The 4^th round of the debating competition took place on the Tuesday, 23^rd May, with both Riverside teams coming away with wins.

The junior team (consisting of Ethan, Chilli and Phoebe) had to argue in favour of ‘January 26^th should be mourned as Invasion Day’. Their arguments were very respectful and full of empathy, and their skills in rebutting the opposing team, from Launceston Church Grammar, securing them the win.

The senior team (consisting of Zoe, Rhys, Jack and Max) faced a team from St Pats and had to argue against ‘Co-curricular activities should be compulsory for all students at school’. One of their key arguments was how overworked teachers are currently and that adding compulsory extra activities would add to our stress levels. This played well with the audience.

Special recognition was given to Zoe for being speaker of the debate, a great achievement given it was only her third time debating. Congratulations Zoe.

Round 5 of the debating took place on Tuesday, 30^th May.

The junior team had a bye this week, but the senior team represented the school well by claiming a 2-point win over the team from Scotch Oakburn College.

The topic of the debate was that ‘The Australian Government has failed the indigenous people of this country’. Jack, Rhys and Max showed their knowledge of Australian history and politics by highlighting relevant events and policies from the past. The way they rebutted the opposition’s arguments also helped them secure the win. Max was third speaker in this debate and was given speaker of the debate. Well done Max.

Shaun Osborne