On Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May, the annual Parliamentary Shield Debating weekend was contested at St Patrick’s College. This marks the culmination of our 2025 senior debating roster and for Year 12 students, Harriet Lynch (C), Blaise Fitzallen and Eliza Duigan it was their final time debating together after six years in the program.

The Year 11 Parliamentary Plate team of Meg Kilby, Georgette Wilks, Makaela Fulton and Calan Young won the Parliamentary Plate this year with a victory on the topic, “that popular culture is a better reflection of society than high art”. Elizabeth Moore, Year 10, competed in the Parliamentary Shield composite team (for experience, not points) and was very successful, as that team won both their debates. Our Year 12 Shield team of Harriet, Blaise, Eliza, Shinu Bindal (C) and Jack Duncan competed well, but missed the final on a count back in a very evenly contested competition. Commendation must go to all students who represented the College with distinction; their passionate and good-natured approach to their verbal battles is appreciated by everyone. The Year 11 team will be heading to lunch at Parliament House in Hobart later this year to be feted for their victory.

Sharon Beattie
Person-in-Charge Debating