DAV Debating

Debating Round 5

DAV - D Grade

This year's debating competition has been hit and miss. We've had more forfeits than in my entire time coaching debating. But it is important to shine a light on those students who have been there for every debate and worked hard through some challenging topics.

A good case in point are the D grade debate team made up of Archie, Aden and Dalton. The final debate was a tricky topic: That refugees should be given full access to welfare in Australia. There were so many opportunities for this debate to be mishandled (and we saw some of them) but our crew took it in their stride and made a compassionate case for providing full access to welfare for all refugees waiting for Australian citizenship.

Archie had a marvellous speaking style. His speech was full of clever research and his structure was meticulous.

Dalton has been asked to jump in at the last minute on a few occasions and has always risen to the challenge with an excellent use of prepared facts and clever ad-libbing.

Aden summed up the debate like a pro. He took note of the negative team's arguments and showed how our own points countered theirs. 

They won the debate by a clear margin. I was impressed with their research, speaking skill and ability to rebut the opposition clearly. Sal Avitabile is on holidays, but I have to thank him for his work with these boys, and I look forward to working with them again in 2019.

I also need to applaud Simon Donlen and his work with his Year 8 team. Tom and Ben Reid and Xavier Webb have worked tirelessly throughout 2019, improving their skills and learning the ropes in anticipation of a stellar 2020.

The DAV competition is done, but our debating days continue with the SIS competition just about to start. I wish the boys luck and congratulate them on a fantastic year.

Damian Perry

Debating Coordinator.