The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition

Honouring New Zealand’s only Gallipoli Victoria Cross recipient

Entries for the 2010 competition have now closed.

Key Dates:
Regional Finals: Friday 19 - Sunday 21 March.
Grand Final: Thursday 1 April, Wellington.

For further information, please email lisa@rnzrsa.org.nz or phone 04 384 7994.

Speech subject: ‘New Zealanders at War’

This subject matter embraces New Zealanders who served in the South Africa War, World War One, World War Two, the occupation force in Japan, the Korean War, operations in Malaya and Borneo, Vietnam War, Afghanistan, and numerous Peacekeeping operations such as East Timor and the Middle East.

Speechmakers may choose a particular war/operation or to cover them collectively; or they may choose to profile a servicemen from the past or a living veteran; or an aspect of the commemoration of war (Anzac Day/war memorials).

Eligibility: Year 12 and 13 students who are able to travel independently to Regional and National competitions. Please also see the Terms and Conditions below.

Speech duration: 6–8 minutes

Preparation and delivery: Students must prepare and deliver his/her own speech. Delivery may not include the use of projection or other imaging or the use of a lectern.

Competition prizes:
The Regional Winner will receive $1,000 prize money in a National Bank account, an engraved RSA plaque, and Youth membership to the RSA. The Regional Winner’s school will also receive $1,000 and a relevant military history book for their school library.

The National Winner will receive a trip to Gallipoli as a guest of the RNZRSA on the official New Zealand delegation for the ANZAC Commemorations; a further $1,000 prize money on a National Bank Travel Card; a laptop and digital camera to record their experience; and a winner’s trophy to be displayed at their school for a year and a small trophy for the winner to retain.

Competition Terms and Conditions