The Rotary Secondary School Speech Competition has made a return to the Rotary calendar, offering Year 12 and 13 students the opportunity to develop their public speaking skills while exploring ideas through the lens of Rotary’s Four-Way Test. The competition has been a long-standing Rotary tradition since it was introduced at the District Conference in Invercargill in 2003 by then District Governor Don Irvine.
Following the merger of Rotary districts and the absence of the traditional District Conference, the speech competition provides another platform for Rotary to strengthen its connection with secondary schools across Southland. Selected Students will present a five-to-six-minute speech on a topic of their own choice, with the principles of the Rotary Four-Way Test woven clearly throughout their presentation.
A panel of three judges will select the winning student, who will go on to represent Southland at the Grand Final in Dunedin on 15 September 2026. This is an opportunity to hear the voices of young people in our community and to support them as they build confidence, communication skills and leadership potential.
Members, families and the wider community are invited to attend with the event open to the public, tea and coffee will be provided,
Date: Tuesday, 18 August 2026
Time: 7.00pm–8.30pm
Venue: Level 6, Kelvin Hotel
Club member Lisa-Maree is coordinating this regional event in conjunction with the Rotary clubs of Southland. The Rotary Club of Invercargill is financially supporting the costs of hosting the regional final and providing prizes for the winner and runner-up. If you would like any further information please contact Lisa-Maree on 027 2304 611.
The District will also support the winning student with a contribution towards travel costs to Dunedin, with cash prizes for first, second and third place at the Grand Final.
Bring a friend, family member or work colleague along to be part of the audience and support the young speakers and celebrate the values of Rotary in action.
Students at the Gore Club round held on July 27th