Australian Rostrum (Queensland) 100th Anniversary Convention

Rostrum Australia President, Mrs Jenny Blain; President, Rostrum Queensland, Ms Louise Tattersall; 2023 Rostrum Winners; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I, too, begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we gather, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here today.

As Governor of Queensland and your Patron, it gives me immense pleasure to join you this morning to open the Australian Rostrum (Queensland) 100^th Anniversary Convention in one of the most quintessential of Queensland locations.

A stunning backdrop to what will no doubt be a tremendous celebration of the past century of the longest running public speaking club in the world.

Like any organisation that sees its way to one hundred years, there are good reasons for Rostrum’s longevity.

One is the widespread need upon which the organisation is established — a desire by people to improve their public speaking abilities, given the often-unavoidable necessity for many of us to do it, whether it be a work requirement or a particular situation we find ourselves.

Thankfully, public speaking is a skill, and like most skills it can be taught — and learnt.

It is wonderful to see so many public speaking devotees in the audience today, but I am hopeful that you do not have any score sheets in hand!

Instead, over morning tea, you might be so kind as to provide me with some tips to make things run a little smoother at the lectern.

The mission of Rostrum Australia and its associated clubs throughout the states, is ‘to train and educate members in public speaking.’

It is with this clear and purposeful intent that the organisation has continued to operate and will do so perhaps for another century.

Congratulations to all involved in this wonderful club, and please enjoy the informative and entertaining program planned for you during the Convention.

And now I would like to present a Patronage Certificate to Mrs Blain and Ms Tattersall and acknowledge, with gratitude, the efforts of the entire organisation.

Thank you.