2025 Festival of Speech

On Saturday, a dedicated team of 13 students attended the annual IGSA Festival of Speech at Kincoppal Rose Bay. Unlike last year’s comprehensive two-day event hosted by MLC School, this year’s festival consisted of just ten sections and did not include Debating, Drama or Theatresports.

The day featured pleasant weather and impressive views of Sydney Harbour from the terraces at Kincoppal. Our students presented commendable performances in all categories. A notable achievement was Bridget Cortis-Jones (Year 9), who secured first place among 25 participants in the Junior Readings section. Bridget had previously achieved second place in the Junior Poetry category in 2024, demonstrating consistent excellence.

Our staff support team, Lisa Moloney, Mel Boyd, Sarah Jauncey, and Monica Brian, provided invaluable assistance, ensuring that each student received encouragement and recognition for their efforts. Their commitment enabled them to attend all student presentations, and they noted the high calibre of performance across the board.

We extend our gratitude to the following students for representing MLC School with distinction and for the considerable time invested in training and preparation for each event:

Senior Public Speaking: Harriet Hahn (Year 11)
Junior Public Speaking: Caydence Sumantri (Year 9)
Junior Soapbox: Natalia Gardiner (Year 9)
Senior Readings: Josephine Doan (Year 10)
Junior Readings: Bridget Cortis-Jones (Year 9)
Senior Poetry: Jordan Vo (Year 11)
Junior Poetry: Alex Price (Year 8)
Religious and Ethical Questions: Ella Hu, Umaiza Mahfuz, Stephy Liang (Year 11)
Current Affairs: Amelia Tchan, Isabella Millgate, Elena Tulloch (Year 11)

Several students participated for the first time this year, and prior experience proved beneficial for competitive performance. While overall results did not match those of previous years, it is anticipated that the insights gained will contribute to improved outcomes at next year’s festival.

All students involved were outstanding ambassadors for MLC School.

‘The IGSA Festival of Speech is a competition that invites dozens of students from independent girls’ schools in Sydney to participate in various categories, such as Public Speaking, Poetry, Readings, and Current Affairs, among many others. The festival is highly competitive. Yet, regardless of results, I’m sure each student enjoyed the opportunity to improve their speaking skills, learn new knowledge, and meet likeminded people. It was thrilling to both perform and listen to other students’ performances; this competition provides a safe space for high school girls’ voices to shine.’
– Jordan Vo (Year 12)

‘I was so honoured to be able to represent MLC School at the annual IGSA Festival of Speech 2025 and to perform in the Senior Readings Section. We competed against many girls’ independent schools ranging between 20 to almost 30 schools per section, allowing me to experience the different styles and performances from each school. I was very nervous before my performance, but the adrenaline helped me to build the courage to deliver my readings with purpose and engagement, and I was proud of how I’d performed despite my nerves. I’m grateful for this opportunity I was granted and the experiences I will build from my encounter within a Festival like this, and I know that whilst it might seem nerve-wracking, it ultimately built my inner strength and courage.’
– Josephine Doan (Year 10)

– Andrea Rowe
Oratory Coordinator

– Monica Brian
Speech and Drama Studio Director

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