English-Speaking Union NSW

Category: News

  • Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is honoured to acknowledge the generosity of Mr Francis Farmakidis and his firm, Vobis Lawyers, whose recent donation will support the Union’s work in New South Wales.

    This contribution will be directed towards the Plain English Speaking Award (PESA), a flagship initiative that encourages young people to develop confidence, clarity, and conviction in their public speaking. The Award has a proud tradition of fostering the next generation of communicators, and the support of Frances and Vobis Lawyers ensures its continued success.

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is deeply grateful for this partnership. It is through the commitment of members and friends such as Mr Farmakidis that we are able to uphold the mission of the ESU: promoting international understanding and the use of English as a means of communication and fellowship.

    We look forward to sharing the achievements of this year’s Plain English Speaking Award with our community and extend our heartfelt thanks once again to Mr Farmakidis and Vobis Lawyers for their belief in the value of education, communication, and opportunity for young Australians.

  • A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    The English language can be complex and beautiful, but the true mark of a great speaker is the ability to communicate with clarity and sincerity. This was on full display this year at the 2025 Plain English Speaking Award (PESA) National Final.

    Held virtually, the competition brought together four of Australia’s most promising young orators: Saxon Miller (QLD), Samantha Lee (WA), Fadzai Bako (VIC), and the eventual champion, Olivia (VIC). It was a testament to their dedication and passion that, even through the digital medium of Zoom, their compelling arguments and personal narratives had such a profound impact. Each prepared speech was a masterful exercise in reasoned thought, tackling subjects of contemporary import with intellectual rigour and genuine passion.

    However, as is so often the case in such contests, the true mettle of the competitors was revealed in the impromptu section. Given only a few minutes to prepare a speech on an unseen topic, the speakers had to think on their feet, transforming a blank canvas into a compelling narrative in the blink of an eye. It is a formidable challenge, requiring not only quick thinking but also a deep well of general knowledge and a flair for structuring a cogent argument under immense pressure.

    It was in this crucible that Olivia distinguished herself. Her impromptu speech was, by all accounts, nothing short of outstanding. It possessed a rare blend of incisive logic and impassioned delivery, demonstrating a mind both quick and profound. The adjudicators were duly impressed, and her performance secured her the coveted title of Australian National Champion for 2025.

    Now, as we look forward, we can celebrate Olivia’s extraordinary honour of representing Australia at the English-Speaking Union’s International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) in London in July 2026. This opportunity is more than just a trip to the UK; it is an entry onto the world stage, a chance to engage with a new generation of global citizens and intellectual peers. We can say with confidence that she will be an admirable ambassador for our nation.

    The ESU extends its warmest congratulations to all four finalists of the 2025 competition. They have not only demonstrated a mastery of public speaking but have also shown that the art of clear, persuasive communication is alive and well among Australia’s youth. One could hardly ask for a more auspicious sign for the future.

    (more…)
  • The Power of Public Speaking: Why Mastering It Is Essential

    The Power of Public Speaking: Why Mastering It Is Essential

    In today’s fast-paced world, public speaking is an essential skill that extends far beyond the podium. Whether you are a high school student presenting a project, an executive pitching a business idea, or someone advocating for a cause, the ability to speak confidently and effectively in front of an audience can set you apart. Public speaking isn’t just about delivering words; it’s about communicating ideas, engaging audiences, and inspiring action.

    In this post, we’ll explore the importance of mastering public speaking, highlighting how it can boost your career, enhance personal growth, and improve your ability to influence others. From high school classrooms to executive boardrooms, the ability to articulate ideas with confidence is a game-changer.

    1. Public Speaking Builds Confidence

    One of the most significant benefits of mastering public speaking is the confidence it instils. Speaking in front of an audience, no matter the size, requires courage. Over time, as you practice and improve, you naturally become more comfortable with expressing your ideas. This increase in confidence doesn’t just stay on the stage—it permeates every aspect of your life.

    (more…)
  • Sir Evelyn Wrench: Championing Dialogue and Understanding Through the English-Speaking Union

    Sir Evelyn Wrench: Championing Dialogue and Understanding Through the English-Speaking Union

    Across the vast tapestry of history, few figures have woven the threads of international understanding with such dedication and vision as Sir Evelyn Wrench. His life, spanning from 1882 to 1966, was an extraordinary tapestry of journalism, activism, and unwavering belief in the power of communication to bridge cultural divides. Today, we look into the vibrant life and legacy of this remarkable man, particularly focusing on his pivotal role in founding the English-Speaking Union (ESU), a vibrant organisation that continues to foster the bonds of friendship and understanding between English-speaking nations.

    Early Years and Seeds of Internationalism

    Wrench’s life began in Ireland, where he was born into a family steeped in public service and a belief in the importance of global harmony. His mother, a spirited advocate for women’s suffrage, and his father, an Irish Land Commissioner, instilled in him a deep appreciation for cultural exchange and social justice. This early exposure to diverse perspectives set the stage for Wrench’s lifelong dedication to building bridges rather than walls.

    His youthful energy found expression in a multitude of pursuits. After studying at Oxford University, he embarked on a journey across Europe, honing his language skills and absorbing the richness of different cultures. This experience planted the seeds of a vision that would later blossom into the ESU. Upon returning to Britain, Wrench ventured into the bustling world of business, establishing a postcard company that quickly soared to success. While this venture ended abruptly, it showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering optimism.

    (more…)
  • 2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award

    2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award

    Please join us for the 2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award hosted by the NSW Arts Unit.

    There are six 6 speakers that have progressed to the State Final. The final competition will be held on Thursday 23 June at NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre beginning at 9:30 AM.

    (more…)
  • AUKUS Allies

    AUKUS Allies

    Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott on ‘AUKUS Allies as the Moscow-Beijing-Tehran Axis Emerges

    English-Speaking Union NSW Branch along with the International Churchill Society and the Australians for Constitutional Monarchy present:

    Special Guest Speaker, the Hon Tony Abbott

    Thursday 5 May
    5:00-7:30 PM
    NSW Parliament House Theatrette

    AUKUS is the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States announced in September 2021. Under the pact, the US and the UK will help Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines.

    The pact also includes cooperation on ‘cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and additional undersea capabilities’. The pact will focus on military capability, separating it from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance that also includes New Zealand and Canada.

    The Hon Tony Abbott AC, 28th Prime Minister of Australia

    During his time as Prime Minister (2013 to 2015), the carbon tax and mining tax were repealed, free trade agreements were finalised with China, Japan and Korea; the people smuggling trade from Indonesia to Australia was halted; the most significant federally-funded infrastructure program in Australian history commenced, and Australia hosted the G20 meeting of global leaders in Brisbane in November 2014.

    Tony Abbott served as member for Warringah in the Australian parliament between 1994 and 2019. As the local MP, he was instrumental in the creation of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust to preserve the natural and built heritage of his electorate and elsewhere.

    Abbott was born in London, England, to an Australian mother and a British father and moved to Sydney at two. He studied economics and law at the University of Sydney and then attended The Queen’s College, Oxford, as a Rhodes Scholar, studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics.

    Before entering parliament, Abbott was a journalist with The Australian, a senior adviser to opposition leader John Hewson, and Executive Director of Australians for Constitutional Monarchy. 

    He is the author of three books: The Minimal Monarchy (1995), How to Win the Constitutional War (1997), and Battlelines (2009).

    REGISTER
  • NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    The final for this award will be held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre, 37 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.

    For more information on this competition, see the website for The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education

  • The Premier’s Debating Challenge 2022

    The Premier’s Debating Challenge 2022

    Open to all NSW public schools for years 5 to 12 with the aim of developing the public speaking and reasoning skills of students.

    The final will be held at The Great Hall, Sydney University

    For more information on the competition, see The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education

  • 800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta

    800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta

    ESU Global Magna Carta Essay Competition – Award Ceremonies for Australian Winners.  The presentation to the Junior Winner, Ella McEvoy from Genazzano College, Kew, took place on Friday 21st August 2015, at ESU House in South Yarra.  Ella was officially presented with her Award by Mr Gareth Hoar, British Consul General. The Senior Winner, Jack Donnelly from Marist College, Ashgrove, Queensland, was presented with his award at ESU House, Milton, by Senator George Brandis in September 2015.

    My Magna Carta Grand Final Dartmouth House

    Dartmouth House has announced the overall winners of the My Magna Carta international creative writing competition, following the grand final on Thursday 15 October 2015. Thirteen finalists from all corners of the globe presented their entries to an invited audience, leaving the judging panel with a very tough decision. Judges and audience members alike were overwhelmed by the quality of each presentation.

    (more…)