St Mary's College student Stephanie Eveleigh won the public speaking competition, with Moree Secondary College student, Christopher Sim, named the overall winner.

The two winners were joined by Wee Waa High student Emily Sheerhan and South Tamworth's, Christopher McAlpine, representing their local Lions Clubs.

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Judges Geoff Dawson, Gwen Brett, Jo Kelly-Tibbs, Sewa Enojong and David Walker were very impressed with the confidence and maturity of the students and the high standard of speeches.

Each contestant was asked two impromptu questions with replies to last two minutes: 'Year 12 is a high pressure year, how do you achieve balance in your life?' and 'If you were a candidate for the upcoming state election what promises would you be making and why?'.

Each contestant also presented a five-minute prepared speech, with a heartwarming delivery on bullying, which Lions president Neville Adams said 'provided much food for thought'. The topics of 'agriculture in schools, 'passions' and 'role models in sport' were also covered.

Mr Adams said the speeches were all very entertaining and the 40-strong audience responded with loud applause.

"The Lions organisation is grateful to the National Australia Bank for its continued sponsorship of this Lions project," MrAdams said.

For more information on the Lions Club, contact Neville Adams (0429 904 677) or membership chairman Stu Muddle (0428 422 078).

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