The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition is a partnership between the RSA and The National Bank, aimed at promoting among young people a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who have served New Zealand in wars and armed conflicts overseas.

The competition is a national competition for year 12 and 13 secondary school students. Regional finals are held in eight regions with a national final to decide the overall winner.

Entries open at the beginning of the school year.

The competition winner travels to Gallipoli to experience the commemoration of the Anzac landings for themselves.

The competition is a tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC, (1892-1983) who was the only New Zealander at Gallipoli to be awarded the Victoria Cross, and who worked his entire career at The National Bank.

The competition is hotly contested throughout the country and enjoys a level of prestige and humility.

2012 Competition
Watch previous winners