Debating

Senior Debaters Tour of Canberra

Pairing the concept of debating with civic life was the inspiration for the recent, inaugural Senior Debating Study Tour of the ACT.  A focus on learning about debates that have shaped, challenged and changed our nation, presented a unique opportunity to delve into history, politics and civic education over four full days. Privileged visits to the Australian War Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum brought to attention debating narratives covering: The Stolen Generation, the 1967 Referendum, the story of Eddie Mabo and the Land Rights case, resulting in the 1993 Parliamentary Native Title Act and the 2008 National Apology to the Stolen Generations from then Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd.

 Our debaters were drawn to reflect on the power and role of the spoken word in settings such as: The High Court of Australia, The Canberra Magistrates and Supreme Courts and Parliament House itself. Witnessing Parliamentary Question Time in the Senate and taking part in Parliamentary Education Programs afforded valuable insights into the passing of bills, how to vote in an election and the concept of preferential voting. The Honourable Mark Dreyfus, Local Member of Parliament for Issacs, also met with our debaters to share his experiences as a barrister, a politician and a past school debater, during his years at Scotch College, Melbourne.

The squad arrived home with heightened appreciation for the importance of well-honed communication skills in civic life, in many settings. We have been inspired to continue developing our own communication skills to higher levels and recognising their importance to active citizenship.

Thank you to Mr John Finn and to Mr Peter Walsh, for their support of this initiative.

Kaylene Menara

Debating Coordinator 2019