Sapphire Coast Anglican College student Jye Turner, from Bermagui, has won Quota International of Narooma’s Student of the Year Quest for 2016.
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It was a very close result as this year’s eight entrants made a quality field. Local Dalmeny boy Thomas Brown, from St Peter’s Anglican College, was a worthy runner-up.
The Student of the Year Quest demands a lot from the students and on Tuesday they certainly delivered. Although the public speaking section is the event that takes the eye of the public, there are other aspects to the Quest. Before the evening’s public speaking, the eight Quest entrants from Narooma High, Carroll College, St Peter’s Anglican College and the Sapphire Coast Anglican College attended an interview with three judges: Christine Ryder, Bob Antill and Kris Macaulay AM.
Entrants were marked on general knowledge and their ability to discuss current affairs. Points were also awarded for their leadership skills, citizenship, sporting and cultural activities as well as grooming and presentation.
An audience of over 50 people really enjoyed the different topics chosen by the entrants in the public-speaking segment of the Quest. Jye discussed the dilemma immigration poses and the possibilities a country gains when immigrants are encouraged to enter the local community. Thomas spoke of need for individuality in this world of ours.
Ruby de Rover (Carroll College) gave an impressive discussion on freedom of speech using as one of her examples, the rhetoric of Donald Trump. Scott Senior (St Peter’s Anglican College) shared his enthusiasm about volunteering and how it benefits the community. Sophie Brown (St Peter’s Anglican College) took on the important issue of cyber bullying and its accompanying social problems.
Paris Blessington (Narooma High School) raised the issue of poverty and homelessness and how it affects countries as well as people. Campbell Allison (Narooma High School) gave a fascinating picture of his work experience on a naval base, while Emma Collins (Sapphire Coast Anglican College) raised the audience’s interest with her discussion of euthanasia.
All those present admired the courage of the students during the ad lib section as they coped magnificently with the word “spirit”. Even though the ad lib is only one minute, it seems always to loom so large in each student’s mind. The audience definitely shares the sense of relief with the entrant when it is over.
In all, it was a most successful Quest and the Quota Club of Narooma congratulates all entrants on their fine performance. They are a credit both to their parents and to their schools. All those who take the opportunity to attend come away with a positive feeling about our youth and an honest amazement at the talent and confidence they display.
Quota is grateful for the support of Club Narooma and Georgie’s Fine Jewellery for their assistance with the Student of the Year Quest.