The 2005 Russell McVeagh Nelson / Marlborough Schools Debating Championships were held at Marlborough Girls’ College on Saturday 19th March. It was the largest tournament ever held in the region, with 12 teams attending, both for the championship and a junior development day that was held at the same time.
An entirely limited preparation tournament, the teams debated everything from the merits of NCEA to the importance of the environment in New Zealand society.
In a repeat of last year, the final was held between Nayland College (Nelson) and Marlborough Boys’ (Blenheim) with Marlborough once again emerging triumphant.
Although a young region, all the adjudicators were impressed by the rapid improvement in debating prowess amongst the students, as well as their enthusiasm and the support give debating by their teachers, (especially those who traveled over the hill from Nelson).
At the tournament a squad of four speakers were chosen, three of whom will represent Nelson/Marlborough at the Nationals. These were Simon Anderson (Marlborough Boys’), David Bosma (Nayland College), Eliana Gray (Nayland College) and Fiona Henderson, (Marlborough Girls’).