“I don’t really get nervous. I like being on stage.” This is what Lachlan Ormonde (Year 7) had to say about his nerves before delivering his winning speech at the Grand Finals of the Speak Up Award last Wednesday.

“I thought I would talk about something I knew lots about. So well, me!” What an interesting topic it proved to be, drawing much laughter and praise from the audience and adjudicators alike. His speech was entitled Being Bald, and was his reflections on shaving his head for the World’s Greatest Shave, to raise funds for leukaemia research.

More than 180 students from 64 schools participated in the competition organised by the Penguin Club of Australia and WA Education and Training Department. The finalists took part in a celebration of the awards 20th birthday at the Novotel Langley Hotel.

Lachlan competed in five rounds before entering the grand finals and defeating 12 other Year 6s and 7s finalists from the Perth metropolitan area for the title. He claims he has enjoyed every minute of it and has a great deal for respect for the other competitors.

The School has received a magnificent perpetual trophy, which is on display at the Preparatory School administration, and Lachlan himself has received a personal award. All in all it is a very proud moment for Christ church and Lachlan and it is certain the School will be seeing more from this charismatic young boy as the year progresses.

Tina McLoughlin
Work Experience Student From St. Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School