlcudes public speaking with out the fear that often accompanies that task.
The WLJPS 2025 initially attracted 12 participants from schools throughout the Wimmera, but numbers dwindled to three by the time the event took place.
"We were disappointed that more did not follow through, but we were very impressed with the three that did, and we hope that the experience will have long-lasting positive effects on their remaining school years and go with them into their chosen careers," Wimmera egacy President Philip Nicks said.
First place was won by Lyra Reardon from Murtoa College, second place by Darcy Milburn from Hopetoun, and third place by Chardonnay Pickering also from Murtoa College.
First and second-place getters will attend the Regional Victorian Junior State Finals in Ballarat on September 10.
"It was pleasing to see that each stident weas acconpanied by a parent. Family support is important," Mr Nicks said.
First prize was $200, second $100, and third was $50. The three winners received a certificate to add to their portfolios.
"While they were all nervous, they all did well, " Mr Nicks said.
"They can take these skills into their senior school years, job interviews, and their future careers," he said.
They each presented a five-minute prepared speech and a two-minute impromptu one.
Lyra prepared a five-minute talk on the Invisible Battle - Understanding and Supporting Mental Wellbeing.
Darcy's prepared speech was on The Importance of Remembrance
Chardonnay spoke on Standing by Each Other, The Power of Caring, and Mateship.
They each had to speak on life in the country.
This year's event was held at the Church of Christ on June 3, 2025.
Approximately 25 percent of people report experiencing a fear of public speaking, or glossophobia as it is called, which can affect personal and professional growth and one bad experience can stop people from ever trying again so the opportunity to take part in the legacy competition is a valuable one and organisers hope schools will encourage students to enter in 2026.
Due to low numbers this year, organisers will consider later this year if they hold the event in 2026 so schools and individuals are urged to contact Legacy if they intend to support the event at admin@wimmeralegacy.com.au.
