A large audience of Rotarians and wives and participants and families were treated to a feast of oratory by nine young students from Stratford district. The contest covered a wide range of topical cultural historic subjects. Judge David Walter complimented the young speakers on their deliveries and passion, as well asgiving participants sound advice and comments on their particular addresses. First place was awarded to Melissa Watts of Stratford Primary, Laura Hutterd of St Joseph's second, and third equal was shared by Sophie Bishop, Ngaere and Alex Perry, Ngaere. Taking part were: Melissa Watts, Stratford Primary, 'Oddities of English Language'; Laura Hutterd, St Joseph's, 'Happiness in a Material World'; Sophie Bishop, Ngaere, 'Horrors of Living in Auckland'; Alex Perry, Ngaere, 'Problems of Being the Youngest'; Nina Poletti, Makahu, 'Rolling Stones'; Dale West, Midhirst, 'Flight 901 and Mt Erebus'; Jock Espin, Midhirst, 'Leonardo de Vinci'; Nicole Shearer, Toko, 'Bullying'; Adrian Pitman, Pembroke Rd, 'Korean War History'.
