Members of East Gippsland Toastmasters travelled to Sale on Saturday, November 15, to compete in the annual Area Speech Contest, an event that brings together passionate speakers from across the region.
The contest featured four categories: evaluation, table topics, international speech, and humorous speech.
East Gippsland Toastmasters was represented in all four contests, delivering strong results throughout the day.
In the evaluation contest, Robert Love claimed first place with a well-structured and insightful assessment of the test speech, highlighting his analytical and supportive approach to speaker feedback.
In table topics, the impromptu speaking contest, Penny Armstrong-Boehk responded to the prompt “What made you smile recently?”. Penny delivered a thoughtful and engaging answer in a highly competitive field.
In the international speech contest, Amanda Hack placed second with her speech, Where I Live, Work and Raise My Family, drawing on personal experiences to deliver an entertaining and heartfelt message.
Callum Smith also secured second place in the humorous speech contest, sharing a personal and humorous reflection titled Mental Health Doesn’t Have To Be Taboo, blending storytelling and wit.
Distinguished Toastmaster, Donrita Reefman, said the contest was an opportunity to connect with the wider Toastmasters community.
“It was lovely to spend the day with the wider Toastmasters family getting together in friendly competition,” she said.
“We stand on the shoulders of greats who came before us,” she added, acknowledging the ongoing support and mentorship within the organisation, including contributions from past members.
Robert, Amanda and Callum will now progress to the division contest, scheduled for March in Frankston.
IMPROV AND
COMEDY NIGHT
East Gippsland Toastmasters is part of Toastmasters International, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to developing communication and leadership skills through supportive, hands-on learning. The club meets regularly in Bairnsdale and welcomes visitors interested in building speaking confidence, quick thinking and creative expression.
The club will host an Improv and Comedy Night on Thursday, December 11, offering the public a chance to experience spontaneous speaking in a fun, low pressure environment.
Arrival time for this event is 6.45pm for a 7pm start at The Rivers Room at Bairnsdale RSL.
The evening will feature improvisation games, audience participation and light-hearted challenges led by Toastmasters members. Attendees can expect a relaxed atmosphere focused on confidence building, community connection and plenty of laughs. All are welcome, with parental guidance recommended for under eighteens.
