Congratulations to the following Damascus students that recently competed in the Royal South Street Society Debating Competition, held at Australian Catholic University (ACU).

Students represented Damascus with pride and were so enthusiastic to be a part of the public speaking event. Three of our four student groups won their debates and will progress to the finals. We congratulate them on a super job working well as a team.

Year 12-Madeline Coffey, Willow Eden, Drew Davis

Topic: That trade is the best way to tackle global poverty

Year 11-Eli Spielvogel, Lucas Wells, William Hollitt

Topic: That the study of a science subject should be a requirement of all VCE courses

Year 8- Bronte Jarvis, Yolanda Jones, Isabella Coleman, Emily Meade

Topic: Zoos should be closed

Year 7- Isabeau Turner, Ari Jones, Ella Gordon, Tess Fletcher

Topic: Video surveillance in schools

Thanks to staff Alycia Morrow, Steph Macdonald, Hannah Muirhead and Jen Casey, for supporting the students through the process.

The Yr 7 and 8 debaters were in the semi finals for Royal South St debating on Tuesday August 22nd.

Unfortunately both teams lost their debates (to Loreto and Grammar Year 8s)

The adjudicator was impressed with the quality of both debates and all debaters should be proud of themselves.

The students who took place are Tess Fletcher, Ari Jones and Ella Gordon in Year 7 and Bronte Jarvis, Yolanda Jones, Emily Meade and Isabella Coleman from Year 8.

Topics on the day were Year 7 That there should be permanent restrictions on water in Victoria and for Year 8 That the car is a greater cost than benefit to society.

Well done to all involved and representing the College in such great light.